College of Social Work
and Criminal Justice

Schools

Link to Course Descriptions for the College of Social Work and Criminal Justice


Academic Mission
At our core, we are change-makers driven to transform and empower individuals, families and communities by advocating for justice, mobilizing resiliency and promoting equality across our one human race. This is the mission that propels us forward as we inspire and prepare tomorrow’s social work and criminal justice leaders, scholars, practitioners and policymakers to effect positive change in the world.

The immense faculty expertise and strong community partnerships within our two schools – the Phyllis and Harvey Sandler School of Social Work and the School of Criminology and Criminal Justice – produce graduates who are prepared to make a difference. Our alumni enter the fields of social work and criminal justice fully trained to analyze, implement and evaluate criminal justice and social welfare policies and practices; address discriminatory systems and processes; provide direct services to vulnerable populations; restore justice and promote equal access to care. 

Degree Programs

  • Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice (B.A.)
  • Bachelor of Social Work (B.S.W.)
  • Bachelor of General Studies (B.G.S.)
  • Master of Science in Criminology and Criminal Justice (M.S.
  • Master of Social Work (M.S.W.)
  • Doctor of Social Work (D.S.W.)

General Studies Degree Program
The Bachelor of General Studies (B.G.S.) degree program enables students to design a plan of study tailored to their personal interests and specific career goals. The 120-credit program includes 15 credits of upper-division coursework in one discipline, which students select in consultation with an advisor. For more B.G.S. details and degree requirements, refer to the Degree Programs section of this catalog.

Details for all other degree programs are included beneath their respective school headings below.

Specialization Certificates

  • Graduate Certificate in Addictions
  • Graduate and Undergraduate Child Welfare Certificates
  • Graduate and Undergraduate Healthy Aging Certificates
  • Graduate Sexuality and Gender Education Certificate
  • Graduate and Undergraduate Social Justice Certificates

Details for all certificate programs are included beneath their respective school headings below.


Bachelor's Degree Program Information

Admission Requirements and Recommendations
Applicants for admission to the College of Social Work and Criminal Justice must meet the general freshman or transfer admission requirements of the University. Consult the Admissions section of this catalog for specific requirements.

Students applying to the College of Social Work and Criminal Justice must have a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.0 and have completed the necessary prerequisite coursework associated with the particular prospective degree program. For additional admission requirements for each school, consult the appropriate sections below.

Should there be any outstanding requirements at the time of application to the College, attempts should be made to complete these deficiencies early in the junior year.

Successful achievement of the educational objectives of degree programs is based upon the assumption that students have attained general education competencies. Excessive enrollments in lower-level (1000/2000) courses should be avoided, unless these credits are to fulfill prerequisites. In addition, transfer students should have fulfilled the University's writing requirement (WAC) and math requirement (Gordon Rule); see the Degree Requirements section of this catalog for details.

Degree Requirements
All candidates for a baccalaureate degree from the College of Social Work and Criminal Justice must satisfy all:

  1. General baccalaureate degree requirements of the University, with a minimum of 120 approved credits in academic courses.
  2. Requirements for the degree as specified by the school in which the program is offered. These requirements are listed in the sections describing the various degree programs below.
  3. Requirements of the College of Social Work and Criminal Justice outlined below.

Requirements of the College of Social Work and Criminal Justice

  1. Students must declare a major as early as possible.
  2. Students must complete each course and the number of credits required in the major as prescribed by the particular degree program. Courses in the major must be completed with a grade of "C" or better. A grade of "C-" does not satisfy any graduation requirement and does not count toward the 120 credits required for a degree. Any coursework in the major's field transferred from another institution must be approved by the major's school.
  3. Outstanding prerequisites should be satisfied early in the junior year.
  4. Third attempts in core courses require completion of the College of Social Work and Criminal Justice Undergraduate Petition. The petition is reviewed by the program coordinator for the student's major in consultation with advising personnel. Denial of the third attempt for a course requires the student to meet with Academic Advising to discuss changing the student's major.
  5. A minimum FAU grade point average of 2.0 in all coursework attempted is required, except in the Bachelor of Social Work, which requires a minimum FAU GPA of 2.5 to begin the practice class sequence and to be eligible for field education.
  6. Students in the Sandler School of Social Work must complete required field internship hours as outlined in the school’s graduation requirements. Internship credits earned by students in the School of Criminology and Criminal Justice can be counted as elective hours, but they are not required to graduate. Consult with the appropriate faculty internship coordinator for more information and internship planning.
  7. Students seeking waivers from any given requirement must still fulfill the credit requirement. For example, students waived from a required SOW course must take a SOW course in its place that is offered for the same amount of credits as the waived course. Waivers must be approved according to school procedures. Students should consult with their faculty program coordinator.
  8. A minimum of 45 credits toward the degree must be at the upper-division (3000/4000-level courses), and the final 30 upper-division credits must be earned in residence at FAU.
  9.  Students should be aware of curriculum changes pertinent to their academic year but subsequent to the publishing of this catalog.
  10. As students prepare for program completion and graduation from the University, they must consult with an academic advisor to review their degree audit during the semester prior to intended graduation.

Curriculum Progression and Advisement
The College of Social Work and Criminal Justice seriously regards its responsibility and partnership with its students to ensure efficient and effective progression through the various curricula. Appropriate academic advising is one means by which such progression occurs. Upon entry into the College, students must consult with an academic advisor for initial program review and planning. During the course of the student's tenure in the College, each student must seek academic advisement in the respective major. Faculty and professional advisors are available to assist students in appropriate curriculum progression, which includes ensuring the fulfillment of state and program requirements.

Foreign Language Requirements
All students must satisfy the foreign language requirement for admission to the University. Students in the baccalaureate Criminal Justice degree program need to satisfy the University's foreign language graduation requirement (see the Degree Requirements section).

Graduation Requirements
Students in the College of Social Work and Criminal Justice may not cross-enroll at another institution during their graduation semester. Students should make advising appointments in a timely manner to ensure requirements are complete for graduation.

Students may not graduate with incomplete ("I") grades. Please note the Incomplete Grades policy listed under The Grading System link in the Academic Policies and Regulations section of this catalog.

Student Responsibility

  1. Students are responsible for reading this University Catalog and the Academic Calendar and registering, adding, dropping and/or withdrawing from courses in a timely manner. Students must meet all course prerequisites and corequisites.
  2. Students who are enrolled at another institution are responsible for having their grades transferred to FAU at the end of each semester.
  3. All social work students are required to meet with their advisor prior to registration each semester.
  4. An Application for Degree must be submitted to the academic advisor within the first two weeks of the intended semester of graduation. See the University's Academic Calendar for important dates. Faculty and staff are not responsible for reminding students of deadlines.

Students Targeted for Academic Retention (STAR) Program
Students Targeted for Academic Retention (STAR) is a program for students who have a low FAU GPA or otherwise fall under an academic standing category that is less than satisfactory. These categories include: placed on probation, continued on probation, suspension and dismissal. Within the program, students with a low GPA or unsatisfactory academic standing receive a registration hold on their account and are contacted to fulfill the required criteria in order to have the hold removed. A combination of the following need to be met before a student is cleared to register: 1) workshop targeting academic deficits and student support; 2) advising appointment for a strategic academic plan; and 3) additional requirements (ad-hoc basis) will be required. The Advisor for Student Engagement for the College is the point person for the STAR program.

Disruptive Student Behavior
The College of Social Work and Criminal Justice honors the individual and collective pursuits and outcomes that are facilitated by its faculty and engaged in by its students. A positive learning environment is essential for the provision of a quality education. The classroom must be respected as a place of individual dignity and educational growth and development. Consequently, any interference with or obstruction of the educational process is considered disruptive and will not be tolerated. Disruptive conduct is a violation of the Florida Atlantic University Student Code of Conduct and will be treated as such.

Student Services
The College of Social Work and Criminal Justice encourages student success and excellence and strives to make the University experience all that it can be. The College's advising center provides professional staff to assist students throughout their academic experience at FAU. Staff members are located at four campuses for easy access; appointments and walk-in days are available.

Student Success Conference
The Sandler School of Social Work is committed to ensuring the integrity of its degree program and the certifiability of its majors as future social workers. To this end, the School has established a Student Success Conference to address difficulties by which a student's academic progression in the field may be hindered. Complete information regarding the Student Success Conference is found online. Refusal to attend the Student Success Conference will result in the student's automatic dismissal from the Sandler School of Social Work.


Combined Degree Program Information

The School of Criminology and Criminal Justice offers a combined degree program where students receive a Bachelor of Arts with Major in Criminal Justice and a Master of Science with Major in Criminology and Criminal Justice in as little as five years. See the program's full description under the School of Criminology and Criminal Justice heading.

An Advanced Standing program is also available for a limited number of Master of Social Work (M.S.W.) students who have completed their Bachelor of Social Work (B.S.W.) degree within the last five years. See the program's full description under the School of Social Work heading later in this section.

Master's Degree Program Information

Specific requirements for master's degree programs in the College of Social Work and Criminal Justice are detailed within each school's description in this College section.

Doctoral Degree Program Information

The Sandler School of Social Work offers a Doctor of Social Work (D.S.W.). Specific program requirements are detailed within the School's description later in this section. 


Certificate Programs

The Sandler School of Social Work offers undergraduate and graduate certificates in Child Welfare, undergraduate and graduate certificates in Healthy Aging, and undergraduate and graduate certificates in Social Justice. Additional graduate certificates include the Addictions certificate and the Sexuality and Gender Education (SAGE) certificate. The SAGE certificate is a collaborative program between the Sandler School of Social Work and the Center for Women, Gender and Sexuality Studies that provides a flexible curricular framework for a focus on Sexuality and Gender Studies within social work and related professions. Requirements for all certificate programs are listed later in this section (the SAGE certificate is detailed in the Dorothy F. Schmidt College of Arts and Letters catalog section). Students must apply for the certificate through their advisors upon completion of the coursework.

Undergraduate Research Certificate
To recognize undergraduate students' excellence in undergraduate research, the Office of Undergraduate Research and Inquiry (OURI) has established the Undergraduate Research Certificate. Requirements for the Research Certificate include completion of 12 credits of research exposure, skill-building and intensive courses as well as dissemination of the outcomes of students' research and inquiry through a research presentation or exhibition.


School of Criminology and Criminal Justice

Faculty and Instructors:
Guastaferro, W., Interim Director; Arneklev, B. J.; Atkin-Plunk, C.; Cain, C.; Cesar, G.; Crichlow, V.; Dario, L.; Deuchar, R.; Dobrin, A.; Fallik, S.; Hinduja, S.; Kalinich, D., Emeritus; Langlois, R.; Rothe, D.; Rubin, S.; Schiff, M.; Sloas, L.; Stinchcomb, J., Emeritus.

