Social Work through a
Mental Health
The Trauma-Informed Mental Health field of practice—one of the school’s six academic pathways that include specialized coursework and field placements—trains future practitioners to deliver evidence-based interventions, design policies for vulnerable populations, champion those in need, and more.
- Clinical and Macro: Clinical students develop strong assessment skills and learn how to integrate evidence-based interventions into their work with clients in behavioral health settings. Macro students develop policy, planning, and management skills to become effective advocates at the local, state, and national levels.
- Trauma Integration Initiative: Trauma is inextricably linked with emotional and behavioral health. Classes are built on cutting-edge empirical and theoretical approaches to trauma, including neurobiological and ecological frameworks. They are taught by experienced practitioners who bring trauma theories and treatment modalities to life. Beyond the classroom, students benefit from the trauma-focused lens used in field placement matching, advising, and supervision. Students can also take advantage of learning opportunities and events sponsored by TII, including speakers on topics that intersect with mental health, such as racial trauma and interpersonal violence. Finally, students learn from each other in practicing self-care techniques via trauma learning communities.
- Field Practicum: Our students train in settings ranging from outpatient counseling centers to schools to hospitals to prisons. Recently our students have been placed at leading organizations such as:
- McLean Hospital
- Riverside Community Care
- South End Community Health Care
- North Suffolk Mental Health Association
- Boston Public Schools
- Massachusetts General Hospital
- Veterans Administration Hospitals
At a Glance
Program format:
In person
Are scholarships available?
When you submit your application for admission, you are automatically considered for BCSSW scholarships, fellowships, graduate assistantships, and research assistantships.
Overview
- All students can choose the following:
- Course of study (macro or clinical)
- One of six fields of practice, which requires both a practice and policy course in advanced practice
- Two yearlong practicum experiences where coursework and experiential learning combine to support a well-rounded practitioner
- Students can take five electives, which are the best way to customize their curriculum plan, to deepen their knowledge, or to venture into an area of practice that is new and fascinating.
Training in the field
Our students engage in direct social work practice in public schools, medical centers, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and a wide range of settings in the human services sector. The Field Education team works with each student to ensure that they find an agency that aligns with their career goals.
Sample agency sites include:
- Boston Medical Center
- Boston Public Schools
- Boys & Girls Club of Watertown
- Cambridge Health Alliance
- Camp Harbor View
- Carroll Center for the Blind
- Catholic Charities
- Italian Home for Children
- Jesuit Refugee Service
- United Way
- Veterans’ Administration Medical Centers
Practice Specialty
You will choose between clinical and macro. The clinical program teaches students how to integrate evidence-based interventions. Macro social work aims to effect change within large systems at the community, organizational, and policy levels.
Fields of Practice
Within either specialized practice (clinical or macro), you will develop expertise by selecting one of six fields of practice.
Certificates
Build additional knowledge and specialized skills by completing an optional certificate. Certificates give students the opportunity to build knowledge in subject-specific areas of social work. Certificates require the completion of three specified courses within a chosen area.
Electives
Our MSW program consists of 12 required courses and 5 electives.
Each semester there are 50+ electives to choose from. With electives, students can customize their curriculum plan, deepen their knowledge, or venture into an area of practice that is new and fascinating.
5 tips for completing your application:
Personal Statement: Put time into your personal statement and tell us about yourself. What drives you to want to be a social worker? Who do you want to help and why?
References: Be sure to reach out to your contacts early so we can review your complete application. References should know you well enough to evaluate your potential in the field of social work.
Apply Early: The earlier you apply, the better chance you’ll have of getting more scholarships, tuition, and aid. Submit your application as soon as it’s ready.
Transcripts: Transcripts from all undergraduate and (if applicable) graduate schools attended are required for application review. Official transcripts may be sent electronically or in hard copy.
No GRE Required: We value your lived experience and look forward to seeing your potential as a future social worker. Think about ways you can stand out from the crowd in your personal statement.
Social Work student training at Dimock Health Center
Career Pathways
Our graduates are well-prepared to work in a variety of settings that often require trauma-informed skills. Settings include:
- hospital-based services (inpatient psychiatry, emergency room/crisis)
- community-based
- in-home casework
- forensic agencies
- homeless service providers
- outpatient clinics
- substance abuse programs
- school districts
- state agencies
- grassroots organizations
With Massachusetts leading the way in national healthcare reform, students are exposed to—and trained for successful careers in—the rapidly changing world of behavioral health.
Why BC School of Social Work?
Support to Help You Succeed
Advising Center
Access academic guidance, including course selection, certificate information, and tips for maintaining work/life balance.
Field Education Team
The BCSSW field education team will help you find your perfect match. The team facilitates connections with agencies so you don’t need to find practicum experiences on your own.
Career Services
Through individual appointments, programming, and events, BCSSW Career Services helps students attain their career goals by maintaining relationships with employers and alumni who share their knowledge, networks, and opportunities.
Social Work Library
Enjoy a dedicated space to study and access hundreds of research databases. The Social Work Library is located right in McGuinn Hall.
Advisors
Advisors support you throughout the program and range from full-time faculty members to active practitioners and leaders in various human services settings.
Students at the diploma ceremony
Start Your Social Work Journey
The BCSSW Admissions team is available to support students throughout the application process. Join us for a virtual information session or connect with a member of the Admissions team for a one-on-one chat.