Rowan University’s Master of Social Work (MSW) Program Inspires Students & Their Futures
Rowan University’s newly launched Master of Social Work has been a labor of love two years in the making. Led by program director Dr. Mary Kay Tuohy, who holds a doctorate in clinical social work from the University of Pennsylvania, and director of social work field education Staci Fattore, who earned a master’s degree in social work from Washington University in St. Louis, Rowan University welcomed its first group of MSW candidates this past fall and reflect on their banner first year.
“We first introduced ourselves to the social work world, if you will, at the National Association of Social Workers New Jersey conference April 2023,” says Fattore. “So many people came up to me and said such positive things about Rowan,” she continues. “They welcomed our arrival.”
Field experiences and an individual approach to academics and advising are central to the Rowan MSW program. Having meaningful relationships and one-on-one conversations with each member of the cohort are important to both Touhy and Fattore. “About half of our students already have an understanding of what it is that they’d like to do,” says Fattore, “and half do not.” Through ongoing professional mentorship and support, Fattore and Tuohy are a united front in encouraging their students to explore a wide range of professional opportunities while earning their MSW.
“I tell the students: field experiences aren’t just about finding what you want to do; it’s also about whittling down – trying something that isn’t for you is just as valuable an experience and will help your professional growth. You never know where life will take you, even if you think you do,” says Fattore.
With mental health, equity and wellbeing being core concepts of all coursework, students also have the opportunity to customize their education to deepen focus through certificate coursework on wellness coaching, public policy, women’s studies, holocaust and genocide education, and diversity and inclusion.
She continues, “Our proposed mental health, equity and wellbeing is responsive to the demand for greater integration of macro practice with direct care, and aligns with current workforce trends to prepare graduates for work outside of traditional social service settings, such as healthcare, criminal justice, education, policy etc.”
The 59-credit program will offer in-person, one-credit courses that will be held over two weekend days, as one weekend elective classes so that students can explore topics new to them. The experiences do one of three things: expose students to new knowledge, help them possibly ignite a new passion, and partner with professionals that are doing that work or rule out a potential professional focus as not for them.
The Master of Social Work is currently in Pre-Candidacy for Accreditation by the Council on Social Work Education’s Commission on Accreditation. Students who enter programs in Pre-Candidacy that attain Candidacy in the academic year in which they begin their program of study will be recognized as having graduated from a CSWE-accredited program once the program attains Initial Accreditation.
With the MSW launching imminently, neither Tuohy nor Fattore plan to rest to enjoy their success. Stay tuned for what’s next in their sights: launching a bachelor’s of social work at Rowan University.
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Story and interview by Connor Bicknell, senior communication studies major