Welcome to the Department of Family Science and Social Work.

The Department of Family Science and Social Work (FSW) is committed to promoting a comprehensive understanding of the interconnected relationships between theory, research, and practice (e.g., prevention, intervention) by incorporating knowledge, values, and skills from the fields of social work, human development, and family science. Students who complete our academic programs seek careers in social work, child life, family life education, human services, counseling, and therapy.

We have created a dynamic and participatory educational experience that will expose students to challenging discussions and cutting-edge theories. Our curriculum focuses on real-world challenges that individuals, families, and communities face in a rapidly changing society. Our courses cover topics such as lifespan human development, sexuality, and social justice. Our coursework is focused on training social workers and child life specialists with a solid foundation in family dynamics as well as trauma-informed and culturally- informed practice.

At the undergraduate level, we offer one major in Social Work that qualifies students to for licensure as social workers and professional certification as a Family Life Educator. Academic training for certification as a Child Life Specialist is also housed in FSW. Our undergraduate and graduate certificates include coursework required for certification by the Association of Child Life Professionals (ACLP), the majority of which have received ACLP approval. We offer two minors (Family Relationships and Child Studies and Youth Development) and three thematic sequences.
 
At the graduate level, we offer a Master of Arts in Social Work. This coursework focuses on advanced generalist training with specialization in work with children and families as well as adulthood and aging. Students may also take course work in substance use/abuse training and treatment, mental health and trauma, as well as school social work.  

If you want a challenging and exciting career in a profession that makes a real difference in the lives of others, we'd love to talk to you. Give us a call or stop by.

Dr. Kate Kuvalanka, Professor and Interim Chair