Link to B.S. with Major in Data Science and Analytics

Link to Honors in Criminal Justice Research

Link to Criminal Justice Minor

Link to Combined B.A. with Major in Criminal Justice/M.S. with Major in Criminology and Criminal Justice

Link to Master's Program


Criminal Justice
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

(Minimum of 120 credits required)

The Bachelor of Arts degree (B.A.) with a major in Criminal Justice provides students with knowledge about the nature and causes of crime and delinquency, law and the legal system for juveniles and adults in American society, and the decision processes of criminal justice agencies. A Criminal Justice major is broadly educated within a general education framework in the liberal arts and also provided with courses that directly apply to careers within the criminal and juvenile justice systems and the study of law. The baccalaureate degree in Criminal Justice provides the student with a suitable foundation for graduate study in criminal justice, criminology and other graduate school programs. The program is offered in person or fully online. The School also offers a Criminal Justice minor.

Admission Requirements
For admission to this program, the student must meet the general admission requirements of the University as described in the Admissions section of this catalog.

In some instances, students may be admitted without having completed general education requirements. In such cases, those courses must be completed early in the junior year. The student may be required to complete additional courses to satisfy degree requirements.

Prerequisite Coursework for Transfer Students
Students transferring to Florida Atlantic University must complete both lower-division requirements (including the requirements of the General Education Program) and requirements for the college and major. Lower-division requirements may be completed through the A.A. degree from any Florida public college, university or state college or through equivalent coursework at another regionally accredited institution.

Before transferring and to ensure timely progress toward the baccalaureate degree, students must also complete the prerequisite courses for their major as outlined in the Transition Guides . All prerequisite courses must be completed by the School's designated date or within the first year after transferring to FAU and before reaching senior status (90 total credits).

All courses not approved by the Florida Statewide Course Numbering System that will be used to satisfy requirements will be evaluated individually on the basis of content and will require a catalog course description and a copy of the syllabus for assessment.

Degree Requirements
The Criminal Justice curriculum requires a minimum of 120 credits. To earn the degree, students must complete all of the University degree requirements in the Degree Requirements section of this catalog.

The program for Criminal Justice consists of 27-30 credits of 3000- and 4000-level coursework. Students may apply CCJ 2002 (Law, Crime and the Criminal Justice System) toward their 30 degree credits. Furthermore, students must complete successfully the statistics prerequisite (STA 2023, Introductory Statistics) to be certified as completing the requirements for the Criminal Justice major.

Additionally, major core courses must be completed with a grade of “C” or better. A grade of “C-“ or lower in major core courses does not satisfy any major requirement and does not count toward the 120 credits required for the degree. Elective courses in the major must be completed with a grade of “C-“ or better. A grade of “D+” or lower in general elective courses does not satisfy any graduation requirement and will not count toward the 120 credits required for a degree. Finally, students must maintain a “C” average in all courses applied to the major.

To earn a bachelor of arts degree from a state university in Florida, students must demonstrate proficiency in a foreign language at the college level. Earning college credit at the Language 2 level (courses such as FRE 1121 or SPN 1121) satisfies this mandate. Students meeting the FAU foreign language admission requirement with two years of high school language have not satisfied the graduation requirement. Students must demonstrate additional proficiency either by earning Language 2-level college credit or by satisfying the requirement through other means, such as the College Level Examination Program (CLEP) exam.

NOTE: All undergraduate Criminology and Criminal Justice courses are also available online, with the exception of CCJ 4905 and CCJ 4940.

Criminal Justice Core Courses - 9 credits
Criminology CCJ 3014*^
3
Ethics and the Justice System CCJ 4054^
3
Methods of Research in Criminal Justice CCJ 4700**
3
* Requires CCJ 4700 as a prerequisite.
** Requires STA 2023 as a prerequisite.
CJ Required Electives - 21 credits
Choose seven of the following elective courses.
Law, Crime and the Criminal Justice System CCJ 2002^
3
Crime in the Schools CCJ 3660
3
Victimology CCJ 3666
3
Restorative Community Justice CCJ 4141
3
Drug Courts CCJ 4293 3
Death Penalty CCJ 4361
3
Criminal Justice Management CCJ 4450^
3
Gangs, Groups and Justice CCJ 4508
3
Teen Technology Misuse CCJ 4554
3
Studying Violence CCJ 4623^
3
Serial Homicide CCJ 4627
3
Media and Crime CCJ 4631
3
Drugs and Crime CCJ 4642
3
White Collar Crime CCJ 4644^
3
Race, Ethnicity and Criminal Justice CCJ 4662^ 3
Women and Criminal Justice CCJ 4670^
3
Violence in Relationships CCJ 4679^
3
Human Trafficking: A Global Social Justice Issue
 CCJ 4694
3
Issues in Criminal Law CCJ 4931
3
Special Topics CCJ 4934^
3
Corrections CJC 4310^
3
Introduction to Forensic Science CJE 3674 3
Criminal Justice Technology CJE 3692C^
3
International Criminal Justice Systems CJE 4174^
3
Policing in America CJE 4352^
3
Problem Solving in Crime Situations CJE 4412
3
Crime Prevention CJE 4444^
3
Fundamentals of Criminal Investigation CJE 4610
3
Crime Analysis CJE 4663
3
Computer Crime CJE 4668
3
Juvenile Justice Administration CJJ 4010^
3
Judicial Administration and the Criminal Courts CJL 4510^
3
Criminal Law and the Constitution CJL 4064
3
Terrorism DSC 4012^
3
Additional Choices
Students may also complete an internship or directed independent study; certain restrictions would apply.
Directed Independent Study CCJ 4905
1-3
Criminal Justice Field Experience 1 CCJ 4940++
0-4 


++ Grading: S/U
^ The online version of this course has received QM designation.

Data Science and Analytics
Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

Data Science in the Natural Sciences Concentration
Data Science and Engineering Concentration
Data Science in Business Concentration

(Minimum of 120 credits required)

The Bachelor of Science with Major in Data Science and Analytics (BSDSA) program is a multi-college, interdisciplinary program administered jointly by the Department of Mathematics and Statistics in the Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science in the College of Engineering and Computer Science, the Department of Information Technology and Operations Management (ITOM) in the College of Business, the Department of Political Science in the Dorothy F. Schmidt College of Arts and Letters and the School of Criminology and Criminal Justice in the College of Social Work and Criminal Justice. For details about this this program, see the Interdisciplinary Programs section of this catalog.

Honors in Criminal Justice Research

To recognize the research accomplishments of undergraduate scholars in the School of Criminology and Criminal Justice (SCCJ), the School provides an opportunity to demonstrate academic excellence in research for students who complete honors research enriched experiences beyond their standard coursework. The mission of this program is to:

  1. Promote honors research opportunities and experiences;
  2. Provide enriching honors research-related experiences to undergraduate students;
  3. Create a pathway for students to received recognition for their specialized research;
  4. Allow undergraduate students to apply classroom knowledge in research-rich environments; and
  5. Distinguish honors research achievements beyond the standard coursework.

In doing so, this program offers mentorship to students in developing their knowledge, skills and abilities in honors research that are fitting for graduate school and careers in evidence-based practices. To achieve the Honors in Criminal Justice Research designation on their transcripts, students need to meet the eligibility standards, satisfy the program requirements and complete the deliverables specified below.

Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the Honors in Criminal Justice Research designation, undergraduate students shall demonstrate:

  1. Progress toward satisfying the criminal justice major (9 credits completed at the time of application, with 6 of these credits from courses listed in #2;
  2. A 3.5 GPA in completed CCJ core courses; students must have completed two of the following at the time of application: CCJ 3014, Criminology; CCJ 4054, Ethics and the Justice System; CCJ 4700, Methods of Research in Criminal Justice;  and
  3. A GPA of 3.2 or higher in their coursework at the time of application and maintained through degree conferral.

Getting Started
Upon satisfying the eligibility requirements, interested students should contact the SCCJ faculty member whose research interests are closest to those the student wishes to pursue in an intensive Directed Independent Study or Directed Independent Research ( DIS or DIR) experience. 

Students are responsible for reviewing the Department's DIS and DIR guidelines and encouraged to think about research topics that are creative, collaborative, interdisciplinary and civically engaging. Students usually begin the program in their sophomore or junior year and conduct independent but supervised research during their junior and senior year. 

Application Requirements
These materials should be submitted no later than three weeks prior to the beginning of the semester in which students seek to be enrolled in the program:

  1. An unofficial transcript;
  2. Curriculum Vitae or résumé; and
  3. An Honors in Criminal Justice Research program application form signed by a full-time faculty member.

Program Requirements
To maintain compliance with the Honors in Criminal Justice Research program, students should:

  1.  Maintain good academic and ethical standing;
  2.  Complete Collaborative Institutional Training Initiative certificates in
    a. Social and Behavioral Research Investigations;
    b. Responsible Conduct of Research; and
    c. Conflicts of Interest.
    The modules for these courses can be completed online in a few hours.
  3. Must complete one set of course options in Directed Independent Study (DIS), Directed Independent Research (DIR) and Research Intensive (RI) courses:
    1.  6 DIS credits with a 3.5 GPA, 
    2.  6 DIR credits with a 3.5 GPA, 
    3.  3 DIS and 3 DIR credits with a 3.5 GPA, 
    4.  3 DIS and a 3-credit RI CCJ eligible course with a 3.5 GPA, 
    5.  3 DIR and a 3-credit RI CCJ eligible course with a 3.5 GPA,
    6. Two RI courses, 3 credits minimum each.

Students will receive the designation “Honors in Criminal Justice Research” at the time of graduation upon satisfactory completion of two of the following three requirements:

  1.  Internal or external grant/fellowship application submission with input from a CCJ professor;
  2. Faculty advisor approved submission for an oral presentation at University, regional, national or international symposium, consortium or conference; or
  3. Significant contribution, as determined by a CCJ faculty co-author, to a publishable manuscript in peer-review outlet.

For more information, contact Shawn Backer, Instructor.


Criminal Justice
Undergraduate Minor

(Minimum of 15 credits required)
A minor in Criminal Justice consists of a minimum of 15 credits in criminal justice courses. Of the 15 credits, at least 12 must be earned from FAU.

The core course must be completed with a minimum grade of "C." Elective courses in the minor may be completed with a minimum grade of "C-." Students must maintain a "C" average in all Criminal Justice minor courses.

For the minor in Criminal Justice, students must take five criminal justice courses in the following manner.

Required Core Course - 3 credits
 
Ethics and the Justice System CCJ 4054^
3
CJ Required Electives - 12 credits
Students choose four courses from the CJ Required Electives category
listed above.

^ The online version of this course has received QM designation.

