Division of Liberal Arts
Social Work Department
Social Work Master Program
STUDENT HANDBOOK
No part of this document may be loaned, reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means o
used with purposes other than the one for which it was created without the permission in writing
from the School of Social Sciences and Communications of Universidad Ana G. Méndez Gurabo
campus.
This document is subject to change. Universidad Ana G. Méndez Gurabo reserves the right to modify
and amend all or any part of this document when deemed necessary.
Este documento no puede ser reproducido ni retransmitido de ninguna forma o medio o utilizado
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Ciencias Sociales y Comunicaciones de la Universidad Ana G. Méndez Gurabo campus.
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modificar y corregir este documento, en parte o en su totalidad, cuando así lo estime necesario.
Authors: Prof. Lydael Vega Otero, MTS
Dr. María Mercedes Ortiz Rivera, MAP, MTS, PhD.
Copyrights © Sistema Universitario Ana G. Méndez
Universidad Ana G. Méndez Recinto de Gurabo
Table of contents
Notice for Students 1
Introduction 1
Mission 2
Goals 2
Social Work Master Program History 4
Social Work Department Staff 4
Social Work Master Program Competencies 6
Curriculum 16
Admission Requirements 21
Field Practice 23
Grade Requirements 24
Comprehensive Examination 24
Specialty Academic Profile of graduates 25
Standards for Academic Progress 27
Student’s rights and Responsibilities 27
STUDENT HANDBOOK/ REV. JANUARY 2020 1
Notice for students:
The Graduate Social Work Student Handbook provides norms, policies and other important
information regarding the social work graduate program at Universidad Ana G. Méndez Gurabo campus. It
is not meant to supersede any of the policies and codes of conduct of the university, the Ethics Code of the
Colegio de Profesionales del Trabajo Social de Puerto Rico, or the regulations of the Puerto Rico Social
Work Licensing Board. Students are responsible to read and become familiar with this handbook and all other
documents pertaining to the graduate program. Universidad Ana G. Méndez Gurabo Campus and the Social
Work Department reserve the right to delete, add, or change courses in this Handbook and in the Degree
Plan for any reason and cannot guarantee enrolment in specific courses or sections.
Introduction:
The Social Work Program of Universidad Ana G. Méndez Gurabo campus has the commitment to
prepare graduate students with the theoretical, methodological and ethical base of knowledge that will enable
them to enhance the human well-being and the wellbeing of society. Social Work is a practical profession
that is based on the principles of social justice, human rights, collective responsibility and respect for diversity.
The International Federation of Social Work (2014) defines social work as "a profession based on practice
and an academic discipline that promotes social change and development, social cohesion, and the
empowerment and liberation of people". With the interest that our students develop, the skills and knowledge
required for professional practice, our Social Work Master Program offers two specializations: Forensic Social
Work and Social Work with Families. In both specializations, we seek to develop in the student's theoretical
and methodological knowledge that allows carrying out an advanced practice in the field of specialty. Our
curriculum provides a base of knowledge of the relationship and influence of bio psychosocial and spiritual
factors in social systems and the social policies and laws that frame the professional practice. The curriculum
emphasized the critical analysis of the structural and functional aspects of the society, the manifestations of
oppression, and the respect for human diversity.
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I. Mission
Universidad del Ana G. Méndez Gurabo Mission 2016
An institution of higher education with broad academic offerings of the highest standards of
quality. Committed to excellence in teaching, research, innovation, internationalization, and
social-humanistic values for a diverse academic population, Universidad Ana G. Méndez Gurabo
campus forms global citizens with critical thinking skills, which contribute to the development and
well-being of Puerto Rico and other countries.
The Liberal Arts Division Mission 2017:
To promote excellence in teaching and research, respect for human rights and diversity in its professional
undergraduate and graduate programs. Through practice experience, it enables students to use
technology, the media and the application of theoretical and methodological skills from an interdisciplinary
perspective. We train ethical and responsible professionals, committed to critical analysis and
intervention with social problems that contribute to the well-being and development of local and
international society.
The Social Work Master Program Mission 2017
To prepare competent social workers in the application of theoretical-methodological knowledge
and specialized advanced skills in the intervention process with the bio-psychosocial, spiritual,
cultural, relational and legal factors that impact diverse populations and the defense of their
human rights. It allows practicing within professional values, ethical framework and a scientific
approach in areas of forensic evaluation and the intervention process with diverse human
systems.
II. Goals
The academic goals of the Social Work Master Program are directly derived from the program´s mission.
