MSW Students

Master of Social Work students in their practicum year (2nd year or advanced standing) will have the opportunity to learn about each of the five critical service domains. This no-cost certificate program will provide students with a depth of knowledge, a range of tangible skills, and an increased sense of resilience to better serve in public-service social work jobs after graduation.

Cost

No cost

Certificate, materials, and sessions, no tuition or fees.

Who it’s for

MSW Practicum

Practicum-year or advanced-standing MSW students at partner schools.

Time commitment

30–36 Hours

Monthly sessions, async learning, and professional learning communities.

Eligibility

Requirements & Eligibility

This track is for MSW students in their practicum year at a PSLP coalition partner school.

  • Practicum-year MSW student or advanced standing MSW student at one of the 25 PSLP coalition partner campuses
  • Must be able to attend the required virtual orientation
  • Must be able to attend the monthly webinars
Reentry planning meeting
Social worker helping two older adults with paperwork at a table
Program structure

What to Expect

The MSW Student Certificate combines orientation, monthly learning, and practicum-aligned professional development.

  • Active participation in all scheduled content sessions
  • Engagement in monthly webinars
  • Attendance at required in-person events
  • Orientation session and 30–36 hours of certificate content
Why it matters

Why Participate in PSLP?

Build skills and connections before you enter the workforce.

  • Certificate of Participation through the Social Work Coalition
  • Network with social work professionals, faculty, and students across 25 partner campuses in North Carolina
  • Connect with other social work students in your community
  • Access to mentors and social work practitioners in state agencies and community organizations
  • Expanded practicum placement opportunities and connections
  • Early access to a professional network across NC state agencies and community organizations
Professionals shaking hands across a meeting table

Key Dates and Timeline

Dates will be posted when finalized.

Application Timeline

Applications released: [DATE]Applications close: [DATE]Decisions go out: [DATE]Acceptances due: [DATE]

Program Timeline

Information session: [DATE]Content begins: [DATE]Content delivery: [DATES]PLC / webinars: [DATES]In-person dates: [DATES]Closing session: [DATE]

Next steps

How To Apply

The application includes a short form, personal statement, and references. Details on the application portal will be posted here when applications open.

Close-up of hands filling out paperwork at a table

Questions?

Reach out to [email protected].

Contact Us

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a cost to participate?
No. Participation is offered at no cost.
Who runs PSLP?
PSLP is housed within the Office of Community Engagement and Outreach at the UNC School of Social Work, with coordinators and liaisons regionally located at coalition partner schools.
How much time will this take?
The program requires 30–36 hours of content over the course of the program year, plus attendance at specific in-person and virtual events.
Does the practicum count toward my MSW degree hours?
PSLP does not replace any required coursework. It is designed to work alongside your existing schedule.
Who do I contact with questions?
Reach out to [email protected].