Practicum Education at KU

What is practicum education?

BSW and MSW curriculum requires practicum education, or internship, with practicum placements in agencies throughout Kansas and Missouri. The Practicum Education Office works closely with students and agencies to secure an enriching practicum experience. Every effort is made to locate a placement within a one-hour drive from the student's home.

Practicum by Program

170,000+ total student volunteer hours each year through the practicum placement

BSW Practicum BSW Practicum

MSW Practicum MSW Practicum

Practicum Planning FAQ Practicum Planning FAQ

500+

affiliated practicum agencies

350

students placed at agencies in Kansas and Missouri

32,000

hours/year of individualized practicum support

Support Students in Practicum

Hear from our Practicum Education Office about how what students gain in practicum.

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Practicum Student Spotlights

Practicum Spotlight: Sophia Ostlund

MSW student Sophia Ostlund is completing a macro-focused social work practicum at The Sexual Trauma & Abuse Care Center in Lawrence.

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"Well-administered practicum education builds strong justice-grounded practitioners. As the director of practicum education, I will support KU practicum instructors and students as they endeavor to enhance individual and communities’ well-being."

Kelly Jones

Practicum Education Director

Margo Awards

The Margo Awards are named for Margaret Schutz Gordon, professor emeritus who served with distinction as professor and director of Practicum Education at KU School of Social Welfare from 1970 to 1983. Thank you sincerely to all of you who took the time to nominate your student, field instructor or preceptor.

Margo Award Winners