Lana Oconnell
The University of Denver offers a Master of Social Work (MSW) program that is one of the oldest continually accredited graduate social work programs in the United States. The program offers a concentration in Health and Wellness, which prepares students for careers in social work with a focus on health equity and advocacy. Students can choose from full-time and part-time options, as well as online and in-person learning. While the exact number of students enrolled in the Health and Wellness concentration is unclear, the University of Denver has an enrollment of over 5,800 graduate students.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of classes | Traditional students take at least four seminar courses |
| Number of credits | Traditional students take 90 credits of classes; Advanced standing students take 59 credits |
| Work hours | 12 hours per week during the first year; 15 hours per week during the internship in the second or final year |
| Internships | One foundation internship and one concentration internship |
| Concentration | Mental Health and Trauma; Health, Equity and Wellness |
| Pathways | Health and Wellness; Medical Focus; Health, Equity and Wellness |
| Sample Job Titles | Health Advocate, Public Health Educator, Health Equity Specialist, Community Health Advocate, Community Wellness Clinician |
| Courses | Evolving Perspectives & Trends in Health & Wellness; Assessment of MH Across the Lifespan; Leadership & Supervision Skills; Trauma Informed Assessment & Interventions; Suicide Assessment & Interventions; Solution Focused Brief Therapy; SW Practice in Health; Cognitive Behavioral Therapies |
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Career prospects
The University of Denver's Master of Social Work (MSW) program offers a wide range of career prospects for its graduates. The program prepares students for leadership and advocacy roles in clinical practice, public health, and policy settings. With a focus on health and wellness, students can pursue careers in various settings, including hospitals, community centers, mental health clinics, and integrated health care.
The MSW program with a concentration in health and wellness provides students with the knowledge and skills to address complex health issues. Students learn about the social determinants of health, health disparities, and the importance of health equity. They also develop competencies in conducting assessments and interventions in various health settings. This preparation equips graduates to work in specialty care centers, such as oncology and pediatrics, and integrated behavioral health settings.
The University of Denver's MSW program is designed to be flexible, allowing students to customize their Advanced Social Work Practice concentration to match their career goals. The program offers both online and on-campus options, providing a balance between personal and professional commitments. The online program, in particular, enables students to study from anywhere in the United States and connect with their classmates and professors through a convenient mobile app.
Graduates of the MSW program have gone on to pursue diverse career paths. Sample job titles include Health Advocate, Public Health Educator, Health Equity Specialist, Community Health Advocate, and Community Wellness Clinician. Additionally, the program prepares students for licensure exams, enabling them to become social workers in medical and integrated health and wellness settings.
The University of Denver also offers a dual-degree program, combining the Master of Social Work (MSW) with a Master of Public Health (MPH). This dual-degree option further enhances career prospects by providing expertise in both social work and public health, opening doors to leadership and advocacy roles in public health settings.
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Course structure
The Master of Social Work (MSW) with a pathway in Health, Equity, and Wellness at the University of Denver is a comprehensive course that prepares students for a career in social work with a focus on health and wellness. The course structure is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in social work principles and their application in health and wellness settings.
The MSW program offers both online and on-campus learning options. The online MSW program, known as MSW@Denver, combines online courses with field internship experiences. Students attend live online classes, complete coursework, and interact with their peers and professors through a convenient mobile app. The on-campus program is offered at three locations in Colorado, including the main campus in Denver.
The course structure for the MSW with a Health, Equity, and Wellness pathway covers a range of topics and skills. Students will learn about the history of health, health disparities, and the social determinants of health. They will also develop culturally responsive practice skills and evidence-based modalities to prepare for social work in comprehensive and specialized healthcare centers. The curriculum includes courses on leadership and supervision skills, assessment of mental health across the lifespan, trauma-informed assessment and interventions, and cognitive behavioral therapies.
In addition to coursework, the MSW program emphasizes hands-on experience through internships. Students complete one foundation internship and one concentration internship, totaling 500 hours of fieldwork. During these internships, students apply their classroom knowledge to real-world settings, working under the guidance of licensed social workers. They gain experience in clinical skills, such as implementing mental health screenings, consulting with medical providers, and facilitating therapy appointments.
The MSW program allows students to customize their pathway to meet their personal interests and career goals. They can choose from various concentration areas, such as Advanced Social Work Practice, Mental Health and Trauma, or Health, Equity, and Wellness. The Health and Wellness pathway specifically prepares students for careers in medical and behavioral health settings, such as a medical social worker, dialysis social worker, or behavioral health treatment therapist.
The minimum credits required for the Master of Social Work degree is 81, including 36 credits for the foundation curriculum and 45 credits for the concentration curriculum. Students can complete the program within 27 months in the 9-Quarter Track. The University of Denver also offers a dual-degree program, combining the Master of Social Work with a Master of Public Health (MPH).
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Internships
The University of Denver's Master of Social Work (MSW) program offers students a wide range of internship opportunities to gain hands-on experience and prepare them for their future careers. With over 750 field education options available in Colorado and abroad, students can choose internships that align with their interests and professional goals.
