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University of Nevada, Reno Community

The University of Nevada, Reno (UNR) is one of eight institutions within the Nevada System of Higher Education. The University system was established in 1864, the year of the state’s admission into the Union, but because of the state’s small population, it wasn’t able to offer courses until ten years later. The first classes were offered by the University in 1874 in Elko as one of the rare preparatory schools in the intermountain region. In 1885, the University was moved to Reno to be near the center of the state’s population. It has flourished since its first year of formal college-level study in 1887.

A constitutionally established land grant university, UNR emphasizes those programs and activities that best serve the needs of the state, region, and nation. UNR seeks to provide broad access to higher education irrespective of wealth or social status; to educate the professional cadres of an industrial, increasingly urban society; and to strengthen democracy by assuring the welfare and social status of all.

Approximately 21,000 students currently attend UNR. While the majority of students are undergraduates, the University has a sizable graduate student population of approximately 3,100. Students come from all over the state of Nevada to attend UNR. Additionally, UNR’s reputation attracts many students from throughout the United States and the world.
UNR offers 80 bachelor degree programs, 69 master degree programs, 43 doctoral degree programs, and boasts 9 major academic units. UNR is accredited by the Northwest Association of Schools and Colleges.

UNR’s School of Social Work is housed within the Division of Health Sciences (DHS).
The University of Nevada, Reno is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, creed, national origin, veteran status, physical or mental disability, or sexual orientation in any program or activity it operates.

Campus and surrounding area

The University is an integral part of the thriving Reno-Sparks metropolitan area. The 290-acre campus of rolling hills features a blend of ivy-covered buildings, sweeping lawns, and functional, progressive architecture. The campus is located less than one mile from downtown Reno, and offers a spectacular view of the surrounding community and nearby mountains.

Reno is situated prominently in an attractive natural setting. Bounded on the west by the majestic Sierra Nevada range and on the east by the rolling basin range, Reno benefits from a comfortable climate. Marked by generally cool and dry weather, the area is a haven for those who love the four seasons. The area provides endless opportunities for outdoor recreational activities, including skiing, hiking, boating, fishing, camping, kayaking, and biking. Additionally, the area attracts nationally renowned performers and offers several museums.

Campus resources

Introduction to Social Work

BSW Program - Generalist Practice

The School’s focus on the development and delivering of evidence-informed practices, programs & policies underscores the importance of preparing BSW graduates who are able to draw upon a wide array of intervention strategies based on empirical, theoretical, and experiential knowledge. In so doing, it echoes the profession’s attention to knowledge based on scientific inquiry. In addition, the School’s emphasis on recognizing strengths, honoring diversity, and challenging injustices with an eye toward the unique characteristics of Nevada in the context of a global society, reflects the importance the profession places on critically understanding the historical, cultural, economic, political and social contexts that inform social work practice, policy & research.

• School of Social Work Mission. To educate, train and nurture competent, committed, compassionate and diverse social work leaders who advance the social justice mission of social work through their leadership in research, public policy, academics and clinical practice at local, national and global levels.
• BSW Program Mission. The mission of the BSW Program is to educate competent generalist social workers who challenge injustice and who are able to effectively and compassionately intervene at all system levels with diverse client groups.

Flowing from the mission of the School, the mission of the BSW program is to prepare competent generalist social workers who challenge injustice and who are able to effectively and compassionately intervene with diverse individuals, families, groups, communities and organizations. Underpinning this mission statement is a definition of generalist practice that is grounded in the liberal arts and the person-in-environment perspective, as well as the purpose and values of the profession. Accordingly, effective, compassionate generalist social workers are viewed as competently using a range of prevention and intervention strategies to enhance social functioning at all system levels. They are guided by a deep understanding of human behavior and the environments within which people live. They identify as professionals who act with integrity and intervene within the scope of practice for which they have been trained. They believe in the dignity and worth of each person and intentionally help clients identify their unique capacities and strengths. They recognize the important role relationship plays in fostering client development and change. Ethical principles, evidence, and critical thinking guide their interventions. They confront unjust practices, protocols and circumstances, promote human rights, and participate in social and political actions that eliminate oppressive conditions such as poverty. Importantly, generalist practice is also viewed as encompassing the nine core social work competencies and their associated practice behaviors (EPAS, 2022). By conceptualizing generalist practice in these ways, the BSW program’s mission is consistent with the profession’s purpose to promote individual and community well-being, through the pursuit of justice, human rights, the elimination of poverty, and enhanced quality of life. It likewise resonates with the profession’s core values of service, integrity, dignity & respect, social justice, competence, human rights, relationship, and scientific inquiry.

Program Goals

The goals of the BSW program flow from the School and BSW program missions and reflect the profession’s core competencies as articulated by CSWE (EPAS, 2022). The goals guiding the BSW Program are to prepare entry-level social work practitioners who:

1. Challenge social and economic injustice and promote social well-being and human rights;
2. Integrate social work values and ethics into all professional endeavors
3. Critically utilize research to inform assessments, prevention strategies and interventions;
4. Critically apply knowledge of cultural, organizational, community, spiritual, social, psychological, and biological functioning as well as strengths, resiliency and systems of oppression to understand and assess client systems;
5. Conduct themselves as professionals, able to communicate effectively, reflect upon practice, and engage in continuous learning; and
6. Effectively apply the planned changed process in interventions with diverse client systems (individuals, couples, families, groups, communities, organizations, policy-making bodies and society).

