Evaluation of an Innovative Social Work Education Model: The Kentucky Public Child Welfare Certification Program (PCWCP)

This research evaluated the effectiveness of the Public Child Welfare Certification Program, a specialized child welfare program delivered in bachelor of social work (BSW) curricula across the state of Kentucky. This evaluation gathered data for 10 years on satisfaction with the program, preparation for work in the state's child welfare agency, commitment to the agency, and retention. Data were collected from 199 graduates and 84 supervisors at 6 months and 2 years postgraduation. Results indicate that workers and supervisors report a high level of preparedness, as well as high levels of commitment to and retention with the agency. Supervisor support, coworker support, and personal/professional stress were mediators of commitment to the agency. Implications for child welfare practice and social work education are discussed. (Contains 2 tables.)