Specialization Program in Substance Abuse
Purpose:
This specialization will provide MSW students with an enriched program of study at GSSS, which allows them to integrate content and skill building in both a method and a specialized area of practice. This program could enhance the employability of Fordham MSW graduates and provide them with an advantage in an increasingly competitive marketplace. Graduates are able to include on their resume information about the specialization they earned. After completing the specialization in substance abuse, graduates will have met some of the requirements leading to eligibility to sit for the CASAC exam in either New York State, New Jersey, or Connecticut.
Concept:
The specialization program in substance abuse is an overlay on the existing curriculum, and can serve as an enhancement for either the clinical, research or administration concentrations. Substance abuse is defined to include both alcohol and other drugs. The specialization incorporates content about multiple client populations and multiple service settings as they relate to substance abuse and also considers substance abuse in the context of other psychosocial issues such as homelessness, serious and persistent mental illness and HIV/AIDS. Although efforts will be made to assist students in earning credit toward a CASAC, the specialization has been developed to support the mission and objective of our MSW program. Upon successful completion of the designated package of course and field requirements, students will receive a certificate. This certificate is not equivalent to the CAC credential.
Requirements:
Field Practicum: Advanced year in substance abuse setting (alcohol and other drugs) with specific learning goals and assignments related to services and practice in substance abuse.
Field Integrative Seminar: A special section for MSW advanced year students placed in substance abuse settings. These seminars are held at Lincoln Center on Fridays from 9:30 to 11:30 and at Tarrytown on Mondays from 3:00 to 5:30. All students choosing this specialization must attend one of these field integrative seminars.
Substance Abuse Electives: At least one elective from among the alcoholism and substance abuse courses is required. These courses include the following:
SWGS 6417 Practice with Abusers of Alcohol and Other Substances
SWGS 6223 Practice with Families of Alcoholics and Other Substance Abusers
SWGS 6217 Development and Administration of Alcoholism Programs.
(Administration students will take this course in lieu of the Clinical Seminar)
Clinical Seminar (SWGS 6415): A special section will be designated for second year students in the specialization program. These seminars will be held at Lincoln Center on Tuesdays at 9:00 or on Saturdays at 9:00. At Tarrytown, the seminars will be held on Wednesdays at 9:00 or on Saturdays at 1:30. All clinical students choosing this specialization must attend one of these substance abuse seminars.
Additional Points:
Faculty-field advisors experienced in substance abuse treatment and with knowledge about the field will be appointed to these students. The advisors will meet with students prior to their enrollment in the specialization for pre-selection planning.
Students selecting the substance abuse specialization will be required to enroll in classes at the times they are scheduled. For example, there will be designated sections of both the clinical and field integrative seminar classes at Lincoln Center and at Tarrytown.
The school will assist students in identifying parts of the curriculum that can most likely be used for CASAC credit. Students will be informed about the new requirements for the CASAC credential. It must be emphasized that completion of the specialization is not equivalent to earning a CASAC.
The Career Development Office will assist students in presenting the information about the certificate on their resumes and in job interviews.
Second year placements will be selected with students, keeping in mind both the student’s prior experience in the field, first year field experience, field learning needs and goals, and the requirements for CASAC related practice. The learning needs of each student will clearly determine the ultimate field placement selected.
For further information, contact Dr. Sandra Turner, Associate Dean (212) 636-6612.
