Dorothy Day Social Work Program

Welcome to the University of Portland Dorothy Day Social Work Program (SWP). The SWP offers a Bachelor of Arts degree in social work and is nationally accredited by the Council on Social Work Education. Named after influential Catholic activist, writer, and thinker Dorothy Day (1897-1980), the SWP provides students with an introduction to generalist social work practice (working with diverse populations using a broad range of skills), including theories and methods of planned change to address human needs and promote flourishing for all people and communities. Grounded in a commitment to social justice and human dignity, our program prepares students for graduate study in social work and related fields and careers in mental health, case management, policy advocacy, community organizing, and many more.

Practicum

Beginning in Fall of their senior year, students complete a 400-hour practicum (internship) at a local nonprofit organization or government agency. This supervised internship, typically 16-20 hours per week throughout the academic year, gives students the chance to integrate classroom learning in a professional setting and apply social work knowledge and skills. The practicum experience is complemented by a year-long seminar in the theory and methods of social work practice with individuals, families, and groups as well as communities, organizations, and social systems.

Accreditation

The Dorothy Day Social Work Program has been accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) since 2003. This accreditation involves ongoing program evaluation and regular site visits to ensure we meet all educational policies and standards. Accreditation by CSWE provides an important benefit to our graduates: Social work majors who earn a B.A. in social work are eligible to apply for advanced standing in most Master of Social Work (MSW) programs across the United States. Advanced standing means that our curriculum satisfies the foundation coursework normally required in the first year of graduate study. Earning advanced standing typically reduces graduate study by at least one year, allowing most students to complete their MSW in one year instead of two.