During their internships, students work closely with experienced social workers and field supervisors who provide mentorship and support. They also collaborate with a field liaison and a field instructor to ensure that their experience meets curricular milestones and goals. The University's placement team assists students in identifying meaningful learning activities and sites that offer transferable skills for any social work setting.
The MSW program at the University of Denver offers both traditional and non-traditional internship settings. Students can explore diverse areas such as hospitals, hospices, child welfare agencies, policy nonprofits, animal sanctuaries, and community centers. For those with specific preferences or requirements, the referrals-based track allows students to propose a particular site for their internship, subject to faculty approval.
Online MSW students at the University of Denver also have the flexibility to complete their internships in their own cities. The University pairs each incoming student with a field placement specialist who helps them secure internships and meet the requirements for course credit. Online students gain practical experience by applying the concepts and theories learned in their virtual classes to real-world settings.
The University of Denver's MSW internships are designed to provide students with a well-rounded and comprehensive learning experience. Through their internships, students not only develop their social work skills but also build meaningful connections and contribute positively to their communities.
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Specialisations
The University of Denver's MSW program offers a range of specialisations for students interested in health and wellness. The program is CSWE-accredited and ranked #1 in Colorado and #12 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. The program offers both online and in-person courses, providing flexibility for students.
One of the key specialisations within the MSW program is Health, Equity, and Wellness. This pathway prepares students to work in diverse settings and with individuals and communities at micro and macro levels. Courses in this pathway focus on the historical and social determinants of health disparities, clinical skills, leadership, advocacy, and policy practice. Students learn about the mind-body connection, interdisciplinary collaboration, and social justice in health. The curriculum includes required courses such as "Evolving Perspectives & Trends in Health & Wellness," "Assessment of MH Across the Lifespan," and "Trauma Informed Assessment & Interventions."
Another related specialisation is Mental Health and Trauma, which is offered exclusively to online MSW students. This concentration teaches students how to work as counselors and support clients who have experienced traumatic events. Students also take classes on mental health issues, gaining skills to work in different fields of social work.
The MSW program also offers a Health and Wellness Clinic, where interns provide behavioural health services for adults with serious mental illness and chronic physical diseases. This practical experience complements the theoretical knowledge gained in the program.
Additionally, the University of Denver offers a dual-degree program, combining the Master of Social Work (MSW) with a Master of Public Health (MPH). This option allows students to further specialise in health and wellness, preparing them for leadership and advocacy roles in public health and policy settings.
The University of Denver's MSW program provides a range of specialisation options, allowing students to tailor their education to their specific interests in health and wellness. With a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical experience, graduates are well-prepared to pursue careers in this field.
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Student experience
The University of Denver's Graduate School of Professional Psychology offers a unique and enriching student experience for those pursuing an MSW in Health and Wellness. With a focus on holistic well-being and social work practice, students are equipped with the knowledge and skills to make a positive impact in their communities.
The Health and Wellness concentration within the MSW program attracts students who are passionate about promoting holistic health and addressing the social determinants of health. This shared interest creates a cohesive and supportive community within the cohort. Students in this program come from diverse backgrounds, bringing a range of perspectives and experiences that enrich classroom discussions and group collaborations.
The University of Denver provides a range of support services and resources to enhance the student experience. On-campus resources include academic advising, career services, and wellness programs. Students in the Health and Wellness MSW program can access specialised support tailored to their unique needs. They are encouraged to take advantage of individual and group counselling services, wellness workshops, and other opportunities for self-care and professional development.
Class sizes are typically small, fostering a collaborative and intimate learning environment. Courses are designed to be interactive and engaging, incorporating lectures, group discussions, guest speakers, and hands-on experiences. Field education is a key component, providing students with real-world experience and the opportunity to apply their knowledge in community settings.
Outside the classroom, students can get involved in various extracurricular activities and organisations. The University of Denver offers a rich array of wellness initiatives, such as outdoor adventure programs, mindfulness workshops, and cultural events, contributing to a well-rounded student experience. Additionally, the university's location in Denver, Colorado, provides easy access to the region's natural attractions and outdoor recreational activities, allowing students to connect with nature.
The University of Denver fosters a diverse and inclusive community, ensuring a sense of belonging for all students. The Health and Wellness MSW program emphasises cultural humility and social justice advocacy, empowering students to address health disparities and promote equitable access to wellness services. Through academic, personal, and professional development, students become compassionate and skilled social work practitioners in the health and wellness arena.
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Frequently asked questions
The University of Denver has an enrollment of over 5,800 graduate students.
The Health and Wellness pathway prepares students for social work in health care settings. Students learn a variety of skills, theories, and evidence-based modalities to prepare for social work in comprehensive and specialized health care centers.
Sample job titles include Health Advocate, Public Health Educator, Health Equity Specialist, Community Health Advocate, and Community Wellness Clinician.
The University of Denver's MSW program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). The program prepares students for countless career paths, including working with individuals, couples, and families as therapists, and diagnosing and treating people with mental illness or substance use issues. The program also offers a variety of specializations, including Mental Health and Trauma, Health and Equity, and Wellness.
