St. Catherine University and University of St. Thomas

Specialized Structure: Area of Emphasis

The Area of Emphasis in Aging (AEA) program offers aging-specific courses and course assignments and research, practicum, and leadership opportunities for students (AEA Scholars) over a two year period. In year one, the emphasis is on gaining knowledge. In year two, the emphasis is on practice, research, and leadership. AEA Scholars learn about aging issues through the lens of social work history, policy, and research; complete two elective courses: Practice with Older Adults and Their Families and Clinical Practice with the Elderly; assess their geriatric practice competence and skill development; develop and apply leadership skills; network and collaborate with social work professionals who specialize in aging; focus their practice research on aging (including a year-long MSW Clinical Research Project); and apply their skills in a 600-hour clinical field placement which serves older adults and their families.

The Area of Emphasis in Aging offers several opportunities for community involvement as well, including Room at the Table, a community-wide dialogue over dinner, and the School of Social Work Annual Justice Lecture. In addition, AEA Scholars in their second year offer a professional development Salon dedicated to the topic of aging, and publicly present the findings from their MSW Clinical Research Projects.