Mapping Dual-Degree Programs in Social Work and Public Health: Results From a National Survey

Abstract

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.

Dual Master of Social Work – Master of Public Health (MSW/MPH)

“…Despite the promise of dually-trained social work and public health professionals, literature on MSW/MPH programs is scant, especially recommendations for developing an MSW/MPH program (Ziperstein et al, 2015). We endeavor to address this gap in knowledge by providing those seeking to develop an MSW/MPH program, or enhance an existing one, with the kind of information that would have been helpful to us as we conceptualized, developed, and implemented the MSW/MPH program at our university.…”

“…• MSW/MPH programs are highly marketable in attracting graduate students who are academically gifted, committed, motivated, and organized (McClelland, 1985;Miller, Hopkins, & Greif, 2008;Reardon, 2009;Ruth, Marshall, Velasquez, & Bachman, 2015;Ziperstein et al, 2015). • The initial MSW/MPH program of study should target the greatest number of students in both disciplines (most often the clinical "area of practice" in social work, and health behavior in public health), with expansion to other configurations explored after the initial program is well underway.…”

“…• Most MSW/MPH programs are three years in length, with coursework in the first year in one discipline, coursework in the second year in the other discipline, and concurrent coursework in both disciplines during the third year (Ziperstein et al, 2015). • Completing an MSW/MPH program often entails a greater financial obligation for the student than completing an MSW or MPH, both of which typically require a two-year commitment (Michael & Balraj, 2003;Ruth, Wyatt, Chiasson, Geron, & Bachman, 2006;Ziperstein et al, 2015).…”

“…• Most MSW/MPH programs are three years in length, with coursework in the first year in one discipline, coursework in the second year in the other discipline, and concurrent coursework in both disciplines during the third year (Ziperstein et al, 2015). • Completing an MSW/MPH program often entails a greater financial obligation for the student than completing an MSW or MPH, both of which typically require a two-year commitment (Michael & Balraj, 2003;Ruth, Wyatt, Chiasson, Geron, & Bachman, 2006;Ziperstein et al, 2015). • MSW/MPH students report a) difficulty integrating social work and public health concepts in coursework and field practicum experiences; b) are challenged in conceptualizing the application of social work and public health skills in real-world settings; and c) reveal stronger identification with one discipline over the other (McClelland, 1985;Miller et al, 2008;.…”

“…• MSW/MPH students report a) difficulty integrating social work and public health concepts in coursework and field practicum experiences; b) are challenged in conceptualizing the application of social work and public health skills in real-world settings; and c) reveal stronger identification with one discipline over the other (McClelland, 1985;Miller et al, 2008;. • Leadership in MSW/MPH programs is optimally provided by faculty with educational credentials and experiences that span both disciplines (Ziperstein et al, 2015). • An evaluation plan, often accorded scant attention during program development, is as critical to program success as front-end design and implementation considerations (Michael & Balraj, 2003;Ziperstein et al, 2015).…”