By UNIVERSITY RELATIONS
Thanks to a $95,000 grant from the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, Fort Hays State University’s social work cohort program is expanding into Northwest Kansas.
The cohort program provides an opportunity for individuals in Northwest Kansas to complete a Bachelor of Social Work degree after earning an associate’s degree through Colby Community College.
With support from Valley Hope Inc. and Colby Community College’s outreach center, the program will also be available in Norton.
“This provides an option for western Kansans to earn an FHSU Bachelor of Social Work degree, fully accredited by the Council of Social Work Education, in their local communities,” said Dr. Tim Davis, chair of the department.
Classes, evening at the community college and online, are completed over a three-year period. Students take courses from both core faculty members at FHSU and local professional social workers serving as adjuncts. A full-time cohort coordinator is hired to provide for student recruitment, advisement, and to coordinate the ongoing needs of an offsite location.
Students in a cohort start and go through the three-year cycle together. FHSU commits to provide all three years of cohort education on site so that students who start can also finish in the same location.
FHSU’s Department of Social Work offers the development of skills and knowledge that enables individuals to help others. The department offers significant resources for students including various student organizations and research support. Hands-on experiences through service and internship opportunities are also available.
For more information about the program or to apply, contact Rekala Tuxhorn, cohort coordinator, at rgtuxhorn@fhsu.edu or visit http://www.fhsu.edu/socialwork/Academic-Programs.