Concord University Practicum Stipend (CUPS)

Description: 

The Concord University Practicum Stipend (CUPS) is designed to support Advanced Master of Social Work (MSW) students seeking to provide mental health services in rural and underserved areas. This scholarship opportunity focuses on practicum placements within dynamic mental health settings, specifically Comprehensive Behavioral Health Centers, Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), or Integrated Medical/Behavioral Health Centers. Funding for this program is provided through the generous support of the Behavioral Health Workforce from the West Virginia Education Policy Commission through a Department of Labor Community Project Grant.  

Purpose: 

The scholarship provides aspiring MSW professionals with immersive clinical training opportunities providing experiences in clinical social work services in rural settings. By fostering hands-on experience in diverse healthcare environments, this initiative strives to nurture the next generation of clinical social workers equipped to address the complex behavioral health needs of residents in rural West Virginia. 

Eligibility Criteria: 

  • Enrollment Status: Applicants must be enrolled as an Advanced MSW student with a demonstrated commitment to clinical social work practice.in rural West Virginia. 
  • Good Academic Standing: Applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0. 
  • Interest in Rural Clinical Social Work Practice: Admitted students indicate an interest in clinical social work practice in West Virginia. 
  • Commitment to Ethical Practice: Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to ethical social work practice and adhere to the NASW Code of Ethics. 
  • Advanced Practicum: Applicants must be willing to complete their advanced practicum in a Comprehensive Community Mental Health Center, Federally Qualified Health Center or an Integrated Health/Behavioral Health Setting. 

Scholarship Details: 

  • Duration: The scholarship supports a three-semester clinical practicum placement within an approved Comprehensive Behavioral Health Center, Federally Qualified Health Center, Integrated Medical/Behavioral Health Center. 
  • Financial Assistance: Recipients will receive $3,000.00 distributed over the three (3) semesters of their advanced practicums. 
  • Mentorship Opportunities: Recipients will have access to mentorship from seasoned social work professionals within their practicum settings and from the Concord University Practicum Stipend (CUPS) Coordinator, providing guidance and support throughout their clinical journey. 

Application Process 

  • Submission Requirements: Applicants must submit a comprehensive application and a personal statement outlining their interest in providing rural mental health care and their goals for the practicum experience.
  • Review and Selection: Applications will be reviewed by a selection committee composed of faculty members involved with the CUPS scholarship program. Recipients are selected based on their academic merit, clinical readiness, and alignment with the goals of the scholarship.
  • Notification: Successful applicants will be notified of the committee’s decision and given further instructions regarding their practicum placement. 

Conclusion 

The Concord University Practicum Stipend offers a unique opportunity for Advanced MSW students to immerse themselves in the dynamic and evolving landscape of mental health care. Through this scholarship, recipients will not only receive financial support but also gain invaluable clinical experience and mentorship, paving the way for a successful career in social work within healthcare settings.