Everything You Need to Know About Social Work Practicum

Real-world experience. To make the most of your Master of Social Work degree experience, you need to get hands-on experience in social work situations to complement what you’re learning in the classroom.

That’s why you want to select an MSW program that includes a practicum experience. Read on to learn more about why practicums are an important component of your graduate experience, types of practicums you might participate in, and how to make the most of the experience. 

What Is a Practicum?

Practicums (which can also be called “internships”) offer MSW students the opportunity to apply what they’re learning to real-world situations. During the experience, students work directly with clients, under the supervision of trained professionals. 

In addition to putting knowledge into practice, here are some other benefits to participating in a practicum:

• Professional Networking. Practicums often take place in organizations and agencies that serve the social work community. By engaging with professionals, you can build valuable connections and expand your professional network. These connections can lead to mentorship opportunities, job placements, and future collaboration.
• Career Exploration. During this experience, you get to explore different areas of social work. You work with various populations, organizations, and social issues, which gives you a better idea of what you do and don’t want to do as you move into your career.
• Resume Building. Having hands-on experience can help you stand out to employers when you’re looking for your first job. Participating in a practicum shows you’re committed to developing professionally. 

Macro Level, Clinical, and Other Examples of Social Work Practicums

When it comes to practicums in social work, you won’t be short of options. Macro level practicums, emphasize working at the systemic or policy level to address social issues and promote social change. In a macro level practicum, you might work at a government agency, advocacy organization, research institution, or community development program. And your daily work could include program evaluation, policy analysis, community organizing, grant writing, and strategic planning.   

Clinical practicums typically focus on providing services to individuals, families, and groups in settings such as mental health clinics, hospitals, private practices, or community health centers. In this type of practicum, your daily work could include assessments, diagnosis, treatment planning, therapy sessions, and crisis intervention (under the supervision of licensed clinical social workers). 

School social work practicums take place in educational settings such as elementary schools, middle schools, high schools, or universities. In this practicum, you might work with students, families, teachers, and school administrators to address social, emotional, and behavioral issues that impact academic success. Your daily work could include providing individual and group counseling, crisis intervention, assessment, referral services, and advocacy for students with diverse needs.

Nonprofit and community organization practicums offer you the opportunity to engage in program development, community outreach, and advocacy efforts. You might work with diverse populations like immigrants, refugees, homeless individuals, low-income families, seniors, and people with disabilities. And your daily work could include participating in needs assessments, service delivery, resource coordination, capacity building, and community empowerment initiatives.

Prepping for Your MSW Practicum

Preparing for your practicum placement begins with finding a practicum that will be a fit for you. Reflect on your strengths, areas you need to grow in, personal values, and career goals. Think about how these might influence the type of social work practice setting you want to work in and the populations/issues you want to work with. 

You’ll also want to consult with faculty advisors, practicum coordinators, and mentors to discuss your practicum goals, preferences, and concerns. Look to these supporters to provide guidance on suitable practicum placements, navigating the application processes, and maximizing your learning experience during the practicum.

Next, update your resume and craft a cover letter that highlights your skills, experiences, and qualifications for the practicum placement. You should also practice your interviewing skills by preparing responses to common interview questions related to your social work background, interests, strengths, and areas for growth. Be ready to share your reasons for pursuing the practicum, your career objectives, and your commitment to professional growth.

Finally, once you’ve lined up your placement, attend any orientation sessions, training workshops, or onboarding activities that your hiring organization requires. Take time to learn about organizational policies, procedures, values, and expectations before you start your practicum.

Time to Gain Real-World Social Work Experience: Making the Most of Your Practicum

Once you begin, you want to make the most of every moment of your practicum. Here are some of our strategies for success: 

• Build a Relationship with Your Supervisor. Communication, trust, and openness are key components of a successful working relationship with your supervisor. Seek their guidance and be receptive to their constructive feedback.
• Be Proactive. Take initiative in your role by seeking out opportunities to engage in projects and new learning experiences. Show your supervisor and colleagues that you’re ready to learn, contribute, and take on new challenges (that go beyond your core responsibilities).
• Seek Feedback. Actively seek feedback from your supervisor, colleagues, and clients to gain insights into your performance, skill development, and areas for improvement. Use feedback as a tool for continuous learning and professional growth.
• Practice Self-Care. Social work can be emotionally demanding, so establish healthy boundaries, engage in activities that recharge you, and seek support when needed.
• Embrace Challenges as Learning Opportunities. View challenges and setbacks as opportunities for growth. Embrace complex situations, problem-solving, and challenges as learning experiences that can help you grow into a thriving social worker. 
• Embody Professionalism and Ethical Standards. Follow the NASW Code of Ethics and uphold professional standards in your conduct and as you interact with people in your practicum. Try to demonstrate integrity, empathy, and cultural competence throughout your experience. 

Explore the Practicum Experience in Baylor’s Master of Social Work Program  

At Baylor University’s Garland School of Social Work, practicum education is a transformative element of the Master of Social Work program. 

Students complete their practicum requirements over two semesters, and have been placed at hospitals, schools, nonprofit organizations, community mental health sites, adoption and foster care agencies, residential and outpatient treatment centers, and a myriad of other locations. Plus, you have the support of the Garland School’s Practicum Team throughout your experience. 

Ready to learn more about the practicum experience and other components of our MSW program? Check out our recorded webinars and this guide for all of the details.