Financial and psychosocial challenges reported by social work students: Findings from a cross-sectional online survey

Although field education is social work’s signature pedagogy, few studies explore student perspectives surrounding the challenges and costs of field practicum (Aguilera et al., 2022). Available research indicates that many social work students experience role conflict and financial stress as they attempt to balance caregiving and employment responsibilities with coursework and field requirements (Hemy et al., 2016). While prior research found that part-time and non-traditional students are disproportionately likely to experience such challenges, the extant literature is limited to a handful of studies, with most of these focusing on social work education in Australia (Smith et al., 2021). To address this literature gap, the current study analyzes data from 408 current and former students who participated in a cross-sectional online survey. Administered by the Pennsylvania chapter of the National Association of Social Workers, the survey asked respondents about the financial and psychosocial challenges they encountered while pursuing a social work degree. Respondents with any history of part-time enrollment, those in unpaid field practicums, gender nonconforming respondents, and respondents of color reported significantly more challenges than did their counterparts. Findings offer insights for professional accrediting bodies, universities, and field placement organizations seeking to understand and address the concerns of contemporary social work students.