Undergraduate Research
Undergraduate Certificate

(Minimum of 12 credits required)

 To recognize undergraduate students' excellence in undergraduate research, the Office of Undergraduate Research and Inquiry (OURI) has established the Undergraduate Research Certificate. Requirements for the Research Certificate include completion of 12 credits of research exposure, skill-building and intensive courses as well as dissemination of the outcomes of students' research and inquiry through a research presentation or exhibition.


Criminal Justice to Criminology and Criminal Justice
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) to Master of Science (M.S.)
Combined Program

The B.A./M.S. combined degree program enables outstanding students to graduate with both a Bachelor of Arts with Major in Criminal Justice and a Master of Science with Major in Criminology and Criminal Justice in as little as five years. The program is 153 credits (B.A./M.S. with thesis or non-thesis options). Students complete 120 credits for the undergraduate degree and 33 credits for the graduate degree. Students complete the undergraduate degree first, taking no more than 12 credits of graduate coursework in their senior year, which may be used to satisfy requirements for both degrees. Prospective students must formally apply to this program and meet all admission requirements.

Admission Requirements and Academic Standing

  1. Applications to the combined degree program may be submitted by students at the end of their junior year of study and no later than July 1.
  2. Applicants must have no academic deficiencies at the time of application.
  3. Applicants must have a minimum undergraduate FAU GPA of 3.5 in the most recent 60 credits of undergraduate coursework, as well as a a grade of "B" or better in both undergraduate research methods and the statistics course, STA 2023, in order to be admitted to the program.
  4. Students must provide a letter of intent, a letter of recommendation from a professor and a strong academic writing sample.
  5. It is strongly recommended that Criminology (CCJ 3014) and Methods of Research (CCJ 4700) be completed  prior   to beginning the B.A./M.S. combined degree program. At a minimum, Methods of Research should be   in progress  by the time the student applies to the program. Criminology and Ethics and the Justice System (CCJ 4054) must be completed  before   spring of a student's senior year.
  6. Continued involvement in the B.A./M.S. combined degree program is contingent upon good academic standing in both programs. This includes maintenance of an overall 3.0 cumulative GPA in the master's program. Student progress is evaluated every semester. Students who do not maintain good academic standing in both programs and/or who drop below the required 3.0 overall GPA in the master's program may be placed on academic probation during the semester immediately following the one in which their cumulative GPA dropped below 3.0. Failure to regain a 3.0 cumulative GPA within two successive semesters thereafter, results in dismissal from the program. Students may also be dismissed at any time they are not making satisfactory progress toward completion of the combined degrees or for serious violations of academic integrity.

Degree Requirements
The following course schedule gives an example of how B.A. students who enroll in the combined degree program could complete the requirements for both degrees.

Required Graduate Courses
B.A. Senior Year - Fall - 3 credits
Criminal Justice Research and Policy Foundations CCJ 6902*
3
B.A. Senior Year - Spring - 6 credits
Understanding Criminal Behavior CCJ 6056*
3
Graduate Elective  
3
Receive B.A. Degree
M.S. Year - First Summer - 6 credits
Graduate Electives  
6
M.S. Year - Fall - 9 credits
 
Research Methods CCJ 6704*
3
Graduate Electives  
6
M.S. Year - Spring - 9 credits
 
Applying Criminal Justice Theory, Research and Policy CCJ 6485** 3
Graduate Electives   6
Receive M.S. Degree

* Indicates required graduate courses.
**Indicates required graduate course for non-thesis option.

Note. With permission from the graduate coordinator, a student may start in the summer prior to their senior year by taking a graduate course.


Master's Program

Criminology and Criminal Justice
Master of Science (M.S.)

(Minimum of 33 credits required)

This graduate master's degree program is designed for students who are:

  1. Seeking intermediate-level administrative or research positions;
  2. Employed in the criminal justice system and wish to broaden their perspectives and advance within the system;
  3. Pursuing a teaching career at a community or state college;
  4. Planning to continue in a doctoral program;
  5. Preparing to enter law school.

The purpose of the program is to provide graduate-level learning opportunities to students interested in advancing their knowledge in the areas of criminological theory and administrative theory as applied to the criminal justice system. Students may advance their skills and knowledge in research in applied aspects of criminology and criminal justice. This program allows students to develop a personal curriculum consistent with their academic and career goals. Students focus on the theoretical or administrative aspects of the criminal justice system or create a more research-oriented program geared toward future doctoral study.

Admission Requirements
Admission to the Master of Science (M.S.) with major in Criminology and Criminal Justice program requires:

  1. A baccalaureate degree from an regionally accredited institution;
  2. A GPA of 3.0 or higher in the last 60 credits of undergraduate coursework;
  3. A grade of "B" or better in both an undergraduate research methods and a statistics course;
  4. A letter of application explaining the student's interest in the program and reasons for applying;
  5. An example of the student's written work (e.g., a literature review or research paper with at least five references);
  6. A letter of recommendation from a professor. Alternatives to this requirement may be granted by the graduate coordinator. Application materials 4, 5, and 6 above must be uploaded together with the online application. Meeting minimal standards does not guarantee admission as all requirements will be considered cumulatively by the School's admission committee.

Transfer Credit
Acceptance of transfer credits from regionally accredited institutions is dependent upon relevance of the coursework to the Master of Science with a major in Criminology and Criminal Justice Program. Transfer of credits should occur at the time of admission and is limited to 9 credits with a minimum grade of "B" in each course (3.0 in a 4.0 grading system). A review of the course syllabi must be done for approval of transfer. Credits applied toward other degrees and/or those older than seven years may not be transferred to the graduate program. No graduate credit is granted for correspondence, life experience or extension work.

Admission Requirements for International Students
Graduates of colleges or universities outside of the United States who have completed an academic program equivalent to an American regionally accredited bachelor's degree may apply for admission. International applicants for whom English is a second language are required to submit a score of 550 or higher (IBT of 61 or higher) on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or a score of 6.0 or higher on the International English Testing System (IELTS) as part of the application process.

All international applicants whose transcripts are from non-U.S. institutions must have their credentials evaluated course by course, including the GPA, by a professional foreign credentials evaluation service. A service may be found at www.NACES.org. Additionally, applicants have the option to have their transcripts evaluated by FAU.

Time Limitations
Candidates for the Master of Science in Criminology and Criminal Justice must complete all degree requirements within a seven-consecutive-year period after initial enrollment in the program.

Academic Standing
Continuation in the program requires satisfactory progress toward degree completion. Evidence of such progress includes maintenance of an overall 3.0 program GPA. For each course, no grade lower than "C" is acceptable to fulfill program requirements. That is, a "C-" would not be acceptable.

Students who do not maintain the required 3.0 program GPA are placed on academic probation during the semester immediately following the one in which their program GPA dropped below 3.0. Failure to regain a 3.0 cumulative GPA within two consecutive semesters thereafter can result in dismissal from the program. Students may also be dismissed at any time that they are not making satisfactory progress toward completion of the degree or for serious violations of academic integrity.

Prerequisites
Students lacking any upper-division undergraduate criminal justice courses are strongly advised to take CCJ 3014, Criminology, or a substitute approved by a faculty advisor. Students are required to take an undergraduate statistics course, such as STA 2023, and an undergraduate research methods course, such as CCJ 4700, for admission. Prerequisite coursework is not applied toward degree requirements.

Degree Requirements 
The program consists of a total of 33 credits: 12 required course credits, 15 elective credits, and 6 exit requirement credits (thesis or non-thesis options). Some courses are delivered onsite, others are completely online and still others are a hybrid combination.

Core Requirements - 12 credits
 
Understanding Criminal Behavior CCJ 6056
3
Research Methods CCJ 6704
3
Class, Race and Gender in Criminal Justice CCJ 6669
3
Criminal Justice Research and Policy Foundations CCJ 6902
3

Electives - 15 credits
Choose five of the following electives.

Corrections Research, Policy and Practice CJC 6021
3
Juvenile Justice Research, Policy and Practice CJJ 6046
3
Social Disorganization and Crime Prevention CCJ 6063
3
Crime Analysis in Policing CCJ 6079
3
Restorative Justice Research, Policy and Practice CCJ 6142
3
Courts, Sentencing and the Judicial Process CCJ 6295
3
Prisoner Re-entry Policy and Practice CCJ 6335
3
Police Research, Policy and Practice
CJE 6426
3
Applying Criminal Justice Theory, Research and Policy CCJ 6485
3
Serial Homicide  CCJ 6608
3
Crime in Everyday Life CCJ 6619
3
Violence Research and Policy CCJ 6624
3
Victims and the Justice Process CCJ 6675
3
Computer Crime Research and Policy CJE 6688
3
Sex Offender Research and Policy CCJ 6699
3
Advanced Research and Evaluation for Criminal Justice CCJ 6712
3
Directed Independent Study CCJ 6905
3
Special Topics CCJ 6934
3


With approval of the program coordinator, students may take one to three graduate courses (3-9 credits) from outside the MSCCJ program that are relevant to their path of study and/or career plans. To apply toward graduation, any outside courses must be approved by the program coordinator before registering for these courses.

Exit Requirements
(6 credits required; two options are available)

Non-Thesis Option
This option is for students who do not wish to continue with their graduate education or research-related employment. In addition to fulfilling core and elective requirements (27 credits), students in the non-thesis option are required to take CCJ 6485 (3 credits) and one additional elective (3 credits). CCJ 6485 guides students through a project that comprehensively applies the theoretical concepts learned throughout the program. This course will be taken in either the last or next-to-last semester before graduation, provided that all required core courses have been completed.

Thesis Option
This option is for students who anticipate continuing on to doctoral-level studies and/or who seek research positions within the criminal justice system. Thesis students will take the three core courses (9 credits), six electives of their choice (18 credits), and CCJ 6971, Master's Thesis, (6 credits) to complete a thesis according to policies of the University's Graduate College and School of Criminology and Criminal Justice. Thesis credits will be taken in either the last or next-to-last semester before graduation, provided that all required core courses have been completed. Note: Students opting to complete a thesis may take CCJ 6485, Applying Criminal Justice Theory, Research and Policy, as one of their electives.

Students considering the thesis option should recruit a faculty member early in the program to be their advisor and chair of their thesis committee. The program coordinator can advise on specific Departmental policies and procedures regarding thesis requirements.

Phyllis and Harvey Sandler School of Social Work

Faculty:
Thompson, H., Interim Director; Alperin, D., Emeritus; Ambris, E.; Barsky, A.; Brown, G.; Cooley, M.; DeRigne, L.; Dochterman, S.; Drucker, D.; Gonzalez, M.; Greenfield, W., Emeritus; Groton, D.; Gustafsson, P.; Hamlin, E., Emeritus; Hawkins, M.; Hawkins, W.; Horton, G.; Howard, H.; Kane, M.; Kaplan, A.; Landsman-Wohlsifer, D.; Luna, N.; Martinez, P.; McClellan, J.; McCormic, K.; Park, J.; Platt, K.; Rubin, R.; Ryan, E.; Sherman, D.; Skinner-Osei, P.; Spadola, C.; Suttenberg, L.

