The Missouri Southern State University (MSSU) Board of Governors approved the development of a new academic program, the Master of Social Work (MSW) with an integrative healthcare social work focus, supported by a major philanthropic commitment.
The MSW in Integrative Healthcare Social Work is designed to address the need for social work professionals. Graduates will be prepared to strengthen health and behavioral health services for individuals, families and communities throughout the Four States.
“The MSW will give our students an opportunity to complete the requirements for licensure in their chosen field. This will advance not only our students in their chosen career path but will benefit the citizens in this region for years to come,” explained MSSU Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Lisa Toms. “I want to thank Ms. Janette Eldred for the work she has done in developing this program.”
In a major partnership with Missouri Southern, Freeman Health System has pledged approximately $700,000 in financial support to the Missouri Southern Foundation for the development and implementation of the program. The commitment from Freeman will support faculty and operating costs for the first five years of the program. As part of the partnership, a faculty position in the MSW Integrative Healthcare Social Work program will be designated as the Freeman Health System Professor in Social Work.
“Freeman Health System is proud to support MSSU as it launches this important new MSW program. MSSU has a long history of strengthening our region through education and workforce development, and we are honored to partner with them as they expand opportunities in the field of social work,” said Matt Fry, president and Chief Executive Officer of Freeman Health System. “Investing in programs that build a stronger, healthier community is central to our mission, and we believe this collaboration will positively impact the Four States for many years to come.”
“Freeman Health System has been an extraordinary partner in the development of the MSW. We have a shared commitment to develop high-quality professionals to serve the citizens of the Four States. All of us at MSSU are grateful for Freeman’s collaboration and investment,” said Dr. Dean Van Galen, MSSU president.
“This partnership is more than an academic program; it’s a commitment to building a healthier future for our community. By integrating social work and healthcare, we’re preparing professionals who can treat the whole person, not just the symptoms,” said Vicky Mieseler, Chief Executive Officer of Ozark Center.
The MSW is a graduate-level degree that prepares students for advanced social work practice and state licensure. MSSU’s program emphasizes clinical practice, leadership development, policy advancement, research, and advocacy in medical and behavioral health environments.
With approval by the MSSU Board of Governors, the University will submit the program for review and approval to state and national organizations, including the Council for Social Work Education (CSWE). The University anticipates admitting students to the program in 2028.
Reference:
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