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.
Social Work Competencies Presentation - 8:45 - 9:15 a.m. MDT:
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, EdD, MSW.
Creating an Inclusive Learning Community - 9:15 - 10:00 a.m. MDT:
Office of Civil Rights and Equal Opportunity (CREO) serve the DU community by fostering an environment of equal opportunity, equity and anti-discrimination. In small breakout groups, students will self-facilitate conversations about how values such as respect, fairness, responsibility, safety, and opportunity can shape a welcoming learning community.
Break - 10:00 – 10:15 a.m. MDT:
Advising and Curriculum Overview - 10:15 – 10:30 a.m. MDT:
This interactive session will include an advising overview from Denver Campus Director Amity Good. Bring your laptop, tablet or something you can write with so you can follow along.
Students will learn about academic and funding options that can complement their MSW experience. Presenters will share overviews of dual degree pathways, certificate opportunities, and scholarship resources, as well as information about next steps and how students can follow up if they are interested in exploring any of these options.
Denver Campus MSW students can specialize their degrees with a certificate:
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.
This session will include an introduction to our various student support teams including 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.
Lunch - 12:30 – 1:30 p.m. MDT:
Enjoy a casual lunch while connecting with your cohort. Members of the Field Education Office and faculty advisors will be present at each table. This is an opportunity to build relationships, ask questions, and learn more about ways to get involved in the GSSW community.
Required Follow-Up Sessions
Career Services & Academic Planning Workshop (Virtual) - Friday, July 17 from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. MDT:
You will then meet with Denver Campus Director Amity Good, who will walk you through how to review your Degree Audit, confirm your academic plan, discuss course selection, and prepare for registration.
Field Orientation - Wednesday, Sept. 9 from 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. MDT:
This session will help prepare you for a successful field education experience. You’ll meet members of the Field Education team, connect with fellow students, participate in interactive activities, and receive practical guidance for success at your internship placement. We’ll also review the structure of the internship course, key policies and timelines, professional expectations, and strategies for making the most of your field experience.
Optional Sessions
Monday, July 20 (In-Person)| Pop-Up Advising Session in the Margaret Page Library - 12:00-1:00 p.m. MDT:
This is a built-in opportunity for students to meet with an academic advisor to review their Degree Audit, confirm their academic plan, discuss course selection, and prepare for registration. It is a chance to ask questions and make informed decisions before enrolling in classes.
This is a built-in opportunity for students meet to with an academic advisor to review their Degree Audit, confirm their academic plan, discuss course selection, and prepare for registration. It is a chance to ask questions and make informed decisions before enrolling in classes.