• Prepare competent advanced practitioners who demonstrate professional and ethical
behavior and apply values, and standards in the intervention process with diverse
populations, and the defense of their human rights.
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• Train competent social workers for the application of theoretical-methodological knowledge
and specialized advanced skills in the intervention process with a bio- psychosocial, spiritual,
cultural, relational and legal factors that impact diverse populations.
• Prepare professionals able to integrate and apply methodological tools and evidence-based practice in the evaluation of their advanced practice.
• Train professionals who critically analyze the structural conditions that contextualize the practice of social work, with emphasis on the mechanisms of oppression and discrimination; human rights, social, economic and environmental justice and the impact of social policies on the access and provision of services to diverse constituencies.
Goals designed by each specialty:
Social Work with Families
• Prepare competent and ethical social workers to be able to integrate and apply specialized theoretical and methodological knowledge and advanced skills in the assessment and intervention process with couples and families with children, adolescents and/or elderly in diverse contexts, agencies or organizations.
• Prepares professionals be able to integrate and apply the scientific methodology and evidence based practice in the evaluation of the advanced practice with couples and families with children, adolescents and/or elderly framed in the ethical principles of the profession and respect for diversity.
• Prepare social workers who demonstrate ability to apply specialized theoretical and methodological knowledge and advanced skills in the intervention with psychosocial, developmental and traumatic experiences of children and adolescents.
• Prepare social work practitioners with the knowledge and skills for the critical analysis of the impact of social policies in diverse families, as well as the sociodemographic, biopsychosocial, spiritual, and relational factors associated with couples, the elderly, children and adolescents.
• Prepare professionals capable of applying models, postulates and family therapy techniques in the understanding and intervention with the dynamics of diverse families
Forensic Social Work
• Analyze the jurisprudence and legislation that has impacted the practice of Forensic Social Work.
• Describe and distinguish the organizational structure of the Justice System, the court procedures in juvenile court and family affairs.
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• Implement theoretical and practical aspects in the drafting of the expert social report and the process of expert testimony.
• Identify the main characteristics of the relevant syndromes and differential diagnoses to be considered in forensic expert assessment.
• Carry out the process of biopsychosocial and forensic evaluation, which includes criminal responsibility, mental disorders, substance abuse and trauma.
III. Social Work Master Program History:
With the purpose of increasing the educational quality and the development opportunities in the
Social Work Professionals, as well as in the attention of the social problems that affect the country,
the Program of Social Work since 2013 began its offer of Master in Social Work with specialty in
Forensic Social Work. Since then we have been able to graduate 92 students. As a goal of
expanding the scope of the Master's Program in Social Work, the Department of Social Work of the
School of Social Sciences and Communications of the Universidad Ana G. Méndez Gurabo campus,
as of August 2018, will offer a second specialty in Social Work with Families.
IV. Social Work Department Staff:
Prof. Lydael M. Vega Otero - Instructor, Social Work Department Director and Master Program
Prof. Sylvia Burgos Marrero - Instructor, Master Program Field Practice Coordinator
Mrs. Lyssette Lebrón – Academic Coordinator, Social Work Programs
Core Faculty:
• Prof. Lydael M. Vega Otero - Instructor, Chair Department and Master Program
Coordinator. Master's degree in Social Work with a concentration in Direct Service as well
as a Post Graduate Certificate in Clinical Social Work from the Interamerican University
Metropolitan Campus. She collaborates as a trainer for the Institute of Continuing
Education of the College of Professionals Social Workers, and currently holds the position
of Vice-President of the Board. Profesor Vega teaches Human Behavior and Social
Environment courses
• Prof. Sylvia Burgos Marrero - Instructor, Field Practice Coordinator. Has 45 years of
experience as a social worker. She obtained her MSW in December 1974 from the University
of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras Campus and in 1991 she obtained the ACSW from NASW.
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During those years her experience included direct social work practice, supervision,
administrative functions as Associate Director of a private setting: Family Therapy Institute;
where she also provided clinical social work services. Since 1991, Professor Burgos has
worked as instructor in undergraduate social work programs at the University of Puerto Rico,
and other private universities. In 2010 she obtained the Field Practicum Director position in
the UT Baccalaureate Social Work Program. Professor Burgos’ professional experience also
includes Family Case Manager to DCFS at Chicago, Illinois; Expert Social Evaluator,
Forensic Social Work, and consultant for the Court Family Room, P.R. Government. Her
expertise in social work case evaluation and her clinical experience working with family
issues involving child custody and child abuse were published in the books: “Modelo Para
Evaluar la Dinámica Familiar” and “Madres Que Torturan, Padres que Asesinan:
Intervención Psico Social con Familias Maltratantes”, where she was a co-author. She has
been a member of the Board of Directors of Professionals Social Work College and “National
Association of Social Work, Puerto Rico Chapter”. Since 1992 she has been offering
workshops and professional trainings at the Professionals Social Work College and other
social work programs for various agencies of the Puerto Rico Government. This extensive
work experience has helped her fortify course work in the under graduate program that she
has presented at Universidad del Turabo
• Dr. Migdalia Camacho Hernández - Associate Professor. Has a doctoral degree in policy
analysis, supervision and administration of the Graduate School of Social Work Beatriz
Lassalle, University of Puerto Rico. Research interests are directed towards issues related
to non-profit organizations and their involvement in the development of public policy in PR.
