Child Welfare Scholars

Candidates for Child Welfare Scholar positions undergo a highly selective application process. Recipients receive a service award and/or other financial support in addition to a specialized course of study in child welfare. Graduates of the Collaborative’s augmented curriculum in child welfare are equipped to go beyond the fundamentals of social work. Their training not only prepares them for leadership roles but fosters excellence in child welfare practice.

After getting their degree, scholars provide six months of employment at a North Carolina department of social service for each semester of financial support received from the Collaborative. A minimum employment commitment of one year, in direct practice or supervision of direct practice, is required. Students completing the program receive a Scholar Completion Certificate. For a better understanding of how the program works, take a look at "The Path of a Child Welfare Scholar" (pdf).

About 90 percent of graduating scholars entering the child welfare workforce fulfill their employment contracts.¹ A recent evaluation of scholars suggests that their employment retention rate is well above the national average.

Agency Employed Students

To address the needs of the working student, some university social work programs offer part time, extended, and distance education options. Some programs offer classes at sites away from the main campus that you may find more convenient. Contact the specific Collaborative Afffiliated School to find out if these options exist at the school you are interested in attending.


1. NC-CWEC Progress Report, February 2001