Northeastern State University’s School of Social Work BSW program is excited to announce our participation in the Child Welfare Professional Enhancement Program (CWPEP). This is a specialized scholarship and stipend partnership in Oklahoma to recruit and train social workers for the state and tribal child welfare workforce.
Northeastern State University School of Social Work offers CSWE-accredited BSW programming designed to prepare students for state and tribal child welfare practice. Our BSW curriculum aligns with Oklahoma Human Services (OHS) child welfare priorities, including safety, permanency, and well-being; trauma-informed and family-centered practice; and strengthening tribal/state relationships within our region.
A core strength of our BSW program is our child welfare specialization coursework, which prepares students for practice in tribal and ICWA contexts. The program intentionally prepares graduates to work collaboratively with tribal nations and OHS, emphasizing ICWA compliance, respect for tribal sovereignty, culturally responsive engagement with Native families, and government-to-government collaboration.
Through CWPEP, 6 selected students receive:
- Financial assistance while completing the BSW degree:
- $10,557 per year (15 credit hours for Spring & Fall) $1,000 per year for Textbooks
- Specialized child welfare training and professional development
- Attending state conferences, 11 hours of child welfare specific elective coursework
- Field placements aligned with OHS Child Welfare Services
- Rural, Urban, & Tribal placements
- Paid practicum opportunities
The NSU School of Social Work has a well-established capacity to coordinate high-quality field placements and works closely with agency partners to ensure strong supervision, skill development, and successful transition from field education into child welfare employment.
If you are committed to promoting safety, permanency, and well-being for children and families, particularly within tribal and ICWA contexts, we strongly encourage you to apply. The application is attached HERE and once completed may be sent via email to Dr. Toni Hail @ hail@nsuok.edu. The application deadline is May 31, 2026.
