Social Work Programs offered at Florida Atlantic University

The Phyllis and Harvey Sandler School of Social Work at Florida Atlantic University has been a cornerstone of social work education since 1970. This institution has fostered a strong reputation over five decades by offering respected academic degrees that prepare students for meaningful careers in helping professions.

Students find this program appealing because it combines ethical, practice-relevant rigor with remarkable results – 98% of graduates find jobs within three months of completing their studies. These employment numbers clearly show the program’s quality and effectiveness.

Florida Atlantic University’s Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program has evolved into Florida’s largest program, with more than 600 Social Work majors each year. The Master of Social Work (MSW) program has earned its place among the nation’s best, ranking in the Top 80 by U.S. News & World Report. Since 2000, the MSW program has prepared skilled practitioners who excel in advanced clinical social work practice.

The school took a pioneering step in 2016 by launching Florida’s first Doctorate of Social Work (DSW) program. This program continues to produce scholars who can meet community needs and lead in clinical supervision, social work education, and practice-oriented research.

Complete Educational Offerings

The Sandler School of Social Work offers specialized certificate programs in three key areas:

• Addiction
• Child Welfare
• Healthy Aging

The school’s Office of Professional Development provides excellent continuing education courses. This shows the school’s steadfast dedication to helping practitioners grow throughout their careers.

The Social Work program at Florida Atlantic University features a well-planned curriculum. The BSW program has Council on Social Work Education accreditation and uses the Generalist Intervention Model. This model takes a strength-based approach when working with individuals, families, groups, and communities. Students gain skills they need for entry-level positions, graduate study, and community involvement.

Expert Faculty and Extensive Field Network

The programs thrive thanks to nearly 60 dedicated educators and community-based adjunct instructors. The school cooperates with more than 800 active field education instructors across more than 200 agency settings in six Florida counties. Students get hands-on training from experienced professionals in different settings.

Faculty members bring their expertise from south Florida’s social work communities into classrooms. Research faculty create innovative scholarship that improves professional practice. Their work helps develop economical, ethical, and humane solutions to society’s biggest challenges.

Career Prospects and Industry Growth

Social work graduates from Florida Atlantic University enter a thriving field. The Department of Labor predicts a 13% increase in social work positions over the next decade. Florida especially needs social work graduates.

Social workers make a difference throughout American society. They form a crucial part of the nation’s health, mental health, and social services workforce. These professionals tackle America’s biggest social problems in areas like addictions, child welfare, disaster relief, gerontology, health, mental health, military support, corrections, education, and senior services.

The United States has more than 700,000 social workers. They provide emergency, psychotherapeutic, and preventative services across public, private, and voluntary organizations. The number of clinically trained social workers exceeds the combined total of psychologists, psychiatrists, and psychiatric nurses.

The high demand for qualified professionals shows in Florida Atlantic University’s employment data. BSW graduates achieve 98% employment within three months, while 93% of MSW graduates find jobs within a year of finishing their program.

Mission and Values

The Phyllis and Harvey Sandler School of Social Work at Florida Atlantic University works to maximize human potential, ease suffering, and strengthen communities’ vitality and caring capacity. The school promotes a humane and just society through education, research, and community involvement.

This mission helps create high-quality professionals. Florida Atlantic University’s social work graduates stand out for their clinical expertise. They become leaders in health, mental health, and human services.

Students pursuing BSW, MSW, or DSW degrees at Florida Atlantic University’s School of Social Work receive education that combines academic excellence with practical experience. They learn to make meaningful contributions to individuals, families, and communities in Florida and beyond.

Where is Florida Atlantic University located

FAU’s social work programs are spread across several campus locations in Southeast Florida. Students can choose from multiple options to get their social work education. The university’s educational network stretches 110 miles along Florida’s southeastern coast and serves students throughout the region.

The Phyllis and Harvey Sandler School of Social Work’s main hub sits at 777 Glades Road in Boca Raton. This 61-year-old flagship campus covers 850 acres and lies just 15 miles from Fort Lauderdale. The Boca Raton location hosts most of FAU’s programs and students, with over 70% of its 29,000 students enrolled here. Students can find the School of Social Work offices in Room 308 of the Social Science Building, where the Executive Administrative Assistant helps with administrative needs.

Students have additional options at the Davie campus. This second-largest FAU location at 3200 College Avenue in central Broward County serves more than 5,000 students across 30 degree programs. Social work students here can get advising support by calling (561) 297-1162.

FAU’s reach extends through Palm Beach, Broward, and St. Lucie counties. The university operates these six campuses:

MSW students can take classes at both Boca Raton and Davie locations. The program’s administrative support team works from the Social Science Building at the main campus. Students can reach program assistants at (561) 297-6494 or (561) 297-3234. MSW courses at Davie happen in Room 466 on the 4th floor of the Liberal Arts Building.

