Student Resources, Services, and Groups
Resources and Services
Mugar Library Social Work Section
The School maintains a collection of social work material in the Mugar Memorial Library, the central library for all students and faculty of Boston University. A librarian is assigned to the School to assist students.
Social Work Career Services
To assist students and graduates with employment information, the School offers social work career services in conjunction with Boston University Career Services. Included are:
- A website with job information and links to social work employment sites
- Skill-based workshops
- Access to a network of graduates willing to serve as career consultants
- Social work license exam study guides and online access to a practice exam
- Employer information sessions
- Individual career development counseling
More informatin is available at the Career Center’s website.
Social Work Computer Center
Social work students have access to both the University Computer Center and to a computer center within the School. A key objective of the School’s center, which the SSW Dean’s Office established in 1995 with an alumna gift, is to offer students hands-on computer experience to support their learning in research, administration, social policy, and clinical practice.
The Social Work Computer Center is located on the lower level of 270 Bay State Road and is available on a limited basis by appointment.
ALANA Students
Boston University’s ethnically diverse community includes African American/Black, Latino, Asian American/Pacific Islander, and Native American (ALANA) students at both the graduate and undergraduate levels.
The School of Social Work actively recruits students of color, and special programs are designed to reach out to interested individuals. The School’s curriculum and field practicum opportunities reflect a strong commitment to multicultural issues. The ALANA Student Caucus meets on a monthly basis. Faculty, administrators, and staff within the School work with appropriate individuals and departments to further develop relevant and appropriate support services and retention programs for ALANA students.
Student Groups
Student Organization
All BUSSW students are members of the Student Organization, a student-run organization which serves as a link between social work students and faculty and staff. It is an umbrella organization for several student caucuses and is the mechanism through which students volunteer to serve on BUSSW committees with faculty and staff. In addition, students plan group activities and programs, implement ideas, raise issues, and solve problems.
National Association of Social Workers
Students in regular degree programs of the School are eligible for student membership in the National Association of Social Workers. Student members participate in the local chapter’s activities and receive national and local publications.
Alumni Association
The School of Social Work is strengthened by the participation of its alumni in numerous activities. The Alumni Association of the School of Social Work comprises more than 9,000 women and men from across the United States and throughout the world.
The School’s alumni relations program is designed to reach out to its graduates in multiple ways. Components of this expansive effort have included an educational program, a communications program, a career advisory program, an Alumni Association enrichment program, and a student recruitment program. Other efforts include class organizing projects, regional networking activities, and alumni giving campaigns.
Ongoing communication is maintained with graduates through the publication of a newsletter, Currents, and other regular mailings. The Alumni Association holds an annual awards ceremony, which recognizes the special contributions of alumni, faculty, staff, and others. An Alumni Association Board serves as the governing body and includes members from 18 chapters covering 33 states, the District of Columbia, Eastern Canada, and Europe.
