social work masters thesis

Thesis and Capstone Requirements for Social Work Programs

Frequently part of accredited social work programs, capstone and thesis programs must meet guidelines to earn accreditation. General requirements for capstone or thesis courses are set by an accrediting council, but specific coursework requirements are set by program leads. A social work capstone is typically completed as an internship. Thesis programs, on the other hand, are in-depth professional and clinical field experiences documented in a final essay. Students should be aware of capstone or thesis requirements when choosing a program and whether their program requires one or both as options for graduation.

General requirements for capstone or thesis courses are set by an accrediting council, but specific coursework requirements are set by program leads.

Students typically complete the capstone or thesis in their final semesters. Both the capstone and thesis review learning objectives and apply the student’s learning to practical scenarios and research. Capstone or thesis projects offer students the opportunity to explore work and research opportunities in social work while receiving college credit and constructive feedback on their work. The capstone or thesis can be completed in a local social services agency, hospital, or nonprofit, wherein students observe client and social worker interactions and apply their research. This guide discusses the differences between a capstone and thesis and some of the ways social work students can choose, complete, and present a project.

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What’s the difference between a capstone and a thesis in social work programs.

Sometimes used interchangeably, capstone and thesis projects actually differ in important ways. Capstone projects are usually part of undergraduate program, whereas a thesis is typically required for master’s programs.

Both undergraduate and graduate programs require a practicum for the capstone or thesis project. Many undergraduate program capstones emphasize the practicum component and require a report or presentation of students’ experiences, focusing on the student’s learning about entry-level social work experience. Master’s program thesis projects underscore professional experience and research and may require a research paper. The thesis also develops clinical skills and research explored in the classroom.

What Is a Capstone Like in Social Work Programs?

Social work capstone format.

Many social work programs require two capstone courses and a seminar, a one- or two-credit course that introduces students to the practicum experience and runs concurrent to a capstone course. In the seminar, students describe their goals for the project and may participate in group workshops and discussions. The first practicum takes place in the second or third semester and is usually completed in 200 hours, and students conclude with the 400-hour second practicum in their final semester. Students may complete an individual project as a part of the practicum. A final presentation to the student’s cohort or a report to the faculty adviser may be required to complete the capstone.

Choosing Your Social Work Capstone Topic

Carefully consideration of your capstone topic can enhance your education and career opportunities. A capstone topic should be a relevant, current issue in the social work field that also correlates to your specific interests. Students work closely with a faculty adviser to select their topic. The capstone adviser is a professional in the field who helps students make professional connections, as students develop their practicum placement through networking. This combination of professional guidance, exposure to the field, and exploration of current issues benefits professional development.

Completing Your Social Work Capstone

A customizable experience at its core, students design the goals for their social work capstone, develop learning objectives, and determine the topic they will address. Student and faculty work together to choose an appropriate setting for the capstone research, which may be a hospital, care facility, or a mental health clinic. You may be given permission to complete the capstone at your current place of employment, but all capstone work must be accomplished outside of your normal work duties.

A customizable experience at its core, students design the goals for their social work capstone, develop learning objectives, and determine the topic they will address.

Once you have chosen your topic, designed your capstone, and selected a setting, you will submit a proposal to your faculty adviser. When the adviser approves your topic, design, and setting, the practicum begins in earnest. Social work students keep close records of their practicum experience. Depending on the format, you may file case notes or reports. Students also maintain a log of hours worked that is signed by the site supervisor and the faculty adviser.

Presenting Your Social Work Capstone

Students often present on their capstone at the conclusion of the experience. The presentation typically takes place during the seminar course; students present their work to faculty and their cohorts. Some programs may invite the public to attend, so your family and friends can view your hard work. Hallmarks of capstone presentations include PowerPoints, handouts, and oral reporting and explanation of data collected. The seminar class tends to work together in small groups to develop the final presentations. Not every program requires a presentation, however; a final paper reviewed by an adviser can replace the capstone presentation requirement.

How Is a Social Work Capstone Graded?

Social work capstones are graded on a pass/fail basis. Students receive a rubric of objectives and expectations, which includes the number of hours required for a successful capstone. The goals and objectives designed by the student, as well as feedback from the site supervisor also determine the final grade earned. If a student fails the capstone, schools have a grade appeals process. Most programs allow students to retake a capstone course once to earn a passing grade.

What Is a Thesis Like in Social Work Programs?

Social work thesis format.

Master’s in social work programs require advanced field experiences as a thesis. MSW students complete a minimum of 900 hours of field experience, earned through two to four practicum courses, one course per semester. Programs generally offer a seminar course that is completed prior to or concurrently with the final practicum course. Completed individually in a communal setting, practicum students are free to collaborate with other professionals in the field. MSW students may also conduct new research projects or case studies. A paper is often required at the conclusion of the practicum, which may be presented to faculty and students.

Choosing Your Social Work Thesis Topic

MSW students receive hands-on training while developing their social work theses. The social work thesis topics students choose may focus on private practice, clinical work, or organizational development, and often reflect a student’s ultimate career goals. In a thesis program, students must utilize networking skills, professional experience, and receive faculty advisement. Students may rely on previously developed professional connections and networking to develop their field experiences. Graduate programs employ faculty with extensive professional experience. Research and select a program with faculty advisers that benefit your professional development goals.

Completing Your Master of Social Work Thesis

Field experiences introduce students to clinical and professional practice, develops their skills, and practices interventions. MSW students design their two field experiences to achieve two overarching goals: generalist experience and professional development.

MSW students design their two field experiences to achieve two overarching goals: generalist experience and professional development.

A generalist experience runs between 200-300 hours, with any remaining hours completed in a specialized field. Students conduct observations and case reviews during the generalist experience, then design the specialized practicum to develop their professional skills and respond to a thesis topic. The design of your field experience is highly customizable, but should include concrete objectives with opportunities for hands-on experience. Students submit their plan to the the faculty adviser, who then approves their planned social work thesis topic and field experiences. MSW students record their work through completing observation reports, case notes, and approved logs of hours.

Presenting Your Social Work Thesis

MSW students who complete practicum experiences typically do not defend their thesis in front of a panel. You may be required to give a presentation to the faculty and other students in your program, which can include a PowerPoint, other visual aids, and handouts. Graduates may have the opportunity to present their work to the public through the university or a conference.

Programs that focus on research and policy may require the a thesis presentation, but this is uncommon for a master’s program. A panel of qualified faculty and professionals hear the thesis. Following their presentation, thesis candidates must answer questions and explain the applicability of their work to the field. Students should determine if the program they are applying to requires a thesis presentation or field experience report.

How Is a Social Work Thesis Graded?

Social work thesis projects are typically graded as pass/fail. The number of practicum hours are set according to accreditation and licensure requirements; students must complete all hours to pass the course. Requirements are given to students before they begin coursework, with additional grade requirements outlined in the thesis design syllabus. Feedback from field supervisors is also considered. Students who fail their field experience may appeal through the school’s appeal process or repeat the course.

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Does a Master’s Degree in Social Work Require a Thesis?

What Is a Thesis?

A master's in social work thesis paper is designed to showcase the knowledge acquired by a student during the course of their studies both in formal classroom settings and in independent settings. Thesis papers must generally be between 12,000 and 15,000 words of original argument supported by scholarly research. Academic advisors can provide guidance regarding the selection of a topic and the presentation of information in these extensive research papers, but the primary responsibility for the content and format of the thesis remains with the individual student.

The Thesis Process

Most institutions of higher learning require similar processes for approval and submission of thesis topics and papers that include some or all of the following steps:

• A brief abstract of the general topic to be explored in the thesis and an outline of the planned flow of this paper • A bibliography that includes many of the sources to be used in the final thesis • Applying to the appropriate department and obtaining approval for the thesis topic • Regular meetings with the assigned academic advisor to report on progress and to ensure that benchmarks for completion are met in a timely manner • Submission of the master's in social work thesis first to the advisor and then to an individual reader or a committee of faculty members for final approval

After these steps have been completed and the thesis has been accepted, the student is usually eligible for graduation with their master's degree in social work.

Alternatives to Theses

Practicums and participation in research studies are the most common alternatives to thesis papers in the college and university environment. These hands-on learning options can provide practical experience for students that can serve them well in their later careers.

• Practicums are for-credit college-level courses that allow students to perform the same duties in a supervised setting that they will be expected to do in real-world work situations. These experiences can provide aspiring social workers with the opportunity to work with patients directly while receiving guidance from trained professionals already in this important field.

• By playing an active role in research studies, prospective social workers can earn college credits while performing a valuable service for others in the field. Students typically work with an established team to collate data, interview subjects and perform other duties associated with the work performed by the research group.

While theses remain the most popular way of testing the knowledge acquired during university studies, these alternative methods can offer practical, hands-on experience for students in degree programs that incorporate them.

Graduate students working toward a master's in social work should consult directly with their academic advisors and other counselors to determine if a thesis will be required for their degree. Preparations for this project should begin as early as possible to ensure both the quality of the work and its timely completion. This can pave the way for a fulfilling career in social work for successful master's degree applicants.

http://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/social-workers.htm#tab-6

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK7267/

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Social Work Theses and Dissertations

Theses/dissertations from 2018 2018.

Transition of Persons with Developmental Disabilities from Parental to Sibling Co-Residential Care: Effects on Sibling Caregiver Well-Being and Family Functioning , Richard Steven Glaesser

An Exploratory Study of Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Communication among Haitian Mother–Daughter Dyads in West Central Florida , Stacy Eileen Kratz

Theses/Dissertations from 2017 2017

An Exploration of the Relationship between Child Welfare Workers’ Ambivalent Sexism and Beliefs about Father Involvement , Katrina Lee Brewsaugh

Physical, Verbal, Relational and Cyber-Bullying and Victimization: Examining the Social and Emotional Adjustment of Participants , Melanie Mcvean

Understanding the Experience of Early-Onset Bipolar Disorder: A Phenomenological Study of Emerging Adults , Kristin M. Smyth

Theses/Dissertations from 2016 2016

A Mixed Methods Inquiry of Caregivers of Veterans with Sustained Serious "Invisible" Injuries in Iraq and/or Afghanistan , Bina Ranjit Patel

Exploring the Relationship of Healthy Lifestyle Characteristics with Food Behaviors of Low-Income, Food Insecure Women in the United States (US) , Kimberly Ann Wollard

Theses/Dissertations from 2015 2015

Development of the Professional School Social Work Survey: A Valid and Reliable Tool for Assessment and Planning , Catherine E. Randall

Clinical and Criminal Justice Outcomes in the Jail Diversion and Trauma Recovery (JDTR) Program , Daniel Harold Ringhoff

Theses/Dissertations from 2014 2014

Evidence-Based Practice Attitudes, Knowledge and Perceptions of Barriers Among Juvenile Justice Professionals , Esther Chao Mckee

Theses/Dissertations from 2013 2013

The Efficacy of Aggression Replacement Training with Female Juvenile Offenders in a Residential Commitment Program , Jody Anne Erickson

Rural Communities: How Do Individuals Perceive Change When Industry Enters the Area? , Katherine Danielle Ferrari

The Baby Blues: Mothers' Experiences After Adoption , Brigette Barno Schupay

Use of Services by Female Survivors of Intimate Partner Violence: In Their Own Words , Michele M. Scordato

Efforts to Engage Parents and Case Outcomes in the Child Welfare System , Patty Sharrock

Continuing Attachment Bonds to the Deceased: A Study of Bereaved Youth and Their Caregivers , Erica Hill Sirrine

Spiritual Life Review With Older Adults: Finding Meaning in Late Life Development , Alicia Margaret Stinson

Theses/Dissertations from 2011 2011

Children Who Die of Abuse: An Examination of the Effects of Perpetrator Characteristics on Fatal Versus Non-Fatal Child Abuse , Donald L. Dixon

The Mediating Role of Social Support and Fulfillment of Spiritual Needs in End of Life Care , Kimberley A. Gryglewicz

Theses/Dissertations from 2010 2010

Examination of the Effect of Child Abuse Case Characteristics on the Time a Caseworker Devotes to a Case , Christopher J. Card

Evaluating Social Work Students’ Attitudes Toward Physical Disability , Rachael A. Haskell

Theses/Dissertations from 2009 2009

Prevalence of Client Violence against Social Work Students and Its Effects on Fear of Future Violence, Occupational Commitment, and Career Withdrawal Intentions , Pamela Myatt Criss

An evaluation of the influence of case-method instruction on the reflective thinking of MSW students , Marleen Milner

Theses/Dissertations from 2008 2008

Developing a School Social Work Model for Predicting Academic Risk: School Factors and Academic Achievement , Robert Lucio

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Thesis and Capstone Requirements for Social Work Programs

Most social work programs culminate in a final capstone or thesis. Usually, students complete a capstone or thesis in their final quarter, semester, or year of study, but some may begin preparing for the project weeks or even months in advance. Schools assign capstones and theses to assess a prospective social worker’s ability to apply classroom concepts in a professional social work setting.

In general, both kinds of projects require students to undergo internships or complete field work in a social work role. Oftentimes, students must critically analyze a social justice or human rights issue relevant to their field experience. Alternatively, students may offer potential solutions to problems their employers face. In combining research with field work, social work programs also prepare graduates to transition from the classroom to the workplace.

Students can complete their capstones or theses in a diverse range of settings. Common placements for both projects include clinical or hospital environments, public policy organizations, and nonprofits. Within these core settings, students work with underserved populations and address issues such as systemic racism, economic inequality, access to healthcare and education, and substance abuse.

This guide outlines the similarities and differences between the social work capstone and thesis, and provides general guidelines for both projects.

What’s the Difference Between a Capstone and a Thesis in Social Work Programs?

Both a capstone and thesis are supervised research projects that include a practicum or internship in a professional social work setting. These projects also include a written essay synthesizing the student’s internship experience and applying relevant lessons from the social work curriculum. At the end of the process, students give a final presentation.

However, significant differences exist between the two options. Social work bachelor’s students usually complete a capstone, while social work master’s students usually complete a thesis. In general, a capstone demonstrates a student’s ability to apply classroom principles in a professional setting. By contrast, a thesis combines internship work with original, publishable research. Thus, while students prove their mastery of social work theory in completing a capstone, students contribute new ideas to the field in writing a thesis.

What Is a Capstone Like in Social Work Programs?

Social work capstone format.

Typically, a social work capstone is a final project embedded within a required research or practicum course. Field work for the capstone project requires a time commitment of one quarter to one academic year, with many students beginning their practicum or internship experience the summer before their senior year. Capstone projects include extended written components, usually an essay of 30 to 40 pages. In the written portion, students identify an issue or need at their field experience site. They then research the topic and suggest potential solutions. Students often present their papers to an audience of their professors and peers. Most capstones are individual projects, but some programs ask students to collaborate.

Choosing Your Social Work Capstone Topic

Since the capstone incorporates an internship in a social work setting, it also provides an opportunity to network with industry professionals and launch a post-graduation career. As such, students’ professional goals within social work should determine their capstone focus. After choosing a topic, students hone their research goals with the help of faculty advisers, professors who typically have work experience relevant to each student’s interests. Capstone topics vary depending on the program, but students often analyze current human rights or social justice issues such as multicultural family systems, health and wellness, public policy, and sustainable development.

Completing Your Social Work Capstone

While each social work program maintains unique capstone requirements, the project’s timeline typically follows a similar sequence. Prior to securing a field work site, students attend informational forums in which instructors explain field work expectations and available partnership locations. Students apply for field work locations that most closely align with their academic interests and professional goals, and professors assign sites accordingly. Field work usually takes place in social service institutions such as hospitals, children’s welfare agencies, or housing transition programs. Occasionally, students can complete capstone research in their current workplace if they already hold employment in an eligible social work setting.

