Master of Social Work - Children, Youth and Families in Indianapolis United States | Indiana University - Purdue University Indianapolis

Social work is an evolving field dedicated to addressing the shifting needs of people, families, communities, organizations, and society at large. Those drawn to this meaningful vocation can explore diverse work environments, including mental health clinics, senior care facilities, hospitals, educational institutions, corporate wellness programs, family support centers, and nonprofit organizations. Social work professionals also hold leadership roles in social service agencies and contribute to government, academia, and even political office. A Master of Social Work (MSW) degree equips graduates with the expertise to pursue various career paths in this expansive field. Our School of Social Work's MSW program maintains accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).

Students specializing in this concentration gain in-depth knowledge of child welfare systems and develop skills to navigate state and federal policies effectively. They learn to evaluate trauma's effects while identifying protective factors and vulnerabilities in children, adolescents, and families—crafting evidence-based interventions that leverage individual and community strengths. The curriculum prepares them to implement trauma-informed approaches and resilience-building strategies when working with young populations. Additionally, students analyze systemic biases affecting marginalized groups—including racial minorities, women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people with disabilities—considering factors like age, cultural background, socioeconomic status, religion, geographic location, gender identity, and physical or cognitive differences.