Denver Campus MSW Winter-Start Orientation 2026 Schedule

Orientation is a combination of asynchronous work (work done on your own prior to orientation), live sessions in person and optional office hours. Participation in all sessions is mandatory unless otherwise stated. 

Orientation has been designed intentionally across multiple formats to support effective learning and to maximize the success of your adjustment to graduate school. 

  • Asynchronous content: Asynchronous content is designed for you to digest and absorb the material at your own pace and will prepare you for virtual live zoom sessions. 
    • You’ll maintain access to Canvas and can refer to this content in the future. 
    • Much of what we cover is important for the duration of your program. 
  • In-person sessions: Orientation is designed to be in-person so students can explore campus, learn about resources and build community.

Winter-Start Orientation 2026 Schedule

Tuesday, January 6, 2026

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    Campus Arrival and Check-In - 8:30 - 9:00 a.m. MST: Coffee, Tea and Breakfast snacks will be provided

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    The Future of Social Work - 9:00 – 9:15 a.m. MST: 

    A welcome from your orientation hosts and Dean, Henrika McCoy, MSW, MJ, PhD. 

    Orientation Hosts:

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    Social Work Competencies Presentation – 9:15-9:45 a.m. MST: 

    This session will include an overview of the 9 Core EPAS Competencies that you will be learning while at GSSW, led by the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, Stephanie George.

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    Break - 9:45 – 10:00 a.m. MST

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    Advising and Curriculum Overview - 10:00 – 10:30 a.m. MST:

    This session will include an advising overview from Denver Campus Director Amity Good.

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    GSSW Field Education Program Presentation – 10:30 – 11:15 a.m. MST:

    Led by Assistant Professor of the Practice Emily Saltzman, this session will include a panel of faculty and staff from our field education office who will share information about foundation field internships.

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    Break – 11:15 - 11:30 a.m. MST

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    Career Services – 11:30 - 12:15 p.m. MST:

    In this session, you’ll meet our Career Services team and learn about available resources, potential career pathways, and how to effectively communicate your academic and field experience when applying for post-graduate roles.

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    Lunch - 12:15-1:15 p.m. MST:

    Take this opportunity to get to know your cohort for a casual lunch provided.  

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    Embodying Social Work Values in our Learning Community - 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. MST:

    In this session, Professor and Associate Dean, Colleen M. Fisher, MSW, PhD, will present core values of the social work profession and how we can enact these values to create an inclusive learning community for all while at GSSW.

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    Break - 2:00 - 2:10 p.m. MST

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    Faculty Advisor Meet and Greet Discussion 2:10 p.m. – 2:45 p.m. MST:

    Breakout discussions with students and Faculty Advisors.

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    Student Resources Panel - Q&A: 2:45 p.m. - 3:45 p.m. MST: 

    This session will include an introduction to our various student support teams: Career Services, Graduate Advising, Registrar, Student Engagement, Financial Aid, and other DU resources. You will learn how these teams can help you navigate your student experience.

Optional

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    Winter Social and Resource Fair | Thursday, January 8, 2026 - 11:00 - 12:00:

    Join us for a combined Winter Social and Student Resource Fair in the Community Room (Room 120) to kick off the Winter Quarter! Enjoy hot chocolate and treats, meet your GSSW Graduate Student Association representatives, and connect with fellow students, faculty, and staff. The Resource Fair will feature tables highlighting certificate programs, stipends, and other opportunities, and is a great chance to ask any lingering questions from orientation.

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    GSSW Personalized Financial Aid Sessions:

    Individual Financial Aid Appointments are available for incoming GSSW students to discuss their financial aid package and questions about financial options. Schedule an appointment to meeting with a member of our enrollment team. Please note that all appointments are conducted via Zoom and times listed are Mountain Time.