The Specialized Practice Curricular Guide for Military and Veteran Social Work represents a significant advancement as the premier specialized curricular guide tailored for the 2022 Educational Policy and Accreditation Standard (EPAS) competencies. Building upon CSWE’s 2018 publication, which addressed the shortcomings in supporting the complex consequences of war, this edition leverages research, practice, and advocacy to enhance competencies for social work students, educators, and practitioners involved in military and veteran social work.
Through enhanced competencies in military and veteran social work, this guide highlights the vital contributions of social workers in shaping interventions, programs, and policies that support veterans, service members, military families, and individuals affected by war. It aims to aid programs and educators by offering resources for each of the 2022 EPAS competencies. These resources include suggested readings and media, discussion prompts, and ideas for assignments that educate students about social work’s role in war and conflict and its lasting impact.
The Specialized Practice Curricular Guide for Military and Veteran Social Work is designed to facilitate a deeper understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities within this specialized field. The resources are tailored to equip educators with tools to foster critical thinking and practical skills among students.
The guide emphasizes the importance of understanding the lasting impact of war on various aspects of life, including individual well-being, family dynamics, community stability, and organizational effectiveness. This comprehensive approach ensures that social work professionals are well-prepared to address the multifaceted needs of the military and veteran community.
Dr. Megan Fujita, CSWE’s Vice President of Education, and Dr. Stephanie Felder, Traumatic Brain Injury Special Projects Lead and CAPT United States Public Health Service, shed light on the evolving landscape of military social work practice. They also highlight the most significant updates incorporated into this guide.