The Boca Raton campus offers a complete university experience. Less than three miles from beautiful Atlantic beaches, this tropical setting features modern suite-style housing for over 4,500 students. Students enjoy state-of-the-art athletics facilities, recreational areas, art galleries, and a café/movie theater complex. The campus has Florida’s most diverse student body among public universities. This diversity helps social work students understand different views and cultures—a valuable asset for their future careers.

The Davie campus sits within the South Florida Education Center, partnering with Broward College. Its facilities span over 300,000 square feet, including labs, classrooms, offices, and a shared library. The campus houses research centers like the Florida Center for Environmental Studies and the Small Business Development Center.

FAU’s multiple locations create an easily available network for social work education. Students can pick the most convenient location while pursuing their degree. The university’s smart placement of campuses makes quality social work education available across South Florida.

BSW classes run at both Boca Raton and Davie campuses. Tod Marshall, the Executive Administrative Assistant, helps BSW students at the Boca Raton campus. Students can reach him at (561) 297-6494.

FAU’s broad geographic presence shows its dedication to Southeast Florida’s communities. The university’s social work programs are available to students from different locations and backgrounds. This helps meet Florida’s growing need for qualified social work professionals.

Each FAU campus has dedicated staff ready to help with program details, applications, and academic advice. This multi-campus approach gives students flexibility and prepares them to work in different communities across various locations.

What social work programs does Florida Atlantic University offer?

Florida Atlantic University welcomes students with social work programs that prepare them for professional practice at every level. The Phyllis and Harvey Sandler School of Social Work has earned national recognition through its quality degree options.

The social work education at Florida Atlantic University spans three degree levels. Each level matches different career goals and educational backgrounds.

Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)

The BSW program is Florida’s largest undergraduate social work program. It serves about 600 students each year. The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredits this program. Students learn the Generalist Intervention Model and use a strength-based approach when working with individuals, families, groups, and communities.

The program’s curriculum helps students:

• Start their generalist social work practice
• Move on to graduate study in social work
• Take part in community processes

Students learn about diverse client systems and the multicultural populations of southeast Florida. The curriculum also covers organizational behavior, social work ethics, and professional growth.

BSW students at Florida Atlantic University can take advantage of Advanced Standing status. Students who earn a 3.5 GPA or higher in their final 60 credits can apply for this status. Advanced Standing lets them complete their Master of Social Work degree in just two semesters.

Master of Social Work (MSW)

The MSW program started in 2000 and has built a strong national reputation. U.S. News & World Report ranks it among the top MSW programs. The program currently sits at #79 in the nation.

Students can choose from three MSW options:

1. Regular Program (60 credits)
   • Full-Time track: 2-year program
   • Part-Time track: 3 or 4-year program
2. Advanced Standing Program (30 credits)
   • Full-Time track: 1-year program
   • Part-Time track: 2-year program
3. 100% Online Program
   • Florida residents only
   • Advanced Standing qualified applicants only
   • Students need a CSWE-accredited BSW earned within five years

Advanced Standing needs a BSW from the last five years. The degree must come from a CSWE-accredited program or an equivalent recognized through CSWE’s International Social Work Degree Recognition and Evaluation Service.

The MSW On-Campus/Online Blended program gives students flexibility. Classes run at both Boca Raton and Davie campuses, with online options available. Students can apply year-round for traditional and advanced standing tracks. The deadlines are:

• Spring semester (January start): October 1
• Summer semester (May start): February 1
• Fall semester (August start): May 1

The 100% Online program opens applications on August 25. Students must apply by February 1 for a May (Summer) start.

MSW graduates work with people of all ages – children, teens, adults, and seniors. They help individuals, couples, families, and groups in many settings. Students learn evidence-based clinical practice and critical thinking skills to prepare for advanced clinical social work.

MSW graduates enjoy excellent job prospects. Social Work ranks among the fastest-growing careers in the U.S. Florida Atlantic University graduates have a 93% job placement rate within 12 months.

Doctor of Social Work (DSW)

Florida Atlantic University launched Florida’s first DSW program. The program trains scholarly clinicians to become leaders. This doctoral degree represents the highest level of social work education at the university.

Program Recognition and Rankings

The social work programs at Florida Atlantic University shine through their achievements:

• S. News & World Report ranks the MSW program 79th nationally, up almost 20 spots in one year
• Student evaluations place it as the #3 MSW program nationwide
• The BSW program ranks in Florida’s Top 3 for monthly alumni earnings within a year of graduation

Faculty Resources

The School of Social Work has 16 full-time faculty members – 11 women and 5 men. They focus their research on child welfare and social work education. This research keeps the teaching current and relevant.

