Post-Doctoral Social Work Practice Experience

Abstract

The authors of this article conducted a survey among all faculty members who had been hired within the past five years in colleges, schools or departments of social work among the Big Ten Universities. The aim was to determine the value and relevance of post-doctoral non-academic experience in academic settings as measured by faculty salary and rank. Results from this study revealed that professional post-doctoral social work practice experience is not a primary factor in determining qualifications of faculty candidates or in establishing rank and salary. Moreover, it appears that criteria for advancement in academic settings actually excludes professional practice. Respondents identified research, funded research and publications as being highly valued at the time of hiring when negotiating rank and salary in academic settings. Of lesser importance were non-academic experience, prior teaching experience and community service. While social work educators must acknowledge and pursue those activities necessary for survival in the academy, attention must also be given to practice experience and opportunities for the ongoing development of practice skills which are important to teaching excellence.

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