Dr. Camacho teaches Social Policy, Practice Fundaments and Generalist Practicum
courses.
• Dr. Maria M. Ortiz Rivera - Associate Professor. Has a baccalaureate, master degree and
doctoral degree in Social Work from Graduate School of Social Work Beatriz Lassalle
(University of Puerto Rico) also she obtained a master degree in Public Administration
from the same university. Research interests are directed towards issues related to
domestic and gender violence, social policy and child abuse. Dr. Ortiz teaches Families
and Forensic specialties courses.
• Dr. Efraín Torres Montalvo – Instructor. Received his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in
psychology & social work from University of Puerto Rico and doctoral degree in philosophy,
behavioral sciences & society (Departments of psychology & politics, moral & law) from
University Complutense Madrid, Spain. Has a psychotherapist clinical private practice from
2003. He specializes in Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder treatment with the
Reeducation Behavioral Model. Dr. Torres teaches Forensic Practicum and Family
Intervention courses.
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• Professor Joaquín Vázquez-Santiago – Instructor. Has a bachelor degree in Art of Social
Work from University of Puerto Rico as well as a master degree in Family Social Work from
the same institution. In 2017 he completed his second master degree in Science (Clinical
Psychology) from Carlos Albizu University. At the present he has completed all the courses
required and the predoctoral internship to obtain his Ph.D. degree in Clinical Psychology.
• Professor María de Lourdes Busó Torres – Instructor, has sixteen years of experience in
Social Work with permanent license and specializes in family, children and adolescents. She
obtained her Master’s Degree in 2005 from the University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras
Campus. Her years of experience include work with diverse population and environments
both in administrative spaces and in clinical social work service.
V. Social Work Master Program Competencies
A. Generalist Competencies
Competency 1: Demonstrate Ethical and Professional Behavior
Social workers understand the value base of the profession and its ethical standards, as well as relevant
laws and regulations that may impact practice at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels. Social workers
understand frameworks of ethical decision-making and how to apply principles of critical thinking to those
frameworks in practice, research, and policy arenas. Social workers recognize personal values and the
distinction between personal and professional values. They also understand how their personal
experiences and affective reactions influence their professional judgment and behavior. Social workers
understand the profession’s history, its mission, and the roles and responsibilities of the profession. Social
Workers also understand the role of other professions when engaged in inter-professional teams. Social
workers recognize the importance of life-long learning and are committed to continually updating their skills
to ensure they are relevant and effective. Social workers also understand emerging forms of technology
and the ethical use of technology in social work practice. Social workers:
• make ethical decisions by applying the standards of the NASW Code of Ethics, relevant laws and
regulations, models for ethical decision-making, ethical conduct of research, and additional codes
of ethics as appropriate to context;
• use reflection and self-regulation to manage personal values and maintain professionalism in
practice situations;
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• demonstrate professional demeanor in behavior; appearance; and oral, written, and electronic
communication;
• use technology ethically and appropriately to facilitate practice outcomes; and
• use supervision and consultation to guide professional judgment and behavior.
Competency 2: Engage Diversity and Difference in Practice
Social workers understand how diversity and difference characterize and shape the human experience and
are critical to the formation of identity. The dimensions of diversity are understood as the intersectionality of
multiple factors including but not limited to age, class, color, culture, disability and ability, ethnicity, gender,
gender identity and expression, immigration status, marital status, political ideology, race,
religion/spirituality, sex, sexual orientation, and tribal sovereign status. Social workers understand that, as a
consequence of difference, a person’s life experiences may include oppression, poverty, marginalization,
and alienation as well as privilege, power, and acclaim. Social workers also understand the forms and
mechanisms of oppression and discrimination and recognize the extent to which a culture’s structures and
values, including social, economic, political, and cultural exclusions, may oppress, marginalize, alienate, or
create privilege and power. Social workers:
• apply and communicate understanding of the importance of diversity and difference in shaping life
experiences in practice at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels;
• present themselves as learners and engage clients and constituencies as experts of their own
experiences; and
• apply self-awareness and self-regulation to manage the influence of personal biases and values
in working with diverse clients and constituencies.
