Whereas most placements are located in the Salt Lake City area, others may be available in Saint George, Orem, Ogden, Pocatello, or Idaho Falls. Students are expected to complete 600 hours of training with the VA. Paid placements generally run from August to April in conjunction with the VA fiscal year and traditional academic year, though alternative schedules may be available. Being one of the nation’s largest training systems, the VA offers students a broad range of clinical experiences. Though many duties are unique to their assigned placements, all students will gain valuable experience:
- Completing psychosocial assessments and developing treatment plans;
- Facilitating individual and group therapies;
- Participating on multi-disciplinary teams to coordinate services;
- Advocating for our Veterans;
- Establishing discharge/aftercare plans;
- Networking with community partners;
- Linking Veterans to services to address their psychosocial needs; and
- Many more traditional social work services.
Student trainees will also be given the opportunity to shadow and provide services in other areas of our health care system to meet their personal educational goals.
Eligibility
The United States government requires citizenship to be considered for federal employment. Students must be:
- Enrolled in an MSW program which has received full accreditation by the CSWE;
- Either in the 2nd year of their program or in advanced standing;
- Eligible to be hired immediately at the completion of their practicum;
- Physically and mentally able to perform their duties;
- Registered for Selective Service by age 26 (Males only); and
- Available 20 hours per week during regular business hours.
Criminal behaviors will be considered when determining eligibility for appointment (details at Declaration for Federal Employment form). Students must pass a physical exam to include a tuberculosis screening, and hepatitis vaccination (or waiver). Students will also be required to receive an influenza vaccine by November 30th, or will be required to wear a face mask throughout the influenza season.
Application process
Complete application packets are generally accepted during the months of January and February prior to the start of the Fall placements during any given year. Applications for non-paid positions will be considered year-round based upon each students’ eligibility and experience, as well as the availability of a placement. See the links below for more details.