Link to Master's Program

Link to Doctoral Program

Link to Social Work Minor

Link to Certificates (Undergraduate)

Link to Certificates (Graduate)


Social Work
Bachelor of Social Work (B.S.W.)

(Minimum of 120 credits required)

Mission
The mission for the Sandler School of Social Work’s B.S.W. program is to provide an undergraduate education that contributes to the well-being of the communities of Florida.

The B.S.W. program’s mission to educate competent and compassionate social workers for entry-level practice and as a foundation for further professional development and growth. Graduates will possess critical thinking skills and engage in evidence-based practice, with a deep respect for human diversity and strengths, and with a desire to continue lifelong learning and professional development.

The B.S.W. program’s four primary goals are as follows:

 Goal 1 (evidence-based, generalist social work practice):
To prepare competent and compassionate B.S.W. graduates for evidence-based generalist social work practice, based on the integration of self-awareness, knowledge, professional values and ethics, critical thinking and interpersonal skills.

Goal 2 (community-engaged/located):
To prepare B.S.W. graduates to become community-engaged practitioners who understand and can work effectively with diverse populations and contemporary societal issues in South Florida.

Goal 3 (ongoing learning):
To provide B.S.W. graduates with an appreciation for how knowledge is discovered, challenged and transformed, including a desire to pursue continued professional development through lifelong learning.

Goal 4 (preparation for graduate education):
To prepare B.S.W. graduates who wish to pursue an M.S.W. with the foundational knowledge, skills and experiences that they will need to pursue graduate education.

Admission Requirements
Admission requirements for the Social Work program include completion of the general education requirements and fulfillment of the following prerequisites (required by all social work programs statewide):

Human Biology (BSC 1005, BSC 1010,
BSC 1085, BSC 2010,
BSC 2085, BSC 2086
or PCB 2099)
3
General Psychology (PSY 1012 , PSY 2012 or PSY
2020)
3
Introductory Sociology (SYG 1000, SYG 2000 or
SYG 2010)
3
United States Government (POS 1041 or POS 2041)
3
Introduction to Micro or Macroeconomics (ECO 1000, ECO 2000, ECO
2013, ECO 2023 or ECO 3040)
3
Statistics PSY 3234 or STA 2023
3

If students are admitted without these courses, they must be completed by the end of their junior year or two semesters before entering SOW 4510.

Prerequisite Coursework for Transfer Students
Students transferring to Florida Atlantic University must complete both lower-division requirements (including the requirements of the General Education Program) and requirements for the college and major. Lower-division requirements may be completed through the A.A. degree from any Florida public college, university or state college or through equivalent coursework at another regionally accredited institution.

Before transferring and to ensure timely progress toward the baccalaureate degree, students must also complete the prerequisite courses for their major as outlined in the Transition Guides . All prerequisite courses must be completed by the School's designated date or within the first year after transferring to FAU and before reaching senior status (90 total credits).

All courses not approved by the Florida Statewide Course Numbering System that will be used to satisfy requirements will be evaluated individually on the basis of content and will require a catalog course description and a copy of the syllabus for assessment.

Students who are dismissed from the Social Work program may not return to take any Social Work classes.

Degree Requirements
The Social Work program consists of 39 credits of required social work courses, including Field Education, and 21 credits of electives for a total of 60 credits. Ample opportunity exists for each student to select those courses that support their field of practice interests.

Class Requirements

  1. Students are required to meet with an academic advisor every semester prior to registering for courses.
  2. Students are required to attend the first day of any SOW-prefixed course. If a student misses the first day of classes for any reason, he or she may be administratively withdrawn from the course.
  3. A 2.5 FAU GPA is required for enrollment in SOW 4300, Social Work Practice with Individuals; SOW 4304, Social Work Practice with Families; SOW 4322, Social Work Practice with Groups; SOW 4343, Social Work Practice with Communities and Organizations; and SOW 4510, Field Education in Social Work.

Prerequisite Coursework
Students are required to satisfy prerequisite coursework either prior to or during their junior year in the B.S.W. program. Guidelines for the prerequisites are as follows:

  1. American National Government: This requirement may be satisfied with a course that focuses on government such as POS 1041, POS 2041 or POS 2112.
  2. Economics: This requirement may be satisfied with an introductory course in Macro or Micro Economics such as ECO 2013 or ECO 2023.
  3. Biology: This requirement may be satisfied with an introductory class in Biology. The recommended class is Life Science, BSC1000 or BSC1005. BSC 2085, Anatomy and Physiology 1, BSC 2086, Anatomy and Physiology 2, are acceptable, as well as a Human Biology course.
  4. General Psychology: This requirement is satisfied with an introductory class in Psychology. At FAU, the course is PSY 1012.
  5. Introduction to Sociology: This requirement is satisfied with an introductory class in Sociology. At FAU, the courses are SYG 1000 or SYG 2010.
  6. Statistics: This requirement is satisfied with an introduction to statistics course. At FAU, the courses are STA 2023 or PSY 3234.

Required Social Work Core Coursework

  1. The student is advised to speak to an academic advisor about specific courses and the order in which to take them.
  2. By the time a student has completed SOW 4300, the student must have completed all prerequisites and general education requirements.
  3. Students must complete each SOW-prefixed course with a grade of "C" or better. A grade of "C-" will not be counted as credit toward the Social Work degree. Any core course with a grade of "C-" or lower must be retaken.
  4. All degree requirements must be completed before a student is eligible for SOW 4510, Field Education in Social Work. This means that the student must have completed the Foreign Language Admission requirement, Gordon Rule requirements, all General Education requirements as well as all Social Work courses. The student must also have an FAU GPA of 2.5 in order to enter Field Education. A satisfactory grade in Field Education is required to receive the Social Work degree.

Approved Elective Coursework

  1. Students are advised to select approved elective coursework from the pre-approved set of electives listed in this catalog. Any SOW course that is not counted as part of the SOW Core or SOW Elective sections may count as approved elective credit with a grade of "C" or better. Any deviation from the courses listed requires approval from the Sandler School of Social Work.
  2. Students who have met the College admissions criteria and SOW prerequisites transferring from another degree program into the B.S.W. with upper-division credits may transfer up to 21 credits of 3000- and 4000-level credits,6 credits of these must be pre-approved. This provision ensures that every SOW graduate will have obtained a minimum of 39 credits of either SOW-prefixed or faculty pre-approved elective coursework.
  3. Students must complete each upper-division elective with a grade of "C" or better. A grade of "C-" will not be counted as credit toward the Social Work degree.

Free Elective Coursework

  1. This section is satisfied with 1000- to 4000-level College or University coursework not previously counted as credit toward the 120-hour SOW degree.
  2. Students must complete 15 credits of free electives.
  3. Free electives may be used to fulfill FAU Admissions, Foreign Language, Gordon Rule and/or SOW prerequisite deficiencies.

SOW Field Experience

  1. All prerequisite coursework and general education requirements must be completed two semesters prior to beginning field internship.
  2. All SOW majors must satisfy the Field Education requirement, SOW 4510. Students must meet certain requirements to be eligible to enroll in Field Education. Students must complete all admission, general education and Gordon Rule requirements prior to eligibility. Field Education may only be taken at the end of the student's coursework. No other courses can be taken while a student is enrolled in SOW 4510.
  3. Students should consult with an academic coordinator or the Director of Field Education Program to discuss eligibility for entrance to Field Education. Students must attend an orientation session regarding Field Education and complete appropriate paperwork.4. Students are required to graduate after completing SOW 4510, Field Education.

Field Education Requirements
The Social Work student is assigned to a community-based social service agency during the last semester of the B.S.W. program to fulfill Field Education requirements. To be eligible for Field Education, a student must have completed all other degree requirements including fulfilling all of the social work courses' prerequisites, having a minimum FAU GPA of 2.5, having a "C" or better in all required social work courses and having no "I" (incomplete) grades.

Academic credit for previous work experience will not be given in lieu of the Field Education internship. Students found to be out of compliance with the NASW Code of Ethics will not be permitted to enter the field. Prior to applying to Field Education, students must exhibit appropriate professional behavior in the academic setting.

Students must apply for Field Education online by the 4th Friday of the semester prior to when they want to enter the field. They must also attend a field orientation on campus the semester prior to entering the field and meet individually with field faculty. See Sandler School of Social Work website for complete eligibility criteria.

Field Education involves a minimum of 26 hours per week of generalist practice under the direction of an agency-based field instructor and attendance at a three-hour-per-week integrative seminar. Due to the limited number of agencies that can provide evening and weekend hours for internships, the School of Social Work cannot guarantee that an appropriate internship can be found unless students can devote weekday daytime hours (Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.) to their internships. Students who do not have weekday hours may be required to complete their internship over two semesters. However, all students must complete at least 8 hours per week during daytime hours in their internships.

Criminal background checks and/or substance abuse testing may be required by the field agency prior to or during Field Education. Prior criminal history, limited daytime hours and/or positive substance abuse test results can jeopardize placement in a field internship, and the student may be unable to obtain a Social Work degree. Students who receive a positive substance abuse test result may face disciplinary action or action in accordance with the CSWE Core Competencies and Practice Behaviors.

Students who abandon or leave their internship without permission from the field educator or faculty may be asked to leave the Social Work program.

Students Transferring with Upper-Division Credits

  1. Students may transfer up to 21 credits of upper-division elective credits into the approved elective section and free elective section.However, 6 credits must come from a pre-approved list of electives.
  2. Students who have completed SOW credits at another institution may bring these credits into their program at the discretion of the SOW faculty. FAU requires that the last 30 credits of upper-division courses be completed at FAU to receive a degree from FAU.

Double Major and Dual Degree

  1. Students pursuing a double major must satisfy the SOW prerequisites and complete 39 credits of SOW coursework.
  2. Students pursuing a Dual or Second Bachelor degree must meet the University requirement of an additional 30 credits beyond a 120-credit degree program. For a Second Bachelor in SOW, the student must satisfy the program prerequisites and 39 credits of SOW coursework.
  3. During the first week of the last semester of the program, students are required to submit an application for graduation, which notifies FAU of their intent to graduate and begins the process of degree approval. It also enables the graduating student to receive commencement ticket information. If a student is attempting to use any courses from their previous degree toward the Second Bachelor's degree in Social Work, all Social Work courses must have been completed within a five-year period prior to receiving the Second Bachelor's degree.

A minimum grade of "C" is required for all SOW-prefixed courses. If a grade below "C" (such as "C-") is earned in a SOW-prefixed course, the course will not count toward any portion of the minimum 120-credit degree program.

