Mission, Goals and Core Competencies of the MSW Program


The mission of the MSW program at Wichita State University:

The mission of the Master of Social Work program at Wichita State University is to prepare graduates for autonomous Advanced Generalist practice. This mission is accomplished through the preparation of advanced social workers capable of practice in complex, diverse-and ever-changing environments. Emphasis is placed on developing evidence-based knowledge and skills for ethical, culturally competent, socially just, and empowering interventions on all practice levels.

Goals of the MSW program:

To prepare Advanced Generalist social workers:

  1. For ethical, competent, autonomous advanced generalist social work practice with multiple systems and diverse populations within urban environments.
  2. Who can contribute and engage the community through evidence-based knowledge, skills and ethical practice.
  3. With an understanding of and a commitment to empowerment, social justice, cultural competency and multidimensional practice.

Core Competencies of the MSW Program:

(Core Competencies defined by The Council on Social Work Education)

  1. Demonstrate Ethical and Professional Behavior
  2. Engage Diversity and Difference in Practice
  3. Advance Human Rights and Social, Economic, and Environmental Justice
  4. Engage in Practice-informed Research and Research-informed Practice
  5. Engage in Policy Practice
  6. Engage with Individuals, Families, Groups, Organizations and Communities
  7. Assess Individuals, Families, Groups, Organizations and Communities
  8. Intervene with Individuals, Families, Groups, Organizations and Communities
  9. Evaluate Practice with Individuals, Families, Groups, Organizations and Communities