Admissions

Students in the School of Social Work begin their journey as pre-majors in social work as they work through the pre-professional coursework. Social work students may apply to the professional sequence mid-way through their junior year to become a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) student as opposed to a pre-major. The professional sequence encompasses a series of classes tied to a 450-hour internship in a social service agency. These classes in conjunction with the internship are designed to provide the professional socialization, knowledge, values, and skills needed for entry-level social work practice. An emphasis on professional practice distinguishes the professional sequence from the other required and elective social work classes. Students entering the professional sequence are expected to be ready to engage with clients, to practice within the boundaries and scope of the profession and to behave in manners congruent with the profession’s values and ethics.

While this sequence of classes and internship may be completed in one full-time or two part-time academic years, it is designed to be a culminating experience during the student’s senior year. Students who meet the following requirements may apply for admission to the professional sequence.

Declaration as a social work major

1. Successful admission to the Bachelor of Social Work program
2. Completion of all of the University and Departmental Requirements (excluding Silver Core requirements encompassed by the professional sequence)
3. Completion of at least 90 credits at the conclusion of the spring semester
4. A GPA of 2.5 overall (or in the last 30 credits). Faculty may occasionally consider an exception for students who do not meet the 2.5 GPA requirement but who, in the professional judgment of the faculty, demonstrate a strong commitment to and potential for the social work profession as evidenced by extraordinary achievements and leadership
5. Completion of SW 101, SW 250, SW 310, SW 311, SW 321, and SW 351 with a grade of “C” or higher

Admission to the professional sequence is competitive and selective. To apply to the professional sequence, students must complete an application by the posted deadline. These applications will be evaluated by the School of Social Work’s Admissions Committee. The Admissions Committee will evaluate the professional potential of each applicant to ensure that each student accepted into the professional sequence is prepared to enter field. Application materials as well as the applicants’ performance and interactions within social work classes will be considered. Students interested in applying to the professional sequence who meet the aforementioned requirements should submit the following materials to the School of Social Work by January 15 at 5:00 PM PST. In the event that January 15th falls on a weekend or holiday, the application will be due on the last business day prior to January 15th by 5:00 PM PST.

1. Completed application (available online)
2. Four essays (the topics of which are on the application)
3. Two recommendation forms completed by professional references
4. Copies of all unofficial transcripts

Application packets are reviewed by the Faculty Admissions Committee, and admissions decisions are finalized during the spring semester. Students who are accepted into the professional sequence may begin taking required 400-level social work courses. Admission materials are available online at the School of Social Work website.

Scholarships and financial aid information

You will find information on the School of Social Work scholarships available for students listed below and in the social work scholarships section of the website. For more information on general university scholarships/financial aid please visit the .

• Barbara West Larsen Scholarship
• Heather Morsberger Memorial Scholarship
• John and Louise Semenza Family
• Kris Tower Memorial Scholarship
• National Association of Social Workers Scholarship
• School of Social Work Diversity Scholarship

Note: To apply for Social Work specific scholarships students must complete the University’s Scholarship Application found in the Supplemental Forms on My Nevada by the priority deadline posted by Financial Aid.

Advising

The School of Social Work provides advising for all pre-major and Bachelor of social work students. It is very important that social work pre-majors or students in the pre-professional sequence contact the School of Social Work’s Advising Office once each semester. During these meetings, the advisor and student typically review the student’s academic work, discuss areas of weakness and strengths (e.g., writing skills), explore volunteer experiences, field practicum interests, graduation requirements, and scholarships, as well as employment and career opportunities. Beyond this, students are encouraged to see their advisors when academic guidance or support is needed.

Advisement should be viewed as a collaborative process between the advisor and the student. Ultimately, however, it is the student’s responsibility to ensure that he or she is progressing satisfactorily towards completion of the BSW degree. Students can enhance their advisement experience by following the suggestions listed below.

Advisement tips

• Make an appointment with the academic advisor prior to your registration date. Class schedules are typically released in October for the upcoming spring semester and Wintermester and in March for the upcoming fall and summer semesters.
• Prepare a list of questions before meeting with your advisor. This will help ensure that you have the answers you need when you leave.
• Don’t go to your advisor unprepared. You should have an idea of which classes you would like to take for the upcoming semester.
• Remember to bring a current copy of your UNR Academic Advisement Report (AAR).
• Bring a completed BSW Curriculum Plan (Appendix A) to the appointment. The BSW Curriculum. 
• Plan form can be downloaded from our School of Social Work website.
  Complete a BSW Advising Worksheet (Appendices C & D) during your initial visit with your advisor.
• Remember to bring a copy of the worksheet during subsequent advising sessions.
• Be on time for your appointment. If something comes up and you will not be able to attend your advising appointment, call to reschedule.
• Be sure to register on your assigned date and time for each semester. Remember that the longer you wait to register, the higher the risk that the courses you need will be full.
• Pay your fees on time. If you do not pay your fees by the due date, you will be dropped from your courses.

If you have any questions or concerns about anything related to school we encourage you to talk to your faculty advisor. Resources may exist which may not be familiar to you. You will find a list of commonly used campus services at the end of this handbook.

Graduation

Students must apply for graduation by the deadline of the semester they wish to graduate (March 1st for Spring, June 1st for Summer, and October 1st for Fall). Requirements for graduation with a BSW degree include completion of at least 120 credits with an overall grade-point average of 2.0 or higher, completion of University and major requirements and completion of all required social work courses (including the 6 credits of social work electives) with a “C” grade or higher in each course. (Please note that a grade of “B-” or higher in all undergraduate social work classes is required for admission to the Advanced Standing MSW Program.) Students within 12 credits of the requirements may apply to participate in a commencement ceremony outside of their official graduation term through the Office of Admissions and Records.