Once students start field work, they meet regularly with advisers, either one-on-one or alongside a group of peers. During these meetings, students analyze their field work experiences, identify problems or needs in a given area, and design a research topic that offers potential solutions. Usually, social work interns also work with a field site supervisor. This supervisor acts as a mentor and ensures that students meet expectations and log the required number of hours.

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Presenting your social work capstone.

Most social work students present their capstone projects in front of a panel of professors and peers. Capstone panels range in size from a few faculty members to audiences of 30 to 40 people. Occasionally, presentations open to the public. Since capstone presentations cover research data, panels generally encourage visual aids, such as PowerPoint or Prezi, to illustrate measurable statistics. During the presentation, students describe their internship role, analyze the communities this internship served, and reflect on the potential solutions to problems they encountered.

How Is a Social Work Capstone Graded?

Students receive a grading rubric at the beginning of their capstone course outlining the program’s unique assessment requirements. While each program determines the success of a capstone differently, professors usually assess how well a student develops a professional identity, engages in critical thinking, conducts research, and cultivates an ethical practice serving human rights or social justice. Assessors grade a capstone on an “A-F,” or 4.0, scale. Students who fail can occasionally appeal their grades, retake the capstone seminar, or edit their research essay.

What Is a Thesis Like in Social Work Programs?

Social work thesis format.

Most master’s programs include a social work thesis. For the thesis, students complete in-depth research or data collection, write an extended essay of about 50 pages, and present an oral defense of results. Typically, master’s students conduct research on a topic of interest while participating in a field work placement or internship. Candidates then outline their research in a written thesis. This process requires at least a year of work, and students usually complete thesis projects individually. Occasionally, however, graduate students’ theses are collective projects that contribute to larger, faculty-led research studies. In such cases, a group of several students and faculty members conduct research together.

Choosing Your Social Work Thesis Topic

Like the capstone, a thesis offers the chance to conduct academic research while earning relevant work experience and networking with social work professionals. Students should communicate with a faculty member or professor who shares their professional or academic experiences and interests. With the help of their adviser, students can determine their research interests and find field work placement sites.

Though thesis topics vary widely, students often address human rights and social justice concerns they encounter during clinical, public policy, or nonprofit work. Rather than relying on established claims, theses propose new ways of understanding and combating social inequality. Social work thesis topics grapple with issues such as the efficacy of community centers in impoverished neighborhoods, strategies for palliative care social work, and success rates for bully prevention programs.

Completing Your Master of Social Work Thesis

Before designing a thesis, students often spend at least one semester, or two quarters, working in their chosen field placement site. During this process, master’s students work alongside a field supervisor, who regularly conducts one-on-one evaluation meetings to measure the student’s progress. The advisers also record student hours. Depending on a program’s requirements, master’s students spend 15 to 30 hours a week at their placement sites. This experience is crucial to identifying eligible social work thesis ideas.

After this initial work, students partner with a faculty adviser to identify a narrow research topic addressing a question or problem in their field. Students form this question by synthesizing their field work with an in-depth review of relevant literature and case studies from peer-reviewed sources. Finally, master’s students present their topic of inquiry to either their adviser or an advisory committee, usually in the form of a short, ten-page summary of their research interests. If the adviser approves the topic, students then begin formally collecting data and writing the thesis.

Presenting Your Social Work Thesis

The master of social work thesis presentation generally takes the form of a formal thesis defense. During the defense, master’s students present their research and conclusions to a faculty panel consisting of at least three professors, including the student’s faculty adviser. Similar to the capstone presentation, thesis defenses often include visual aids such as PowerPoint or Prezi presentations. The visual aid is especially important if the presentation involves graphs, pie charts, or other mediums of data analysis. Only the faculty panel typically attends a formal thesis defense, but master’s students often present their findings again in informal sessions open to the university community.

How Is a Social Work Thesis Graded?

The thesis should display a student’s ability to conduct independent research and meet the demands of a professional social work position. Professors grade a student’s formation of research questions, analysis of secondary literature, collection of data, and organization of research in a coherent report. Advisers always state their expectations in advance of the deadline. Students who don’t meet these goals can occasionally rewrite the thesis, but failure seriously endangers and delays degree conferral. Professors award grades based on a “A-F,” or 4.0, scale. Passing projects generally receive an “A,” while underdeveloped projects receive failing grades.

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School of Social Work Dissertations and Theses

Theses/dissertations from 2024 2024.

Understanding the Other: Mentor Ethnocultural Empathy and Relationship Quality and Duration in Youth Mentoring , Miriam Miranda-Diaz

The Mirror Project: Reflections on the Experiences of African-American Female Adolescents Experiencing Foster Care , Bahia Anise-Cross DeGruy Overton

Theses/Dissertations from 2023 2023

Does Structural Racism Influence How Black/African Americans Define Memory Loss and Cognitive Impairment? An Africana Phenomenological Study , Andre Pruitt

Prosecutors or Helpers: An Institutional Ethnography of Child Protective Services Casework , Anna Maria Rockhill

Theses/Dissertations from 2022 2022

A Critical Discourse Analysis of How Youth in Care Describe Social Support , Jared Israel Best

Examining Demographic and Environmental Factors in Predicting the Perceived Impact of Cancer on Childhood and Adolescent Cancer Survivors , Nazan Cetin

Health Literacy and People Diagnosed with Mental Illness , Beckie Child

High School Persisters and Alternative Schools , Hyuny Clark-Shim

Examining the Role of Social Support and Neighborhood Deprivation in the Relationship Between Multiple ACEs and Health Risk Behaviors , Marin L. Henderson-Posther

A Typology of Foster Home Quality Elements in Relation to Foster Youth Mental Health , Paul Sorenson

"I'm Very Enlightened:" Assisting Black Males Involved in the Criminal Justice System to Deal With and Heal From Racism , Darnell Jackie Strong

The Mechanisms Connecting State Marijuana Policies to Parent, Peer, and Youth Drug Perception Leading to Youth Marijuana Use , Eunbyeor Sophie Yang

Theses/Dissertations from 2021 2021

E(Raced): Race and Use of Self Amongst BIPOC Social Workers , Anita Reinette Gooding

Theses/Dissertations from 2020 2020

A Colorless Nature: Exploring the Mental Health (Help-Seeking) Experiences of Pre-Adolescent Black American Children , Christopher Ashley Burkett

The Economically Disadvantaged Speak: Exploring the Intersection of Poverty, Race, Child Neglect and Racial Disproportionality in the Child Welfare System , Angela Gail Cause

Examining the Narratives of Military Sexual Trauma Survivors , Maria Carolina González-Prats

Theses/Dissertations from 2019 2019

Our Vision of Health for Future Generations: an Exploration of Proximal and Intermediary Motivations with Women of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma , Danica Love Brown

Interrogating the Construction and Representations of Criminalized Women in the Academic Social Work Literature: a Critical Discourse Analysis , Sandra Marie Leotti

Learning From Culturally Specific Programs and Their Impact on Latino Parent Engagement , Analucia Lopezrevoredo

Physical and Emotional Sibling Violence and Child Welfare: a Critical Realist Exploratory Study , Katherine Elizabeth Winters

Theses/Dissertations from 2018 2018

Is Therapy Going to the Dogs? Evaluating Animal Assisted Therapy for Early Identified At-Risk Children , Leah Faith Brookner

Investigating Time During Residential Program Until Transition for Adjudicated Youth: a Mixed Methods Study Using Event History Analysis with Follow-Up Interviews , Emily Carol Lott

Role of Spouse/Partner in Fertility Preservation Decision Making by Young Women with Cancer , Aakrati Mathur

Exploring the Association of Victimization and Alcohol and Marijuana Use among American Indian Youth Living On or Near Reservations: a Mixed Methods Study , Lindsay Nicole Merritt

The Intersections of Good Intentions, Criminality, and Anti-Carceral Feminist Logic: a Qualitative Study that Explores Sex Trades Content in Social Work Education , Meg Rose Panichelli

Latinas and Sexual Health: Correlates of Sexual Satisfaction , Christine Marie Velez

A Foucaultian Discourse Analysis of Person-Centered Practice Using a Genealogical Framework of Intellectual Disability , Nick Winges-Yanez

Theses/Dissertations from 2017 2017

Foundational Knowledge and Other Predictors of Commitment to Trauma-Informed Care , Stephanie Anne Sundborg

An Analysis of Oregon Youth Authority Populations: Who Receives Treatment and What Factors Influence Allocation of Treatment Resources? , Rebecca Arredondo Yazzie

Theses/Dissertations from 2016 2016

The Importance of Online Peer Relationships During the Transition to Motherhood: Do They Decrease Stress, Alleviate Depression and Increase Parenting Competence? , Bobbie Sue Arias

Bridging the Worlds of Home and School: a Study of the Relational Worlds of First-Generation Students in a School of Social Work , Miranda Cunningham

An Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis of Long-Term Mentoring Relationships from the Youth Perspective , Kevin Richard Jones

The Development and Validation of the Social Recovery Measure , Casadi "Khaki" Marino

Theses/Dissertations from 2015 2015

A Queer Liberation Movement? A Qualitative Content Analysis of Queer Liberation Organizations, Investigating Whether They are Building a Separate Social Movement , Joseph Nicholas DeFilippis

Got Hair that Flows in the Wind: The Complexity of Hair and Identity among African American Female Adolescents in Foster Care , Lakindra Michelle Mitchell Dove

Assessing the Impact of Restrictiveness and Placement Type on Transition-Related Outcomes for Youth With and Without Disabilities Aging Out of Foster Care , Jessica Danielle Schmidt

Fathers Caring for Children with Special Health Care Needs: Experiences of Work-Life Fit , Claudia Sellmaier

Investigating the Impact of Sibling Foster Care on Placement Stability , Jeffrey David Waid

Theses/Dissertations from 2014 2014

Understanding Sexual Assault Survivors' Willingness to Participate in the Judicial System , Mildred Ann Davis

The Relationship between Mindfulness and Burnout among Master of Social Work Students , Jolanta Maria Piatkowska

Out of the Way and Out of Place: An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis of the Experiences of Social Interactions of Bisexually Attracted Young People , A. Del Quest

Strengths in Action: Implementing a Learning Organization Model in a Human Service Setting , Barbara Ann Whitbeck

Theses/Dissertations from 2013 2013

"Who Would Have Thought, With a Diagnosis Like This, I Would be Happy?": Portraits of Perceived Strengths and Resources in Early-Stage Dementia , Jutta Elisabeth Ataie

Lost in the Margins? Intersections Between Disability and Other Non-Dominant Statuses with Regard to Peer Victimization and Psychosocial Distress Among Oregon Teens , Marjorie Grace McGee

Teachers' Negative Comments Toward Youth in Foster Care with Disabilities: How Do They Relate to Youths' Problem Behaviors, School Attitudes, and School Performance? , Sunghwan Noh

Exploring the Effects of Multi-Level Protective and Risk Factors on Child and Parenting Outcomes in Families Participating in Healthy Start/Healthy Families Oregon (HS/HFO) , Peggy Nygren

Public Opinion and the Oregon Death with Dignity Act , Peggy Jo Ann Sandeen

The Role of Psycho-Sociocultural Factors in Suicide Risk Among Mong/Hmong Youth , TangJudy Vang

Theses/Dissertations from 2012 2012

Increasing Social Work Students' Political Interest and Efficacy: The Experience and Impact of a Social Welfare Policy Course from the Students' Perspective , Christie Dianne Bernklau Halvor

Exploring Support Network Structure, Content, and Stability as Youth Transition from Foster Care , Jennifer E. Blakeslee

Understanding the Experience of Air Force Single Parents: A Phenomenological Study , Samantha Everhart Blanchard

Implementer Perspectives: The Implementation of a School-Based Mentoring Program , Amanda Angela Fixsen

Risk Factors for Homelessness Among Community Mental Health Patients with Severe Mental Illness , Rupert Talmage van Wormer

Theses/Dissertations from 2011 2011

Gender, Culture, and Prison Classification: Testing the Reliability and Validity of a Prison Classification System , Aimée Ryan Bellmore

An Investigation of the Relationships between Violence Exposure, Internalizing and Externalizing Problems, and Adolescent Alcohol Use , Gregory Lloyd Forehand

Identifying Modifiable Factors associated with Depression across the Lifespan in Stroke Survivor-Spouse Dyads , Michael Joseph McCarthy

Investigating the Predictors of Postsecondary Education Success and Post-College Life Circumstances of Foster Care Alumni , Amy Michele Salazar

Runaway and Homeless Youth: Changing the Discourse by Legitimizing Youth Voice , Donald Dale Schweitzer

Theses/Dissertations from 2010 2010

Visions and Voices: An Arts-Based Qualitative Study Using Photovoice to Understand the Needs and Aspirations of Diverse Women Working in the Sex Industry , Moshoula Capous Desyllas

Somatization and Engagement in Mental Health Treatment , Teresa Chianello

Parental Differential Treatment (PDT) of Siblings: Examining the Impact and Malleability of Differential Warmth and Hostility on Children's Adjustment , Brianne H. Kothari

Understanding the Development of Self-determination in Youth with Disabilities in Foster Care , Jennifer L. Powers

Child Welfare Workforce Turnover: Frontline Workers' Experiences with Organizational Culture and Climate, and Implications for Organizational Practice , Melanie Dawn Sage

Theses/Dissertations from 2009 2009

Developing One's Self: Adoption and Identity Formation Through the Eyes of Transracially Adopted Native American Adults , Jody Becker-Green

Primary Care, Males, Masculinity, and Suicide : a Grounded Theory Study , John Thomas Casey

Dependent Care and Work-Life Outcomes : Comparing Exceptional Care and Typical Care Responsibilities , Lisa Maureen Stewart

Factors Associated with Inclusion of Spirituality in Secular Social Work Education , Leslie Grace Wuest

Theses/Dissertations from 2008 2008

Up a Creek : the Perilous Journey of Recently Uninsured Low-Income Adults in Oregon , Heidi Allen

Attributes of Effective Head Start Mental Health Consultants : a Mixed Method Study of Rural and Urban Programs , Mary Dallas Allen

Staying Within the Margins: The Educational Stories of First-Generation, Low-Income College Students , Diane Lyn Cole

Children with Incarcerated Parents : a Longitudinal Study of the Effect of Parental Incarceration on Adolescent Externalizing Behaviors , Jean Mollenkamp Kjellstrand

The Child Care Self-Sufficiency Scale: Measuring Child Care Funding and Policy Generosity across States , Karen Tvedt

Theses/Dissertations from 2007 2007

Family-Friendly Workplace Culture, Flexibility, and Workplace Support for Dependent Care : the Perspectives of Human Resource Professionals , Katherine June Huffstutter

Family Participation : Exploring the Role it Plays in Outcomes for Youth with Serious Emotional Disorders , Jodi Lee Kerbs

"Creative Interpretation and Fluidity in a Rights Framework": the Intersection of Domestic Violence and Human Rights in the United States , Karen Lynn Morgaine

Food Security and Hunger among Low income US Households: Relations to Federal Food Assistance Program Participation , Rebecca Elizabeth Sanders

Engaging Our Workforce: How Job Demands and Resources Contribute to Social Worker Burnout, Engagement and Intent to Leave , Sara Laura Schwartz

Theses/Dissertations from 2006 2006

Is It Just Me? Felt HIV -Related Stigma among Adults with HIV , Rebecca Gila Block

