As the Latinx population continues to grow in Colorado and nationwide, there is a critical need for bilingual and culturally responsive social workers. Our MSW Latinx Social Work Certificate addresses this need, preparing you for a bilingual career serving individuals and families of Latin American origin.
You’ll complete this certificate concurrently with your MSW program. The certificate includes an optional intensive Spanish-language immersion component, an experiential course taught in Mexico, and other specialized courses in addition to a field internship in which you’ll work with LatinX clients. The Latinx Social Work Certificate is available to, Spanish-speaking and non-Spanish speaking, students enrolled in our Denver Campus MSW Program.
Want to learn more about the Latinx Social Work Certificate?
Your Career Options
The Latinx population in the U.S. is expected to grow by 57 percent by 2050, and as the Latinx population expands within Colorado and nationwide, the demand for culturally responsive and bilingual social work practice skills is growing as well. With an MSW and Latinx Social Work Certificate, you’ll graduate with an additional professional credential and a competitive advantage in your job search. Your social work career could include:
- Working in bilingual social work settings in a variety of agencies and nonprofits
- Providing health and behavioral health services to diverse populations
- Advocating for and providing support to immigrants and migrant workers
- Working internationally with nongovernmental organizations
- Community organizing
International Social Work
The required course Social Work and Latin American Cultures, An Intensive Practice and Spanish Immersion takes students to Chiapas, Mexico, to explore human rights, development, economic policy, culture and language. Students work directly with and learn from community partners, including a nonprofit that fights hunger and promotes education, gender equality and sustainability and a nongovernmental organization that defends human rights for indigenous villages and communities.
Featured Courses
SOWK 4753
Social Development in Latin America
About this Course
This course examines social development in Latin America. You will learn about the social, political, economic and cultural realities of this region and on the skills required to be an active participant in effective change efforts.
SOWK 4750
Critical Perspectives on the Latinx Context
About this Course
This course provides a framework for culturally responsive social work practice designed to meet the needs of the Latinx community. Students acquire core principles grounded in an understanding of social justice, privilege and oppression, including the interconnection between human and civil rights, globalization, immigration and poverty. Students learn about the diversity of Latinx cultures, community development, historical patterns of oppression, spirituality, and the role of Latinx movements. In an effort to decolonize the classroom, the students are invited to engage as full co-creators of the curriculum and class experience through social, emotional and somatic learning. As a result of this course, students understand how to advocate for nondiscriminatory cultural, social and economic practices within a Latinx context and experience. The course is designed for students in all concentrations who have an interest in understanding issues facing the Latinx community.
SOWK 4749
Culturally Responsive Practice with Latinx
About this Course
This course addresses issues related to mental health needs within Latinx populations in the US, as well as intervention and theoretical approaches for working with Latinx communities. Covers a selection of interventions and strategies for cross-cultural use in adequately addressing the needs of Latinx communities.
Latinx Certificate Coordinator
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Application Information
Upcoming Final Application Deadline: January 2023 Two-Year Denver Campus Program
