About The Course

Social Work Leadership for the Public Good is a special course offered in May, which allows students to learn how to develop their federal advocacy skills and lead in taking on systemic challenges through a social work lens.

The course, which takes place both in Texas and Washington D.C., provides firsthand insights from political and social work professionals. It also allows social work students to expand their networks in Texas and Washington, work with policymakers, design campaigns, and mobilize decision-makers.

All MSW and upper-level BSW students interested in advocacy should apply. Social Work Leadership for the Public Good, a May Term 3-credit hour elective, is taught by Dr. Noel Landuyt. Applications for the program take place in the fall semester, typically in mid-November.

Read Spring 2025 Impact Report

Student Testimonial

Social Work Leadership for the Public Good was a fantastic opportunity that allowed me to understand, practice, and develop the skills to be a successful advocate and policy maker. My time in Washington was outstanding. I feel that I have the necessary foundation to understand the impact of advocating and have strengthened my skills in policy writing, advocating, and building community around policy. I learned that a good advocate works with the community, speaks to representatives, engages the public, and strives to provide accurate and informative information. I am truly grateful for my time in class with Dr. Landuyt and the cohort!

Phoebe Cosgrove, BSW
Social Work Leadership for the Public Good
Spring 2025 Cohort

How to apply

Eligibility
  • Be enrolled at Texas Social Work at the time of application.
  • Maintain good academic standing with The University of Texas at Austin.
  • Be an active student who is not graduating before the May of the year you are applying to participate.
Application materials

All application materials must be electronically submitted to Dr. Noel Landuyt. An interest form, as well as informational sessions, will be available in November.

Course Information

Course Description
  • This course empowers students with vital advocacy skills, through learning from professionals through site visits in Washington D.C. and Austin.  Effective social work political advocacy hinges on policymakers having informed insights on proposed policies.  Students will delve into crafting advocacy plans, framing issues, and engaging stakeholders through a social justice lens. They will master education campaigns, mobilize decision-makers, and adeptly navigate systemic challenges. Through interactions with a diverse array of experts, including elected officials, advocacy groups, and policy specialists, students will gain invaluable insights into advocacy in the dynamic landscape of both state and national political systems.
Course Objectives

By the end of the course, students will:

  • Gain firsthand insights from professionals in Washington D.C. and Austin, key political hubs, to understand the intricacies of effective social work political advocacy.
  • Engage in experiential learning opportunities, including simulations and role-plays, to refine advocacy skills and strategies in real-world scenarios.
  • Develop expertise in providing policymakers with informed insights on proposed policies, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based analysis and a social work lens.
  • Learn strategies for effectively mobilizing decision-makers at both state and national levels, navigating bureaucratic systems, and overcoming systemic barriers to enact meaningful change.
  • Cultivate a network of connections with elected officials, advocacy groups, and policy specialists through interactions and collaborations, leveraging these relationships to advance social work goals within the political landscape.