The Western Michigan University School of Social Work offers research-driven professional programs that work closely with students and the community, focusing on social change, social justice and service transformation. Its graduate and undergraduate programs stress the need to:
- Recognize and fight discrimination in its many forms.
- Speak out against injustice.
- Promote human rights and a more equitable distribution of resources and power.
The school seeks to create a learning environment that is responsive to students' professional development, promoting community and a sense of individual and collective responsibility among and between students. Meaningful interaction among students, faculty and field instructors supports self-examination, expression and innovation.
current student events
Whitney Young Jr. Celebration
- Thursday, March 21 - 5:30 p.m. College of Health and Human Services room 4010. This event celebrates the legacy of social worker and human rights activist Whitney Young Jr., who spoke at the opening ceremony of the WMU School of Social Work. This years' event will feature guest lecturer Dr. Paul Archibald, a professor of social work at Morgan State University, who will present his research on post-traumatic slave syndrome. The event will also spotlight student scholars. Open to the public. Free parking available in Lot 104.
Kalamazoo Campus Hooding and Pinning Ceremony
- Thursday, April 25, Bernhard Center Ballroom, 6 p.m. Graduating students in Kalamazoo must RSVP online by March 15.
Southwest Location
- The PPA graduation celebration will be held Friday, April 26, at 6 p.m. at LMC Todd Center, 2785 E. Napier Ave, Benton Harbor
- The IP graduation celebration will be held Friday, June 28, at 6 p.m. at LMC Todd Center, 2785 E. Napier Ave, Benton Harbor
Grand Rapids Location
- Friday, June 21, at 6 p.m. at The Cultural Center, 2250 East Paris Ave. SE, Grand Rapids
prospective student events
Join us to learn more about the Master of Social Work (MSW) and Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) programs at Western Michigan University. For both programs, attendees will receive relevant information about our programs, our faculty research, and the unique qualities of WMU.
Benton Harbor and Grand Rapids
Extended University Programs Info Sessions
Kalamazoo
MSW Info Sessions BSW Info Sessions
Interdisciplinary Education
Learn about I-PEER
The Interprofessional Peer Education and Evidence for Recovery program provides enhanced interdisciplinary education for social workers, occupational therapists and peer specialists in evidence-based practices in behavioral health. Learn about this innovative workforce development project from WMU's Department of Occupational Therapy and School of Social Work.
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