Social Workers Addressing Student-Perpetrated Interpersonal Violence in the School Context : Awareness and Use of Evidence-Supported Programs , Natalie Diane Cawood

Sons Providing Care at End-of-Life : Common Threads and nuances , Patricia Ebert

Theses/Dissertations from 2004 2004

Applying the Transtheoretical Model to Cigarette Smoking by Pregnant and Parenting Adolescent Females , Barbara Mary Sussex

Theses/Dissertations from 2002 2002

Identifying and Building on Strengths of Children With Serious Emotional Disturbances , Michael Orval Taylor

Theses/Dissertations from 2001 2001

A Dissertation on African American Male Youth Violence: "Trying to Kill the Part of You that Isn’t Loved" , Joy DeGruy Leary

Theses/Dissertations from 1999 1999

Voices of our past: the rank and file movement in social work, 1931-1950 , Richard William Hunter

The Assessment of Children with Attachment Disorder: The Randolph Attachment Disorder Questionnaire, the Behavioral and Emotional Rating Scale, and the Biopsychosocial Attachment Types Framework , Alice Myrth Ogilvie

Theses/Dissertations from 1997 1997

Grandmothers Laughing: Intergenerational Transmission of Cultural Beliefs About Pregnancy and Childbirth Among Native American Women , Claudia Robin Long

Theses/Dissertations from 1983 1983

The needs of older people as seen by themselves and support providers , Sarah Movius Schurr

Theses/Dissertations from 1981 1981

Non-work-related services at the workplace : an exploratory study , William Roland Adix, Elizabeth March Christie, James J. Christrup, Carol M. Kaulukukui, Jennifer Idris Lenway, Cynthia A. Nelson, Linda S. Rielly, Steven Sorlien, Kathleen A. Sweeney-Easter, Lynn Campbell Tate, Patricia Jones Warman, and Donn C. Warton

Assessment of Needs of Adolescent Mothers in Washington County , John L. Arnold, Jean C. Austin, Gary L. Brink, Jane Hall, Patricia C. Hanson, Valerie A. Ivey, April A. Moran, John P. Pank, Mark J. Skolnick, James A. Tarr, and Roberta B. Vaughn

Burnout: Multi-Dimensional Study of Alienation Among Social Service Workers in the Willamette Valley , Sally Carignan, John Deihl, Judy Harris, Jay Jones, Bonnie Rothman, Sabrina Ullmann, Beth Weinberg-Gordon, Phyllis Weter, Patricia Whitty, and Loretta Wilson

Alternative Agencies: An Exploratory Study , Linda Crane, Carolyn M. Curnane, Mike Echols, Mary Ann Hanson, Susan Kouns, Richard Ono, Mark Pierman, Susan K. Rademacher, Sara Weisberg, and Bea Zizlavsky

An Alumni survey of the School of Social Work, Portland State University , Stephen R. Fishack, Robert A. Forlenza, Susan D. Fredd, Gigi Gandy, William P. Goldsmith, Thomas L. Grier, and Sheila K. Lehto

A Description and Evaluation of the Self-Help Information Service , Cathy Tuma and John Wadsworth

The Portland, Oregon ASAP : an evaluation of treatment effectiveness , Joan M. Wildebush Berry, Stefani K. Cuda, Judi L. Edwards, Mary E. Ericson, Emilie Ford Frisbee, Steve Ernest Hand, Mary Anne Hannibal, Laurel M. Myers, Sharon Lee Perry, Loree Richards, Barbara Burns Schmidtke, Stephen Walker Voris, and Barbara M. Westby

Theses/Dissertations from 1980 1980

Multiple impact therapy : evaluation and design for future study , Jacqueline H. Abikoff, Dennis C. Anderson, Patricia C. Bowman, Carolyn Crawford Caylor, Nancy W. Freeland, Jan A. Godfrey, Marlene Graham, Kelly Ann Mason Hall, Mary J. Hatzenbeler, Susan C. Hedlund, Carol Lewis Kast, Gayle Matson Lansky, Janet M. Lewis, Kathleen Patricia Muldoon, Victoria A. G. Stoudt, and Anita Waage

Salem Teen Mother Program : a follow-up study , Frances L. Barton, Florence C. Berman, Sharon M. Bertoli-Nordlof, Marilyn L. Cooper, Claire K. Murray, Rosanne Peratrovich, Arlene M. Showell, and Julio C. Velazquez

Evaluative Styles of Clinicians in Private Practice , Daniel R. Brophy, Elliot M. Geller, Stephan L. Grove, Nancy E. Hedrick, A. Jill Nelson, and Babette A. Vanelli

Adaptation to dominant society : a self study of a woman of mixed race, black/Indian , Helen Marie Camel

A study of the crisis nature of the preparenthood period and implications for preventative social work practice , Julie Jean Colton

A Generalist approach to social work practice : model and synthesis , Chuck H. Johnson, Paul S. Knight, Michael W. Krumper, and John H. Rademaker

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Thesis process and proposal overview.

The UW School of Social Work's MSW Program includes an OPTIONAL thesis option, which works well for a small number of students, particularly those who are interested in continuing on into a doctoral program or in academia.  The thesis credits (9) may count toward the student's elective credits.  A student graduating with a thesis has this noted on their transcript along with the title of the thesis.  EDP students interested in doing a thesis should contact Lin Murdock at [email protected] before starting other steps.

A thesis (SOC W 700) must involve empirical research focusing on issues of human service practice, social service organization, or social policy.  A literature review is acceptable only if it is a systemic or meta-analytic review with a methods section. 

FINDING A THESIS PROJECT

Many students may find potential research ideas and faculty to work with by checking current research occurring at the UW School of Social Work:

• School of Social Work Research website: https://socialwork.uw.edu/research
• Current SSW Research Search: https://socialwork.uw.edu/research-projects

REQUIRED FORMS

All required thesis forms and documentation are available on the MSW Program Reference Area website at:

https://socialwork.uw.edu/students/msw/msw-program-reference-area

These include:

• Thesis Process and Proposal Overview (this document)
• Statement of Intent form
• Thesis Proposal and Committee Constitution Coversheet
• Use of Human and Animal Subjects for UW Graduate Student Theses and Dissertations form
• Student and Thesis Committee Member Roles and Expectations

All documents get turned in to Lin Murdock, Director of Student Services for inclusion in the student file.

Most students who are interested in completing a thesis have begun preliminary conversations regarding a research topic and have lined up at least a Thesis Committee Chair before the end of their generalist curriculum (for day students, by winter/spring of their 1 st year, for EDP students, by fall/winter of their 2 nd year.) 

What?                                                             When?

Submit Preliminary Statement of Intent          Before end of generalist curriculum

Complete IRB proposal                                   Before end of generalist curriculum

Committee Selection                                       Before the start of first registered quarter of Soc W 700

Literature Review                                           Often before, but complete by end of 1 st quarter

Research Proposal and 1 st Committee Mtg     First 3 weeks of first registered quarter of Soc W 700

Methodology draft to Committee                    End of first registered quarter

Data-collection/coding                                     First and second registered quarters

Data analysis and writing                                Third registered quarter of Soc W 700

Get warrant from Lin                                      Week 7 of last quarter of registration of Soc W 700

Near-to-final draft to committee                      Week 7 of last quarter of registration of Soc W 700

Submit signed approval form  to grad school  5pm on last day of instruction

Submit signed warrant to Lin                          5pm on last day of instruction

Submit final thesis                                           5pm on last day of instruction

REQUIRED COMPONENTS

• Must involve complete process of empirical research
• Must involve a minimum of 9 credits typically over 3 quarters
• Committee must include at least 2 members, one of which must have Graduate Faculty Status with the Graduate School.
• Must include:
• Problem formation (This includes review of the literature, concept exploration and development, and the specification of questions and hypotheses.)
• Development of a design (This includes selection of and rationale for type of design, sampling procedures, data-gathering methods, instruments, and measures.  Instruments may be existing ones or developed for the study.)
• Data collection/coding and data analysis or re-analysis. (This includes gathering, collating, and coding data.)
• Interpretation and implications for practice.

STATEMENT OF INTENT  

A statement of intent is completed at least 3 months before the planned start of a thesis, usually in the spring of the student’s first year in the MSW Program.  It is designed as an opportunity to make sure that both the student and the faculty advisor are clear about expectations and timeline – and to make sure that the project is a reasonable one.  It also provides time to get an IRB Review done, if necessary.  Form available on the MSW Program Reference Area website: https://socialwork.uw.edu/students/msw/msw-program-reference-area

HUMAN SUBJECTS REVIEW

Students should discuss early any need for an IRB review with their proposed chair, since getting human subjects approval can take an extended period of time.  Best place to start is the UW Human Subjects Division website to determine if your project requires IRB review. 

All proposals must have attached the following form, available on the MSW Program Reference Area website:

“Use of Human and Animal Subjects for UW Graduate Student Theses and Dissertations.”

A proposal for research should contain clear descriptions of the plans for accomplishment of the particular combination of research tasks, which will be implemented, plus human subjects review.  Where the research is concerned only with implementation of previously designed research, the proposal should include a statement summarizing the problem formulation and design tasks.  Where the research is a secondary analysis of previously collected data, the proposal should contain a summary of the original problem formulation, design, and data-collection procedures as a framework for considering a newly proposed hypothesis which will be examined via the available data. 

Sample generic thesis proposals available at the following sites but yours must include all required components on the Thesis Proposal and Committee Constitution Form on the MSW Program Reference Area:

• https://www.tadafinallyfinished.com/thesis-proposal.html
• https://www4.uwm.edu/letsci/communication/graduate/maproposals.cfm

DATA ANALYSIS CONSULTATION AND SUPPORT

The UW School of Social work provides financial support to the Center for Social Science Computation and Research (CSSCR).  This on-campus resource center provides workshops on the use of different software programs used for data analysis.  They also provide 1:1 data consulting for students. 

http://csscr.washington.edu/

COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP, MEETINGS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The committee chair MUST be a member of the Graduate School Faculty and be approved to chair thesis committees for the School of Social Work.  Students must verify that their proposed chair has such an appointment at: https://grad.uw.edu/for-faculty-and-staff/faculty-locator/

The committee must have a minimum of 2 members and the second member may be a teaching or research faculty member at the UW (in or out of the department), a practicum instructor or agency supervisor, but if a student would like a 3 rd member, that 3 rd member must again be approved by the Graduate School (but may be in a department other than social work.)  This ensures that at least half of the committee are UW Graduate Faculty on any committee.

Students should review themselves and provide a copy to all committee members of the “Thesis Student and Committee Roles” document, which can be found on the MSW Program Reference Area website at: https://socialwork.uw.edu/students/msw/msw-program-reference-area

REGISTRATION FOR THESIS CREDITS

Students will submit their Statement of Intent (see above) to [email protected] , and, once all permissions have been granted, will be given a faculty ID code which will be used to register for their first quarter of Soc W 700.  Students will need to submit their full thesis proposal to receive the code to register for their subsequent quarters of thesis. 

THESIS DEFENSE

The UW School of Social Work does not require a thesis defense nor will a masters “warrant” be necessary.  Students may choose to defend their thesis if they would like to do so.

UW GRADUATE SCHOOL THESIS PROCEDURE

Students considering a thesis should watch the video concerning the UW Graduate School processes, which includes the process for submitting the thesis electronically, at:

https://grad.uw.edu/for-students-and-post-docs/thesisdissertation/

SUBMISSION OF THE THESIS

The thesis must be submitted by 5pm on the last day of instruction in the quarter of completion through the UW ETD site.  Along with the thesis, the student must submit a “ Master’s Supervisory Committee Approval Form ” with signatures from all committee members. More information and that form may be found at:

https://grad.uw.edu/for-students-and-post-docs/thesisdissertation/final-submission-of-your-thesisdissertation/​

*Note: students who have registered a preferred name with the UW may use it on their thesis title page and in the ETD administrator site.  Students may add a preferred name at identity.uw.edu.

WHAT HAPPENS IF SOMETHING DOESN'T WORK OUT?

Students who have started a thesis but find that they are unable to complete the full scope of the project will have any completed Soc W 700 credits converted to Soc W 600: Independent Research in Social Work on their transcript and will be able to continue to use those completed credits toward their MSW elective requirement. 

These standards were updated September 2017.

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Butte Hall, Room 511 530-898-6204 [email protected]

Regular Hours 8:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. Monday–Friday (closed academic holidays)

The Master’s of Social Work program requires students to satisfactorily complete a culminating activity: a thesis, a community-based project, or a comprehensive case review as a condition of graduation. The culminating activity serves as an integrative experience in graduate education.

The following information can also be found in the MSW Student Handbook (Google Doc) on pages 38-41.

The Office of Graduate Studies’ A Guide to Graduate Studies (PDF) is the guiding publication for theses at Chico State. 

• A thesis is typically a recognized research methodology to answer a significant question. 

All theses require oral and written documentation that are defended and that follow the Office of Graduate Studies’ guidelines and the recommendations of the School of Social Work. Students are personally responsible for all formatting and binding costs for theses.

Undertaking a thesis begins by developing an idea and finding a Chair for the Thesis Committee. The Chair and one other (and sometimes two other) Committee Member(s) comprise the Committee. Students are responsible for identifying their Chair, and then working with the Chair to identify additional Committee members. All Committee members must meet the following criteria:

• The Chair must have professor status within the Chico State School of Social Work. Students can identify professors on the School of Social Work Faculty & Staff (look for the title “professor”).
• The Second Committee member should also have professor status within the School. However, the MSW Director can approve, if requested by the student and/or Chair, a professor from another department or a retired Social Work professor.
• The Third Committee member (and any additional members) can be selected by using all of the above criteria, or an exemption can be made for individuals who have other relevant characteristics (i.e. knowledge of the topic). The Chair, MSW Director, and the Office of Graduate Studies Dean (in that order).

Writing a thesis for an MSW degree’s culminating event can be highly rewarding. However, it is a major undertaking that needs careful consideration and planning. In preparation, a student must complete a Thesis Proposal to be submitted to the MSW Program Director following signatures of approval by the Thesis Chair and Committee Member(s). The development of the Proposal will help the student form a research plan, consider its feasibility, and select a Thesis Chair. Please refer to our faculty web page for faculty specialized focus on research and study.

  The following are the recommended elements of the Thesis Proposal. Ultimately, the standards for the proposal are determined by the Thesis Committee and/or Chair. Proposal submissions should be no more than three to five pages in length.

• Introduction & Problem Statement
• Clearly articulated research question
• Researchable research question
• Brief summation of a compilation of articles from peer reviewed journals that are directly related to the research questions
• Quantity of articles should reflect the range of prior research on the topic
• Description of how the research will be carried out
• Appropriateness of the method to the research question
• Students submit a human/animal protection plan located on Chico State Enterprise’s Institutional Review Board (IRB) website (use “Research”on the left menu).
• Get the plan approved by the IRB through the Cayuse online system. 
• Review additional policy, guideline, and application information on the IRB website.

The final draft of the thesis (can be prior to formatting and revisions from the defense) is to be provided to the Committee Chair and Committee Members no later than one week prior to the defense for publicizing and circulating. The defense flyer invitation shall be provided to the Committee Chair, Committee Members, and the MSW Director via email. Unless otherwise specified, at the request of the student with consultation of the Committee Members, the defense shall be considered an “open” event:

• Flyer invitation emailed to all School of Social Work staff, faculty, and students
• Flyer invitation emailed to Graduate Studies and the BBS dean’s office
• Flyer invitation posted in the School of Social Work building, classrooms, and similar locations

Attendance at the defense will include, but is not limited to, the Committee Chair, and at least one other Committee Member. Attendance by others, as specified by the student, are permitted.