All social work courses must be completed within the five-year period prior to graduation. (For example, students enrolled in Field in fall 2011 must have begun core social work coursework no earlier than fall 2006.)

Social Work Major Requirements - 39 credits
Social Welfare Policy and Provisions SOW 3232 * (1)
3
Profession of Social Work SOW 3302 *
3
Human Behavior and the Social Environment 1 SOW 4101 (1) ^
3
Human Behavior and the Social Environment 2 SOW 4102 (1) ^
3
Social Work Practice with Individuals SOW 4300 (2) (6) *
3
Social Work Practice with Families SOW 4304 (3) (6) *
3
Social Work Practice with Groups SOW 4322 (3) (6) *
3
Social Work Practice with Communities and Organizations SOW 4343 (3) (6) *
3
Research Methods in Social Work SOW 4403 (4) * ^
3
Field Education in Social Work SOW 4510 (5) (6) *
12

* Social Work majors only.
^ This course is available online.

(1) SOW 3302 is the prerequisite or corequisite.
(2) SOW 3302 and SOW 3232 are the prerequisites. SOW 4101 and SOW 4102 are the prerequisites or corequisites.
(3) SOW 4300 is the prerequisite.
(4) SOW 3302 is the prerequisite. A statistics course, such as STA 2023, is recommended prior to SOW 4403.
(5) See the Director of Field Education Internships.
(6) A 2.5 FAU GPA is required for enrollment in this course.

Recommended Upper Division Social Work Elective
Family Violence
 SOW 4141
3
Issues in Counseling Women
 SOW 4357 ^
3
Evidence Based Diversity Practice in Social Work
 SOW 4620 ^
3
Social Work With Aging Populations
 SOW 4643
3
Child Welfare
 SOW 4650 ^
3
Social Work Practice with Vulnerable Children and Families
 SOW 4654
3
Substance Use Disorders in Social Work
SOW 4700 ^
3
Introduction to Human Trafficking in Social Work Practice
 SOW 4783 ^
3
Social Work and Positive Well-Being
 SOW 4802
3
Spiritual Dimensions of Social Work Practice
 SOW 4844
3
Special Topics
 SOW 4930
3

^ This course is available online.

Required Upper-Division Electives - 6 credits
Three credits must come from Group 1. Three credits must come from Group 2. A Social Work elective can be used to substitute for either Group 1 or Group 2. The remaining 15 elective credits may be chosen from other disciplines of study in consultation with an advisor.

Elective Group 1: Community and Society Analysis Electives. Choose a minimum of one course (3 credits) from the following. Any SOW upper- division elective may also count toward these electives.
Criminal Justice
Criminology CCJ 3014
3
The Criminal Justice System CCJ 3024
3
Crime in the Schools CCJ 3660
3
Victimology CCJ 3666
3
Restorative Community Justice CCJ 4141
3
Drug Courts CCJ 4293
3
Violence in Relationships CCJ 4679
3
Juvenile Justice Administration CJJ 4010
3
Health Administration
Health Delivery Systems HSA 3111
3
Issues and Trends in Health Care HSA 4113
3
Political Science
Florida Politics and Government POS 3182
3
The U.S. Congress POS 4424
3
Constitutional Law 1 POS 4603
3
Policy Making and Administration PUP 4004
3
Sociology
Any 3000/4000-level SYD, SYO or SYP courses.
Elective Group 2: Human Behavior, Administrative Processes and Organizational Behavior Electives. Choose a minimum of one course (3 credits) from the following. Any SOW upper-division elective may also count toward these electives.
Communication
Professional Writing ENC 3213
3
Intercultural Communication SPC 3710
3
History
History of U.S. Women AMH 3560
3
African American History to 1877 AMH 3571
3
African American History since 1877 AMH 3572
3
American Indian History AMH 4580
3
Modern Latin American History LAH 3200
3
Nursing
Psychology
Any 3000/4000 level CLP, DEP, EXP, PCO, PPE, PSY or SOP course
Public Administration
Public Management and Administration PAD 3003
3
Organizational Behavior and Administrative Communication PAD 3104
3
Introduction to the Nonprofit Sector PAD 4144
3
Managing Change in Nonprofit Organizations PAD 4151
3
Funding for Nonprofit Organizations PAD 4202
3
Financial Management of Nonprofit Organizations PAD 4203
3
State and Local Government Administration PAD 4806
3
Urban and Regional Planning
Introduction to Urban Planning and Design URP 3000
3
Planning Implementation Strategies URP 4120
3

 

Recommended Upper-Division Social Work Elective
May be used for either Elective Group 1 or Elective Group 2 noted above.
Family Violence SOW 4141
3
Issues in Counseling Women SOW 4357
3
Evidence Based Diversity Practice in Social Work SOW 4620
3
Social Work With Aging Populations SOW 4643
3
Child Welfare SOW 4650
3
Social Work Practice with Vulnerable Children and Families SOW 4654
3
Substance Use Disorders in Social Work
SOW 4700
3
Introduction to Human Trafficking in Social Work Practice SOW 4783
3
Social Work and Positive Well-Being SOW 4802
3
Spiritual Dimensions of Social Work Practice SOW 4844
3
Special Topics SOW 4930
3


The above electives are strongly recommended. Students are strongly encouraged to select Social Work electives to fulfill these requirements. Any deviation should be made in consultation with an advisor.

Free Electives - 15 credits
Students are strongly encouraged to take SOW electives as their free electives. Free electives may be chosen from other disciplines of study in consultation with an advisor.

Student Success Conference
The Sandler School of Social Work is committed to ensuring the integrity of its degree program and the certifiability of its majors as future social workers. To this end, the School has established a Student Success Conference to address difficulties by which a student's academic progression in the field may be hindered. Complete information regarding the Student Success Conference is found online. Refusal to attend the Student Success Conference will result in the student's automatic dismissal from the Sandler School of Social Work.

Second Bachelor's in Social Work
A second bachelor's in Social Work requires 39 core Social Work credits. All prerequisites must be met two semesters prior to entering the field. All Social Work courses must be completed within a five-year period prior to obtaining a Second Bachelor's degree.

Social Work
Undergraduate Minor

(Minimum of 15 credits required)

The minor is open to all undergraduate students at FAU and awarded upon graduation from an FAU undergraduate program. It is not awarded independently of these degrees.

Requirements for the minor include completion of five courses (15 credits) with a grade "C" or better and a 2.5 GPA. Students must also complete 12 of the 15 credits at FAU. Students will be required to complete SOW 3232, Social Welfare Policy and Provisions, and four Social Work electives chosen from the table below (SOW 1005, an General Education Program course, may be used as one of the elective courses).

In addition to the University minimum requirements for a minor:

  1. Students will not be allowed to enroll in Social Work core courses due to enrollment caps and reservations for majors;
  2. Students will not be allowed to complete an internship through the School of Social Work Field Education department;
  3. Students will not qualify for the Child Welfare or Healthy Aging certificates; and
  4. Students will not qualify for advanced standing placement in the M.S.W. graduate program.
Requirements - 15 credits
Required Course
Social Welfare Policy and Provisions SOW 3232
3
Electives - Choose four courses
Global Perspectives of Social Services SOW 1005 3
Family Violence SOW 4141 3
Ethical Issues in Social Work Practice  SOW 4290 3
Issues in Counseling Women SOW 4357 3
Evidence-Based Diversity Practice in Social Work SOW 4620 3
Social Work with Aging Populations SOW 4643 3
Child Welfare SOW 4650 3
Social Work Practice with Vulnerable Children and Families SOW 4654 3
Social Work and Emergency Relief SOW 4679 3
Substance Use Disorders in Social Work
SOW 4700 3
Introduction to Human Trafficking in Social Work Practice SOW 4783 3
Social Work and Positive Well-Being SOW 4802 3
Special Topics in Social Welfare SOW 4930 3


Link to Graduate Certificates

Child Welfare
Undergraduate Certificate

(Minimum of 18 credits required)

The Sandler School of Social Work offers an undergraduate certificate in Child Welfare, limited to Social Work majors. The certificate provides a foundation of knowledge in practice, policy and programs that impact the lives of vulnerable children. Students develop skills in areas relevant to children's services, including substance abuse and family violence. To apply for this program, call 561-297-3234. Students may also refer to the certificate description online.

Program Requirements
A student may earn the Child Welfare certificate by completing:

  1. Child Welfare (SOW 4650), 3 credits, with a minimum grade of "B."
  2.  Social Work Practice with Vulnerable Children and Families (SOW 4654), 3 credits, with a minimum grade of "B."
  3. One bachelor-level field education internship (SOW 4510) with the Department of Children and Families (DCF) or a private agency approved by the Sandler School of Social Work that has contracted with DCF to provide the same child protection services as the public agency;
  4. Be currently enrolled in the Bachelor of Social Work degree at FAU.
     

Healthy Aging
Undergraduate Certificate

(Minimum of 21 credits required)

Undergraduate Social Work majors interested in working with elders may do so through the Sandler School of Social Work's Healthy Aging certificate. Completion of this program will provide students with a specific knowledge and skill base for a range of job opportunities with a diverse elder population. To apply for this program, call 561-297-3234. Students may also refer to the certificate description online.

Program Requirements
A student may earn the Healthy Aging certificate upon completion of the following:

  1. Be currently enrolled in the Bachelor of Social Work degree at FAU;
  2. The 3-credit course Social Work with Aging Populations (SOW 4643);
  3. Two additional, approved 3-credit courses in the Healthy Aging certificate program;
  4. One B.S.W. field internship, approved by the Sandler School of Social Work, with specialized service outreach to diverse elders.


Social Justice  
Undergraduate Certificate

(Minimum of 12 credits required) 

An undergraduate certificate in Social Justice prepares students to address current issues of social justice  through inclusive practice and policy advocacy within the larger societal systems. The certificate:

  1. Prepares students for evidence-based practice in assessing and addressing issues related to social justice through community development, advocacy, policy formation and other social work strategies.
  2. Provides students with community-engaged learning and reflective practice with regard to social justice and inclusive-practice methods. 

Program Requirements
Students enrolled in the Bachelor of Social Work degree program at FAU may earn the undergraduate certificate by completing the following courses.

Social Welfare Policy and Provisions SOW 3232 3
Social Justice and Social Work: Issues and Responses SOW 4212 3
Social Work Practice with Communities and Organizations SOW 4343 3
Inclusive Social Work Practice SOW 4346 3


Master's Program

Social Work
Master of Social Work (M.S.W.)

(Requires 60 credits, Regular Program; 30 credits, Advanced Standing Program)
Mission and Goals
The mission of the M.S.W. program is to educate competent and compassionate social workers for advanced clinical social work practice with children, adolescents, adults, elders, couples, families and groups. M.S.W. graduates possess critical thinking skills and engage in evidence-based clinical practice, with a deep respect for human diversity and strengths and with a desire to continue lifelong learning and professional development. This program is available in person with a fully online option. (Fully online option effective summer 2025.)