UNR/Great Basin College 3 + 1 Collaborative BSW Program

In collaboration with Great Basin College (GBC), the UNR School of Social Work has developed a 3 + 1 program for students interested in pursuing a BSW degree who reside in rural Nevada. Through this program, students complete the equivalent of the first three years of academic study at GBC, with dual enrollment at UNR in their sixth semester and their final year as social work majors at UNR. Students in this program complete most of the University and Departmental core through GBC. After being accepted to UNR and the professional sequence of the BSW major, students complete their final coursework through UNR (no less than 30 upper-division credits). Social work major courses will be delivered to students in the GBC service region through a variety of distance education modalities.

Students who are interested in the UNR/GBC 3 + 1 Collaborative BSW Program should follow the same sequencing of courses as do pre-major students enrolled at UNR. Please refer to the BSW Curriculum Plan and the Transfer Agreement; University of Nevada, Reno and Great Basin College Bachelor of Social.

Students attending GBC may obtain academic advising from the or through emailing the School of Social Work. Students who participate in the UNR/GBC 3 + 1 program are considered valuable members of the School of Social Work community. As such, all UNR/GBC 3 + 1 social work pre-majors and majors are encouraged to participate in the Undergraduate Student Social Work Association (USSWA). Students who are interested in participating in USSWA should contact Brenda Silva at the email address noted above.

Student opportunities

There are numerous local social work organizations in which students are encouraged to become involved. These organizations include but certainly are not limited to, the Undergraduate Student Social Work Association, (USSWA), Phi Alpha Honor Society, FUSED, The UNR School of Social Work Alumni Chapter, Social Work Student Advisory Council, and the Nevada Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW). Each of these organizations is discussed briefly below.

The Undergraduate Student Social Work Association

The Undergraduate Student Social Work Association (USSWA) serves as the principle student group for undergraduates within the School of Social Work. As such, the USSWA performs an important function in promoting student input into curriculum and program issues. The USSWA elects a student representative to attend School Meetings. Within this forum, their representative shares information, initiates discussion of student concerns and takes policy and curriculum decisions back to the students for consideration and feedback. The purpose of USSWA is to serve and help undergraduate social work students by: 1) promoting information exchange; 2) fostering student-faculty interactions; and, 3) providing another means through which students can give input on curriculum and other programmatic issues.

Why join USSWA?

1. It’s a great way to network with other social work students.
2. The group often has guest speakers at meetings to address topics of interest, like preparing for licensure or applying for graduate school.
3. It’s a way of joining with other students in planning activities that help people in our community.
4. It provides students a formal voice within the School of Social Work.
5. It’s an avenue for staying informed about School events, programs, and activities.

Any student who is either a social work major or pre-major at the University of Nevada, Reno, or who expresses an interest in the goals, values and activities of social work, is eligible for membership. The cost to join is $5.00 per semester (scholarships can be awarded based on financial need).

USSWA holds regular meetings for which dates and times are posted on the bulletin board outside the School of Social Work office, located on the fifth floor of the Ansari Business Building. There is also a suggestion envelope on this board to facilitate communication between students, the Association, and faculty.

Social Work Student Advisory Council

The Social Work Student Advisory Committee serves to honor the voices of all students to bridge the connection between the students, faculty, and our Dean to assist in further developing our school. The committee members will act as a voice for their fellow students. Working with the Dean, they will identify areas of improvement within the School of Social Work and collaborate to identify and apply solutions. Please email the Student Advisory Council for more information.

FUSED

FUSED is comprised of students who want to actively participate in social change. It is a non-partisan group that focuses its efforts on educating people on the impact they have in our political system. FUSED is open to all majors and graduate students in good standing.

Social Work Alumni Chapter

The Social Work Alumni Association offers graduates the opportunity to give back to, maintain connections and identify more closely with the School and University. Additionally, the Social Work Alumni Association provides a forum for alumni to network with professionals and advance the common goals of the profession. The mission of the Association is to unite graduates, faculty, and students of the UNR School of Social Work to maximize impact on social welfare policy, identify community needs, strengthen the community, and provide opportunities for continuing education and collaborative research. Students or graduates who are interested in joining the Social Work Alumni Association should call the School of Social Work at (775) 784-6542 or email SSWAC.

National Association of Social Workers, Nevada Chapter

The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) is a national organization that supports high standards of social work practice with over 150,000 members from 56 chapters in the United States and abroad. The organization offers a number of benefits to its members including:

• Publications, conferences, and workshops
• Professional standards
• Professional action
• Membership services, including group insurance, professional liability insurance, job postings, and travel services

Students enrolled in an accredited program of social work education are eligible to join NASW at a discounted rate. If you are interested in NASW, contact the Nevada Chapter offices.

NASW Nevada Chapter
8867 W. Flamingo Road, Suite 202 Las Vegas, NV 89147
Phone: 702-791-5872
Fax: 702-968-0863
NASW Nevada Chapter email

Curriculum

The BSW curriculum is a coherent sequence of coursework that builds upon a liberal arts foundation. This foundation includes the mandatory University Core Requirements as well as the departmental requirements. These courses provide the theoretical knowledge upon which social work students will draw in their major courses.

The social work curriculum itself is divided into two sequences: the pre-professional sequence and the professional sequence. The pre-professional sequence is comprised of those classes that may be taken prior to application to the professional sequence and field. These courses are designed to provide introductory knowledge, skills and values necessary for later practice as well as to provide students an opportunity to explore the social work major prior to applying to the professional sequence. The professional sequence includes classes conceptually and practically tied to the field practicum. These courses provide instruction in practice and research methods. Due to the direct linkage to field practicum, students must apply and be accepted into the professional sequence prior to enrolling in these classes.

