Bridge Graduate Education Program
Since the early 1990s, we have addressed the need for the recruitment and preparation of newcomer social workers through a unique training program that has since evolved into BRIDGE — a groundbreaking program focused on increasing access to graduate social work education for those who have historically not had it, including participants from around the globe, while addressing critical cultural competency needs within the human services workforce. This program will increase the number of professionally trained social workers from underserved culturally- and linguistically-diverse newcomer populations through a unique structure of support that provides a transitional bridge to graduate academic communities.
Learn more about eligibility and applying on our Applying & Deadlines webpage.
BRIDGE Program Structure
Our program is structured in four phases.
Orientation (Pre-Admission)
A free, nine-session pre-admission course takes place from October to December. This course introduces participants to the culture and expectations of graduate social work education as well as provides assistance and support for those who go on to apply for admission to an MSW program.
Preparation (Pre-Matriculation)
Preparation support eases the transition into graduate social work education for those individuals accepted into the BUSSW MSW program. Additional activities include social events and workshops on topics including—but not limited to—speed reading and writing graduate-level papers.
Education Program (Master of Social Work)
While there is no guaranteed financial assistance available in the BRIDGE program at the present time, our ultimate goal is to secure ongoing financial support for all BRIDGE participants who enroll as BUSSW students. Over the past two years, all BRIDGE students enrolled at BUSSW have received some financial assistance. Those enrolled will continue to receive support and mentoring from the BRIDGE coordinators as well as from faculty and other student groups.
Career Development (Post-Graduation)
BRIDGE graduates have access to Boston University’s career resources. Additionally, we assist graduating students with career planning and the employment search process, maintain a social and support network for newcomer alumni, and recruit former BRIDGE participants to provide voluntary assistance with future students in the program.
Contact BRIDGE
Claudio Martinez
BRIDGE Co-Director
claudiom@bu.edu
Margaret Lombe
BRIDGE Co-Director & Associate Professor
lombem@bu.edu
Jorge Delva
BRIDGE Co-Director & Professor
jdelva@bu.edu
BRIDGE News
