The advanced Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW) curriculum at the University of Texas at Austin consists of two concentrations: Clinical Social Work (CSW) and Community and Administrative Leadership. This proposal focuses on the CSW concentration, which equips students with advanced competencies in clinical technologies so they can become leaders in providing evidence-based, strengths-based, and culturally competent human services to individuals, families, groups, and communities.

The aim of this project is to infuse gerontological content and promote gerontological competencies within the CSW curriculum related to substance use (including problems related to use, misuse, abuse, and dependence). The goals of our proposed gerontological curriculum innovation are to: (1) ensure that every CSW concentration student acquires knowledge of substance use problems among older adults and related gerontological competencies; (2) increase field instructors’ knowledge and competencies in this area and encourage them to utilize the information in their practice and promote the same among students.

Sponsor:
Council on Social Work Education