The M.S.W. program has five goals:

Goal 1 (evidence-based, clinical social work practice):
To prepare competent and compassionate M.S.W. graduates for evidence-based clinical social work practice for clients across the lifespan, based on the integration of self-awareness, knowledge, professional values and ethics, critical thinking and interpersonal skills.

Goal 2 (community-engaged/located):
To prepare M.S.W. graduates to become community-engaged practitioners and leaders who understand and can work effectively with diverse populations and contemporary societal issues in South Florida.

Goal 3 (state licensure):
To prepare M.S.W. graduates with the academic foundation for obtaining state licensure for clinical social work practice.

Goal 4 (lifelong learning):
To provide M.S.W. graduates with an appreciation for how knowledge is discovered,
Challenged and transformed, including a desire to pursue continued professional development through lifelong learning.

Goal 5 (post-M.S.W. studies):
To provide M.S.W. graduates with the intellectual and practical foundation that they will need if they choose to pursue post-M.S.W. studies, such as a Ph.D., D.S.W. or other advanced social work education and training.

The student will acquire a foundation of theoretical knowledge, practice skills and professional values necessary for delivering quality social work services. Additionally, the student will acquire an advanced level of knowledge and skill in clinical-community practice. Clinical-community practice refers to an integrated approach to social work assessment and intervention in which practitioners use a variety of advanced theories for understanding and practice at the macro, mezzo and micro levels. Within the clinical-community area of study, students will take advanced clinical courses in serving children, adolescents, adults, elders and families. Coursework focuses on practice, social welfare history and policy, human behavior and the social environment, research, advanced practice and field education. The M.S.W. curriculum provides the opportunity to meet the educational requirements for licensure in the State of Florida as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker.

Admission Requirements 
An undergraduate degree from an accredited institution is required for admission. No particular undergraduate major is required, but a broad liberal arts preparation is essential. While a major in Social Work is seen as desirable, other undergraduate majors are given equal consideration for the two-year program. A grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 or higher in the last 60 credits of undergraduate coursework is required. In addition to the University application, M.S.W. applicants must also submit the M.S.W. application, including a personal statement and three recommendations (on School of Sandler Social Work forms). The supplemental M.S.W. application will be completed online. Meeting minimal standards does not guarantee admission. The total application packet will be considered in making admission decisions.

Students are admitted for the fall, spring and summer semester each academic year. The application deadline for fall is May 1, for spring is October 1 and for summer is February 1 of each year. For international students, it is six weeks earlier. Selection for admission to FAU's M.S.W. program is a highly competitive process. Contingent upon the admission committee's holistic assessment of each individual application packet, offers of admission may be awarded on a full-time or part-time basis. If accepted for admission into the M.S.W. program, all incoming students are required to attend an M.S.W. orientation conducted during the week prior to the beginning of their admission term. 

All students applying for spring admission to the M.S.W. program apply to the part-time program, whether traditional or advanced standing. They are eligible to apply for the relevant field placement, generalist or specialist, that fall or the following fall.

Students not admitted to the M.S.W. program will not be permitted to take SOW courses. Exceptions may be made for individuals with L.C.S.W. from out of state who need to satisfy Florida licensing requirements. Permission must be granted by M.S.W. program coordinator.

Students who are dismissed from the Social Work program may not return to take any Social Work classes.

 Admission Requirements for Advanced Standing Students
The Advanced Standing Program is available to applicants who have completed their Bachelor of Social Work (B.S.W.) degree within the last five years. The B.S.W. must have been earned from a Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)-accredited program or an equivalent program recognized through CSWE's international Social Work Degree Recognition and Evaluation Service, or must be covered under a memorandum of understanding with international social work accreditors.

Applicants must meet previously stated admission requirements and have a GPA of 3.5 or better in the last 60 credits of undergraduate coursework. Also, one of the letters of recommendation must be an outstanding recommendation from the student's program director of field education. Students admitted to this program will follow the Advanced Year Curriculum, which consists of 30 credits.

Undergraduate coursework will be examined by the admissions committee. Meeting minimal standards does not guarantee admission. The total application packet will be considered in making admissions decisions. Highly promising applicants who do not precisely meet the GPA admission requirements may petition the Sandler School of Social Work graduate admissions committee for exceptional consideration.

Admission Requirements for International Students
Graduates of colleges or universities outside of the United States who have completed an academic program equivalent to a regionally accredited American bachelor's degree may apply for admission. All international applicants whose transcripts are from non-U.S. institutions must have their credentials evaluated course by course, including the GPA, by a professional evaluation service. A service may be found at www.NACES.org or applicants may request to have their credentials evaluated by FAU. Click here for more information.

Non-native speakers of English must provide evidence of proficiency in English from: Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS). The minimum University requirement for TOEFL is 500 (paper-based test) and 61 (Internet-based test). The minimum University requirement for IELTS is a band score of 6.0. Please note: Applicants are responsible for making arrangements to schedule the test(s).

In addition, international applicants must have had previous experience in the social welfare field
in their own countries prior to application to the M.S.W. program.

Lastly, international applicants must also possess and provide a sound financial plan to cover the costs of tuition, living expenses and round-trip transportation, as determined by the FAU Graduate College.

Transfer Credit
Students transferring from another CSWE-accredited M.S.W. program may transfer a maximum of 30 graduate credits for the 60-credit program. No transfer credits are accepted for the Advanced Standing Program. M.S.W. courses completed at other universities must be evaluated as to their relevance and similarity to FAU courses prior to review of the student's application. All courses that are applied to the degree must have been successfully completed within five years of entrance into the FAU program, and the student must have earned a grade of "B" or above. A grade of "B-" or below does not meet this requirement and is not accepted. No graduate credit is granted for life experience or work experience.

Course Scheduling
The Sandler School of Social Work endeavors to schedule classes to accommodate full-time and part-time students. Note that the School makes no guarantees regarding class meeting times or days.

Enrollment in M.S.W. Courses
M.S.W. courses are limited to those students who have been fully admitted to the M.S.W. program. The School of Social Work closely manages its accredited, licensed graduate program to ensure that its students are functioning within cohorts based upon admission year and program type. Non-matriculated students who register for an M.S.W. course will be instructed to withdraw from the course. It is the student's responsibility to seek any associated fee refunds through other University channels.

Attendance on First Day of Class
All students enrolled in the M.S.W. program are required to attend the first class in all M.S.W. courses.

Time Limitation
Candidates for the Master of Social Work degree must complete all degree requirements within five consecutive years after initial registration.

Academic and Professional Standards
Continuation in the M.S.W. program requires satisfactory progress toward degree completion. This includes registering for courses from the approved curriculum, following the proper program structure, earning grades of at least "B-" or above in all courses, maintaining a 3.0 cumulative GPA and adhering at all times to the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Code of Ethics.

Students who receive one grade of “C-“or below may be recommended for dismissal regardless of their cumulative GPA. Students who receive a grade of “C+” or below are not automatically permitted to re-take the course. Under exceptional circumstances, and only with prior permission from the M.S.W. program coordinator, are students permitted to re-take the course.

Students who fail to meet the academic standards of the program or violate the NASW Code of Ethics may be recommended for dismissal.

Additional Academic Standard for 60-Credit Program
Students admitted to the regular 60-credit program are allowed a maximum of two “C+” or “C” grades, and with faculty permission, may retake the course and continue in the program. Students who receive more than two “C+” or “C” grades may be recommended for dismissal regardless of their cumulative GPA.  

Additional Academic Standard for Advanced Standing Program
Students admitted with advanced standing are allowed a maximum of one “C+” or “C” grade, and with permission, may retake the course and continue in the program. Students who receive more than one “C+” or “C” grade may be recommended for dismissal regardless of their cumulative GPA.

Grades below "C"
Grades below "C" (e.g., "C-" to "F") reflect unsatisfactory progress toward the degree. Students earning such grades are therefore recommended for dismissal from the Master of Social Work degree program. Students dismissed from the M.S.W. program subject to University Regulation 4.001 for academic and/or behavioral reasons shall not be permitted to enroll in the Bachelor of Social Work program.

Degree Requirements
The Master of Social Work degree is a two-year, 60-credit program. It is designed for full-time or planned part-time students. Full-time students take 15 credits each semester, which includes coursework within the classroom and a field practicum.

The M.S.W. contains two program options: the regular 60-credit program and the Advanced Standing Program. The regular 60-credit program consists of the Generalist Year Curriculum (30 credits) and the Specialist Year Curriculum (30 credits). The Advanced Standing Program consists of the Advanced Year Curriculum (30 credits). In addition to these program options, students may enroll either full-time or part-time. Students designate the program for which they are applying. Requests for changes after being admitted must be made in writing and approved by the M.S.W. coordinator. Program options and associated academic progression are configured as follows:

The Regular M.S.W. Program (60 credits). Students may enroll and progress as either:
Full-time — graduate within two years of initial program registration; or
Part-time — graduate within four years of initial program registration.

The Advanced Standing Program (30 credits). Students may enroll and progress as either:
Full-time — graduate within two semesters of initial program registration; or
Part-time — graduate within two years of initial program registration.

