Educational Philosophy

In accordance with the mission of Howard University and that of the School of Social Work, the educational philosophy of our program reflects the importance and complexity of transactions between people and their environment. Both the MSW and Ph.D. programs are rooted in the knowledge, values and skills necessary for professional practice that promote and sustain social justice and the quality of life for individuals, families, groups, communities, and organizations. The educational philosophy recognizes the multiple roles, functions and arenas of social work practice as well as the interdisciplinary knowledge base upon which professional practice is based.

The educational philosophy of the School of Social Work recognizes the need to produce graduates who are educated for competent professional practice with all client groups, but with a special sensitivity and concern for people in Black communities. Therefore, the educational programs require careful consideration of the range of theories and approaches used to prepare students for competency. While the knowledge base of the MSW and Ph.D. programs is flexible, both share the person-in-situation framework. Varied theories and approaches, e.g., systems and developmental theories, and the psychosocial and problem-solving approaches that can be accommodated within this framework, as well as by the Black Perspective are used to prepare students for effective social work practice.