UKnowledge > College of Social Work > Theses & Dissertations

Theses and Dissertations--Social Work

Theses/dissertations from 2024 2024.

Fathers’ Perspectives on the Role of Spirituality in Substance Misuse Disorder Treatment and Engaging with Their Children , Kendra Michelle Eubank

Exploring the Therapeutic Relationship in Mental Health Therapy with Queer and Disabled Adults , Rachel Womack

Theses/Dissertations from 2023 2023

FOSTER CAREGIVING: HOW INTERACTIONS WITH THE CHILD WELFARE AGENCY IMPACT FOSTER PARENT SATISFACTION, RECRUITMENT, AND RETENTION , Ethan Engelhardt

Factors Associated with Successful Military-to-Civilian Transition Among Special Forces Veterans , Edward Richter

Theses/Dissertations from 2022 2022

THE INFLUENCE OF DISTANCE LEARNING ON UNDERGRADUATE SOCIAL WORK COMPETENCY: AN EXPLORATORY STUDY AT A PRIVATE UNIVERSITY , Christine K. Fulmer

Conceptualizing Attorney Motivation: A Study of the Representatives for Parents and Children in the Child Welfare System , Shannon Moody

AN INVESTIGATION OF THE EFFECTS OF PSYCHOLOGICAL AND SOCIAL FACTORS ON LABOR MARKET INTEGRATION IN A GENDER STRATIFIED SAMPLE OF REFUGEES IN GERMANY , Theresia M. Pachner

RURAL SUICIDE: A THREE MANUSCRIPT DISSERTATION UTILIZING THE NATIONAL VIOLENT DEATH REPORTING SYSTEM , James Watts

Theses/Dissertations from 2021 2021

THE ROLE OF ADVERSE CHILDHOOD EXPERIENCES (ACEs) IN THE MILITARY AND PREDICTING CURRENT DISTRESS , Douglas A. Foote

Hospital Nurses' Moral Distress and Coping during COVID-19: A Pilot Study , Abigail Latimer

ENHANCING EVIDENCE-BASED TOBACCO TREATMENT SERVICES FOR CLIENTS WITH MENTAL ILLNESSES , Janet Otachi

DOES BULLYING VICTIMIZATION IN MIDDLE CHILDHOOD INFLUENCE ADOLESCENT RISK BEHAVIORS: DIFFERENCES ACROSS RACIAL/ETHNIC GROUPS? , Shawndaya Sabrina Thrasher

Theses/Dissertations from 2020 2020

National Guard Members with Suicide Ideation: The Impact of Stigma, Mental Health, and Trauma History on Treatment-Seeking Outcomes , Amy Brown

KINSHIP CARE PROVIDERS: EXPLORING THE RELATIONSHIP OF CHILD TEMPERMENT, COMBINED FACTORS OF PROVIDER’S RELATIONSHIP TO PRIMARY PARENT AND REASON FOR PLACEMENT, AND INTENSITY OF PARENTING TASKS TO PARENTING STRESS , Shelagh Larkin

EMBODYING INEQUALITY: THREE PAPERS ON THE ROLE OF GENDER AND DISCRIMINATION IN THE LIVES OF WOMEN , Stefana I. Moldovan

Olmstead Mandated Statewide Implementation of Assertive Community Treatment: Precipitating Factors and Participant Experiences , Elizabeth Nelson-Cooke

FIX SOCIETY, PLEASE: THREE PAPERS ON THE MENTAL HEALTH TREATMENT, SOCIAL SUPPORT RESOURCES, AND SUICIDOLOGY OF TRANSGENDER AND GENDER DIVERSE ADULTS , Annie Snow

INVESTIGATING WHETHER ECOLOGICAL MODELS OF COMMUNITY-ORIENTED VARIABLES IMPROVE PREDICTION OF CHILDHOOD RESILIENCE OVER A SET OF PERSONAL CHARACTERISTIC VARIABLES SUCH AS IMPULSE CONTROL, EMOTIONAL REGULATION, RELATIONAL MOTIVATION, AND SELF-RELIANCE , Vinod Kumar Srivastava

Theses/Dissertations from 2019 2019

Veterans' Treatment Courts in Kentucky: Examining How Personal Characteristics and During-Program Occurrences Influence Program Completion and Criminal Recidivism , Monica Lynn Himes

SUICIDE ATTITUDES AND TERROR MANAGEMENT THEORY , Athena Kheibari

DOES CHILDHOOD PSYCHOLOGICAL ABUSE STRENGTHEN OR WEAKEN MSW SOCIAL WORKERS AND ALLIED PROFESSIONALS’ COMPASSION FATIGUE AND COMPASSION SATISFACTION? , Andy S. C. Reynolds

SOCIAL WORKERS’ AND TEACHERS’ FEELINGS OF SELF-EFFICACY IN DEALING WITH SCHOOL BULLYING , Sharon Lynn Simmons

THE DRUGS/VIOLENCE NEXUS: THEORY TESTING AND BEHAVIORAL HEALTH FACTORS AMONG JUSTICE-INVOLVED APPALACHIAN WOMEN , Grant Victor

Theses/Dissertations from 2018 2018

A MIXED METHODS ANALYSIS OF GENDER DIFFERENCES IN SYMPTOM PROGRESSION AND TRAUMA NARRATIVES DURING TRAUMA-FOCUSED COGNITIVE BEHAVIORAL THERAPY , Sarah A. Ascienzo

CONCEPTUALIZING THE PREVENTION OF HUMAN TRAFFICKING: SURVIVORS PERSPECTIVES , Jessica James Donohue-Dioh

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Home > College of Social and Behavioral Sciences > Social Work > Social Work Theses

Social Work Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Theses/projects/dissertations from 2020 2020.

Perceptions Of Compassion Fatigue Amongst Master Of Social Work Students And Self-Care Strategies To Build Resilience , Daniel Wright

Theses/Projects/Dissertations from 2019 2019

SPIRITUALITY IN SOCIAL WORK: A SOCIAL WORKERS PERSPECTIVES ON THE ROLE OF SPIRITUALITY WITHIN THEIR PRACTICE , Kimberly Abrahamson

THE EFFECT OF PARENTAL ENGAGEMENT ON TREATMENT AND ACADEMIC OUTCOMES AMONG LATINO STUDENTS RECEIVING SCHOOL BASED MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES , Angel R. Agudo and Victor M. Lezama

EFFECTIVENESS OF AN INTERNATIONAL SOCIAL WORK COURSE , Hazel Aguilar and Celeene Moreno

MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES IN AN EXCLUSIVE LATINO COMMUNITY VERSUS A DIVERSE COMMUNITY , Karina Amador and Natalie Salas

Compassion Fatigue Among Play Therapists , Victoria Arce

Stress Among Caregivers of Individuals with Special Needs , Ida Benavides

CHILD WELFARE SOCIAL WORKERS’ PERSPECTIVE ON FACTORS THAT INFLUENCE LONGEVITY , Veronica Betancourt-Perez

WHAT CRUCIAL COMPONENTS SHOULD BE INTEGRATED INTO BEREAVEMENT PROGRAMS FOR THE LATINO POPULATION? , Aida Blanco

AFTER THE ATTACK: POLICE PERSPECTIVES ON PROMOTING RESILIENCY FOLLOWING THE 2015 SAN BERNARDINO ATTACK , Hannah Patricia Capps

EXPLORING KNOWLEDGE IN SEXUAL ASSAULT PREVENTION PROGRAMS , Pammeli M. Carlos

SOCIAL WORKER PERSPECTIVES ON WORKING WITH THE INCARCERATED POPULATION , Diana Cetina-Garcia

Social Workers' Perceptions of Resource Family Approval , Hannah Chavez

STRESS, SELF-COMPASSION, AND COPING MECHANISMS AMONG GRADUATE SOCIAL WORK STUDENTS , Elizabeth Contreras

UNDERSTANDING SOCIAL SUPPORT AMONG DIALYSIS PATIENTS: A STUDY ON MEDICAL SOCIAL WORKERS ENHANCING SOCIAL SUPPORT FOR PATIENTS , Brandy Marie Covarrubias and Eloisa Cisneros Vizcaya

PERCEPTIONS ON THE AGING POPULATION: DISPARITIES AMONG GRADUATE SOCIAL WORK STUDENTS , Ashlee Taylor Crosson and Kelsey Marie Goodwin

Social Work Students' View on the Integration of Religion in Social Work , Araceli Delgado

Empowering the Female Offender: Barriers And Perceptions of Inmate Success , Joanna Delgado and Karina Barragan

SCHOOL-BASED MENTAL HEALTH REFERRALS’ REPRESENTATION OF ACTUAL MENTAL HEALTH DISORDERS AMONG ADOLESCENTS , Alva M. Dominguez

RELIGION AND SPIRITUALITY IN CLINICAL PRACTICE: AN EXPLORATION OF RELUCTANCE AMONG PRACTITIONERS. , David Drew and Jessica Banks

WHAT IS THE PERCEIVED EFFECTIVENESS OF THE ON-CAMPUS SERVICES FOR STUDENTS WHO STRUGGLE WITH SUBSTANCE USE BASED ON THE PERSPECTIVES OF THE STAFF MEMBERS? , Karen Rocio Flores and Megan Lee Urquidi

CHILD WELFARE: TRAUMA INFORMED PRACTICE AT TIME OF CHILD REMOVAL , Ester Garcia

Childhood Risk Factors That Impact The Likelihood Of Becoming A Victim Of Domestic Violence , Mallory Ann Gers and Daniela Paola Gomez

DO CHRONIC DISEASE SELF-MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS FOR INDIVIDUALS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS PROMOTE SELF-EFFICACY AND DO THEY IMPROVE HEALTH OUTCOMES? , Adan Gomez

COMPASSION FATIGUE, SELF-CARE, AND CLERGY MEMBERS: HOW SOCIAL WORKERS CAN HELP , Tifani-Crystal Enid Hanley

SOCIAL WORK STUDENTS’ KNOWLEDGE OF AND ATTITUDES TOWARDS WORKING WITH TRANSGENDER CLIENTS , Devin Hoff and Edgar Camacho

THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THERAPEUTIC INTERVENTIONS ON SYMPTOMS OF POST TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER , Sean Howell

Components of Food Insecurity on a University Campus , Aranya Huour

SOCIAL WORKERS PERSPECTIVES ON THE CAUSES OF PLACEMENT INSTABILITY AMONG ADOLESCENTS , Adella Jimenez

SOCIAL WORKERS' PERCEPTION ON THE NEEDS AND SERVICES FOR FOSTER CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS , Jessica Joanna Jimenez and Winnie Wing Yang Lee

SOCIAL WORK PERSPECTIVES ON THE CONSTRAINTS OF MANAGED CARE AND MENTAL HEALTH TREATMENT , Lana Kaissi

Understanding Implicit Bias in Public Defender Social Workers , Jess Laird

Coping Mechanisms Utilized by Single Mothers in College , Natasha Elise Maness and Kristina Rene Munoz

Latino Parent School Involvement: Do Parents Read and Respond to Teacher Invitations? , Celia Marquez

Child Welfare Concurrent Planning and Bonding for Foster Parents , Priscilla McCarthy

Factors That Contribute To Foster Youth Pursuing Higher Education , Amanda Minters

The Impact of Parental Support on Social Work Students' Well-Being , Marina Munguia

SERVICE READINESS AND DELIVERY FOR COMMERCIALLY SEXUALLY EXPLOITED CHILDREN (CSEC): A CASE STUDY , Jennifer Y. Navarro

PERSPECTIVES FROM SOCIAL WORKERS ON THE ABILITY TO MAINTAIN SOBRIETY AFTER BEING SUCCESSFULLY DISCHARGED FROM A RESIDENTIAL TREATMENT PROGRAM , Samantha Navarro

SOCIAL WORKERS’ PERCEPTIONS ON THE USEFULNESS OF THE STRUCTURED DECISION-MAKING TOOL IN ASSESSING SAFETY AND RISK , Chinwe Erika Nwufo and Carol Yareli Castillo

COMMON SOURCES OF ANXIETY FOR STUDENTS WHO EXPERIENCE SUICIDAL IDEATION , Austin Nystrom and Fabian Ortiz

Parent Partners Contribution to Reunification Rates , Marilyn Obispo and Cynthia Cuevas

JOB READINESS OF SOCIAL WORKERS SERVING INDIVIDUALS WITH DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES , Danielle Marie Orozco

RELIGION AND MENTAL HEALTH SERVICE UTILIZATION AMONG HISPANIC COMMUNITIES , Victor Ortega

SOCIAL WORK STUDENTS PREPAREDNESS WHEN WORKING WITH MIXED-STATUS FAMILIES , Delia Ann Pacheco and Brenda Carolina Pacheco

Adverse Childhood Experiences and Coping Methods for Social Work Students , Treyveon Parks and Alex Hernandez

MASTER OF SOCIAL WORK STUDENT PERSPECTIVES ON MINDFULNESS MEDITATION IN CURRICULA , Deyssi Partida

SOCIAL WORKERS’ PERSPECTIVES ON CHILD AND FAMILY TEAM MEETINGS IN CHILD WELFARE , Deepa Patel

The Effects of Trauma from Multiple Placements of Foster Youth , Savannah Perez

Foster Parent Attitudes Toward Birth Parents and Birth Parent Visitation , KATHERINE PERSON

Barriers to Higher Education Among CalWORKs Recipients , Esther Ramirez and Melissa M. Rodriguez

FACTORS OF RESISTANCE: SPIRITUALITY AND RELIGION IN SOCIAL WORK PRACTICE , Nancy Ramos and Jessica Chavez

The Impact of Stigma on Adolescents Willingness to Seek Treatment , Alejandra Randol

SOCIAL WORK STUDENT EDUCATION ON TEEN PREGNACY , Diogenes Anthony Roman III

THE PRACTICE OF SELF-CARE STRATEGIES AMONG MASTER OF SOCIAL WORK STUDENTS , Gracie Romero

VOLUNTEER SERVICE AS A COPING STRATEGY FOR SOCIAL WORKERS AGAINST PROFESSIONAL BURNOUT , Jessy Jean Salloum and Francesca Maria Augusta Twohy-Haines

FAMILY STRUCTURE CORRESPONDING WITH DELINQUENT BEHAVIORS , Miranda Santiago and Shirley Tamayo-Contreras

Policy Practice of Master of Social Work Students: An Analysis of a Policy Practice Intervention , Wright Sarah

THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SELF-CARE AND BURNOUT AMONG SOCIAL WORK STUDENTS , Andrew Semedo

FOSTER YOUTHS’ PERCEPTIONS OF THE SOCIAL WORKER’S ROLE IN THEIR PURSUIT OF HIGHER EDUCATION , Elisa Elvira Sequeira Delgado and Anedia Suarez Arroyo

WHAT ARE THE FACTORS OF COLORISM AMONGST AFRICAN AMERICAN WOMEN; AND HOW DOES THIS AFFECT THE LIVES OF AFRICAN AMERICAN WOMEN? , Iris Sumo

The Benefits of Animal-Assisted Interventions: Perceptions of Social Workers Working with Veterans , Anne Thompson

SOCIAL MEDIA'S INFLUENCE ON YOUNG ADULTS FROM THE PERSPECTIVES OF MENTAL HEALTH CLINICIANS , Natalie Aliana Valdepeña and Ulises Ivan Lozano

Social Work Student's Perception of Canine Therapy for Children of Trauma , gia Valdez

