Social Work

Elizabeth Talbot, Ph.D., CSW-PIP, MSW Program Director and Acting Program Chairperson

Social Work Department
Julian Hall 205
Phone: 605-677-5401
Fax: 605-677-5583
Email: socialwork@usd.edu
Website: www.usd.edu/socialwork

Graduate Faculty

Associate Professors:
Elizabeth Talbot, M.S.W. Program Director, and Acting Chairperson. Ph.D., M.S.W., M.S., C.S.W.-PIP, Loyola University-Ph.D.. Specialization: Clinical Social Work, Child Welfare, Human Trafficking and Aging.
Debra S. Norris, M.S.W., University of Kentucky, Ed.D, University of South Dakota. Specialization: Mental Health, Child Welfare, Aging, and Persons with Disabilities.

Assistant Professors:
Deborah Aden, M.S.W., LCSW , Director of Field Education, University of Nebraska-Omaha. Specialization: Specialization: Field Education, Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, Older Adults, and Clinical Social Work.
Kathy LaPlante, M.S.W. Assistant Professor, University of California Berkley. Specialization: Micro Practice, Children and Families and Indian Child Welfare.

Degrees:

Master of Social Work

Program Description:

The University of South Dakota is proud to offer the first Master of Social Work program in the state. The MSW program prepares professionals to provide social work services at all levels of practice in rural and urban communities. The program has an Advanced Generalist Concentration emphasizing intergenerational social work. the Master of Social Work degree is a 60 credit program. To apply, a degree in social work is not required. Advanced standing is available for applicants with a BSW from an accredited social work program. the advanced standing program is 36 credit hours. The MSW program is a full-time program offered on Monday from 8:30 AM. To 8:00 P.M. Internships are required for all students. Information regarding admission to the program is available on the USD graduate school and social work websites. Interested persons are also welcome to contact the Department of Social Work directly.

Social Work Major

The MSW offers graduates diverse opportunities for employment in multiple and diverse settings. The MSW is a professional degree that has national and international recognition. The graduate with an MSW is highly sought after in a competitive job market.