Social Work with Children and Their Families
The University of Kansas School of Social Welfare offers excellent
preparation for students wishing to advance their knowledge and skill in direct
service with children and their families, especially the most vulnerable and at
risk.
Strengths of the Program include:
- Nationally and internationally known faculty who have published numerous
articles and books.
- Practice-centered curriculum, including courses such as SW 830: Social
Work in Child and Family Settings (focusing on child welfare and children’s
mental health) and numerous possible electives including School Social Work,
Practice with Children and Adolescents, and Family Therapy
- Excellent practicum placement opportunities in mental health centers,
child protection, foster care, adoption, schools, and other agencies serving
children, youth, and their families in both rural and urban settings.
- Focus on family-centered practice, the ecological model and the
strengths perspective. The KU School of Social Welfare is recognized
nationally and internationally as a pioneer in the Strengths Perspective for
social work practice, which is particularly applicable to work with children
and their families.
- Examination of cutting-edge contemporary issues including the tension
between a child focus and family focus, privatization of public services,
the philosophy of least restrictive alternative, ethical issues, social
justice, and culturally competent practice.
- Integration of research, policy, and direct practice as they apply to
this population.
