School of Social Work
One of the largest and most diverse social work programs in the U.S., the School of Social Work is motivated by its steadfast commitment to promote social, political and economic justice with a special emphasis on populations of the Southwest. In partnership with communities, the school engages in use-inspired research that seeks solutions to seemingly intractable real-world problems such as poverty, health disparities and violence that disproportionately affect society's most vulnerable members.
Some of the signature initiatives in social work include:
Advancing child welfare: The Center for Child Well-Being advances broad child-welfare initiatives through training, research and evaluation with local agencies and practitioners.
Promoting interprofessional education: Many social challenges cannot be addressed by one discipline. The clinic in the Collaboratory on Central brings together social work, nursing, therapeutic recreation and nutrition researchers and students to provide social services for tenants in the Westward Ho.
Eliminating health disparities: The Southwest Interdisciplinary Research Center is a globally recognized leader in culturally grounded health programs and interventions. The Office of American Indian Projects works directly with communities to develop both strong individuals and systems for social service support.
Sex trafficking interventions: The Office of Sex Trafficking Intervention Research is a central source of research and collaboration on solutions for domestic sex trafficking. Researchers work closely with agencies throughout the state to develop materials and connect prosecutors, educators, medical and social service professionals.