Daemen University’s Master of Social Work (MSW) program has been awarded a $2.38 million grant from the US Department of Health and Human Services Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA).
The grant funds will enable the MSW program to expand its behavioral health impact with an increased focus on addressing the complex needs of children, adolescents, and young adults.
The program’s comprehensive strategy includes substantial financial support for MSW trainees, robust didactic and experiential learning opportunities, specialized interprofessional training for field education supervisors, and the development of new and innovative community partnerships.
“This transformative investment affirms Daemen University’s commitment to preparing the next generation of social work leaders dedicated to promoting behavioral health and improving outcomes for some of our most vulnerable and marginalized populations,” said Dr. Diane Bessel, MSW Program Director and Chair, Social Work and Sociology at Daemen.
The MSW curriculum will be enhanced to enable students to pursue a Level Three New York State Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC) designation. This will enable graduates to fast-track their certification through the New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS) and position them for advanced roles in the field of substance use disorders treatment.