Best of Both Worlds: A Conceptual Model for Integrating an Aging Specialization Within an Advanced Generalist MSW Program

Abstract

Must a master's of social work (MSW) program's orientation be either advanced generalist or some form of specialist? Or is there the possibility of a hybrid curriculum that provides enough breadth to prepare MSW graduates for a wide range of social work jobs, but that also addresses students' and community agencies' demands for student specialization? This article suggests a model for integrating an aging specialization within an advanced generalist curriculum. Although this model specifically concerns an aging specialization, the model is also applicable to any number of other specializations as well. We describe lessons learned and discuss implications for integrating specializations within other advanced generalist MSW programs.