Competency 3: Advance Human Rights and Social, Economic, and Environmental Justice
Social workers understand that every person regardless of position in society has fundamental human
rights such as freedom, safety, privacy, an adequate standard of living, health care, and education. Social
workers understand the global interconnections of oppression and human rights violations, and are
knowledgeable about theories of human need and social justice and strategies to promote social and
economic justice and human rights. Social workers understand strategies designed to eliminate oppressive
structural barriers to ensure that social goods, rights, and responsibilities are distributed equitably and that
civil, political, environmental, economic, social, and cultural human rights are protected. Social workers:
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• apply their understanding of social, economic, and environmental justice to advocate for human
rights at the individual and system levels; and
• engage in practices that advance social, economic, and environmental justice.
Competency 4: Engage In Practice-informed Research and Research-informed Practice
Social workers understand quantitative and qualitative research methods and their respective roles in
advancing a science of social work and in evaluating their practice. Social workers know the principles of
logic, scientific inquiry, and culturally informed and ethical approaches to building knowledge. Social
workers understand that evidence that informs practice derives from multi-disciplinary sources and multiple
ways of knowing. They also understand the processes for translating research findings into effective
practice. Social workers:
• use practice experience and theory to inform scientific inquiry and research;
• apply critical thinking to engage in analysis of quantitative and qualitative research methods and
research findings; and
• use and translate research evidence to inform and improve practice, policy, and service delivery.
Competency 5: Engage in Policy Practice
Social workers understand that human rights and social justice, as well as social welfare and services, are
mediated by policy and its implementation at the federal, state, and local levels. Social workers understand
the history and current structures of social policies and services, the role of policy in service delivery, and
the role of practice in policy development. Social workers understand their role in policy development and
implementation within their practice settings at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels and they actively
engage in policy practice to effect change within those settings. Social workers recognize and understand
the historical, social, cultural, economic, organizational, environmental, and global influences that affect
social policy. They are also knowledgeable about policy formulation, analysis, implementation, and
evaluation. Social workers:
• Identify social policy at the local, state, and federal level that impacts well-being, service delivery,
and access to social services;
• assess how social welfare and economic policies impact the delivery of and access to social
services;
• apply critical thinking to analyze, formulate, and advocate for policies that advance human rights
and social, economic, and environmental justice.
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Competency 6: Engage with Individuals, Families, Groups, Organizations, and Communities
Social workers understand that engagement is an ongoing component of the dynamic and interactive
process of social work practice with, and on behalf of, diverse individuals, families, groups, organizations,
and communities. Social workers value the importance of human relationships. Social workers understand
theories of human behavior and the social environment, and critically evaluate and apply this knowledge to
facilitate engagement with clients and constituencies, including individuals, families, groups, organizations,
and communities. Social workers understand strategies to engage diverse clients and constituencies to
advance practice effectiveness.
• apply knowledge of human behavior and the social environment, person-in-environment, and other multidisciplinary theoretical frameworks to engage with clients and constituencies; and • use empathy, reflection, and interpersonal skills to effectively engage diverse clients and constituencies.
Competency 7: Assess Individuals, Families, Groups, Organizations, and Communities
Social workers understand that assessment is an ongoing component of the dynamic and interactive
process of social work practice with, and on behalf of, diverse individuals, families, groups, organizations,
and communities. Social workers understand theories of human behavior and the social environment, and
critically evaluate and apply this knowledge in the assessment of diverse clients and constituencies,
including individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. Social workers understand methods
of assessment with diverse clients and constituencies to advance practice effectiveness. Social workers
recognize the implications of the larger practice context in the assessment process and value the
importance of inter-professional collaboration in this process. Social workers understand how their personal
experiences and affective reactions may affect their assessment and decision-making. Social workers:
• collect and organize data, and apply critical thinking to interpret information from clients and
constituencies;
• apply knowledge of human behavior and the social environment, person-in-environment, and
other multidisciplinary theoretical frameworks in the analysis of assessment data from clients and
constituencies;
• develop mutually agreed-on intervention goals and objectives based on the critical assessment of
strengths, needs, and challenges within clients and constituencies; and
• select appropriate intervention strategies based on the assessment, research knowledge, and
values and preferences of clients and constituencies.
