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WHO CAN APPLY?
The OIFSP is for two-year students at Alabama A&M University pursuing a master’s degree in social work who are working in a behavioral health environment with families impacted by opioid use disorders (OUD) and other drug use disorders (SUD). Students who work in a behavioral health environment with families impacted by OUD, and other SUD will be eligible to apply.
SCHOLARSHIP & TUITION SUPPORT
Students who are chosen for this award will receive up to a $3,000 scholarship as well as up to $5,000 in stipends for field experience or internships.
- This program is for 2-year MSW students who are seeking a career with children and families affected by Opioid Use Disorder.
- The OIFSP students must be accepted in the MSW social work program at Alabama A & M University.
- Paid apprenticeships are also offered for students in their second year before graduation.
- Students who participate must complete both a field experience/internship component in their degree as well as finish the necessary graduate courses OR their equivalents.
PROGRAM TRAINING
Students must commit to working with children or families affected by drug use disorder for two years following graduation to be eligible. During the fall semesters, applications for the OIFSP are accepted. Trainees will be chosen during the Fall Semester.
A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 must be obtained and maintained by the student.
- Level I
Level I: MSW students are required to complete a specialized course that includes didactic information, skills, hands-on learning, and practical field placements to grasp issues of the targeted population in OUD and other SUD prevention, treatment, and recovery programs. After finishing level I instruction, students will be awarded a certificate.
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Level II: After finishing level I training, MSW students will be put in an apprenticeship, which is a proven method for preparing people for employment while fulfilling the requirements of businesses for a highly trained workforce. It is an employer-driven, “learn-while-you-earn” approach that blends on-the-job training given by the business that employs the apprentice with job-related teaching in curriculum-linked to the achievement of national skill requirements. The concept also includes gradual advancements in an apprentice's abilities and pay.
At this level, students may conduct a one-year apprenticeship with a community partner, working directly with people affected by SUD. Students will earn either part-time or full-time income from collaborating organizations, as well as a stipend of up to $7,500 while finishing their apprenticeship. Students will be given extra assistance via an apprenticeship course intended to offer mentoring.
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Contact Us!
Dora Cook, MSW, Project Coordinator
dora.cook@aamu.edu