The full- and part-time Master of Social Work degree is designed as follows:

Full-Time Regular Program - Two-year program, 60 credits
Generalist Year - Fall Semester
Generalist Social Work Practice with Individuals
 SOW 6305
3
Human Behavior and the Social Environment 1
 SOW 6105 ^
3
Human Behavior and the Social Environment 2
 SOW 6106 ^
3
Social Work Research
 SOW 6404 ^
3
Field Instruction and Integrative Seminar 1
 SOW 6532 ^
3
 
Generalist Year - Spring Semester
Clinical Social Work with Groups
 SOW 6618
3
Social Welfare History and Policy
 SOW 6235
3
Generalist Social Work Practice with Organizations and Communities
 SOW 6306
3
Psychopathology in Clinical Social Work Practice
 SOW 6125
3
Field Instruction and Integrative Seminar 2
 SOW 6533 ^
3
 
Specialist Year - Fall Semester
Advanced Theory and Social Work Practice with Adults and Families
 SOW 6348
3
Advanced Theory and Social Work Practice with Elders and Families
 SOW 6646
3
Advanced Year Field Instruction and Integrative Seminar 1
 SOW 6535 ^
3
Elective
 SOW
3
Elective
 SOW
3
 
Specialist Year - Spring Semester
Advanced Theory and Social Work Practice with Children, Adolescents and Families
 SOW 6655
3
Advanced Year Field Instruction and Integrative Seminar 2
 SOW 6536 ^
3
Clinical Social Work Practice with Families
 SOW 6611
3
Elective
 SOW
3
Elective
 SOW
3
 
Part-Time Regular Program - Four-year program, 60 credits
Generalist Year One - Fall Semester
Human Behavior and the Social Environment 2 SOW 6106 ^
3
Social Work Research SOW 6404 ^
3
 
Generalist Year One - Spring Semester
Psychopathology in Clinical Social Work Practice SOW 6125
3
Social Welfare History and Policy SOW 6235
3
 
Generalist Year One - Summer Semester
Human Behavior and the Social Environment 1 SOW 6105 ^
3
 
Generalist Year Two - Fall Semester
Generalist Social Work Practice with Individuals SOW 6305
3
Field Instruction and Integrative Seminar 1 SOW 6532 ^
3
 
Generalist Year Two - Spring Semester
Generalist Social Work Practice with Organizations and Communities SOW 6306
3
Clinical Social Work with Groups SOW 6618
3
Field Instruction and Integrative Seminar 2 SOW 6533 ^
3
 
Specialist Year Three - Fall Semester
Elective SOW
3
Elective SOW
3
 
Specialist Year Three - Spring Semester
Elective SOW
3
Advanced Theory and Social Work Practice with Elders and Families SOW 6646
3
 
Specialist Year Three - Summer Semester
Advanced Theory and Social Work Practice with Adults and Families SOW 6348
3
Elective SOW
3
 
Specialist Year Four - Fall Semester
Advanced Year Field Instruction and Integrative Seminar 1 SOW 6535 ^
3
Advanced Theory and Social Work Practice with Children, Adolescents and Families SOW 6655
3
 
Specialist Year Four - Spring Semester
 
Advanced Year Field Instruction and
Integrative Seminar 2		 SOW 6536 ^
3
Clinical Social Work Practice with Families SOW 6611
3
 
Full-Time Advanced Standing Program - 30 Credits
Advanced Year - Fall Semester
Psychopathology in Clinical Social Work Practice SOW 6125
3
Advanced Theory and Social Work Practice with Adults and Families SOW 6348
3
Advanced Year Field Instruction and
Integrative Seminar 1		 SOW 6535 ^
3
Advanced Theory and Social Work Practice with Elders and Families SOW 6646
3
Elective SOW
3
 
Advanced Year - Spring Semester
Advanced Theory and Social Work Practice with Children, Adolescents and Families SOW 6655
3
Advanced Year Field Instruction
and Integrative Seminar 2		 SOW 6536 ^
3
Clinical Social Work Practice with Families SOW 6611
3
Elective SOW
3
Elective SOW
3
 
Part-Time Advanced Standing Program - 30 Credits
Advanced First Year - Fall Semester
Psychopathology in Clinical Social Work Practice SOW 6125
3
Elective SOW
3
 
Advanced First Year - Spring Semester
Elective SOW
3
Advanced Theory and Social Work Practice with Children, Adolescents and Families SOW 6655
3
 
Advanced First Year - Summer Semester
Advanced Theory and Social Work Practice with Adults and Families SOW 6348
3
Elective SOW
3
 
Advanced Second Year - Fall Semester
Advanced Year Field Instruction and Integrative Seminar 1 SOW 6535 ^
3
Advanced Theory and Social Work Practice with Elders and Families SOW 6646
3
 
Advanced Second Year - Spring Semester
Advanced Year Field Instruction and Integrative Seminar 2 SOW 6536 ^
3
Clinical Social Work Practice with Families SOW 6611
3
 
Electives*
SOW courses may be used to fulfill any elective credit requirement above. Students may select from among the following courses:
Social Work and Trauma SOW 6116
3
Cognitive-Behavioral Theory and Techniques for Social Work SOW 6128
3
Social Work and Human Sexuality SOW 6153
3
Social Work and Positive Well-Being SOW 6156
3
Conflict Resolution SOW 6158
3
Social Justice and Social Work: Issues and Responses SOW 6214
3
Ethical Issues in Contemporary Social Work Practice SOW 6296
3
Case Management SOW 6349 #
3
Administration and Supervision SOW 6377 #
3
Advanced Context of Social Work Practice within Healthcare SOW 6605 #
3
Social Work and Spirituality SOW 6626
3
Social Work with Aging Populations SOW 6641
3
Social Work Practice with Vulnerable Children and Families SOW 6653 ^
3
Child Welfare SOW 6656 ^
3
Inclusive Social Work Practice SOW 6671
3
Loss and Grief: Individual, Family and Cultural Perspectives SOW 6678 #
3
Intervention in the Field of Addictions SOW 6712 #
3
Social Work Practice in Behavioral/Process Addictions SOW 6714
3
Social Work Practice with Survivors of Human Trafficking SOW 6786 # +
3
Mindfulness and Social Work Practice SOW 6803
3
Special Topics SOW 6930
3


* Electives may be taken outside the College with permission from the M.S.W. program coordinator. A syllabus must be provided for review.
^ This course is also available online.
# This is an online course.
+ This online course is also QM designated.

Field Education Requirements 
Prior to applying to Field Education, students must exhibit appropriate professional behavior in the academic setting. Students found to be out of compliance with the NASW Code of Ethics will not be permitted to enter the field. Academic credit for previous work experience will not be given in lieu of the Field Education internship.

Students will review a mandatory field orientation the spring/summer semester prior to entering the field and meet individually with field faculty. See o3pl.bjtvalve.com/ssw for complete eligibility criteria.

The internship for Generalist students involves 16 hours per week of generalist practice under the direction of an agency-based field instructor and attendance at a three-hour-per-week integrative seminar. The Generalist student participates at the foundational level in the Office of Interprofessional Education and Practice in the fall and spring semesters.The internship for Specialist and Advanced Standing students consists of approximately 20 hours per week of advanced clinical practice under the direction of an agency-based field instructor and attendance at a three-hour-per-week integrative seminar. The Specialist and Advanced Standing student participates in two interprofessional activities: One in the fall and one in the spring. Dates are shared in advance for all interprofessional activities. Students are expected to make arrangements to be in attendance. Part-time Specialist and Advanced Standing students have the option to extend their internship beginning in the fall of Year 3 and completing 16 hours per week through the following summer semester, graduating in August.

Due to the limited number of agencies that can provide evening and weekend hours for internships, as well as appropriate social work activities and supervision after hours, the Sandler School of Social Work requires that students set aside a minimum of eight weekday/daytime hours (Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.) for their internships each week. Generalist M.S.W. students (part-time and full-time) participate in an interprofessional program with the colleges of Medicine and Nursing that requires daytime hours.

Criminal background checks and/or substance abuse testing may be required by the field agency and the Sandler School of Social Work prior to or during Field Education. Prior criminal conviction may negatively impact the ability of the Sandler School of Social Work Field Education to place the student with an agency for the purpose of completing a field education and thus the student may be unable to obtain a Social Work degree. Within the State of Florida, a felony history may make an individual ineligible to become a licensed social worker.

Students who receive a positive substance abuse test result may face disciplinary action or action in accordance with the CSWE Core Competencies and Practice Behaviors.

Students who abandon or leave their internship without permission from the field educator or faculty may be asked to leave the Social Work program.


Addictions
Graduate Certificate

(Minimum of 27 credits required)

In an effort to combat the growing crisis of addiction in our country, the Sandler School of Social Work has collaborated with the Florida Certification Board (FEC) to offer the Addictions certificate. Through this 27-credit certificate, students interested in specializing in this field may have a jump start on earning their credential as either a Certified Addiction Professional (CAP) or a Master’s Level Addiction Professional (MCAP). An MCAP credential identifies a practitioner as a specialist in the field of addiction and meets the requirements for a qualified professional under Chapter 397, Florida Statutes, allowing practitioners to make substance use disorder diagnoses and bill under Florida’s State Medicaid.

 Admission Requirements
The certificate is offered to second year (Specialist) or Advanced Standing M.S.W. students only.

Curriculum
The MCAP designated competency has been obtained through content-specific training in the domains of Clinical Evaluation; Treatment Planning; Counseling; Case Management and Referral; Client, Family and Community Education; Documentation; Clinical Supervision; and Professional Responsibility.

The FCB approved the following courses to meet the 350 hours of content-specific training required for certification. All courses must be completed with a grade of "B."

Required Courses - 27 credits
Psychopathology SOW 6125 3
Advanced Theory and Social Work Practice
with Adults and Families		 SOW 6348 3
Advanced Year Field Instruction and Integrative Seminar 1 SOW 6535 3
Advanced Year Field Instruction and Integrative Seminar 2 SOW 6536 3
Clinical Social Work with Families SOW 6611 3
Advanced Theory and Social Work Practice
with Elders		 SOW 6611 3
Cognitive-Behavioral Theory and Techniques for Social Work Interventions SOW 6128 3
Interventions in the Field of Addictions SOW 6712 3
Social Work Practice in Behavioral/Process Addictions SOW 6714 3

In addition to the approved coursework, students will receive 600 hours of specialized clinical training through their field internship, which may be applied toward the 4,000 hours of required related work experience.

CAP/MCAP Certification Requirements

CAP MCAP

Content Specific Training – 350 total clock hours met by the approved course list

Content Specific Training – 350 total clock hours met by the approved course list

Related Work Experience – 6,000 hours (approximately three years of full-time work) of addiction-specific, professional-level work experience

Related Work Experience – 4,000 hours (approximately two years of full-time work) of addiction-specific, professional-level work experience. 600 hours of clinical field placement will go toward the 4,000 hours

On-the-Job Supervision – 300 hours of direct one-on-one clinical supervision

On-the-Job Supervision – 200 hours of direct one-on-one clinical supervision

Recommendations – three professional letters of recommendation for certification

Recommendations – three professional letters of recommendation for certification

Exam – Florida Certified Addiction Professional Exam

Exam – Florida Master’s Level Certified Addiction Professional Exam

16 hours of training in supervision (FIST – 12 hours plus 4 hours approved through SOW 6535)


Child Welfare
Graduate Certificate

(Minimum of 12 credits required)

The graduate-level Child Welfare certificate program, open only to students enrolled in the Sandler School of Social Work, prepares students for a career in working with abused or neglected children and their families. The 12-credit certificate, available in person or fully online, provides a foundation of knowledge in practice, policy and programs that impact vulnerable children's lives. Students develop practice skills in areas relevant to children's services, including substance abuse and family violence. Depending on funding, internships may be available. Call 561-297-3234 for information.

Program Requirements

  1. Six credits of SOW courses that focus on child welfare;
  2. Six credits of master's level Field Education placements (SOW 6535 and SOW 6536) with the Department of Children and Families (DCF) or a private agency approved by the Sandler School of Social Work that has contracted with the DCF to provide the same child protection services as the public agency;
  3. Completion of a Master of Social Work degree.