Competency 8: Intervene with Individuals, Families, Groups, Organizations, and Communities
Social workers understand that intervention is an ongoing component of the dynamic and interactive
process of social work practice with, and on behalf of, diverse individuals, families, groups, organizations,
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and communities. Social workers are knowledgeable about evidence-informed interventions to achieve the
goals of clients and constituencies, including individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities.
Social workers understand theories of human behavior and the social environment, and critically evaluate
and apply this knowledge to effectively intervene with clients and constituencies. Social workers understand
methods of identifying, analyzing and implementing evidence-informed interventions to achieve client and
constituency goals. Social workers value the importance of inter professional teamwork and communication
in interventions, recognizing that beneficial outcomes may require interdisciplinary, inter professional, and
inter-organizational collaboration. Social workers:
• critically choose and implement interventions to achieve practice goals and enhance capacities of
clients and constituencies;
• apply knowledge of human behavior and the social environment, person-in-environment, and
other multidisciplinary theoretical frameworks in interventions with clients and constituencies;
• use inter-professional collaboration as appropriate to achieve beneficial practice outcomes;
• negotiate, mediate, and advocate with and on behalf of diverse clients and constituencies; and
• facilitate effective transitions and endings that advance mutually agreed-on goals.
Competency 9: Evaluate Practice with Individuals, Families, Groups, Organizations, and
Communities
Social workers understand that evaluation is an ongoing component of the dynamic and interactive process
of social work practice with, and on behalf of, diverse individuals, families, groups, organizations and
communities. Social workers recognize the importance of evaluating processes and outcomes to advance
practice, policy, and service delivery effectiveness. Social workers understand theories of human behavior
and the social environment, and critically evaluate and apply this knowledge in evaluating outcomes. Social
workers understand qualitative and quantitative methods for evaluating outcomes and practice
effectiveness. Social workers:
• select and use appropriate methods for evaluation of outcomes;
• apply knowledge of human behavior and the social environment, person-in-environment, and
other multidisciplinary theoretical frameworks in the evaluation of outcomes;
• critically analyze, monitor, and evaluate intervention and program processes and outcomes; and
• apply evaluation findings to improve practice effectiveness at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels.
Structural barriers to ensure that social goods, rights, and responsibilities are distributed equitably
and those civil, political, environmental, economic, social, and cultural human rights are protected.
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B. Social Work with Families Specialization Competencies
The families’ social work concentration augments knowledge and skills of the advanced practitioner
working with individuals, families and groups. Specific curricular content is directly related to the professional
competences that the practitioner is expected to master. At the concentration level, advanced practitioners
will be working with individuals, families, and groups, and will be knowledgeable about ethical issues relevant
to these populations in a variety of practice settings. Advanced practitioner’s students of the family
concentration will have competence in:
Competency 1: Demonstrate Ethical and Professional Behavior
Practitioners in the family’s social work specialization distinguish the value base of the profession and its
ethical standards. They recognize personal values and understand how their personal experiences and
affective reactions influence their professional judgment and behavior in the therapeutic relationship.
Practitioners in the family’s social work specialization:
• Make ethical decisions by applying the standards of the Professional Social Workers of Puerto Rico
and NASW Code of Ethics in the intervention process with diverse families.
• Use reflection and self-regulation to manage personal values and maintain professionalism in the
therapeutic relationship with children and adolescent, elderly, couples, and diverse families.
Competency 2: Engage Diversity and Difference in Practice
Practitioners in social work family specialization identify the dimensions of diversity as the intersectionality of
multiple factors. They distinguish the consequence of difference in the life experiences of children and
adolescent, elderly, couples, and diverse families. Practitioners understood that oppression is a
systematized institutional process that restrains the ability of constituencies and diverse families to act and
express feelings and perspectives. Practitioners in the family’s social work specialization:
• Distinguish the consequence of difference in the life experiences of children and adolescent, elderly, couples, and diverse families in the therapeutic process with diverse constituencies and families.
• Apply research knowledge of diverse populations and constituencies to improve the advance practice and therapeutic process with families.
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Competency 3: Advance Human Rights and Social, Economic, and Environmental Justice
Practitioners in the family’s social work specialization recognize the mechanisms of oppression and
discrimination as structural conditions that contextualize the violations of human rights. They apply
theoretical knowledge on human rights and social, economic, and environmental Justice in the advance
practice with children and adolescent, elderly, couples, and diverse families. Practitioners in the family’s
social work specialization:
• Apply their understanding of social, economic, and environmental justice in the advance practice with children and adolescent, elderly, couples, and diverse families.
• Intercede to reduce inequality and promote the human rights of children and adolescent, elderly, couples, and diverse families.
