The well-being of children, youth, and families is central to the mission of social work. This area of emphasis prepares students to work with children, youth and families in a variety of service settings. An area of emphasis in Children Youth and Families requires three relevant courses and an appropriate field placement. MSW students earn an Area of Emphasis in Children Youth and Families which is noted on their transcript. Please note that students in either the Clinical concentration or the MAP concentration can complete this area of emphasis.

Recommended Social Work Courses (select three):

19:910:549 Emerging issues in Child Welfare and Policy Practice

19:910:547 HBSE: Violence and Abuse in Childhood

19:910:529 HBSE: Adolescents at Risk

19:910:513 Clinical Social Work: Adolescents

19:910:518 Clinical Social Work: Children

19:910:519 Clinical Social Work: Families 

19:910: 520 Clinical Social Work: School

19:910:534 Child Welfare Management

19:910:550 Play Therapy

**Please note other classes may apply 

Field Practice Opportunities

The Office of Field Education works with students with relevant experience and course work to find placement opportunities that provide services to children, youth and families, including but not limited to schools, child welfare agencies, afterschool programs, heath care settings, advocacy organizations, and mental health clinics.