Field education is a vital part of earning a BASW and MSW degree. It provides students with an opportunity to learn how to apply social work theories from the classroom to social work practice in the field.

Typical field settings include schools, nonprofit organizations, hospitals, courts, substance abuse clinics, prisons, international and governmental organizations and community health clinics. Learning opportunities include case management, crisis intervention, counseling, wellness, program management and development, and policy intervention.

CLICK HERE to complete an Agency/Field Instructor Interest Form.

We are always looking for experienced social work professionals to provide instruction and supervision to students as part of their commitment to the training and development of future social workers your colleagues.

Things to consider when becoming a field educator or learning site:

  • Each field site must have or enter into an Affiliation Agreement with the University of Washington.
  •  We require that the learning site have an on-site master's level social worker with a minimum of 2 years post MSW experience.
  • Placements range from 10-12 months, depending on the student's program.
  • As a Field Instructor, you will work with students to develop a plan that specifies activities with learning objectives, provides regular supervision and evaluates student progress throughout the placement.
  • TRAINING: Field Instructor (FI) will complete a self-paced online FI training and plan to participate in ongoing continuing education opportunities (many offer CEU's) through the Office of Field Education.
  • Placement must embrace the School's mission.
  • Placement must meet CSWE standards of accreditation, including the social work competencies.

If you are interested in supervising a social work student, please complete an interest form. Once submitted, the Office of Field Education will contact you.

For more information, read our FAQ.