Competency 4: Engage in Practice-informed Research and Research-informed Practice
Social Workers in the family’s social work specialization perform an evidence-based professional practice;
assessing the quality and scientific relevance of the information sources and achieving the selection of best
practices with children and adolescent, elderly, couples, and diverse families. Practitioners in the family’s
social work specialization:
• Use research evidence to improve advance practice with children and adolescent, elderly, couples, and diverse families.
• Apply research findings and scientific methods in the evaluation of the practice with children and adolescent, elderly, couples, and diverse families.
Competency 5: Engage in Policy Practice
Social workers in the family’s social work specialization comprehend the significance of social policies in
service delivery with children and adolescent, elderly, couples, and diverse families. Practitioners recognize
their role in policy development and implementation within their diverse practice settings. Practitioners in
the family’s social work specialization:
• Identify social policy that impacts well-being, service delivery, and access to social services of children and adolescent, elderly, couples, and diverse families.
• Evaluate how social welfare and economic policies impact the delivery and access to social services of children and adolescent, elderly, couples, and diverse families.
Competency 6: Engage with Individuals and Families
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Social workers in the family’s social work specialization critically evaluate theoretical and methodological
knowledge to facilitate engagement with couples and families with children, adolescents and older adults.
Practitioners integrate advance strategies to effectively engage diverse constituencies and families.
Practitioners in the family’s social work specialization:
• Use empathy, reflection, and interpersonal skills to effectively engage diverse clients and families.
• Select and apply specialized theoretical and methodological knowledge to engage couples and families with children, adolescents and older adults.
Competency 7: Assess Individuals and Families
Practitioners in the family’s social work specialization critically evaluate and apply specialized theoretical and
methodological knowledge in the assessment of diverse constituencies and families. Social workers analyze
how their personal experiences and affective reactions may affect their assessment and decision-making in
the therapeutic relationship with diverse couples and families with children, adolescents and elderly.
Practitioners in the family’s social work specialization:
• Apply methods of assessment with diverse couples and families with children, adolescents and elderly framed in the ethical principles of the social work profession.
• Select appropriate intervention strategies based on the assessment, research knowledge, and values and preferences of diverse constituencies and families.
Competency 8: Intervene with Individuals and Families
Social workers in the family’s social work specialization develop evidence-informed interventions to achieve
the goals of diverse clients and families. Practitioners apply specialized theoretical and methodological
knowledge and advanced skills in the therapeutic process with couples and families with children,
adolescents and elderly. Practitioners in the family’s social work specialization:
• Apply appropriate theoretical frameworks in the therapeutic process with couples and families with children, adolescents and elderly.
• Critically choose and implement specialized interventions strategies to achieve practice goals and enhance capacities of diverse clients and families.
Competency 9: Evaluate Practice with Individuals and Families
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Social workers in the family’s social work specialization apply specialized theoretical-methodological
knowledge in the critical evaluation of the effectiveness of professional intervention with diverse clients and
families. Practitioners in the family’s social work specialization:
• Select and use appropriate methods for evaluation of outcomes in the intervention process with couples and families with children, adolescents and elderly.
• Apply evaluation findings to improve practice effectiveness with couples and families with children, adolescents and elderly.
C. Forensic Social Work Specialization Competencies
Forensic social workers typically use their legal expertise to work within court systems, child and
family agencies, hospitals, mental health agencies, substance abuse agencies, correctional facilities, prisons,
and faith-based institutions. In most cases, social workers provide consultation to law enforcement personnel,
lawmakers, attorneys, paralegals, community members, correctional officers, doctors, and psychiatrists on
interdisciplinary teams. The emerging field of forensic social work consists of the application of social work
theories to current real-world issues that are related to the legal systems. Since forensic social workers often
are placed in stressful situations, individuals must possess strong problem-solving, time management,
organizational, listening, and communication skills as well as compassion and empathy for their clients.
Competency 1: Demonstrate Ethical and Professional Behavior
Practitioners in the forensics’ social work analyze the roles and responsibilities of the Forensic Social Work
Professionals in diverse scenarios and distinguish the administrative structure of the court system in Puerto
Rico. They recognize personal values and understand how their personal experiences and affective reactions
influence their professional judgment and ethical behavior in their roles as forensic social workers.
Practitioners in the forensics’ social work specialization:
• Make ethical decisions by applying the standards of the Professional Social Workers of Puerto Rico and NASW Code of Ethics in the forensic evaluation process.
• Use reflection and self-regulation to manage personal values and maintain professionalism in their functions as forensic social workers.
