BSW Autonomy Issues in Combined BSW/MSW Programs

Abstract

This article reports findings of a national survey of BSW directors in combined BSWIMSW programs that examined autonomy issues. Seven significant variables emerged differentiating programs reporting need for more autonomy from those reporting sufficient autonomy: dean/director support, fiscal equity, equity in distribution of faculty resources, teaching assignment authority, faculty support of the BSW program, gender of program director, and the existence of a designated faculty group for curriculum development and oversight. Implications for the development and management of combined social work programs are discussed.