School Social Work
School-based practice
Prepare to support students, families and school communities.
The School Social Work Certificate prepares Clinical Practice students for effective practice in educational settings and fulfills the coursework and field requirements used to establish eligibility for Michigan’s Preliminary School Social Worker Certificate.
Program components
Complete three courses and specialized field education.
- 01
SW 873
Complete the three-credit course in fall or summer session A.
- 02
SW 874
Complete the three-credit course in spring of even-numbered years or summer session A.
- 03
SW 875
Complete the three-credit course in spring of odd-numbered years or summer session B.
- 04
School-based field placement
Complete a specialized placement in a school setting during either the generalist or advanced year.
State credential: Review current requirements on the Michigan Department of Education school social worker guidance page.
Certificate contact
Mark Nester, LMSW · nester@msu.edu
Additional pathways
Options for noncertificate and post-degree learners.
Students who do not complete the certificate may still pursue preliminary approval by completing the required school social work courses and documenting 500 clinical field hours with children. Graduates and other eligible professionals should use the School’s continuing education pathway.
Preliminary approval contact
Kimberly Battjes, LMSW · kbattjes@msu.edu