• Are knowledgeable of the administrative structure and procedures of the court system in Puerto Rico. Competency 2: Engage Diversity and Difference in Practice
STUDENT HANDBOOK/ REV. JANUARY 2020 15
Practitioners in social work forensic specialization identify the dimensions of diversity as the intersectionality
of multiple factors. They understand the forms and mechanisms of oppression and discrimination and
distinguish the impact of difference in the life experiences of individuals and families, as participants of their
services. Practitioners in the forensics’ social work specialization:
• Understand and contemplate the intersectionality of age, class, color, culture, disability and ability, ethnicity, gender, gender identity and expression, immigration status, marital status, political ideology, race, religion/spirituality, sex, sexual orientation in their forensic evaluation process.
• Apply self-awareness and self-regulation to manage the influence of personal biases and values in their roles as forensic social worker.
Competency 3: Advance Human Rights and Social, Economic, and Environmental Justice
Practitioners in the forensic social work specialization recognize the mechanisms of oppression and
discrimination as structural conditions that contextualize the violations of human rights. They apply theoretical
knowledge on human rights and social, economic, and environmental justice in the forensic evaluation
process. Practitioners in the forensics’ social work specialization:
• Analyze the functional, evolutionary and behavioral aspects of individuals and families, as well as the structural factors of oppression and social, economic and environmental injustice.
• They promote, through their expert reports, the defense of human rights, as well as the social, economic and environmental justice of clients.
Competency 4: Engage in Practice-informed Research and Research-informed Practice
Practitioners in the forensic social work specialization perform an evidence-based professional practice;
assessing the quality and scientific relevance of the information sources and achieving the selection of best
practices in the forensic evaluation process. Practitioners in the forensic social work specialization:
• Apply research findings and scientific methods in the forensic evaluation process.
• Use research evidence to improve expert forensic social report.
Competency 5: Engage in Policy Practice
Practitioners in the forensics’ social work specialization critically analyze the significance of social policies,
jurisprudence and legal aspects in the service delivery with individuals and diverse families. Practitioners are
knowable of the substantive and the procedural aspects of family by-law and the components of criminal law,
applicable to the practice of forensic social work. Practitioners in the forensic social work specialization:
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• Are knowable of the jurisprudence and legislation related to forensic social work.
• Apply jurisprudence in the forensic evaluation process and expert forensic social report.
Competency 6: Engage with Individuals and Families
Practitioners in the forensics’ social work specialization critically analyze theoretical and methodological
knowledge to facilitate engagement with individuals and families. The practitioner applies advanced
strategies to develop an empathetic and objective relationship performing the role as evaluator, recognizing
the diversity of clients. Practitioners in the forensic social work specialization:
• Use empathy, reflection, and interpersonal skills to effectively engage diverse clients and
families.
• Select and apply specialized theoretical and methodological knowledge to engage with individuals and families.
Competency 7: Assess Individuals and Families
Practitioners in the forensic social work specialization apply scientific methodology and critical thinking in the
forensic assessment process. They critically evaluate the use of instruments, assessment scales and tools
in the forensic evaluation with diverse constituencies and families. Practitioners in the forensic social work
specialization:
• Analyze how their personal experiences and affective reactions may affect their assessment and decision-making in their role as forensic social worker.
• Select appropriate assessment strategies based on research knowledge, values and preferences of diverse constituencies and families.
Competency 8: Intervene with Individuals and Families
Practitioners in the forensic social work specialization critically choose and implement scientific methodology,
legal knowledge and evidence-based practice in drafting expert’s forensic social report. They apply critical
thinking, specialized knowledge and advanced skills in their role as expert witness. Practitioners in the
forensic social work specialization:
• Apply theoretical, methodological, evidence-based practice and jurisprudence in drafting expert’s social report.
• Select and use specialized knowledge and appropriate skills in their role as expert witness.
Competency 9: Evaluate Practice with Individuals and Families
STUDENT HANDBOOK/ REV. JANUARY 2020 17
Practitioners in the forensic social work specialization apply specialized theoretical-methodological
knowledge in the critical evaluation of the effectiveness of forensic social work intervention with diverse clients
and families. Practitioners in the forensic social work specialization:
• Select and use appropriate methods for evaluation of outcomes in the intervention process with constituencies.
• Apply evaluation findings to improve practice of Forensic Social Work in the context of the administration of justice.