FOSTER PARENT SATISFACTION WITH THE FOSTER CARE SYSTEM AND THEIR INTENTIONS TO DECERTIFICATION , Karla Valdez

THE ROLE OF SPIRITUALITY IN MEDICAL SOCIAL WORK , Adriana Vera and Elena Marie Rendon

INCARCERATED MOTHERS ACHIEVING REUNIFICATION: PROVIDING SUPPORT TO CHILD WELFARE SOCIAL WORKERS , Francesca Villarreal

PARENT PARTNERS' PERCEPTIONS OF REUNIFICATION CELEBRATION AND THE IMPACT ON REUNIFIED PARENTS , Marley Leila Walker and Tre'Nise JeMel Anderson

ACTIVE SHOOTER PREPAREDNESS TRAINING , Clarissa Welch and Nancy Villalta

Accessing Children's Mental Health Services In A Rural Northern California County , Deborah Wingate

Mental Health Services for Single Homeless Mothers with Children , Andrea Zermeno and Maria Alejandra Perez

SOCIAL WORKERS' PERSPECTIVES ON DISRUPTIVE MOOD DYSREGULATION DISORDER , Jenna Lee Zscheile

Theses/Projects/Dissertations from 2018 2018

PERCEPTIONS OF SELF-DISCLOSURE IMPACTING THE SUPERVISORY RELATIONSHIP AND RECOGNIZING COUNTERTRANSFERENCE , Melissa Alvarez Torres and Jessica Elizabeth Wilinski

Does Resilience Occur from Predisposed Characteristics, or from Experiences, Moments, and/or People The Individual Encounters Throughout his/her Childhood , Marlene Anceno

Compassion Fatigue, Burnout and Self-care Strategies Amongst Los Angeles County Child Welfare Workers , Chigolum Anene

Permanency Planning for Youth in Foster Care , Elisa Arteaga

WORK WITH ELDERS EXPERIENCING COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT: EXPLORING THE INTEREST OF SOCIAL WORK STUDENTS , Cindy Avelar and Gabriela Maria Cantu-Reyna

LOW-INCOME OLDER ADULTS PREPAREDNESS FOR LONG-TERM CARE: IN-HOME SUPPORTIVE SERVICES , Zina Basom

The Effectiveness of Disciplinary Interventions in School-Based Counseling , Dakota Blue Bates

BARRIERS TO RECRUITING NATIVE AMERICAN FOSTER HOMES IN URBAN AREAS , Shirley Mae Begay and Jennifer Lynn Wilczynski

SOCIAL WORK STUDENTS’ ATTITUDES AND BELIEFS ABOUT MENTAL HEALTH COURTS , Nicholas Bettosini and Conrad Paul Akins-Johnson

TEAM DECISION-MAKING AND CHILD/FAMILY TEAM MEETINGS: A SOCIAL WORKERS PERSPECTIVE , Marian Buzga

CHALLENGES FOR MALE THERAPISTS WORKING WITH COMMERCIALLY AND SEXUALLY EXPLOITED FEMALE ADOLESCENTS , John Caballero

SAN BERNARDINO AND RIVERSIDE COUNTY FOSTER FAMILY AGENCY SOCIAL WORKERS' AWARENESS OF DOMESTIC MINOR SEX TRAFFICKING , Cristin Elizabeth Campbell

RECOVERY SUPPORT SERVICES FOR YOUNG ADULTS: A NEEDS ASSESSMENT FOR A COLLEGIATE RECOVERY PROGRAM AT A MIDSIZED PUBLIC UNIVERSITY LOCATED IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA , Micah Carlson

SPANISH-SPEAKING CLIENT-WORKER EXPERIENCES AT A CALIFORNIA CHILD WELFARE AGENCY , Koressa Castillo

FILIPINO SERVICE CARE PROVIDERS' EXPERIENCE OF COMPASSION FATIGUE WHILE WORKING IN RESIDENTIAL CARE FACILITIES , Leizel Cerezo-Pann

Knowledge of School Resource Officer's Roles and Their Perceptions on School Social Worker's Roles , Cynthia Crystal Cervantes and Vanessa Vazquez

RIVERSIDE COUNTY HOMELESS INDIVIDUALS’ PERSPECTIVE ON PRIMARY FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO HOMELESSNESS , Megan Irene Chaney

THE SYSTEMIC ISSUES ASSOCIATED WITH VIOLENT CRIME IN PREDOMINANTLY AFRICAN AMERICAN COMMUNITIES , Abraham Coles

Social Work Students' Views and Attitudes Towards Working with Previously Incarcerated Individuals , Tiffany Comptois and Brianda Villa

THE CHALLENGES FACING SINGLE HISPANIC PARENTS AND THEIR NEEDS TO IMPROVE FAMILY SERVICES , Gabriela Contreras

EFFECTS OF CHILD NEGLECT ON PSYCHOLOGICAL DISTRESS IN COLLEGE STUDENTS , Veronica Daniel

BRIDGING THE GAP: EXPLORING SOCIAL WORK STUDENT PREPAREDNESS FOR WORKING WITH CHILDREN WHO HAVE DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES , Shauna Lei De Jesus and Mariela Licon

ATTITUDES AND EXPERIENCES OF UNDOCUMENTED LATINO IMMIGRANTS WHEN SEEKING MEDICAL SERVICES , Susana Michelle De Leon

CHILD WELFARE WORKERS’ PERSPECTIVES ON PLACEMENT INSTABILITY AND THE IMPACTS ON FOSTER YOUTH , Steven Joseph Delgado and Amanda Marie Fuerte

EFFECTS OF AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER ON MOTHERS , Angelica Del Villar

PLANNING FOR A FUTURE: A DEVELOPMENTAL BLUEPRINT TOWARDS SUCCESS AMONG CURRENT AND FORMER FOSTER YOUTH , John Devine

The Self-Percieved Grief Competency of Masters Level Therapists , Emily Rae DeVries

ACTIVE SHOOTER PREPAREDNESS TRAINING , Berenice Dougherty and Nyemal Thuok Chuol

Page 5 of 17

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Home > USC Columbia > Social Work, College of > Social Work Theses and Dissertations

Social Work Theses and Dissertations

Theses/dissertations from 2023 2023.

A Mixed Method Study of How Teachers’ Racial Bias Relates to Student-Teacher Relationships , Tasha Marie Childs

Theses/Dissertations from 2022 2022

Place Identity and Gentrification-Induced Social and Cultural Displacement Among Longstanding Black American Residents: Theory, Case, and Innovating Methodology , Brittany B. Davis

Where the Home Fires Burn: The Heart of Geographic Mobility in Rural Southern America , Mariah Moran

Black and Blue: An Exploratory Investigation Of Black College Students’ Experiences of Exposure to Police Killings , Betty L. Wilson

Theses/Dissertations from 2019 2019

Younger Residents Through the Looking Glass: Perceptions of the Residential Experience of Non-Traditionally Aged Residents Living in the Long Term Care Setting , Sara J. English

Correlates of Attitudes Toward Violence and Dating Violence Perpetration Among U.S. College Students , Jeongsuk Kim

Association Between Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms in Persons with Alzheimer's Disease and Depression in Caregivers from Low Income Families , Weizhou Tang

Theses/Dissertations from 2018 2018

Family And School Impact On Psychological Functioning From Childhood To Late Adolescence: A Longitudinal Study Of Rural Chinese Youth , Yang Yue

Theses/Dissertations from 2017 2017

Broke but not without Hope: Exploring Exits from Housing First and Returns to Homelessness , Jennie Ann Cole

Acculturation Stress And Depression Among First-Year International Graduate Students From China And India At The University Of South Carolina , Kyunghee Ma

African American End-Stage Renal Disease And Medication Adherence: What Are The Effects Of Everyday Racism? , Tamara Estes Savage

Theses/Dissertations from 2016 2016

People Who Live Unsheltered: The Role of Trust In the Bond Component Of Their Working Alliances , Candice Morgan

On Becoming An Ecologically Conscious Social Worker: Exploring Professional Identities That Include A Response To The Environmental Crisis , Meredith C. F. Powers

Race, Place, And Access To Early Intensive Behavioral Intervention Among Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder In South Carolina , Marissa E. Yingling

Theses/Dissertations from 2015 2015

Vocational Readiness: The Effect of Pre-Prison and Incarceration-Based Trauma on Cognitive Appraisals and Self-Perceptions of Incarcerated Women , Joi Dykes Anderson

Parent To Parent Support For Parents Of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders: Perspectives Of Parents And Program Staff , Nina Nelson

Theses/Dissertations from 2013 2013

Non-offending Mothers of Sexually Abused Children: How They Decide Whom to Believe , Lynn McMillan

How Welfare Reform Act Affects Elderly Immigrants' Health and Healthcare Service Utilization: Comparisons Before and After Welfare Reform , Younsook Yeo

Theses/Dissertations from 2012 2012

Identity Journeys: Life Stories of Women Adopted Transnationally As Children , Stephanie Kripa Cooper-Lewter

Effects of Family Ses, Multiple Types of Child Abuse, and Parental Attachment On Early Sexual Activity: Analysis of the National Longitudinal Study On Adolescent Health (Add Health) , Mugdha Galande

Juggling Demands and Resources: Low Wage Women Making Sense of Bill-Paying Hardships , Susan Taylor Parlier

Flying' Female Sex Workers in Kolkata, India: Using "Cultural Biography" to Understand HIV Risk Perceptions , Sunny Sinha

Theses/Dissertations from 2011 2011

Stress, Coping, Social Support, and Psychological Distress Among MSW Students , Frank Patrick Addonizio

Caught Between Two Worlds: The Experiences of Newly Arrived Mexican Immigrant High School Students , Maria Lourdes del Castillo-Gonzalez

Individual- and Unit-Level Coping Among Combat Veterans Subject to Army Force Stabilization System Personnel Policy , Ronald James Whalen

Theses/Dissertations from 2010 2010

Marital Attitudes of Never Married Black Women , Kendra Pili DeLoach

A STUDY OF OPTIMISM, COPING STRATEGY, AND PSYCHOLOGICAL QUALITY OF LIFE AMONG WHITE, KOREAN, AND AFRICAN AMERICAN FEMALE OLDER ADULTS , HeeSoon Lee

Starting the Journey: From Novice to Expert Social Worker Through Cognitive Apprenticeship , Robert Jay Palmer

Summated Scale Construction: Development of the Inventory of Professional Competencies (Ipc) , Melissa Catherine Reitmeier

Theses/Dissertations from 2009 2009

The University of South Carolina School of Social Work, 1934-1954 , Elaine Walker Townsend

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Social Work

Master of Social Work (MSW)

Thesis-based program

Program overview.

The Master of Social Work (MSW) is a nationally-accredited program that prepares students for advanced professional practice in social work. The thesis-based route is designed for students who intend to pursue doctoral studies and/or anticipate a career requiring advanced program evaluation and research skills. 

Students are required to attend the residency attached to their program, which may be in Calgary or Edmonton.

Students holding an accredited Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree are admitted directly into a 36-month thesis-based MSW program. Students admitted with a non-social work degree complete 9 foundation courses (in 12 months) followed by the 36-month program (48 months total).

Completing this program

Courses: Students must follow the prescribed curriculum plan for their specialization and complete all 10 courses (30 units) if they entered the program with a BSW or 19 courses (57 units) if they entered the program with a non-social work degree.  The specialization year consists of 4 courses in Advanced Social Work Practice (12 units), 4 specialization courses (12 units), and 2 thesis research courses (6 units).

Thesis: Upon completion of required courses, students conduct original research and prepare a thesis which is evaluated on the written content and is orally defended before an examination committee.

Research Proposal:  Students should complete all coursework prior to having their proposal approved by their supervisor.

Optional Practicum:   Students may elect to complete Social Work 660 Advanced Practicum, but it is not a mandatory component of the thesis-based degree.  Students with a non-BSW degree may need additional Foundational Practicum hours to meet accreditation requirements.

Specializations

• Clinical Social Work Practice (CSWP)
• International and Community Development (ICD)
• Leadership in the Human Services (LHS)

For more information about these specializations please see the Academic Calendar.

Hospitals/community health centers, mental health clinics, schools, non-profit/advocacy groups, government, social service/child welfare/family service agencies, correctional facilities, social housing, family courts, employee assistance programs, private counselling, school boards, consulting.

A thesis-based master’s degree in social work is a preferred pre-requisite for a PhD.

Students are required to complete all required courses, prepare and successfully defend a thesis in an open oral examination.

Students with a BSW complete 10 courses (30 units).  Students with a non-social work bachelor's degree must complete 9 Foundation courses (27 units) prior to their 10 Specialization courses (30 units).  Advanced Practicum ( SOWK 660 - 6 units) is optional.

Learn more about program requirements in the Academic Calendar

Online delivery

The MSW thesis-based program in all three specializations will be offered by distance (online) learning with in-person residencies in Calgary or Edmonton. Online courses consist of a mix of real time classes at set times and learning that can be done on your own schedule. Students not attending residencies may be required to withdraw from the course or the program.

Please consult the Social Work  website  for specific program delivery information.

Time commitment

Three or four years (maximum) of full-time study, dependent on entry route, specialization and program location.

For incoming MSW thesis students, the PhD/MSW Thesis Coordinator will act as the interim supervisor. Before the end of April of the first year, each student must designate a faculty member as permanent supervisor. Students will work with their supervisors to determine if a co-supervisor and/or supervisory thesis committee is preferred. This decision should be made prior to start of  SOWK 670  and must be approved by the Graduate Program Director.

See the Graduate Calendar for information on  fees and fee regulations,  and for information on  awards and financial assistance .

Virtual Tour

Explore the University of Calgary (UCalgary) from anywhere. Experience all that UCalgary has to offer for your graduate student journey without physically being on campus. Discover the buildings, student services and available programs all from your preferred device.

Supervisors

Learn about faculty available to supervise this degree. Please note: additional supervisors may be available.  For more information, visit our website .

Heather M Boynton

Patrina Duhaney

Yahya El-Lahib

Linda Kreitzer

Yeonjung Lee

Anne Marie Mclaughlin

William Pelech

Melanie Rock

Admission requirements

A minimum of 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 point system, over the past two years of full-time study (a minimum of 60 units) of the undergraduate degree.

Minimum education

Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree from an accredited/recognized* institution or a four-year bachelor’s degree in another discipline.  The degree must be conferred prior to the May program start.

*The Faculty of Social Work recognizes BSW degrees accredited by the Canadian Association for Social Work Education (CASWE), the Council of Social Work Education (CSWE), and international credentials deemed equivalent to a Canadian BSW degree by the Canadian Association of Social Workers (CASW).

Work samples

Work experience.

Applicants must have the equivalent of two years of full-time paid work or a minimum of 3,000 hours of paid and/or volunteer work in the human services field.

• A program proposal outlining the applicant's social work perspectives and educational goals.
• A preliminary thesis proposal describing the research problem you hope to investigate and the research methodology or methodologies you are considering.

Reference letters

Two; one professional and one academic

Test scores

English language proficiency.

An applicant whose primary language is not English may fulfill the English language proficiency requirement in one of the following ways:

• Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL ibt)  score of 97 (with no section less than 20) .
• International English Language Testing System (IELTS)  score of 7. 0 (Academic version with no section less than 6.0) .
• Pearson Test of English (PTE)   score of 68, or higher (Academic version).
• Canadian Academic English Language test (CAEL)  score of 70 (no less than 70 in writing and speaking; 60 in reading and listening).
• Academic Communication Certificate (ACC)  score of A- in academic writing and oral communication courses and B+ in other courses.