Social work courses are designed to complement and build upon one another and therefore cannot be taken out of sequence. For example, SW 420 provides students with foundation practice skills for working with individuals. Students must therefore take SW 420 concurrent with their field placement (SW 480) so that they have the opportunity to implement and practice these skills and knowledge in their work with clients. 

As is noted in above, students must complete 120 credits in order to graduate. Approximately 21-24 of those credits are free electives, meaning that students may take classes of their choice. Although social work majors are not required to have a minor, they are encouraged to talk with their faculty advisor regarding the wisdom of applying these free credits to a minor that reflects their career interests (e.g., gerontology, addictions training, women’s studies, etc.).

It is the policy of the School of Social Work to grant credit for social work undergraduate courses successfully completed at other CSWE accredited institutions providing those courses have been approved for transferability by the University’s Transfer Center and are found to cover content that is comparable to that covered within a course, or courses, at UNR. A request to substitute transfer credits for a course required as part of UNR’s BSW program is initiated by the student by completing a Curriculum Change Form. Students must submit course documentation (i.e., course syllabi, bibliography, and assignments) for each course for which transfer credit is sought to the BSW Program Coordinator. Upon receiving approval, the Coordinator for Academic Success or Academic Advisor submits a Request for Substitution/Waiver of College and Major Requirements Form with the office of Admissions and Records.

The University of Nevada, Reno allows a maximum of 60 approved transfer credits from two-year institutions to be applied toward an undergraduate degree; and a maximum of 90 approved transfer credits from four-year institutions to be applied toward an undergraduate degree. UNR has written transfer agreements with area colleges and universities in which transfer policies are clearly described and can be accessed at the Transfer to Nevada website.

University Core Curriculum

Check your catalog year for the recommended schedule at catalog.unr.edu

Fundamental Practice

CO1 – Composition & Communication

• ENG 102 (3 credits) is traditionally used for this requirement though students may take any approved CO1 course.

CO2 – Quantitative Reasoning

• MATH 120 (3 credits) is traditionally used for this requirement though students may take any approved CO2 math course.

CO3 – Critical Analysis & Use of Information

• ENG 102 (3 credits) is traditionally used for this requirement though students may take any approved CO1 course. Primary Areas of Focused Inquiry

CO4/CO4L – Physical & Natural Phenomena

• Two courses must be taken for the CO4 requirement – one with a lab (CO4L) and one without (CO4). Depending on which courses students select, this requirement can be 6-7 credits.

CO5 – History & Culture

• Two courses must be taken for the CO5 requirement. Traditionally, it is recommended that students take CH 203 (3 credits) and one other CH course for a total of 6 credits.

CO6 – Cultures, Societies, & Individuals

• SOC 101 (3 credits), counted in the major credits

CO7 – Artistic Composition, Interpretation, & Expression

• Students may choose any course or a series of courses that are designated as CO7 (3 credits)

CO8 – Constitution

• Students must fulfill this requirement by taking a course or series of courses that covers both the U.S. constitution and Nevada constitution. Traditionally it is recommended that students take CH 203 (3 credits) as it also counts as a CO5. Advanced Ares of Focused Inquiry

CO9 - Science, Technology, & Society

• SW 440 (3 credits), counted in the major requirements

CO10 – Diversity & Equity

• Students can choose any course designated as a CO10 as long as it is outside of SW (3 credits)

CO11 – Global Contexts

• SW 351 (3 credits), counted in the major credits

CO12 – Ethics

• SW 420 (3 credits), counted in the major credits Integrative Experience

CO13 - Capstone Integration & Synthesis

• Students may choose any course designated as a CO13. Look at specific catalog year for in residence requirements

CO14 – Application

• SW 480 (6 credits), counted in the major credits

Total credits: 27-33

Departmental core

• SOC 101 - 3 credits
• PSY101 – 3credits
• PSY 341 – 3 credits
• HDFS 201 – 3 credits
• Additional Diversity & Equity course outside of SW (CO10) – 3 credits

Total credits: 15

Social Work courses

• SW 101 – 3 credits
• SW 250 – 3 credits
• SW 310 – 3 credits
• SW 311 – 3 credits
• SW 321 – 3 credits
• SW 351 – 3 credits
• SW 420 – 3 credits
• SW 421 – 3 credits
• SW 424 – 3 credits
• SW 427 – 3 credits
• SW 440 – 3 credits
• SW 441 – 3 credits
• SW 480 – 6 credits
• SW 481 – 6 credits
• SW Electives – 6 credits

Total credits: 54

Students must complete 120 credits to graduate (18-24 credits of general electives)

Social Work Field Practicum

The social work field practicum is completed during the student's senior year (90 or more credits completed) and after being admitted into the professional sequence. The field practicum provides the opportunity for students to apply the theoretical knowledge gained in the classroom in an actual social work practice setting.

The field practicum consists of two 6-credit courses (SW 480 and SW 481) for a total of 12 semester credits. Each course entails the completion of a minimum of 225 agency/community-based clock hours. SW 480 and SW 481 also involve student attendance at a weekly integrative seminar with their faculty field liaison.

Students will work directly with the School of Social Work Field Education Program Coordinator to determine field placement. Please visit the Field Practicum Program website for all practicum-related instructions, manuals, and forms. Students are not permitted to contact agencies directly to discuss field practicum. Please refer to the BSW Field Education Program Manual for details regarding the placement process.

