Saginaw Valley State University (SVSU) has been granted $188,063 from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) to support students pursuing a master’s degree in social work. The funding will provide $30,000 stipends to students who commit to working in behavioral health in Michigan upon graduation.
The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) to Master of Social Work (MSW) Program aims to bolster the behavioral health workforce in the state by increasing the number of master’s level social workers. Eligible bachelor’s level social workers who enter a full-time advanced standing MSW program and agree to at least two years of full-time employment in public sector behavioral health in Michigan will receive the one-time stipend.
“This program is another investment by the state to increase access to behavioral health care for Michigan families,” said Elizabeth Hertel, MDHHS director. “We are committed to helping families access behavioral health care services when and where they need them. We anticipate up to 150 students will be able to obtain their master’s degree in social work through this program.”
In addition to SVSU, several other universities across Michigan will receive funding to support this initiative:
- Andrews University: $208,236
- Eastern Michigan University: $371,976
- Ferris State University: $167,169
- Grand Valley State University: $384,339
- Madonna University: $314,824
- Michigan State University: $498,358
- Northern Michigan University: $90,578
- Oakland University: $409,741
- Spring Arbor University: $511,468
- University of Michigan: $853,394
- Wayne State University: $1,001,848
Participating universities will now begin the process of contracting eligible students into the program. These students must enroll in a full-time advanced standing MSW program, which typically spans three semesters or one year, depending on the university.
For additional information, interested individuals can contact Jilliann Betzer at BetzerJ@michigan.gov.