For admission on May 1:

• Canadians and permanent residents: November 1 application deadline 
• International students: November 1 application deadline 

If you're not a Canadian or permanent resident, or if you have international credentials, make sure to learn about international requirements

Are you ready to apply?

Learn more about this program.

MacKimmie Tower (MT) 301 2500 University Drive NW Calgary, ABT2N 1N4 403.220.5942

Visit the  Faculty of Social Work website

Email:  [email protected]

Learn more about UCalgary by taking a virtual tour

Related programs

Course-based Certificate

Course-based MSW

Educational Research

Course-based MEd (Interdisciplinary)

Course-based MEd (Specialist)

Thesis-based MA

Thesis-based MSc

Thesis-based EdD

Certificate (Natural Resources, Energy and Environmental Law)

Course-based LLM

Thesis-based LLM

Certificate

Course-based MN

Thesis-based MN

Course-based MN/NP

Highlights of the Social Work program

Creating Meaningful Experiences for Neurodivergent People

Dr. David Nicholas’ Vocational Abilities Innovation Lab is internationally acclaimed for its innovative approach in supporting autistic and other neurodivergent youth and adults.

Making neighbourhoods more liveable for older adults

As our population ages, it’s becoming increasingly important to ensure that Canadian neighbourhoods are liveable for everyone, which is the focus of Dr. Yeonjung Lee’s innovative research.

Leading Field Education Innovation

Finding meaningful practicum opportunities is a growing crisis in social work. Dr. Julie Drolet leads a national/international group that is finding surprising solutions.

Curious about the University of Calgary?

Located in the nation's most enterprising city, we are a living, growing and youthful institution that embraces change and opportunity with a can-do attitude.

Smith ScholarWorks

Home > School for Social Work > Student Work

School for Social Work: Student Work

Smith School for Social Work provides students with a focus on clinical social work, integrating comprehensive educational theories, skills and practices of clinical work. This collection includes full-text access to theses and dissertations, as follows:

• Smith College School for Social Work Theses, 2007-present Available to anyone both on and off-campus (some with a 5 year restriction limiting access to the Smith community), anyone via interlibrary loan
• Smith College School for Social Work Dissertations, 2009-present Available to the Smith community including off-campus access with a current Smith login, anyone on campus, and anyone via interlibrary loan

Affect-laden lessons in relationality : a study of forced termination in the internship setting , Catherine Balletto, Dissertation

"About the brokenness, and the darkness, and the light" : an exploratory study on the effects of the correctional environment on correctional mental health professionals , Stephanie A. Gangemi, Dissertation

The deinstitutionalization of minds : what does deinstitutionalization mean for Bulgarian social workers , Dimitar Andreev Germanov, Dissertation

Too close to home : intergenerational trauma and a caregiver's ability to provide support to their child during trauma treatment , Heather Gregory, Dissertation

Am I there yet? : emerging adulthood for women in an American Orthodox Jewish context , Shira Kessler, Dissertation

Experiences of transgender and non-binary people of color in psychotherapy , Silvia L. Sandoval, Dissertation

An exploratory study of primary caregivers' knowledge of the risks and effects of adolescents' exposure to intimate partner violence , Jean Clarke-Mitchell, Dissertation

Closer to home : the influence of parenthood on child trauma therapists' countertransference , Lisa Kennedy, Masters Thesis

A story of identity construction : the example of social work and the North Carolina eugenics program , Dominica Francesca Lizzi, Dissertation

The problem and the solution : the potency of relationships in addressing rural opioid use , Alison Smith Mitchell, Dissertation

Efficacy and feasibility of a tele-mental health intervention to support caregivers caring for a child dependent on mechanical ventilation at home (DMVH) , Yudy F. Muneton-Castano, Dissertation

Teaching advocacy to second year Master of Social Work students in clinical field placements , Michael J. Rogers, Dissertation

Awareness and understanding of internalized racial oppression by African American women clinicians and the influence on psychotherapy with African American female clients : a relational liberatory approach , LaTasha L. Smith, Dissertation

Culture, gender, and the social construction of borderline personality disorder , Allegra L. Comas, Masters Thesis

System enactment : how do we understand this co-constructed phenomenon and the impact on clinicians, treatment processes and organizational climate? , Cathleen Morey, Dissertation

BSW faculty perceptions of their gatekeeping role , Lynn Raine, Dissertation

College counseling center clinicians who work with suicidal clients : an examination of negative countertransference and training, supervision, anxiety, and attitudes , Vasiliki Hallas Torres, Dissertation

Factors associated with LGBTQ adolescents' seeking mental health services in school settings , Nichole C. Wofford, Dissertation

Behavioral neuroscience applied : a practice intervention with college students using orienting and interoception for stress management and self-regulation , Elizabeth Steck Anable, Dissertation

The ethics of dying : an exploration of the right to suicide and clinician response to self-determination and suicidal ideation among adults who struggle with mental illness , Shelley Bair, Masters Thesis

Living well in the lives of African American women with chronic illness , Gabrilla Ballard, Masters Thesis

Program evaluation of a transitional age youth program : a project based upon an investigation at ServiceNet, Northampton, Massachusetts , Andrea Carnegie Chester, Masters Thesis

Veterans' stories of substance use, recovery, and moral injury : an exploratory study , Chelsea Faria, Masters Thesis

They will never understand : the challenge of returning to civilian life , Dane Christopher Frost, Dissertation

I'll hang around as long as you will let me : hard country music, the white working class, and the experience of loss in the American neoliberal context , Nicholas Johnston, Masters Thesis

The influence of protective factors on substance use severity when depression and trauma symptoms are reported by rural female opioid abusers , Judith Avery Josiah-Martin, Dissertation

Mental health interventions for homeless young children through an attachment theory lens : a review and analysis of the literature , Kimberly McKittrick, Masters Thesis

Stuck, suffering, and struggling to launch : building typologies of psychopathology from a clinical sample of millennial emerging adults : an exploratory study , Marki L. McMillan, Dissertation

Factors influencing transgender Latina immigrants' decision to immigrate to the United States : a qualitative study , Olivia Mora-Lett, Dissertation

In the wake of vicarious traumatization : making meaning through Jungian theory and engaged Buddhism , Angel Haydn Reed, Masters Thesis

Socioeconomic status and autism spectrum disorder : caregivers' solutions to overcoming service barriers , Rachel Rodriguez, Masters Thesis

Exploring the implementation of restorative practices in Bay Area schools , Vanessa Shea, Masters Thesis

Caregiver experiences of a therapeutic nursery program : an exploratory study , Jaimie Tyler, Masters Thesis

Being Asian and American : bi-cultural subjectivity of therapists in clinical social work practice , Rosie Yap, Dissertation

A mixed-method study examining the intersection of race and sexual violence among LGBTQ prisoners , Sarah J. Aftab, Masters Thesis

Natural Lifemanship trauma-focused equine assisted psychotherapy model : is there a change in children's feelings and behaviors over time? , Julia M. Alexander, Masters Thesis

The impact of Islamophobia on the Muslim American community : accounts of psychological suffering, identity negotiation, and collective trauma , Areeza Ali, Masters Thesis

Two-sided healing : an exploration of Jewish women psychotherapists' experience , Aviva Bellman, Masters Thesis

"As if" : an exploration of the relationship between clincians' theoretical orientations and their conceptualizations of patient-generated metaphors in psychotherapy , Joe Berlin, Masters Thesis

Exploring clinical best practices for working with the co-occurrence of psychosis and a trauma history , Sierra Leah Black, Masters Thesis

Gestalt therapists' perspectives on gender in the therapeutic relationship : implications for anti-oppressive practice , Benjamin Philip Borkan, Masters Thesis

Experiences of first generation college students , Eleanor Grace Stulting Bradley, Masters Thesis

A qualitative study to explore Puerto Rican caregiver needs and supports to better feed their children , Nelly E. Carmona, Masters Thesis

Queer women's sexual experiences after sexual violence in a non-heterosexual relationship , Amee Catalano, Masters Thesis

Exploring refugees' sense of belonging in Chittenden County, Vermont : retrospective accounts of the resettlement process , Sam Chalfin, Masters Thesis

An exploration of the relationship between religion and spirituality and acculturation stress among international students in the western Massachusetts , Mun Ying Kennis Cheng, Masters Thesis

From social work to sex therapy : increasing clinicians' sexual intervention self-efficacy beliefs , Kijao Corbett, Masters Thesis

Educator perceptions of student mental health services in high-performing charter schools , Gabriel Friedl Corens, Masters Thesis

Kinship diversion : exploring experiences of relative probate guardianship in Los Angeles, CA. , Alison Davies, Masters Thesis

Do characteristics of children and families influence reported caregiver burden? : a secondary data analysis of the 2009-2010 national survey of children with special health care needs , Chelsea Davies, Masters Thesis

Patient perspectives on mental health therapy for myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME) and chronic fatique syndrome (CFS) , Brooke Denmark, Masters Thesis

The problem of evidence : philosophy of science and evidence based practice in clinical social work , Bronwyn Deprés, Masters Thesis

Understanding the connection between the supervisory relationship in social work field education and early career social workers' self-efficacy beliefs in the work place : a relational study , Jean-Paul Des Pres, Dissertation

Provider perceptions of people who inject drugs and harm reduction approaches , Ciara DeVozza, Masters Thesis

The voices of survivors of suicide : experiences with forms of support after a suicide loss , Nicole Dietze, Masters Thesis

The celebration of Black beauty in online spaces as a form of social and political resistance , Sabriya Dillard, Masters Thesis

Perinatal depression screening : using antenatal depression screens and patient demographics to predict risk for postpartum depression : , Jackson Doyle, Masters Thesis

Found in translation : how social work education can support student practice with language-discordant client systems , Martha Ann Early, Masters Thesis

Barriers to mental health treatment for refugees in Maine : an exploratory study , Hayley Fitzgerald, Masters Thesis

Navigating romantic relationships among individuals aging out of foster care , Margaux E. Flood, Masters Thesis

Mapping the sexuality-health-technology nexus : an arts based exploration , Adam Joseph Gaubinger, Masters Thesis

"They don't say it up front" : immigrant-origin high school students' experiences of disrespect and racial microaggressions by teachers : a project based upon a group research investigation , Leah A. Gold, Masters Thesis

Race and the internet : ǂb social media and multiracial identity development , Pilar Hailé-Damato, Masters Thesis

The role of spirituality in the reconstruction of identity in older women , Elin Hardenberg, Masters Thesis

How our service systems impact resiliency and recovery of domestic violence survivors : clinical perspectives , Emily Riddle Jacobs, Masters Thesis

"We were all kind of learning together" : the emergence of LGBTQ affirmative psychotherapy & social services, 1960-1987: oral history study, Boston, MA , Sarah Blair Jenkins, Masters Thesis

"if you lived in your body, you'd be home by now" : clincians' perspectives on somatic practices in psychotherapy , Natasha Sunil Jeswani, Masters Thesis

The impact on college students of sexual assault disclosure by a peer : an exploratory study , Margaret Klein, Masters Thesis

Substance abuse and recovery : does peer recovery coaching reduce frequency of crisis, relapse, hospitalization, incarceration, DCF involvement, and other public services use in substance abusers? : a project based upon an agency-based investigation , Stephanie Koenig, Masters Thesis

Compassion fatigue, compassion satisfaction, and mindfulness among social workers and graduate-level social work interns , Brian Kornobis, Masters Thesis

"Translating the language of the body" : engaging individuals who self-harm in psychodynamic psychotherapy , Dani Kowalski, Masters Thesis

Looking for ghosts everywhere : the effects of vicarious traumatization on mental health interpreters who work with refugees , Sophie Anna Lembeck, Masters Thesis

Working with trauma : a qualitative and retrospective exploration of the experiences of clinicians who work with trauma , Allyson Rebecca Lent, Masters Thesis

Benefits and challenges of offering peer support to student survivors of campus sexual violence , Zoe Amanda Levenson, Masters Thesis

Exploring the impact of mental health on infant growth in urban West Bengal, India :: a retrospective cohort study exploring the association of mental health status of parents with a deterioration in weight for age z score (as an indicator of under-nutrition) of children under the age of 4 in a cohort living in an impoverished urban community in West Bengal, India , Noah E.C. Levinson, Masters Thesis

Reimagining the past, present, & future: science fiction, fantasy, and Afrofuturism as modes of healing for communities of color , Kai Teresa Atacador Lynch, Masters Thesis

Gender identity and childhood experiences : an introductory quantitative study of the relationship between gender identity and adverse childhood experiences , Liam P. Malone, Masters Thesis

Clinicians' perspectives on somatic interventions in the treatment of trauma , Margaret Rose Malone, Masters Thesis

Understanding and negotiating access to preventative sexual health care biotechnology in online communities : a thematic analysis of the Facebook group ""PrEP Facts: rethinking HIV prevention and sex , Dorothy Manley, Masters Thesis

Understanding the impact of shame in designing a psychodynamically oriented therapy model to assist formerly incarcerated African American women , Laverne Marks, Dissertation

Social climate in social work training : the influence of the learning environment on the emerging social worker's professional identity as an agent of social justice , Tatiana Martínez, Masters Thesis

And fetus makes three :a theoretical exploration of clinician pregnancy in psychoanalytic and relational frameworks , Christian Anne McCarroll, Masters Thesis

The experience of resident assistants encountering nonsuicidal self-injury use by a resident : a mixed methods investigation , Katherine M. McCarthy, Dissertation

Alexithymia and comparison of alternative treatments to talk therapy for people who have a mental health diagnosis , Rebekah Milhoan, Masters Thesis

Classism in the therapeutic alliance : implications for clinical social work practice , Taylor Millard, Masters Thesis

The retrospective narratives of young adults with ADHD : how self-concept development impacts psychosocial functioning , Malcolm B. Miller, Masters Thesis

A correlative analysis of mystical experiences and lasting symptom improvement from MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for treatment-resistant PTSD : a project based upon an investigation sponsored by Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS) , Michiko A. Mitsunaga-Whitten, Masters Thesis

From yellow peril to model minority : ǂb deconstruction of the model minority myth and implications for the invisibility of Asian American mental health needs , Lynda Anne Moy, Masters Thesis

Playing together : a clinician's perspective on the use and value of play in therapy with couples , Teresa Musick, Masters Thesis

Examining therapist attachment style in clinical work : an exploratory study , Mallory Nesburg, Masters Thesis

The translation of anti-racism values from the professional into the personal for white social workers who have lived in north or west Philadelphia , Lauren Hope Newman, Masters Thesis

Innocent until proven guilty : ǂb not for the families vicarious incarceration within a county jail , Molly O'Connor, Masters Thesis

An examination of gratitude among the elderly : a qualitative research project based upon an independent investigation , Jaymie E. Oppenheim, Masters Thesis

Anti-racist and trauma-informed institutional change : a process evaluation of professional learning communities at one charter high school : a project based on an investigation at a charter high school , Zoë Page, Masters Thesis

An exploration of the relationship of obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms and traumatic experiences in adult clients , Sasha Pansovoy, Masters Thesis

Exploring experiences of, and responses to, microaggressions as disrespect from teachers in high school classrooms : a person-centered approach , Emily Ann Peck, Masters Thesis

Clinician vulnerability : openness to influence in relational therapy , Christine Powers, Masters Thesis

Mass-Health (Medicaid) clinicians' perceptions of training and preparedness for practicing in-home therapy with children and families , Tiffany Renée Privat, Masters Thesis

You don't know how strong you are until being strong is your only option : examining resiliency in survivors of a parent or caregiver's suicide , Haley A. Rice, Masters Thesis

The paradox of play : an exploration of clinicians' experiences of play in the workplace , Nina Rossello, Masters Thesis

Page 1 of 13

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Sample Thesis Proposal – Master of Social Work (MSW)

• April 25, 2016

On my recent blog post  Should You Go to Grad School for a Master of Social Work (MSW) , a reader asked how to write a thesis proposal for the social work application. So, here is the thesis proposal I wrote when I applied to UBC (the University of British Columbia) a few years ago.