School of Social Work policies

Given the centrality of professionalism to the practice of social work, the School of Social Work believes that professional integrity and behavior should begin as early as the first social work course. Due to the emphasis placed upon professional integrity and behavior, the School has established a set of policies that govern academic performance. These policies are uniform across programs and sequences. Underlying all of these policies are standards for behaviors that either guide conduct at UNR or guide the practice of social work. Students should be familiar with the following standards:

• University of Nevada Reno, Student Code of Conduct

CSWE’s core competencies and practice behaviors

Life Experience

In accordance with CSWE accreditation standards, academic credit for life experience and previous work experience is not given under any circumstance.

Academic integrity

The School of Social Work adheres to the University of Nevada, Reno Academic Standards Policy for Students concerning issues of academic integrity. Please see the UNR website for a complete description, definitions and policies regarding class conduct and academic dishonesty.

Accommodation for students with disabilities

Students who require additional support due to disabling conditions should discuss their needs with their instructors at the start of each semester. Accommodations for all reasonable requests will be made for documented disabling conditions. In addition, students are encouraged to contact the University Disability Resource Center at (775) 784-6000 to access a range of supportive services.

Attendance policy

The faculty of the School of Social Work believes that classroom attendance and participation are critical aspects of professional socialization. Students are responsible for assisting in the creation of a learning environment that promotes such socialization. To do so, students should assume responsibility for their own learning and be engaged within the course room. It is expected for students to log into the online classroom a minimum of three times a week to be successfully engaged. Attendance and participation will be part of grading, as determined by the course instructor. Opportunities for make-up assignments are determined at the discretion of individual instructors.

Confidentiality of case material outside of an agency

NASW Code of Ethics requirements regarding confidentiality of client information extend to the use of confidential information from field work in classes, seminars and in student assignments. Students may not divulge client, collateral or collegial information, disguising all names, demographic information and any case details that might identify a client or co-worker. Client files and records should never be removed from the agency for any purpose.

Nondiscrimination policy

The programs of the UNR School of Social Work are conducted without discrimination on the basis of race, color, gender, creed, ethnic or national origin, disability, political orientation, or sexual orientation. This policy applies to the baccalaureate and master’s programs, the field education program, and all admission, employment, and financial aid decisions.

Retention

In its description of the Social Work major, the University of Nevada, Reno catalog states that:

“The admission and retention of students in the program is subject to the professional judgment of the social work faculty.”

Retention in the MSW Program at UNR is based on student performance in two general areas: academics and adherence to professional values and standards of behavior. Retention in the social work major requires students and maintain a 3.0 (B) overall grade point average—with a letter grade of “C” or higher in each of the graduate course, including the required 3 credits of electives. Additionally, students must adhere to the academic and professional standards outlined in the University's Student Handbook for Student Code of Conduct, the National Association of Social Workers Code of Ethics, and the State Board of Examiners for Social Workers Standards of Practice.

Remediation and termination policy

The School of Social Work adheres to the Dismissal Policy for Undergraduate Specialized Programs that applies to specific types of programs at the University.

Academic standing and dismissal policy for bachelor of social work program

Policy is effective for the Spring 2024 Semester and beyond.

According to the Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE) Code, Title 2, Chapter 11, “a student may be dismissed from a program for academic reasons which may include but are not limited to inadequate grades or failure to remain in academic good standing as defined by the program, a lack of professionalism or unethical conduct, or failure to comply with other specific program requirements. Failure to comport with professional and/or ethical standards applicable to the particular discipline or program may be grounds for dismissal from a program.” The NSHE Code authorizes programs to establish their own written dismissal policies, procedures and sanctions for program dismissals. The School of Social Work (SSW) herein sets forth the Dismissal Policy for undergraduate students in Bachelor of Social Work Program (BSW Program).

A. General

A student may be placed on probation and/or dismissed from the BSW Program for numerous reasons, which may include, but are not limited to:

1. Failure to maintain good academic standing as defined by this Dismissal Policy.
2. Failure to make satisfactory progress as defined by the standards in this Dismissal Policy.
3. Failure to meet the conditions of academic probation as described in the Academic Probation Notice.
4. Failure to comply with professional or ethical standards applicable to the BSW Program while the student is in a field/practicum setting.
5. Violations of University Student Code of Conduct or the Academic Standards Policy for academic dishonesty (UAM 6,502) where the disciplinary sanction is expulsion.

B. Academic Good Standing.

A student may be placed on probation and dismissed from the BSW Program for failure to maintain academic good standing. To be considered in good academic standing in the BSW Program, BSW students shall:

1. Maintain a University of Nevada, Reno cumulative grade-point average (GPA) of at least 2.5.
2. Receive a “C” or higher in all social work courses.
3. Maintain an “S” grade of 74% or higher in field/practicum courses.
4. Have not been placed on formal probation by the SSW for academic or field/practicum course deficiencies.

C. Failure to Make Satisfactory Progress

A student may be placed on probation and dismissed from the BSW Program for failure to make satisfactory progress in their course of study. Failure to make progress is indicated by one or more of the following academic progress standards (“Academic Progress Standards”):

1. A failure to complete three (3) credits per semester toward the BSW Program. (Exceptions can be made if the student has been granted a leave of absence by the University pursuant to its Leave of Absence Policy or exceptions can be granted on a case-by-case basis by the dean of the SSW).
2. Unsatisfactory grades (including grades below C or its numerical equivalent).
3. Withdrawal from the same course more than two times.
4. Failure to comply with specific BSW Program requirements or policies as stated in the BSW Program’s student handbook and website.
5. Failure to perform at a level commiserate with the training received from either the BSW Program or the field/practicum site while the student is in a field/practicum setting.
6. Failure to maintain the standards of academic and professional integrity expected in social workers, as described in the BSW Program’s student handbook and SSW website while the student is in a field/practicum setting. 