Healthy Aging
Graduate Certificate

(Minimum of 15 credits required)

With the continuing increase in aging populations in Florida and throughout the United States, the delivery of social work services for diverse groups of elders will become increasingly critical. Service needs currently exist and will continue to develop along a continuum of care in public, private-not-for-profit and private-for-profit settings. In response to these evolving needs, the Sandler School of Social Work developed a certificate program to ensure that there are competently prepared, master's-level social workers to meet the biopsychosocial and spiritual needs of South Florida's diverse elder populations. This certificate program is open only to M.S.W. students.

Program Requirements

  1.  SOW 6646, Advanced Theory and Social Work Practice with Elders and Families;
  2.  Two approved SOW graduate-level courses related to practice with elders;
  3. One master's-level Field Education placement (6 credits) specializing in service outreach to diverse elders;
  4. A Master of Social Work degree.

SEXUALITY AND GENDER EDUCATION
GRADUATE CERTIFICATE

(Minimum of 12 credits required) 

This collaborative certificate program between the Sandler School of Social Work and the Center for Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies is available for master's and doctoral students. It provides a flexible curricular framework for a focus on Sexuality and Gender Studies within social work and related professions. More information can be found here.

Social Justice 
Graduate Certificate

(Minimum of 12 credits required)

A graduate certificate in Social Justice prepares students to address current issues of social justice through inclusive practice and policy advocacy change within the larger societal systems. This 12-credit certificate:

  1. Prepares students for evidence-based practice in assessing and addressing issues related to social justice through community development, advocacy, policy formation and other social work strategies.
  2. Provides students with community-engaged learning and reflective practice with regard to social justice and inclusive practice methods.

Program Requirements
Students enrolled in the Master of Social Work degree program at FAU may earn the graduate certificate by completing the following courses.

Social Welfare Policy and Provisions SOW 3232 3 or
Social Welfare History and Policy SOW 6235 3
Social Welfare Practice with Communities and Organizations SOW 4343 3 or
Generalist Social Work Practice with Organizations and Communities SOW 6306 3
Social Justice and Social Work: Issues and Responses SOW 6214 3
Inclusive Social Work Practice  SOW 6671 3


Doctoral Program

Social Work
Doctor of Social Work (D.S.W.)

(Minimum of 50 credits required)

Mission and Goals
The mission of the D.S.W. program is to provide doctoral-level practitioners with educational experiences that will allow them to engage in advanced clinical social work practice, conduct advanced clinical research, teach evidence-based social work clinical practice courses and assume social work leadership roles in the social work profession.

The D.S.W. program has six goals:

 Goal 1
Integrate social work, social and behavioral sciences with other disciplines as the basis for the highest level of evidence-based social work practice.

Goal 2
Demonstrate professionalism, leadership, ethical principles and scientific integrity in advanced social work practice, education, and research.

Goal 3
Provide collaborative leadership in the development of social work evidence-based practice models and standards of care for diverse populations.

Goal 4
Generate client, systems, practice and outcomes research.

Goal 5
Analyze theory, empirical research and other evidence to guide improvements in social work practice.

Goal 6
Utilize information systems and technology to enhance social work education and practice.

Admission Criteria 

  1. An M.S.W. degree from a Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredited institution.
  2. A minimum of three years post-M.S.W. experience is required.
  3. Copy of current license (LCSW), license eligibility or registration as a Florida social work intern.
  4. A grade point average (GPA) of 3.5 or higher in their M.S.W. is required. In addition to the University application, D.S.W. applicants must also submit the Social Work supplemental materials that include t he personal statement describing the applicant’s goals for the doctorate in Social work (no more than 500 words), submission of the names and contact information of three references (doctoral-level practitioners or educators) and a current résumé. Meeting minimal standards does not guarantee admission. The total application packet will be considered in making admission decisions.
  5. Background check, completed upon admission.
  6. Satisfactory oral interview as requested by members of the D.S.W. Admissions Committee.

If accepted for admission into the D.S.W. program, all incoming students are required to attend a D.S.W. orientation conducted during the week prior to the beginning of the fall term. Failure to attend this orientation session will result in admission deferment to the following year.

Students not admitted to the D.S.W. program will not be permitted to take doctoral-level SOW courses. Exceptions may be made for individuals with an out-of-state L.C.S.W. who need to satisfy Florida licensing requirements. Permission must be granted by D.S.W. program coordinator.

Students who are dismissed from the Social Work program may not return to take any Social Work classes.

Admission Requirements for International Students
Graduates of colleges or universities outside of the United States who have completed an academic program equivalent to an American M.S.W. degree may apply for admission. All international applicants whose transcripts are from non-U.S. institutions must have their credentials evaluated course by course, including the GPA, by a professional evaluation service. A service may be found at www.NACES.org.

International applicants for whom English is a second language are required to submit a score of 600 or higher (IBT of 92-93) on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) before enrolling in coursework. Applicants must write to Test of English as a Foreign Language, Educational Testing Service, Princeton, New Jersey, U.S.A. 08540, or visit www.ets.org/toefl for assistance.

In addition, international applicants must have had previous experience in the social welfare field in their own countries prior to application to the D.S.W. program.

Lastly, international applicants must also possess and provide a sound financial plan to cover the costs of tuition, living expenses and round-trip transportation, as determined by the FAU Graduate College.

 Transfer Credit
Students transferring from another D.S.W. program may transfer a maximum of 12 graduate credits for the 50- credit program. No transfer credits are accepted for courses taken at the M.S.W. level. All courses that are applied to the degree must have been successfully completed within three years of entrance into the FAU program, and the student must have earned a grade of "B" or above. A grade of "B-" or below does not meet this requirement and is not accepted. No graduate credit is granted for life experience or work experience.

Doctoral Degree Requirements
The D.S.W. degree requires at least 80 credits beyond the baccalaureate degree.

D.S.W. Capstone Committee
The D.S.W. Capstone Committee is a standing school committee responsible for curriculum changes and
supporting each student's capstone progress. While instructors of each of the three capstone courses are
responsible for evaluating students’ capstones, the D.S.W. Capstone Committee supports the process by providing feedback to students in their proposal, implementation and defense stages of the capstone. The D.S.W. Capstone Committee comprises graduate faculty in the Sandler School of Social Work. 

Plan of Study for Doctoral Degrees

  1. All degree-seeking graduate students should have an approved Plan of Study on file with the FAU Graduate College no later than halfway through their required coursework and before enrolling in the capstone courses of the D.S.W. program. Students must have an approved Plan of Study on file with the Graduate College prior to the term in which they intend to graduate. All students receive written confirmation when their Plan of Study is approved by the dean of the Graduate College.
  2. Changes to an approved Plan of Study require the online submission of a revision to the existing Plan of Study. . Revisions need only be filed once and may be submitted during the final term in which the student plans to graduate.
  3. A completed Form 12-Research Compliance and Safety must be attached to the Plan of Study form. Any federally mandated research compliance issues must be approved by the appropriate University committee prior to the collection of data.

Admission to Candidacy for Doctoral Degrees

  1.  Graduate students become candidates for the doctoral degree once they are granted formal admission to candidacy. Such admission requires the successful completion of the Capstone Proposal course, as well as the approval of the student's D.S.W. Curriculum committee, the department chair, the college dean and the dean of the FAU Graduate College. The approval must be based on (a) the academic record of the student, (b) the opinion of the D.S.W. Curriculum committee concerning overall fitness for candidacy, and (c) an approved research topic.
  2. Application for admission to candidacy should be made as soon as the Capstone Proposal course has been passed. By completing Form 8-Admission to Candidacy for the Doctoral Degree, applicants are formally admitted to candidacy. Students must be admitted to candidacy at least one semester before applying for graduation.

Course Scheduling
The Sandler School of Social Work endeavors to schedule classes to accommodate students. Note that the School of Social Work makes no guarantees regarding class meeting times or days.

Enrollment in D.S.W. Courses
D.S.W. courses are limited to those students who have been fully admitted to the D.S.W. program. Non-matriculated students who register for a D.S.W. course will be administratively withdrawn from the course by the Sandler School of Social Work. If withdrawn, it is the student's responsibility to seek any associated fee refunds through other University channels.

Attendance on First Day of Class
All students enrolled in the D.S.W. program are required to attend the first class in all D.S.W. courses.

Time Limitation
Candidates for the D.S.W. degree must complete all degree requirements within six consecutive years after initial registration.

Academic and Professional Standards
Continuation in the D.S.W. program requires satisfactory progress toward degree completion. This includes registering for courses from the approved curriculum, following the proper program structure, earning grades of at least "B" or above in all courses (except as noted below), maintaining a 3.0 cumulative GPA and adhering at all times to the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Code of Ethics.

Students who fail to meet the academic standards of the program or violate the NASW Code of Ethics may be recommended for dismissal.

Additional Academic Standards
Grades below "B" (e.g., "B-" to "F") reflect unsatisfactory progress toward the degree. Students earning such grades are therefore subject to dismissal from the D.S.W. degree program. Students dismissed from the D.S.W. program are subject to University Regulation 4.001 for academic and/or behavioral reasons and shall not be permitted to enroll in another FAU Social Work program. Students may also be dismissed at any time if they are not making satisfactory progress toward completion of the degree.

Overview of the D.S.W. Curriculum
In addition to the core curriculum, D.S.W. students take two electives at the University to supplement their studies. At least one elective must be doctoral level (7000 level). Students may take a master’s level course for their second elective, if (a) the content is clearly linked to their capstone topic or their capstone methods, (b) it is a course the student has not previously taken, and (c) the course is not duplicative of previous MSW courses (i.e., the course is not the equivalent of a completed M.S.W. course in a different department). Electives must be approved as part of a student’s Plan of Study

D.S.W. Courses
Core Courses - 44 credits
Psychopathology in Advanced Clinical Social Work SOW 7129
3
Advanced Clinical Social Work Practices with Individuals, Groups and Families SOW 7369
3
Quantitative Research in Clinical Social Work  SOW 7494
4
Qualitative Research in Clinical Social Work SOW 7496
3
7000-level course approved by Advising and Program Coordinator

3

Advanced Clinical Social Work Capstone: Proposal Writing SOW 7498
4
Clinical Social Work Supervision and Administration SOW 7619
3
Interpersonal Neuroscience and Advanced Clinical Social Work SOW 7696
3
Emerging Theories and Methods in Clinical Social Work SOW 7698
3
Theories and Epistemology of Advanced Clinical Social Work Practice SOW 7757
3
Social Work Pedagogy SOW 7776
3
Advanced Clinical Social Work Capstone: Defense and Dissemination SOW 7910
6
Advanced Cliinical Social Work Capstone: Implementation SOW 7913
3
Two Electives  
6
Total Credits
50
 

Link to Course Descriptions for the College of Social Work and Criminal Justice