• BASW and MSW students with some experience in human services or child welfare related fields. 
• DCYF or Tribal employees interested in obtaining a BASW or MSW to enhance their knowledge and skills in delivering services to families and children.
• Current BASW Seniors or newly accepted students in the UW Seattle MSW program who are interested in a career in child welfare and committed to working at DCYF or an approved Tribal partner.  

CWTAP provides a forum for networking, peer learning, and professional development for the University of Washington Seattle CWTAP Program. CWTAP students present topics related to child welfare practice and DCYF’s mission, while connecting with state leaders and building relationships that often last throughout their careers. Since its inception, the Institute has served as a student-centered showcase for learning and leadership in public child welfare.  

Through the CWTAP program, BASW and MSW students at the UW School of Social Work gain hands-on experience in child welfare practice. The practicum offers structured learning in partnership with the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF), providing supportive environments for students to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings. This immersive experience prepares students for careers in public child welfare and reinforces the program’s commitment to workforce readiness.  

Students who are not current employees of DCYF or one of our Tribal partners, practicum experiences are designed to be more structured to ensure comprehensive learning, wraparound support, and a strong foundational understanding of child welfare systems in Washington State. Practicum students who are not employed by DCYF, will be assigned to a CWTAP Student Unit located within a DCYF Office in Region 4 King County.  

DCYF and Tribal employees participating in CWTAP collaborate with a Field Advisor to design a practicum that builds their professional experience while addressing areas for growth. The placement is tailored to align with the student’s learning interests and competencies, ensuring meaningful skill development and preparation for advanced practice in child welfare.  

• DCYF employees will complete practicum at their current DCYF office and work with their Field Advisor to create a plan that supports their professional learning goals.  

• Tribal employees will partner with their Field Advisor to create a plan that supports their professional learning goals. These students are required to complete the Generalist Practicum at a DCYF Office within their region and have the option to then transition their Specialist Practicum to their tribal office.