Field placement is the required experiential learning component of St. Bonaventure University’s online MSW program. Through this experience, you will apply what you learn in the classroom to real-world situations, further helping you to become prepared for your future in social work.

Your dedicated SBU placement team collaborates with you to secure quality experiential learning sites that reflect your educational goals and desired practice specialty. They ensure all experiences meet accreditation standards, and the agencies and instructors are approved prior to the start of your practicum work.

Concurrent coursework and practicum experiences connect classroom learning with real-world experience. Practicum placements provide the 900 hours of hands-on social work experience required to graduate. Your placement coordinator helps identify quality placement sites within your local community so you can focus on your coursework and build your skills.

Your placement coordinator and the MSW Practicum Director are here to help guide you through the entire process. They will provide realistic expectations for the practicum experience to ensure you are ready to work independently in a fast-paced environment upon graduation.

Typically, students complete their field hours at:

• Community centers/organizations
• Human service agencies
• Counseling and therapy centers
• Addiction and mental health treatment facilities
• Adoption agencies
• Senior care facilities, such as nursing homes
• Correctional facilities
• Hospitals/clinics

You will receive a notification from your dedicated field placement team before each field experience start date.