MSW Program
Macro Social Work
Macro social work practice focuses on changing larger systems, such as communities and organizations. It encompasses a broad spectrum of practice, including planning, program development, community organizing, policy analysis, legislative advocacy, program evaluation, task-oriented group work, community education, and human services management. The macro program prepares students for careers in multiple arenas with a wide range of populations and social problems.
The macro concentration rests on a set of basic values that includes:
- participatory democracy
- multiculturalism
- feminist principles
- strengths and assets approach
- community/consumer empowerment
- social and economic justice
The curriculum offers courses that provide theory, knowledge, and practice skills in community analysis; needs, assets and resources assessment; outreach and recruitment; action research; strategic analysis; program design and implementation; leadership development; group dynamics; organizational development; collective action for large systems change; bargaining and negotiating; conflict resolution; public speaking; lobbying; media relations; supervision; proposal writing; budgeting; evaluation research; financial management; and nonprofit administration.
A foundation course, Communities and Organizations: Analysis and Intervention, is required for all students in a first-year field placement. Following this course, macro concentrators are required to take Planning and Program Development, Community Organizing, and Human Services Management. A number of advanced macro electives are offered, including Applied Macro Skills, Seminar in Community Planning, Strategic Management, Financial Management, Program Evaluation, and Poverty in America. For those who wish to concentrate on a career in management, the School offers a Human Services Management Certificate Program.
Clinical social work students who are interested in macro social work practice as a secondary method may pursue a Macro Sub-specialization Certificate.