My MSW program was two years because my first undergrad degree is in Psychology and my second degree is in Education. If I had an undergrad social work degree, it would’ve only taken one year to get my MSW.

If you’re worried you won’t be accepted to the university or program of your choice, read  How to Get Into Grad School – Master’s or PhD Programs .

And here’s what I wrote for my grad application for UBC…

Sample Thesis Proposal – Master’s of Social Work (MSW) Program

Social Issue and Research Question

I wish to study internalized oppression in foster children. Specifically, I’d like to explore how social workers can empower and encourage foster children to overcome negative self-beliefs, stereotypes, and misinformation to reach their full potential and create meaningful, fulfilling lives.

According to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, children in foster care:

• blame themselves and feel guilty about being “taken” from their birth parents
• wish to return to birth parents even if they were abused
• feel unwanted
• feel helpless about multiple changes in foster parents
• have mixed emotions about attaching to foster parents
• feel insecure and uncertain about their future
• reluctantly acknowledge positive feelings for foster parents

Self-blame, guilt, confusion, fear, insecurity, and fear can lead these kids to believe they aren’t as intelligent, capable, worthy, or “good” as their peers. How foster kids perceive themselves and their role in the world has a significant impact on how they think, behave, and treat others.

Negative self-beliefs can develop even if the foster care system (or foster families, birth families, peers, etc) don’t directly “oppress” youth. Foster kids are at risk of developing destructive self-perceptions simply because of their situations – not necessarily how they’re treated.

Research indicates that children in foster care tend to be more disengaged and exhibit more problem behaviours than other children. Further, they are at greater risk of dropping out or being forced out of high school (Satchwell, 2006). This is pertinent to social services, and directly affects society as a whole. Disengagement, problem behaviours, and negative self-perceptions influence the decisions and choices that foster children make. This directly and indirectly affects their families, schools, friends, and the community at large.

How can social workers create conditions that help youth in the foster care system overcome internalized oppression? What can we do to help kids challenge their negative self-beliefs and reframe their situations, lives, and futures? Who is in the best position to do this – foster parents? Social workers? Counsellors? Teachers? Mentors? Self-help or support groups? Summer camps specifically for foster kids, organized and run by foster alumni?

Rationale  

I lived in three foster homes as a child, between bouts of living with my single mother. She suffered from severe paranoid schizophrenia and the effects of “treatments” such as electroconvulsive therapy and psychotropic medications. I grew up in a culture of mental illness, poverty, powerlessness, and the stigma of being a foster child.

As a result, I held two specific beliefs about myself: 1) I wasn’t smart or “good” enough to go to university; and 2) I wasn’t lovable enough to be in a healthy relationship.

When I was 11, I was matched with a Big Sister through the Big Brothers/Big Sisters organization. While I can’t pinpoint the exact effect she had, I now have two undergraduate degrees and am happily married. My Big Sister changed my life – and all she had to do was show up once a week.

In my work as a Mentoring Coordinator with Big Brothers, I see firsthand how mentoring changes lives. Research shows that mentoring increases self-worth, improves relationships with others, and is connected to measurable gains in school attendance and academic achievement (Satchwell, 2006).

My goal is to combine my professional and personal experiences, and empower foster kids to transcend their self-limiting beliefs.

Annotated Bibliography

Axner, M. (2011). Healing from the effects of internalized oppression. Retrieved from The Community Toolbox https://ctb.ku.edu/en/tablecontents/sub_section_main_1172.aspx. This online resource describes discrimination versus internalized oppression, and offers practical strategies for recognizing and helping individuals overcome internalized oppression. The tools are effective, practical ways to empower people struggling with oppression.

Baskin, C. (2007) Structural determinants as the cause of homelessness for aboriginal youth.  Critical Social Work , Vol 8, No 1. Retrieved online from https://www.uwindsor.ca/criticalsocialwork/structural-determinants-as-the-cause-of-homelessness-for-aboriginal-youth. A paper that describes how the cycle of oppression caused by social systems leads to the loss of self-identity in Aboriginal youths in the foster care system. This loss of self-identity leads to unhealthy development and an increased risk of homelessness.

Bishop, Anne. (2002). Becoming an ally: Breaking the cycle of oppression in people. Halifax:Fernwood Publishing. Bishop’s premise is that no one form of oppression stands alone. All oppressions are interdependent, and none can be solved in isolation. She is “looking for mechanisms that cause us to reproduce oppression, generation after generation” (page 71), and encourages readers to form alliances (as opposed to “just” fighting one’s own oppression).

Freire, P. (2000). Pedagogy of the oppressed. New York,NY: Continuum International Publishing Group. This book was first published in 1968; this is the 30 th anniversary edition. Freire describes how oppressors “dehumanize” oppressed groups, who become incapable of recognizing their own oppression. This would be a solid foundation from which to base my research on overcoming internalized oppression.

Geenen, S. & Powers, L. (2007). “Tomorrow is another problem”: The experiences of youth in foster care during their transition into adulthood. Children and Youth Services Review . 29(8), 1085-1101. Retrieved from https://www.sciencedirect.com.ezproxy.tru.ca/science/article/pii/S0190740907000680#sec3.1. This study gathered information from foster youth, case workers, foster parents, educators and other professionals on the experiences of transitioning from youth to adulthood. It revealed that youth in foster care need more opportunities to control and direct their own lives, to take responsibility and ownership for their futures. The authors also found that caring, long-term relationships are more important than accessing formal services, and that a flexible, individualized and creative approach to transition is necessary.

Kirk, R. & Day, A. (2011). Increasing college access for youth aging out of foster care: Evaluation of a summer camp program for foster youth transitioning from high school to college. Children and Youth Services Review . 33(7), 1173-1180. Retrieved from https://www.sciencedirect.com.ezproxy.tru.ca/science/article/pii/S0190740911000648#sec3.6.4.  The School of Social  Work at Michigan State University developed a campus-based learning program to help foster youth transition to college. Foster care alumni offered peer support, role modeling, mentoring and active learning sessions. This intervention increased college-related knowledge and information, enhanced perceptions of life skills, self-concept, empowerment and a sense of purpose.

Krebs, B. and  Pitcoff, P. (2006) Beyond the foster care system: The future for teens .Chapel Hill, NC: Rutgers University Press. Written by the co-founders of the Youth Advocacy Center in New York City, this book offers inspiring, real-life accounts of what it’s like to live in foster homes and illustrates how the foster care system sets teens up to fail by inadequately preparing them for adult life. The authors also offer practical improvements to empower teens.

Satchwell, K. (2006). Mentoring literature review. Retrieved from Government of Alberta Human Services website: https://www.child.alberta.ca/home/929.cfm Mentoring_Lit_Review_Final[1].pdf. An excellent overview of mentoring that goes beyond “just” a case for mentoring. This report includes volunteer mentor recruitment, training tips, matching considerations, best practices, and more.

van Wormer, K. (2004). Confronting oppression, restoring justice: From policy analysis to social  action Alexandria, VA: CSWE Press. This is a guide that doesn’t just explain internalized oppression and social justice theory, it describes what is needed to confront oppression for human services practitioners, students, and educators on the “front lines.”

She Blossoms Newsletter

After being accepted to the MSW program at UBC, I discovered that writing a thesis is a choice grad students have. I’ve decided not to write one, as I’d rather focus on getting as much practical, hands on experience as I can. Plus, I don’t plan (at this point) to go into a PhD program, so writing a thesis for my MSW isn’t necessary.

If you get into a grad program, you’ll probably need to secure a practicum placement! For tips, read  Sample Field Placement Request – Master’s of Social Work at UBC .

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Home > FAHSS > SOCIALWORK > SOCIALWORK_ETD

Social Work Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Theses/dissertations from 2023 2023.

Predictive Validity of CU Traits on Conduct Disorder-Related Antisocial Behaviors in Canadian Adolescents: Advancing Understandings Relevant to the DSM-5 Specifier With Limited Prosocial Emotions , Derek Campbell

Exploring Paradoxical Advantages of Latin Americans in Canada: Secondary Analytic Expositions of Contextualized Resiliencies and Vulnerabilities , Keren M. Escobar

An Exploration of Encounters Between People with Lived Experience of Mental Illness and Police Officers , Sarah Faubert

The Role of the Social Worker in Long-Term Care in Ontario: An Exploratory Qualitative Study Examining Perspectives of Social Workers About Their Roles. , Candace Hind

Exploration of the Relationship between Social Support and Healthcare Utilization Among Adult Immigrants to Canada , Naomi Ruth Levitz Shobola

Mental Illness Through the Eyes of Iraqi Ontarians: Unheard Voices for Conventional Mental Health Supports , Mohamad Musa

Theses/Dissertations from 2022 2022

Preserving My Arab Self While Finding My Home in Canada: First Generation Recent Arab Immigrant Emerging Adults’ Perspectives on Acculturation Experiences and Canadian Society’s Role in Fostering Equitable Participation , Riham Al-Saadi

Examining Tension in the Provision of Palliative Care: Social Workers’ Experiences , Michael R. Bennett

Theses/Dissertations from 2021 2021

Predictive Effects of (Neo)Colonialism and Other Forms of Structural Violence on Involuntary Contacts with the Criminal Justice System in Canada: A Statistical Analysis with an Autoethnographic Perspective , Amy M. Alberton

Theses/Dissertations from 2019 2019

Factors Affecting Health Care Access among Transgender People in the United States , Luisa Kcomt

Peer influences on antisocial and prosocial behaviours in group home foster care: evidence of greater protections in better resourced homes and higher income neighborhoods , Gershon Osei

Theses/Dissertations from 2018 2018

Examining the Socioeconomic Patterns of Service Utilization among Canadian Women at Risk for Developing Eating Disorders: A Prevalence Study , Jenni Hotte

Critical Thinking in Social Work Education: A Delphi Study of Faculty Understanding , Patricia Louise Samson

The Praxis of Privilege: How Social Workers Experience their Privilege , Akin Taiwo

Theses/Dissertations from 2016 2016

Parent Perceptions and Experiences in Child Custody Decision-Making , Beth Archer-Kuhn

Theses/Dissertations from 2009 2009

Recovery from mental illness – The experiential perspective , Jean Laforge

Experiences of Mennonite immigrant women accessing and receiving services in the mental health care system in Essex County , Diane Quadros

Theses/Dissertations from 2008 2008

A qualitative examination of best practices in the provision of specialized mental health services to individuals with a dual-diagnosis in London and Middlesex County , Tara-Ann C. Glasgow

An evaluation of the Family Well-Being program at the Windsor-Essex Children's Aid Society , Jennifer L. Walker

Theses/Dissertations from 2007 2007

Social correlates of depression and suicide among youth: A meta-analytic review. , Adelina Greco

Voices from the field: Exploring how social workers articulate their practice. , Colleen A. Mitchell

Coping strategies of single mothers of children with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). , Michelle Dawn Sullivan

Theses/Dissertations from 2006 2006

Perceptions of health and environmental contamination on the Aamjiwnaang First Nation reserve (Ontario). , Kizzy Bedeau

Acquired brain injury: Journeys from pre-injury to return to work. , Catherine Boyce

How consumers understand private security: The case of an Ontario neighbourhood security program. , Jeffrey G. Brown

Ontario Domestic Violence Protection Act: An analysis of discourse. , April Girard

Governing female sexuality: Prostitution, problematic associations and the subcommittee on solicitation laws. , Olga Marques

Apparent lesbian performances, heteroflexibility and sexual identity: Fluid sexuality among young women in public places. , Allisa Scott

Race/ethnicity as a predictor of time spent in out-of-home care: Meta-analytic support for ethnic sensitive practice. , Laura Wygiera-Mitchell

Theses/Dissertations from 2005 2005

Campaigns of corporate social responsibility: The case of Canadian oil producer EnCana (Ecuador). , David. Demant

Ethno-racial groups and income attainment in Canada: Investigating the mosaic. , Tamara Rayvon Ferron

Examining the national longitudinal survey of children and youth: A profile of Canadian adolescent sexuality. , Rita Gillis

The governance of agriculture: Global programs of development and agricultural biotechnology. , Kelly Greenfield

Guilty by association: The impact of mainstream media portrayal of African Canadian male criminal participation on the African Canadian community. , Phyllis A. Kumi

Ethno-racial groups and occupational attainment: Influence of human capital and social capital. , Koyel Ranu

Governing at-a-distance: Outsourcing, network prudentialism and quality assurance standards. , Dale Spencer

Theses/Dissertations from 2004 2004

Mapping the lines: An exploration of mobility and urban spaces amongst bicycle couriers. , Philip J. Boyle

Multiple voices in HIV and AIDS: A comparison of the discourses of Christian religion and public health (Kenya). , Chris Brouillard-Coyle

Postmodern penality? GPS electronic monitoring and the new penology. , Ryan S. Cotter

Into the interior: An exploration of development policies and the representation of Amerindians in Guyana. , Suzanne Friemann

The Pacifica Foundation, the "New York Times" and the propagation of a mature commercial ideology: Objectivity vs. subjectivity and the future of a journalism for the public (Lewis Hill) , Stephen Landry

Orphanhood, informal orphan caregiving and the impact of community-based organizations in the context of HIV/AIDS, in Nyanza, Kenya. , Tamara M. M. Landry

Governing cultural heritage: UNESCO's World Heritage Convention. , Kevin K. Manuel

Identifying factors of stigma influencing the reintegration of ex-inmates as law-abiding citizens. , Richard Phillips

Theses/Dissertations from 2003 2003

UNHCR and the politics of refugee repatriation. , Melaku T. Awoke

The serial murder of sex workers: The social construction of serial killers by sex worker advocacy groups , Heidi Rebecca Charlotte Baker

Camouflaged liaisons: The social organization of Turkish male sexual minorities. , Tarik. Bereket

Walking the contested terrain: An exploration of the lifer identity post-release and its role in reintegration. , Catherine Lynn. Brooke

Sex offenders and the criminal justice system: An exploration of public opinion. , Michelle Anne Coghlan

Policing the corporate image: A case study of in-house security governance and the management of risk in a mass private property in Canada. , Steven David. Hutchinson

Theoretical perspective on mutliple risk behaviour: The influence of social capital on substance use and sexual-risk taking among young men and women. , Sheri-Lynn. Medaglia

The construction of ecstasy as a social problem in Toronto newspapers (Ontario). , Sean Cristin. Miller

Self-control vs. social control as an explanation for delinquency. , Marcel Joseph Parent

Constructing victims: The gendering of domestic violence in the print media. , Kameron Morgana Eve. Perchaluk (nee Robinson)

Theses/Dissertations from 2002 2002

Technologies of governance: The convergence of risk and discipline in an open custody facility for young offenders. , Dale A. Ballucci

Human capital, social capital, and income attainment in Canada. , Daniele. Cerri

Affirming the voices of teen mothers: Exploring the influences of the reconstruction of the welfare state on teen mothers in Ontario. , Treena L. Clift

Learning to conform: Globalization, governance and UNESCO's basic education. , Christiana Maria. Gauger

Alcoholism, Native and non-Native treatment technologies and the discourse of difference. , Kelly Lynn. Henley

