Political Practica: Educating Social Work Students for Policymaking

Abstract

Social workers have a history of ambivalence regarding the profession's involvement in the political process. Many argue that if social workers are to become more politically active, schools of social work must play a vital role. This article examines the results of a survey on the extent and nature of available social work practica in government relations, electoral politics, and policy advocacy and development. It was found that less than 20% of undergraduate programs and less than 50% of graduate programs have such practica, and they are almost exclusively in government relations. Recommendations are offered to alleviate the concerns raised by undergraduate programs about political practica.