Michigan presents an enticing opportunity for aspiring social workers. Students pursuing a master’s degree in social work can snag an impressive $30,000 stipend to fuel their academic journey and passion for making a difference in their communities.
On Tuesday, June 4, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) unveiled a $5 million initiative aimed at 12 state universities. This funding, which will benefit up to 150 students, is intended to bolster the recruitment of mental health professionals.
“Providing financial stipends to Master of Social Work (MSW) students will help support their academic careers by reducing financial barriers (tuition costs, books, housing, travel), support unpaid field placement requirements so they can be fully engaged in the practicum experience, provide equity/access for students who come from marginalized and underprivileged backgrounds, and enhance the students ability to access professional development opportunities (workshops, conferences, activities),” said Angela Gardner-Street, LCSW, SSW and president of the Michigan Association of School Social Workers. “This investment in the financial well being of MSW students, can help ensure that they have the resources needed to succeed in their academic and professional endeavors.”
Who Can Benefit From This Program?
To qualify, students must have a bachelor’s degree in social work and agree to get a master’s degree in the same area. They must also agree to work in mental health in the public sector in Michigan for at least two years after graduation.
School social work students are great candidates for this program. The day in the life of a school social worker can include meeting with students, responding to emergencies, and connecting people with services. School social work is the understanding of human development, behavior, and social, economic, and cultural institutions and interactions.
The stipends are a one-time offer to students starting a full-time master’s study with advanced standing. For most people, the advanced standing program lasts three semesters or one year.
“This program is another investment by the state to increase access to behavioral health care for Michigan families,” said Elizabeth Hertel, MDHHS director. “We are committed to helping families access behavioral health care services when and where they need them. We anticipate up to 150 students will be able to obtain their master’s degree in social work through this program.”
What Schools Received Funding?
The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) to MSW program funds the schools listed below. The award amounts were determined by examining the average number of students in the master’s program, the average amount of student loan debt, and the school’s range of demographic diversity.
- Andrews University – $208,236
- Eastern Michigan University – $371,976
- Ferris State University – $167,169
- Grand Valley State University – $384,339
- Madonna University – $314,824
- Michigan State University – $498,358
- Northern Michigan University – $90,578
- Oakland University – $409,741
- Saginaw Valley State University – $188,063
- Spring Arbor University – $511,468
- University of Michigan – $853,394
- Wayne State University – $1 million
According to The National Association of Social Workers in Michigan, there are more than 30,000 social workers in Michigan and 6,500 students in social worker schools across the state. These workers are employed in schools, hospitals, clinics, senior centers, private practice offices, jails, and other places.
Source: The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS)
