Mapping Dual-Degree Programs in Social Work and Public Health: Results From a National Survey.
Dramatic changes in the health system due to national health reform are raising important questions regarding the educational preparation of social workers for the new health arena. While dual-degree programs in public health and social work can be an important response to what is needed educationally, little is known about them. The National MSW/MPH Programs Study surveyed MSW/MPH program administrators to better understand the prevalence, models, structure, and challenges of these dual-degree programs. Forty-two programs were identified, and 97.6% of those contacted participated (n=41). Findings indicate that MSW/MPH programs are popular, increasing, geographically dispersed, and drawing talented students interested in trans-disciplinary public health social work practice. Challenges for these programs include the need for greater institutional support, particularly funding, and a general lack of best practices for MSW/MPH education. While findings from this study suggest graduates appear especially well-prepared for leadership and practice in the new health environment, additional research is needed to assess their particular contributions and career trajectories.
Circle Surrogacy, in Boston, MA.
Dory
D
Ziperstein
MSW/MPH Program, Boston University School of Social Work.
Betty J
BJ
Ruth
Boston University School of Social Work.
Ashley
A
Clement
Group for Public Health Social Work based at Boston University of Social Work, in Boston, MA.
Jamie Wyatt
JW
Marshall
Boston University Center for Innovation in Social Work & Health, in Boston, MA.
Madeline
M
Wachman
Harvard School of Public Health and a pre-doctoral research fellow at Brigham and Women's University in Boston, MA.
Esther E
EE
Velasquez
MSW/MPH programs; health-related social work education; public health social work; trans-disciplinary practice
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