The BSW Program shall review the academic performance and progress of the undergraduate student at least once per year.

The BSW Program competencies for the Academic Progress Standards are stated in the BSW handbook and on the SSW website. The competencies for the Academic Progress Standards shall be consistent with BSW Program requirements, standards in the field and as specified in the BSW Program handbook and on the SSW website for the BSW Program. 

D. Probation and Dismissal

The SSW may place the student on probation and/or dismiss the student for failure to maintain academic good standing as stated in Section II(B) and/or failure to make satisfactory progress as stated in Section II(C).

1. Failure to Maintain Academic Good Standing.

If the student's cumulative grade-point total falls below a 2.5, the student shall be placed on probation, following the process stated in Section II(D)(2)(a). The student must then raise their cumulative graduate GPA to 2.50 by the end of the following semester in which the student is enrolled or the student shall be summarily dismissed from the SSW and the BSW Program with no further process or appeal. 

If the student receives a U grade of 73% or lower in a field/practicum course, the student shall not be placed on probation. The student shall be summarily dismissed from the BSW Program and the dismissal procedures described below in Section II(E), shall not apply. The student’s only recourse to challenge a grade is to utilize the University’s grade appeal process. If the student’s grade appeal is successful, the student shall be reinstated in the BSW Program.

2. Failure to Make Satisfactory Progress.

a. Probation.

If the BSW Program determines that the student has failed to maintain academic good standing or failed to make satisfactory progress, the program coordinator, program director or the associate dean for SSW shall recommend to the dean of SSW (“SSW Dean”) that a student be placed on probation. The program coordinator, program director or associate dean shall hereafter be referred to as the “Recommending Party.” In the request, the Recommending Party shall provide documentation of the student’s failure to meet the specific provisions(s) of this Policy warranting probation. The Recommending Party also shall provide specific requirements and/or conditions, including deadlines, which the student shall complete in order for the SSW Dean to remove the student from probation. If the student is placed on probation, the student shall not be allowed to participate in field work at a field or practicum setting or site while the student is on probation. 

If the SSW Dean approves the request to place the student on probation, the Recommending Party shall notify the student in writing that the student has been placed on academic probation (the “Academic Probation Notice”). The Recommending Party shall forward the Academic Probation Notice to the Office of Admissions and Records.

The Academic Probation Notice shall outline what the student must do and the dates by which the student must do so in order to return to good standing in the student’s BSW Program. The Academic Probation Notice shall inform the student that while the student is on probation, they shall not be allowed to participate in field work at a field or practicum setting or site. The Academic Probation Notice also shall inform the student that if the student does not meet the conditions of probation, the student shall be dismissed from the BSW Program, contain information about the appeal process that shall be used, either the appeal process in this Policy, and provide the student with the contact information for the SSW Dean for any questions or concerns the student may have. The Academic Probation Notice also shall inform the student of the student’s right to participate in a review conference with the Recommending Party to discuss the terms and conditions of the probation and that the student must submit, within ten (10) Working Days from the state of the Academic Probation Notice, a written request to the SSW to have a review conference.

The student shall be afforded the opportunity for a review conference, which shall be administered by the either the program coordinator, program director or the associate dean (“Review Conference Administrator”). The student shall have ten (10) Working Days from the date of the Academic Probation Notice to submit a written request to the SSW to have a review conference (“Review Conference Request”). The SSW shall direct the Review Conference Administrator to schedule the Review Conference to occur no later than ten (10) Working Days from receipt of the Review Conference Request.

b. Dismissal.

If the student fails to meet the requirements and/or conditions of probation, violates the terms of the probation or is recommended for dismissal without probation under Section II(E), the Recommending Party shall make a written request to the College dean to dismiss the student from the BSW Program. In the request, the Recommending Party shall provide documentation of the student’s failure to meet the terms of the probation, the student’s violation of the terms of the probation, or the grounds for dismissal without probation as stated in Section II(E).

If the SSW Dean approves the request to dismiss the student, the Recommending Party shall notify the student in writing that the student is being dismissed from the BSW Program (“Dismissal Notice”). The Dismissal Notice shall include a written statement of reasons for the dismissal action, information about the applicable appeal procedures and the time period by which the student must file an appeal (set forth in Section II(I) below).

E. Dismissal Without Prior Probation.

In rare instances, a student may be recommended for dismissal from the SSW without being placed on probation. These instances include the following circumstances:

1. When the academic reason for failing to progress is non-enrollment for at least four (4) consecutive semesters without being granted leave of absence.
2. When a sanction of expulsion is issued by the Office of Student Conduct resulting from a student conduct issue or a violation of the Academic Standards policy (UAM 6,502) for academic dishonesty.
3. When a student receives a U grade of 73% or lower in a field/practicum course.
4. When a student’s behaviors or actions while in a field/practicum setting endanger the life, health, well-being or safety of any person at the field/practicum setting.

For those instances involving non-enrollment, the student is subject to the procedures outlined in Section II(F).

For those instances involving a disciplinary sanction of expulsion by the Office of Student Conduct, the student is subject to the procedures as outlined in Section II(G).

For the other instances described above, the student is subject to the same procedures as outlined in Section II(D)(2) for BSW Program dismissal. The student shall be provided with a Dismissal Notice which shall include information about the appeal procedures, the appeal conference and the time period by which the student shall file an appeal (set forth in Section II(I) below).