Admission Process

MSW program applications work differently based on format:

On-Campus/Online Blended programs accept applications year-round with these deadlines:

• October 1, February 1, and May 1

The 100% Online program:

• Opens applications August 25
• Closes February 1 for May (Summer) start

Domestic students pay a $30 application fee. The school reviews applications as they arrive. International students must apply by February 15th for fall enrollment.

The school removed the GRE requirement in April 2004. Since February 2013, Advanced Standing admission no longer needs the Transition Course.

The School of Social Work creates skilled, compassionate practitioners ready to tackle society’s complex challenges. These nationally recognized programs blend theory with practical skills. Students at all levels – undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral – get the education they need to succeed in this growing field.

Field education at Florida Atlantic University

Field education is the substance of social work training at Florida Atlantic University’s Sandler School of Social Work. The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) recognizes it as the signature pedagogy for social work that connects classroom theory with real-life practice. Students gain essential opportunities to develop and demonstrate core competencies in actual practice settings through this hands-on component.

Students can access field placement experiences throughout South Florida, from Vero Beach to Miami. This wide geographic coverage provides access to practice settings of all types and populations, which enriches the educational experience through exposure to various social challenges and intervention approaches.

Program Structure and Requirements

Florida Atlantic University structures field education across three distinct levels, each with specific requirements and learning objectives:

BSW students complete their field education in the final semester after finishing all core coursework two full semesters before entering practicum. Students must complete 400 hours in a single semester through a block placement model, though they may spread these hours across two semesters with advance approval. The school reviews all coursework to ensure graduation readiness before placement begins, and students cannot take additional courses during their placement.

MSW students at the Generalist (Foundation) level complete 400 hours over two semesters at the same placement. This concurrent program lets students attend classes while participating in their practicum placement and complete 200 hours each semester.

MSW Specialist (Clinical) level students must complete 600 hours over two semesters, with 300 hours each semester. This advanced placement focuses on clinical practice where students demonstrate specialized competencies and behaviors appropriate to this level.

Application Process

BSW and MSW programs have slightly different application processes. BSW students start their experience after advising clears them upon completing all prerequisite coursework. The process includes:

1. Complete the Student Field Information Form
2. Submit the form to the designated field education coordinator
3. Receive login credentials for the IPT Database to complete your field application
4. Attend a mandatory field orientation
5. Participate in an interview to discuss placement options

MSW students typically begin their application process in mid-spring for summer or fall placements. Students must submit MSW practicum placement applications by June 1 for the following academic year. Missing this deadline means waiting until the next academic year.

Field Education Philosophy and Integration

Florida Atlantic University’s field education builds on a rich tradition dating back to the early 20th century when social work training happened primarily through apprenticeship. This approach has evolved into a more formalized educational component that strengthens the collaborative effort between academic institutions and practice settings.

Students merge theoretical knowledge with ground application during their field education experience—what Goldstein (2001) called “the linchpin which connects classroom learning with real life”. This approach requires competence in both classroom and practice settings, as well as their synthesis.

Students attend a three-hour integrative field seminar alongside their field practicum internship. Faculty representatives visit sites at least once during the internship to review progress and address emerging needs.

Field Placement Settings and Supervision

Partner field agencies must meet specific requirements to ensure quality educational experiences:

• Weekly supervision (minimum one hour) by a qualified field educator
• Learning experiences at micro, mezzo, and macro levels
• Appropriate resources, office space, and technical support
• Adherence to the NASW Code of Ethics
• Service to diverse client populations representative of South Florida
• Detailed orientation covering safety, policies, and expectations

Field educators must meet rigorous qualifications. BSW field educators need a BSW degree from an accredited program and two years of post-bachelor’s experience. MSW field educators must have an MSW degree from an accredited program and two years of post-master’s experience. A mandatory 12-hour Field Educator Training at FAU is required for all field educators unless they’ve completed approved training at another Florida university.

Mission and Educational Intent

The Sandler School of Social Work’s mission shapes its field education program: “To maximize human potential, reduce human suffering, improve the vitality and caring capacity of communities, and promote the ideals of a humane and just society”. This mission drives the program’s steadfast dedication to preparing competent practitioners who embody core professional values.

Students develop and demonstrate competence in applying social work values and ethics while promoting social and economic justice through their field education experience. They learn to support human rights, curb poverty, and improve quality of life for populations of all types—essential elements of professional social work practice.

The university creates opportunities for students to work with various populations and practice contexts by offering field placements throughout South Florida. This approach prepares them for the complex realities of contemporary social work practice.

