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Online Master
of Social Work Articles

In our article library, you can find insights and news about our M.S.W. online option and read profiles of our expert faculty. You can also gain a deeper understanding of clinical social work, potential career paths and the myriad ways that the VCU Social Work program’s graduates are making a positive impact on the lives of individuals, families and communities.

Online Master
of Social Work Articles

In our article library, you can find insights and news about our M.S.W. online option and read profiles of our expert faculty. You can also gain a deeper understanding of clinical social work, potential career paths and the myriad ways that the VCU Social Work program’s graduates are making a positive impact on the lives of individuals, families and communities.

VCU MSW Alum, Nina Rhys.
Nina Rhys, a clinical social worker, shares her experience in VCU’s online Master of Social Work program and insights from more than 25 years in health care.
VCU-branded graphic that reads "VCU SSW in the News."
A coalition of mayors from around the country is exploring the model of guaranteed income – monthly funds to help fight poverty and close the racial wealth gap. But, says Dr. Maurice Gattis, VCU School of Social Work associate professor, monthly checks may not help those like homeless or housing-insecure youth who don’t have permanent addresses or banking accounts.
Dr. Nicole O-Pries, Associate professor at Virginia Commonwealth University’s School of Social Work.
VCU's Nicole O-Pries advocates for trauma-informed care. Read the blog to learn about her approach and background.
VCU-branded graphic that reads "VCU SSW in the News."
COVID-19 has changed all the rules about how food gets from farm to table, and increasingly farmers will be selling more beef directly to consumers, says Dr. Basil Gooden, a visiting scholar at the VCU School of Social Work, specializing in sustainable food access. ”If you can sell directly to the people who will cook and consume your product, that is ideal. You develop a relationship with that end consumer,” says Gooden, a former Virginia Secretary of Agriculture, who owns 80 head of cattle on his family farm.
People sit in circle during group therapy session.
Misdiagnosis and mistreatment of trauma-related symptoms are common. Explore trauma-informed practice in social work.
VCU-branded graphic that reads "VCU SSW in the News."
The Pixar movie Onward features an openly gay character, Officer Specter. But Dr. Maurice Gattis, VCU School of Social Work associate professor, says the significance is diminished by a bit role with only a few seconds of screen time. “The superficial nature of the relationship may be a letdown for the … LGBTQ+ community. …”
Same-sex couple smiles and embraces on sunny day in city.
LGBTQIA+ social work addresses the marginalization experienced by the LGBTQIA+ community. Learn to support this group.