F. Dismissal or Discontinuation for Non-Enrollment.

All students are required to be enrolled in three (3) credits per semester required by the BSW Program. If a student is unable to enroll in the minimum number of credits, the student shall submit a Leave of Absence Form signed by the SSW Program and the SSW Dean. 

Failure to submit the Leave of Absence Form or failure to return to the BSW Program after the leave of absence has expired shall result in dismissal from the BSW Program.

G. Dismissal for Violation of UNR’s Student Code Conduct or University’s Academic Standards Policy (UAM 6,502).

All disciplinary issues relating to a student’s alleged violations of the Student Code of Conduct and the Academic Standards Policy are processed through the Office of Student Conduct and not the SSW or BSW Program. The BSW Program does not dismiss students from the BSW Program as a finding of responsibility for violations of the Student Code of Conduct or the Academic Standards Policy. The SSW does dismiss a student from the student’s BSW Program upon direction from the Office of Student Conduct after all conduct hearings and appeals have been completed and the Office of Student Conduct notifies the SSW that the sanction imposed against the student is expulsion from the University and therefore, dismissal from the student’s BSW Program.

H. Probation or Dismissal/ for Lack of Professionalism or Professional Misconduct in a Field/Practicum Setting

Students may be placed on probation or dismissed from the SSW Program while in a field/practicum setting is allowed in the BSW Program. SSW has established its own benchmarks or requirements for professionalism, consistent with its BSW Program requirements, licensing, accreditation and national standards. These benchmarks and requirements are stated in the SSW student handbook.

A recommendation for probation and/or dismissal due to lack of professionalism or professional misconduct shall follow the procedures stated in this policy for dismissals for failure to make adequate progress (Section II(D)) or dismissal without probation as stated in Section II(E), whichever section is applicable. 

I: Appeal Process

1. Student’s Appeal Request.

The student shall have ten (10) Working Days from the date of the Dismissal Notice to submit an appeal to the SSW. SSW then shall have ten (10) Working Days to submit the student’s appeal to the Vice Provost Undergraduate Education. Within ten (10) Working Days of receipt of the student’s written request for appeal, the Vice Provost of Undergraduate Education shall review the student’s appeal and provide the student with written notification of the opportunity for a review conference on the appeal (“Appeal Conference”). 

2. Appeal Conference.

The Appeal Conference shall be administered by the Vice Provost Undergraduate Education. The Appeal Conference is a meeting that is not intended to be adversarial in nature. The student may be accompanied by an advisor during the Appeal Conference, who may serve in a support role to the student during the Appeal Conference. In this process, the advisor has no right to speak during the Appeal Conference except to the student.

If a student, who has been given notice does not appear for the Appeal Conference with the Vice Provost Undergraduate Education, then the review conference shall proceed in the absence of the student.

The Appeal Conference is the time for presentation of the information, documents or witnesses in support of the dismissal. The Appeal Conference is the time at which the student is afforded the opportunity to present information, documents or witnesses on the student’s behalf. Witnesses may present a statement to the Vice Provost Undergraduate Education, however, only the Vice Provost Undergraduate Education is allowed to ask questions of any witnesses. Furthermore, the Recommending Party who made the recommendation for dismissal has the opportunity to participate in the Appeal Conference and may present information, documents or witnesses in support of the dismissal recommendation. The Vice Provost Undergraduate Education may also include a representative from the BSW Program in the Appeal Conference.

The Appeal Conference shall occur within thirty-five (35) Working Days but no earlier than ten (10) Working Days after the date the Dismissal Notice was sent to the student by email or by personal delivery. The student can make a written request to the Vice Provost Undergraduate Education asking that the 10-day period be waived if the student wants the Appeal Conference to occur sooner. If necessary, the student can make a written request to the Vice Provost Undergraduate Education for an extension of time for the Appeal Conference and the Vice Provost Undergraduate Education in their sole discretion, may grant the extension with regard to the Appeal Conference. If an extension of time for the Appeal Conference has been granted by the Vice Provost Undergraduate Education, the Appeal Conference shall take place no later than forty-five (45) Working Days from the date of the Dismissal Notice.

3. Written Decision.

After a review of all the materials, statements and relevant circumstances, the

Vice Provost Undergraduate Education shall issue a written decision setting forth the reasons upon which the final decision is based. The Vice Provost Undergraduate Education’s determination shall be made on the basis of whether it is more likely than not that the student engaged in behavior or actions related to the BSW Program that warrant dismissal.

If the Vice Provost Undergraduate Education does not uphold the recommendation for dismissal, the student shall be reinstated in the BSW Program. The Vice Provost Undergraduate Education shall provide the written decision to the student and the BSW Program within five (5) Working Days after the Appeal Conference.

4. Decision Final.

The decision of the Vice Provost Undergraduate Education is final and is not subject to appeal.

Professionalism and professional conduct in field practicum

This policy is effective for the Spring 2024 Semester and beyond.

Introduction about these policies set the tone for professionalism and professional conduct for the student while in practicum setting. These policies comprise the benchmarks or criteria for professionalism and professional conduct as stated in Section G of Article III (Dismissal Policy) and can form the basis for a recommendation for probation or dismissal.

A. Field Practicum Setting

1. Absence Policy

In the event a student misses practicum for any reason, the Student must do the following: (1) Notify their field instructor and/or task supervisor prior to their absence; and (2) follow up with the faculty liaison regarding their absence within 24 hours.