What sets Florida Atlantic University apart?

The Phyllis and Harvey Sandler School of Social Work at Florida Atlantic University stands out from other institutions with its national recognition. The Master of Social Work program has substantially improved its rankings. It now sits at 79th nationally in U.S. News & World Report—up almost 20 spots in just a year. Student feedback places the program at #3 among MSW programs nationwide, which shows how much students value their learning experience.

FAU’s social work programs are making waves in the educational world. The university runs Florida’s largest BSW program with about 600 students each year. The Master of Social Work program is one of FAU’s biggest graduate programs, teaching around 300 students. These numbers show both the programs’ appeal and their ability to meet workforce needs.

FAU has broken new ground with its Doctorate of Social Work (DSW) program—the first one in Florida. This groundbreaking doctoral program prepares scholarly clinicians to take on leadership roles, filling a vital gap in advanced social work education across the state.

The job prospects for FAU social work graduates are impressive. MSW graduates have a remarkable 93% job placement rate within their first year, way beyond the reach and influence of similar programs. The university ranks among Florida’s top three programs for BSW graduate earnings within a year of finishing. This shows the real economic benefits of choosing FAU for social work education.

The Sandler School of Social Work has earned full accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) for both traditional and online programs. The MSW Online program got this vital accreditation recently. This recognition sets the Sandler School apart from other institutions in Florida and across the country.

FAU’s approach to social work education is unique. The university has created a “culture of strategic and collaborative community involvement”. This strategy benefits both the school and local communities. FAU goes beyond classroom teaching to create real change—staying true to social work’s core values.

The faculty conducts research across multiple disciplines through various in-house centers and works with scholars and organizations worldwide. Their research helps:

• People, families, and communities
• Find solutions to social and human needs
• Build scientific foundations for social work and criminal justice

The university wants to connect research across different schools, throughout the university, and with nearby communities. This plan aims to boost research excellence while helping communities.

The Sandler School of Social Work has approval from several professional organizations:

• Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy, and Mental Health Counseling
• Florida Board of Psychology
• Florida Office of School Psychology
• Florida Board of Nursing (BAP #50-6251)
• Florida Certification Board (#5350-A)
• Council on Social Work Education

These approvals give graduates more career options across different service areas and licensing paths.

The BSW program’s strength lies in its Generalist Intervention Model, which uses a strength-based approach to help individuals, families, groups, and communities. This model fits perfectly with modern social work practices and prepares students for various challenges.

The BSW curriculum covers client systems of different sizes, southeast Florida’s diverse populations, organizational behavior, and social work ethics. This local focus gives graduates the right skills for their specific work environment.

The faculty at FAU adds another layer of excellence. They are “bright, energetic, and well connected to the social work communities in south Florida”. These professional connections create better learning and career opportunities for students.

The university focuses its research on seven key goals:

1. Growing research excellence in established areas
2. Helping communities through scholarship
3. Getting more recognition for college research
4. Building stronger cross-university research
5. Using research to drive social change
6. Developing innovative community-based research
7. Getting students involved in life-changing research

This detailed approach to research makes FAU special by connecting classroom learning, scholarly work, and community service.

The Phyllis and Harvey Sandler School of Social Work shows its steadfast dedication to maximizing human potential, easing suffering, and boosting community vitality. The program’s national recognition, career success rates, and community involvement make FAU a leader in social work education.

Next steps

The Phyllis and Harvey Sandler School of Social Work at Florida Atlantic University has grown into a leading destination for future social work professionals over the last 50 years. Students can choose from several programs that match their career goals and educational interests. The school’s degrees prove their worth with outstanding job placement rates – 98% of BSW graduates find jobs within three months and 93% of MSW graduates within a year.

FAU’s campus locations throughout Southeast Florida make quality social work education available to students across the region. Students get ground experience through the school’s field education program. They work in different settings and build valuable professional connections along the way.

Students thrive both professionally and personally in an environment shaped by nationally recognized programs and qualified faculty members. The school’s steadfast dedication to helping people reach their full potential goes beyond classroom teaching. It creates lasting change in communities through its network of mutually beneficial alliances.

Social work ranks among the nation’s fastest-growing careers. FAU prepares you to meet this growth with a detailed curriculum that emphasizes ethical practice, cultural competence, and evidence-based methods. You can join Florida’s largest BSW program, the nationally ranked MSW program, or the trailblazing DSW program. Each path gives you the expertise and professional network to build a rewarding career helping others.

The Phyllis and Harvey Sandler School of Social Work creates compassionate, skilled practitioners ready to tackle complex social challenges in various settings. FAU becomes an excellent choice to begin your social work education with its proven track record, impressive rankings, and strong job placement rates.