Behavioral Health Scholars Program (BHSP)

Program Background

With support from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 17 Master of Social Work students will be selected annually as Behavioral Health Scholars, receiving specialized coursework, intensive practicum placements, and faculty mentorship. The BHSP program trains MSW students to address the increasing children and youth behavioral health crisis by providing real-world experience at leading behavioral health agencies throughout Connecticut.  

happy childrenStudent Eligibility

  • Individuals, Groups, and Families (IGFP) advanced year or advanced standing Hartford Campus students
  • Demonstrated interest in providing behavioral health care to children and youth
  • In good academic standing

Program Requirements

  • Maintain a minimum 3.0 CUM GPA
  • Meet and complete UConn and agency requirements, and 480 hours in an integrated behavioral health practicum working with children and/or youth
  • Complete three required courses:
    • IGFP 5345 Clinical Conditions with Children and Adolescents
    • One of the following:
      • SWEL 5318 Core Components of Child and Adolescent Trauma and Mental Health OR
      • SPTP 5318 Component and Skills for Trauma Informed Practice with Children OR
      • DSEL 5310 Evidence-Based Practice & Family Intervention
    • Integrated Behavioral Health Practice with Children and Youth (online)
  • Participate in various online educational and professional development activities:
    • Practicum and Academic Success Seminar (PASS) meets 3 times each semester in place of the traditional practicum seminar
    • Interprofessional education workshop with UConn students from health-related disciplines (fall semester)
    • Job search workshop (spring semester)
    • Licensure preparation workshop (spring semester)
  • Complete surveys and participate in interviews to help evaluate and improve the BHSP.

family Application Process

To apply for the BHSP, students must submit the following:

  • Online application form
  • Personal statement (1 ½ to 2 pages double-spaced) outlining your interest in behavioral health by responding to the following prompts: What motivated you to apply for the Behavioral Health Scholars Program? What knowledge, skills, or other qualities do you possess that make you a strong candidate for the Behavioral Health Scholars Program? After earning your MSW, what type of professional setting do you envision yourself working in, and which population do you hope to serve?
  • Academic transcript
  • Letter of recommendation from their first-year faculty advisor or a former course instructor from the UConn SSW. Advanced Standing students may substitute a letter of recommendation from a former advisor or course instructor.

More Information

Questions: Contact sswstrategic@uconn.edu