Students are responsible to make up absences(s) with their field instructor and/or task supervisor before the semester deadline. Failure to complete 225 field hours by the end of the semester deadline may result in failing their field seminar course.

Students who falsify their recorded field hours in their time log may be charged with academic dishonesty and sanctioned pursuant to UAM 6,502 (Academic Standards).

2. Dress Code

The University of Nevada, Reno, School of Social Work expects students to reflect professionalism and maintain standards of professional appearance and grooming in all field practicum settings. Students who do not adhere to this policy will not be permitted to participate in field practicum.

Standard Attire: Student’s attire must be neat, clean and odor-free for all field practicum activities. Students must adhere to practicum site’s dress code.

1. Field Practicum Settings Requiring Professional Attire: Business casual is expected in most field practicum sites. This means dress slacks, khakis, dress shirt or blouse, open-collar or polo shirt, optional tie or seasonal sport coat, a dress or skirt at knee-length or below, a tailored blazer, knit shirt or sweater.

The following attire is not acceptable for a professional attire setting:

• Jeans/western cut pants
• Leggings, athletics pants (i.e. sweats, yoga pants)
• Shirts and/or sweatshirts with logos
• Sleeveless shirts (or shirts of underwear type)
• See-through clothing
• Clothing exposing a bare midriff, back, or chest
• Clothing exposing undergarments

Shoes: Footwear must provide safe, secure footing and offer protection against hazards. Footwear should be closed toed, closed heel uniform or shoes with no openings, clean and in good repair.

3. General Appearance Guidelines

1. Hair
   1. Hair is to be clean and well groomed. Student should adhere to practicum site’s policy about hair grooming.
2. Tattoos: 
   1. Visible tattoos are permitted, with the exception of those that may be prohibited by the practicum site or facility. The clinical placement site or facility may require students to cover their tattoos at all times while in the clinical setting.
3. Other appearance

1. 1. 1. Good hygiene is expected at all times.

4. Technology

1. Students must consider pedagogical theory and research on the use of technology, to make decisions about whether and how to use technology for educational purposes.
2. Students must adhere to practicum site’s policies and procedures about technology use.
3. Students must comply with relevant laws, regulations, and ethical standards to ensure protection of confidential information.
4. Students must consider relevant needs, risks and challenges to use of technology at their practicum setting.
5. Students must not utilize practicum site’s technology and/or database for personal purposes.

5. Social Media

The School of Social Work adheres to . All students must comply with school policies and regulations related to academic and field/clinical performance.

The term social media defines activities that integrate technology, social interaction and construction of words, symbols and pictures. Internet-based electronic application and person website sites that allow the creation and exchange of user-generation content such as but not limited to: profiles, opinions, insights, pictures, videos, experiences, perspectives and media itself. All social media sites are trackable, traceable, and once posted on the internet things can live forever. The following is the School of Social Work, media guidelines for when the student is in a clinical setting:

• The student shall abide the law and respect copy rights.
• The student shall be compliant with Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and will not use or disclose any patient identifiable information or any patient scenarios of any kind on any social media.
• Logos from practicum sites may not be utilized by students without written consent from that site.
• The student is obligated to report suspected violation of this policy to the Field Office.
• Students utilizing approved video or audio recording through the University of Nevada, Reno, Disability Resource Center, will comply with the alternative media service agreement.
• It is not appropriate to establish relationships on social media with clients, families, or any practicum site contacts.

Inappropriate use of the internet and social media may result in program probation and/or dismissal.

6. Informed Consent, Dual Relationships and Conflict of Interest in Field Education

• For the purpose of this policy, dual relationship is defined when a student relates to clients and/or supervisor in more than one relationship, whether personal, professional, social, or business. Dual or multiple relationships can occur simultaneously or consecutively. Students must comply to relevant laws, regulations and ethical standards related to , dual relationships and conflicts of interest.
• Students shall adhere to practicum setting’s policies and procedures relating to professional standards and dual relationships.
• Students shall not, under any circumstance engage in sexual activities, inappropriate sexual communication through the use of technology or in person, or sexual contact with current clients, whether such contact is consensual or forced.
• Students should not provide services to individuals with whom they have a prior sexual relationship.
• Students must notify practicum site of any dual relationship with a client to ensure there are no disruption of service delivery to client.
• Students should not engage in any dual or multiple relationships with field instructors, task supervisors and/or off-site supervisors during field education to reduce potential harm to student and/or clients.
• Students must disclose any dual relationship(s) with practicum setting and the Field Office.

Failure to notify practicum site and the Field Office may result in in program probation and/or dismissal.

7. Unsafe Conduct or Practices

Any of the following behaviors by the student while in the field practicum are sufficient grounds for the Field Office to determine that a student is clinically unsafe and cannot continue in field practicum or not competent to continue in the field practicum, either of, which may lead to the student being removed from the field practicum, placed on probation and/or dismissed from the Program.

• Failure to meet social work professional standards in field education.
• Refusal/failure to follow School of Social Work regulations and agency protocols.
• Violating federal, state and practicum confidentiality and privacy laws/policies.
• Failure to execute critical elements of procedures/protocols/social work practice.
• Inability to articulate rationale utilizing NASW Code of Ethics for not providing services to diverse and marginalized individuals, families, communities and/or organizations.
• Failure to disclose dual relationships.
• Failure to comply with Academic Probation Notice.

When a student’s behaviors or actions while in practicum setting endanger the life, health, well-being or safety or any person at the practicum setting, the student may be removed from the practicum and summarily dismissed from the Program, without probation.

Social work course descriptions

For course descriptions check your catalog year for the .