International Internships and Service-Learning

The School of Social Work’s international internships and service-learning opportunities stand as a testament to our commitment to holistically blending classroom knowledge with global engagement. Social Work students have traveled to destinations like Brazil, South Africa, Greece, Israel, Japan, and Uganda. The School is continuously working on expanding this already impressive list of destinations and global learning opportunities.

Sites chosen for these placements provide fertile ground for hands-on experiences in critical areas such as program development and implementation, advocacy work, addressing healthcare disparities, tackling mental health challenges, and delving into the complex landscape of child welfare issues. By participating in these internships or service-learning opportunities, students can actively work to address some of the most pressing social challenges: human rights violations and environmental justice, while simultaneously honing their practical skills and expanding their cultural competence.

A rigorous application and screening process has been established for students wishing to participate in a transformative global experiences. This screening ensures that students who partake in semester-long international placements or service-learning opportunities, are not only academically prepared but also possess the cultural humility and adaptability necessary to thrive abroad.

Selected students will embark on meaningful experiential learning journeys across the globe. Through these opportunities, they can contribute to societal progress while undergoing personal and academic growth that will resonate throughout their careers and lives.

Resources

BSW&MSW International Opportunities Presentation 2024

Informational SOCW Study Abroad to Brazil

Illinois Abroad and Global Exchange (IAGE)

Grants, Funds and Scholarships

We provide International Internships for BSW and MSW students through two distinct models:

1. Site-based Model: Currently available exclusively in Cape Town, South Africa.
2. Student-based Model: Designed for students who have lived in other countries, primarily focusing on the Global South, or those who have connections or family/friends abroad.

Please note that placement is not guaranteed for either model, as various factors are considered when planning your internship.

Additionally, we offer short-term, faculty-led classes where students participate in mid-semester sessions with experiential learning opportunities in the U.S. These programs may also include travel abroad for further experiential learning, combined with sightseeing activities. Destinations so far include Greece and Brazil.

For additional information about program offerings, check out the portal linked below:

BSW/MSW International Internships and Study Abroad Opportunities

September 12, 2024, 6-7 pm, Zoom

BSW/MSW International Internships and Study Abroad Opportunities

September 17, 2024, 12 noon

SSW Room 2015 and Zoom

Walk-ins – BSW/MSW International Internships and Study Abroad opportunities (attend one or all)

November 19, 2024 at 12 noon

November 20, 2024 at 12 noon

SSW Room 2080 and Zoom

Join Social Work to Brazil Spring/Summer 2025 Info Session

November 21 at noon

Room 2018 and Zoom

Pizza provided by Illinois Abroad and Global Exchange

BSW/MSW International Internships and Study Abroad Opportunities

January 15, 2025, 5 pm, Zoom

BSW/MSW International Internships and Study Abroad Opportunities

January 22, 2025 at 12 noon

SSW Room 2015 and Zoom