Social status and computer use: Sophisticated computer use as a cultural capital? , Daniel James. Holland

Street crime, Casino Windsor, and the theory of routine activities (Ontario). , Lauretta. Loong

Women in transition: Discourses of menopause. , Sue. McPherson

Governing the politics of consent: Gender, expert knowledge, and Bill C-49. , Marcia Leanne. Oliver

Social capital and socio-economic status as determinants of physical, mental, and self-rated overall health in Canada. , Lisa Katherine. Smylie

Theses/Dissertations from 2001 2001

Sex work as work. , Sasha R. Drummond

An exploration of animal abuse in the context of family violence. , Amy Jean Fitzgerald

High expectations for high-risk offenders: A pre-post evaluation of the Federal Offender Rehabilitation Program "Counter-Point". , Bonnie Lee. McKinnon

Sentencing circles for Aboriginal offenders in Canada: Furthering the idea of Aboriginal justice within a Western justice framework. , Melanie Leigh Spiteri

Learning to pour: An exploration into the socialization of the male night shift bartender. , Adam Gordon Park. Stubbs

Theses/Dissertations from 2000 2000

Femininity, sexuality and sport: A case study of female inter-university varsity athletes. , Carolyn L. Dutot

The population of India as a colonial category: The British Censuses of 1872--1911. , Michael Don. Haan

Domestic violence and the state: Abused women's perspectives on the "new" integrated services approach. , Sharron Lynne. Jarvis

Women's smoking and drinking behaviours: The importance of structural inequality, social roles and traumatic experience. , Laura. Landstrom

Theses/Dissertations from 1999 1999

Foreign or domestic?...I'll take foreign! , David. Badalamenti

Intolerance, ignorance, and insensitivity: An examination of anti-gay attitudes and behaviours within a university population. , Ken. Dowler

Exploring the links between sexual coercion and condom negotiation. , Shannon Leigh. Ferguson

Controlling youth crime: A qualitative analysis of informal and formal social controls. , Jill Elizabeth. Johns

The social construction of the economy: Ideology, hegemony, and control , Carolyn M. Lewandowski

Moral reform and the rise of the burlesque industry in London, Ontario. , Kelly MacDonald

The liberal ideal and aboriginality: Concepts of citizenship and self-determination. , Russell. Nahdee

Single white attractive female searching for Mr. Right: Characteristics in mate selection. , Mona. Sleiman

Perceptions of arranged marriages by young Pakistani Muslim women living in a western society. , Arshia Urooj. Zaidi

Theses/Dissertations from 1998 1998

A phenomenological perspective of client aggression and violence on community living support workers. , Brian Richard. Cogliati

The effect(s) of the visual media upon female body image. , Jessica Mary Elsie. Cummings

Defining successful integration: An examination into the life of Grenadian transmigrants in Toronto (Ontario). , Paula Patricia. Green

Youth violence: A study of moral panics in terms of schismogenic loops. , Gary Jonathan. Hsu

Gender and the flower industry in Ecuador. , Nicole Anne. Noel

The medicalization of the 'battered woman' in Ontario, 1974--1996. , Katherin. Podgorny

Exploring links between the social reform, nationalist, and women's movements in India. , Jasvinder Kaur. Sanghera

Honor without women: Honor and the legitimization of murder in the criminal courts of Lebanon. , Randa Bassem. Serhan

Racist intelligentsia: Pathway to the far right's epistemology. , Frank. Tridico

Theses/Dissertations from 1997 1997

Tracing the emergence of corporal phase discipline and punishment in a modern society: The Argentine case (1969-1979). , Michael Victor. Agostinis

Delinquents' perceptions of family upbringing: An interpretive interactionist investigation of family patterns common in the youth of criminally charged adults. , Timothy John. Armaly

The disappearance of FLQ terrorism and the cycle of social protest in Quebec, 1963-1976. , Paul William. Lynd

Dying to be thin: The social construction of the female beauty ideal and eating disorders. , Susan Elizabeth. Martell

An exploration of northeastern Thai women's perception of personal risk of contracting HIV and their intentions, strategies, and barriers to self-protection (Immune deficiency). , Karen. Metcalfe

Strippers reveal the naked truth: A case study of women employed in the stripping occupation in London clubs (Ontario). , Karen Joan. Orton

Down but not out: A study of a men's shelter from a symbolic interactionist perspective. , Scott Daniel. Rogers

Exploring sexual exploitation of children from a criminal events perspective. , Shelley. Young

Academic misconduct at the University of Windsor: An examination of prevalence, policy, and practice (Ontario). , Jennifer Lynn. Zubick

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• Perceptions of the significant others living with an adult family member experiencing reoccurring relapse from substance use : a social work perspective  Moloto, Mercy Tlou ( 2023-05-24 ) The use of substances is a big challenge globally. Despite prevention, treatment, and aftercare programmes to eradicate this phenomenon, individuals often relapse within months after completing their treatment. The recurring ...
• The foster care awareness programme as an intervention strategy for grandmother-headed families: a case study Diepsloot  Musetsho, Mulalo Abigail ( 2023-06 ) The foster care awareness programme (FCAP) plays a critical role in strengthening the foster caregivers’ understanding of how to support vulnerable children. The activities of the programme support grandparents to be ...
• The social functioning of young adults after termination of their foster care placements and foster child grants  Ngoveni, Nyiko Given ( 2018-09 ) The absence of clear policy and practice guidelines aimed at supporting young adults after termination of foster care placements and foster child grants has implications to their psychosocial wellbeing and adjustment to ...
• The experiences, challenges and coping strategies of foster parents raising teenage foster children  Mphephu, Azwidohwi Jacqueline ( 2023-09 ) Globally, there is an estimated high population of teenage children who grow up in foster care. In South Africa, these children are legally placed in foster care by the commissioner of the children`s court inquiry in ...
• The challenges faced by statutory social workers in rendering foster care services to undocumented children  Mapheto, Mabolotse Thabang ( 2023-09 ) Africa, there are several undocumented children who are found to in need of care and protection. Therefore, South Africa designed the Children’s Act no 38 of 2005 which seeks to ensure that the basic and the financial ...
• Parents' experiences of reunification service during placement of their children in child and youth care centres: practice guidelines for social workers  Sethole, Lorraine Mmapelo ( 2023-01 ) Due to the increasing number of children in need of care and protection in South Africa, the majority of these children are removed from the care of their parents and placed at child and youth care centres (CYCCs) for ...
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• The experiences of and responses to compassion fatigue amongst social workers employed in government hospitals  Motshana, Sebedi Clement ( 2023-01-27 ) Social workers working in government hospitals are tasked to render social work support services to patients and their families within a multidisciplinary team approach, however, there is a lack of research evidence ...
• The reflections of young people who are raised within ‘gonyalelwa lapa’ cultural practice among Bapedi in Limpopo Province : guidelines for social work intervention  Kabekwa, Mmoledi ( 2022-12-01 ) ‘Gonyalelwa lapa’ cultural practice is one of the various forms of marital associations and expressions in the day-to-day cultural practices, rituals and traditions of African Black people. This cultural practice occurs ...
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• Experiences, challenges, and coping strategies of Zimbabwean mothers caring for their minor children without family support whilst residing in South Africa  Kekana, Jela Prudans ( 2022-02-28 ) Background to the study: Family support and Zimbabwean migration is commonly alluded to by various researchers globally and in South Africa. The reason for migration is mainly financial opportunities. One of the common ...
• A social work study on factors contributing to a high rate of depression amongst university students from the age of 19 - 23 years  Matthew, S. A. ( 2022-12 ) Over the past few decades, the increase in depression amongst university students has become a global concern. In attempting to understand the increase in the prevalence of depression amongst university students, it is ...
• Strategies to prevent HIV infections among women in the Ditsobotla Municipality of the North West Province, South Africa  Phakedi, Lebotse Stephen ( 2023-03-31 ) The status of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) among women in South Africa is worrisome. Imbalances in power relations between men and women subject women to perpetual vulnerability to HIV infection whilst effective ...
• The experiences of social workers working in multi-disciplinary teams in state hospitals in the Waterberg District, Limpopo Province  Legodi, Tsemeng Jack ( 2022-11 ) Following South Africa’s independence in 1994, the number of hospital social work posts in state hospitals were substantially increased. Subsequently, unprecedented contextual changes have affected hospital services, ...
• The influence of South African Police Service (SAPS) employees’ primary relationship experiences on their productivity in the workplace: informing employee assistance programme  Setabola, Kgaugelo Caroline ( 2022-10 ) The study provides an analysis of studies conducted by different researchers with regard to the relationship between the influence of a primary relationship and work productivity. It has been discovered that intimate ...
• Resiliency amongst rural social workers in managing their experiences of work-related challenges  Botha, Lindiwe Portia ( 2022-11-15 ) Background of the study - The notion of resilience was first recognised in the field of psychopathology in the 1970s. The concept can be used to explain the individual responses to challenges and traumatic events which led ...
• The experiences and challenges faced by youth leaving care during the COVID-19 pandemic  Zingwe, Fadzaishe Bridget ( 2022-11-15 ) Placement of children and youth at care centres has been a practice spanning over the years worldwide, to provide safe places resembling a home environment to the children and youth. This research study investigated the ...
• Supportive supervision: a model for social work supervisors  Bhuda, Gladys Bathabile ( 2019-03 ) Social work practice is extremely demanding on the practitioner. Social workers, especially in the public domain, handle high caseloads whilst simultaneously conducting group and community work amidst the demands ...
• School social workers' and educators' experiences on school-based violence: suggestions for stakeholder support  Maota, Y. M. ( 2022-05 ) School-based violence (SBV) is a phenomenon that burdens many countries globally. A substantial proportion of schools and governments are still struggling to find a solution to it. There are a limited number of reports on ...
• The challenges experienced by youths leaving kinship foster care in South Africa  Zimudzi, Catherine ( 2022-05 ) Young people who leave foster care in South Africa typically encounter greater difficulties transitioning into young adulthood when compared to their peers who grow up with their biological parents. The aim of the study ...

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Purdue University Northwest to offer Master of Social Work degree

Purdue University Northwest (PNW) will begin recruiting students for its new Master of Social Work (MSW) program that is expected to enroll its first cohort in fall 2025.

PNW’s MSW program will prepare advanced generalist social workers who are well-qualified to meet social services needs in our metropolitan region.

“Engaging individuals as partners in the helping process is key to social work,” said Anne Gregory , dean of the College of Humanities, Education and Social Sciences at PNW. “If you are someone interested in building and strengthening relationships in ways that promote, maintain and enhance the well-being of individuals, families, organizations and our communities, then the PNW MSW program is for you.”

The MSW curriculum will center on anti-oppressive social work practice that advocates for social, racial, economic and environmental justice for all vulnerable populations. After completion of PNW’s MSW degree, graduates will be eligible for social work licensure (LSW).

MSW graduates earn qualifications to begin careers in sectors such as mental health, government, hospitals, schools, deaddiction centers and advocacy agencies.

The new MSW program will greatly expand PNW's ability to respond to the educational, professional, social service, mental health and advocacy needs of Northwest Indiana and beyond. Mike Johnson, chair of the department of Behavioral Sciences at PNW

“Our stellar social work faculty are very excited to offer the MSW program at PNW,” said Shreya Bhandari , professor of Social Work and director of PNW’s MSW program. “We are currently working on gaining initial accreditation with the Council on Social Work Education, the body that accredits social work programs across the nation.”

“The new MSW program will greatly expand PNW’s ability to respond to the educational, professional, social service, mental health and advocacy needs of Northwest Indiana and beyond,” said Mike Johnson , chair of the department of Behavioral Sciences at PNW.

MSW students at PNW will be able to leverage synergistic connections between other related graduate programs at the university, including PNW’s Counseling, Couple and Family Therapy, and Psychology programs. PNW has offered a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work program since 2016 that is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education.

To learn more about PNW’s MSW program, visit pnw.edu/msw . Applications will be accepted through January 15, 2025. More information about graduate studies at PNW is also available at pnw.edu/graduate-studies .

Rescheduled: Masters of Architecture Thesis Open House

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Shattuck Hall 1914 SW Park Ave, Portland, OR

Free and open to the public

[email protected]

Rescheduled to June 13th

We're inviting the professional and alumni community to see students' work on June 13th (specific time TBD) in an open-house gallery-style display. 

The School of Architecture students pursuing the Master of Architecture degree engage in a yearlong investigation in which they select a topical issue, develop a body of research both within and outside the discipline of architecture, and create a complete and detailed architectural design response to the topic. Master of Architecture thesis projects at Portland State range from community-focused public interest design concepts to explorations of architectural materiality and sustainability, from the poetic to the concrete and everything in between. The thesis program culminates in oral presentations to a panel of invited jurors, followed by producing a commemorative book detailing the student's research, design process, and inspiring results.

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Ralm Ricarte Honored as Faculty Mentor for FSU Honors in the Major Program

Ralm Ricarte, assistant professor in the Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering. (Mark Wallheiser/FAMU-FSU College of Engineering)

Ralm Ricarte , a biomedical engineering faculty member, was recently recognized for his work as a mentor to undergraduate students in the FSU Honors in the Major program.

A record three faculty mentors who helped students with Honors thesis projects were recognized at the annual Florida State University Faculty Awards Celebration in April at the Augustus B. Turnbull III Florida State Conference Center.

The winners of the Honors Thesis Mentor Awards, which is earned for working with students on original research to complete an Honors in the Major thesis, Ricarte, assistant professor in the joint college’s Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering and FSU; Douglas Storace, assistant professor in the FSU Department of Biological Science; and Crystal Taylor, director of research in the DeVoe L. Moore Center in the College of Social Sciences and Public Policy at FSU.

Ricarte’s mentee recognized his high expectations and encouragement.

“Dr. Ricarte’s care and genuine interest in my work have made me more excited to get in the lab,” wrote his nominator, Marie Chmara, who worked with Ricarte to create and analyze hydrogels and study their toxicity to the human body. “It makes me feel like my work matters.”

The Honors in the Major Program allows upper-division students to produce advanced research under the guidance of top-tier faculty. Students must have a minimum 3.2 GPA and at least 60 credit hours with two full semesters before graduation.

“My goal as a mentor is to help students traverse the seemingly safe yet sometimes treacherous gap which they encounter transitioning from student to professional,” said Taylor, who helped political science student Camila Aponte conduct award-winning educational policy research for Honors in the Major after previously mentoring her for a project through the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program. “I am very honored that Camila advocated so passionately for me to continue in my mentorship role on her scholarly journey.”

About 175 students participate every year in the program, which allows them to graduate “with Honors,” the only opportunity to do so outside of enrollment in the University Honors Program. The program is expanding and has approved a record-breaking 164 applications to begin this summer and fall.”

Mentoring undergraduate research is a labor of love,” said Michael David Franklin, assistant director of Honors in the Major. “Faculty mentors share with students the joy of asking questions about the world and then show students the ropes of how to answer those questions in ways relevant to their fields.”

This is the first year three faculty mentors won the award, a testament to an especially large number of nominations from mentees, who represented 21 different departments or programs across the university.

In their nomination letters, students wrote about how their faculty mentors met with them for regular one-on-one meetings and helped them analyze data, understand statistics, identify helpful resources, conduct literature reviews, refine their writing skills, apply for conferences and present their research.

“Dr. Storace embodies the essence of exceptional mentorship,” wrote Storace’s nominator, Catherine Rodriguez, after working with him to study how fasting changed a part of the brain involved in olfaction in mice. “His guidance has been transformative, empowering me to reach new heights of academic achievement and personal growth.”

This story originally appeared on FSU News

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