Program Overview

Introduction to the Master of Social Work Program

The Master of Social Work (MSW) program at the University of Denver's Graduate School of Social Work is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in essential social work topics. The program is offered in various locations, including the Four Corners region, and is tailored to meet the unique needs of rural and tribal communities.

Program Overview

The Four Corners MSW program is based in Durango, Colorado, and brings the university's top-ranked master of social work program to the region. The program has a specialization in Advanced Social Work Practice and an emphasis on equity, preparing students to meet the needs of rural and tribal communities.

Program Formats

The program is offered in two formats:

• The Four Corners MSW program is designed for students who have a bachelor's degree in any field other than social work.
• The Four Corners Advanced-Standing MSW program is designed for students who already have a bachelor of social work degree accredited by the Council on Social Work Education.

Curriculum and Program Length

The curriculum for the Four Corners MSW program includes a foundation curriculum in the first year, developing a generalist perspective and basic skills for working with individuals, families, groups, communities, and organizations. In the second year, students start their specialization curriculum in Advanced Social Work Practice and complete two field internships, one each year, in their community.

• Program length: 6 quarters (students have summers off) for the Four Corners MSW program.
• Program length: 4 quarters for the Four Corners Advanced-Standing MSW program.

Field Internships

Field internships are an integral part of the MSW program, providing students with hands-on experience in social work practice. Students can complete their field internship requirements in their own community, allowing them to develop an understanding of different cultures and build their practice skills with indigenous Americans.

Field Internship Placements

Some examples of field internship placements include:

• Fort Lewis College Counseling Center
• New Mexico Veterans Administration Healthcare System, Community-Based Outpatient Clinic
• Totah Behavioral Health Authority
• Archuleta County Department of Human Services
• Alternative Horizons

Admission and Application

The application process for the MSW program involves reviewing and printing admission steps, reviewing financial options, and starting the application.

Faculty and Staff

The program has a team of dedicated faculty and staff, including:

• Carla Hase, Assistant Program Director
• Angela Carpenter, Administrative Assistant
• Janelle F. Doughty, Associate Professor of the Practice of Social Work and Program Director

Community and Alumni

The program celebrates its graduates and their achievements, with events such as the Four Corners Commencement Celebration. Alumni have gone on to pursue various careers in social work, with some aiming to start their own programs, such as wilderness therapy programs for queer Native youth.

Emphasis on Indigenous Knowledge

The Four Corners MSW program is transforming to better emphasize Indigenous knowledge and experiences in the rural context, recognizing the importance of centering Indigenous perspectives in social work practice.

Conclusion

The Master of Social Work program at the University of Denver's Graduate School of Social Work offers a unique and comprehensive education in social work, with a focus on rural and tribal communities. The program provides students with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in their careers and make a positive impact in their communities.