VI. Curriculum
The academic offer of the Master’s Program in Social Work meets and is aligned with the mission of
the Social Work Program that seeks to form a comprehensive vision to the student, providing them with the
theoretical, methodological and ethical knowledge that will allow them to analyze social needs and intervenes
to promote collective welfare. The Social Work Master program prepares students to serve as representatives
of the social work profession, its mission, and its values. As a result, Universidad Ana G. Méndez Gurabo
campus, MSW students are required to take 54 credits hours; 27 credits hours in generalist approach courses
and 27 credits hours in specialization courses.
The Social Work Master Program of Universidad Ana G. Méndez Gurabo campus, has two
specialized advanced practice: Families Social Work and Forensic Social Work. Families’ specialized
practice is designed to prepare students to exercise advance practice with couples and families with children,
adolescents and/or elderly in diverse agencies or organizations. The curriculum allows the acquisition and
application of theoretical-methodological knowledge and specialized advanced skills in the intervention
process with the bio-psychosocial, spiritual, cultural and relational factors that impact families.
Forensic Social Specialized Practice is a theoretical-practical academic program, which provides
graduate students with the conceptual and operational structures that allow practice with individuals, families
in areas of forensic evaluation as a systemic process. Is designed to develop competent professionals to
practice an ethical, objective and scientific professional practice with a legal approach in the judicial scenario,
who demonstrate the ability to carry out evidence-based practice, research findings and knowledge
developed in a scientific manner.
The Social Work Master Program curriculum follows the same structure for both specializations:
Families Social Work and Forensic Social Work. The students move from generalist or foundation courses
STUDENT HANDBOOK/ REV. JANUARY 2020 18
to specializations according to their interest. The curriculum was designed by the graduate program faculty
to reflect the nationwide movement towards integrated families and diverse population. This integration
reflects a broader conceptualization recognizing that emotional and physical well-being are inextricably
connected, as well as the sociodemographic, biopsychosocial, spiritual, and relational factors that one
affects, and is affected by, the others. Students are prepared to meet the needs and challenges through the
selection and application of evidence-based and informed approaches to assessment, engagement,
intervention, and evaluation.
The field education program is an integral component of the MSW curriculum. The purpose of the
fieldwork is to prepare students for the skills, values, knowledge, cognitive and affective process application
in an educational space in which the student is exposed to a real scenario of services for the application of
theoretical-methodological knowledge and the development of technical instrumental skills for the
professional task. Our curriculum has three different courses of supervised practice: Generalist practice
courses, in which students must complete 400 hours of practice; Forensic specialization and Families
specialization practice courses. In both specialization, the students must complete a minimum of 500 hours.
Forensic specialization courses have the goal of providing graduate students with conceptual structures of
specialized practice with individuals and families in areas of forensic evaluation as a systemic process. Social
Work Practice courses prepares students to an advanced practice with couples, families with children,
adolescents and seniors in different agencies or organizations.
School of Social Sciences and Communications
Degree Master in Social Work: Specialty families
Credit: 54
Curriculum
Program: SOCIAL WORK
Course Code Course Title Credits Requirements
First term
SOWO 500 Human behavior and Social Environment I 3
SOWO 510 Fundamentals of Professional Practice in Social Work I 3
STUDENT HANDBOOK/ REV. JANUARY 2020 19
SOWO 512 PRACTICUM I: Social Work Practice I 3
Second term
SOWO 507 Human behavior and Social Environment II 3 SOWO 500
SOWO 511 Fundamentals of Professional Practice in Social Work II 3 SOWO 510
SOWO 512 Contd. PRACTICUM I: Social Work Practice I 0
Third term
SOWO 504 Social policy and Social welfare services 3
SOWO 505 Research in Social Work 3
SOWO 513 PRACTICUM II: Social Work Practice II 3 SOWO 512
Fourth term
SOWO 506 Analysis of Social reality, oppression and Social justice 3
SOWO 513 Contd. PRACTICUM II: Social Work Practice II 0
Fifth term
FSWO 642 Psycho Social And Legal Aspects Of Violence In The Family 3
FASW 670 Family Therapy I 3
FASWO 680 PRACTICUM III: Social Work Practice Families * 3
Sixth term
FASW 671 Family Therapy II 3
FASW 672 Intervention with Couples 3
FASW 680 PRACTICUM III: Social Work Practice Families (cont.) 0
Seventh term
FASW 673 Intervention With Children And Adolescents 3
FASW 674 Intervention With Older Adults 3
FASW 681 PRACTICUM IV: Social Work Practice Families * 3
Eighth term
FASW 675 Professional Practice Evaluation 3
FASW 681 PRACTICUM I V: Social Work Practice Families CONT. 0
Comprehensive Exam March/October by approving 51 credits
STUDENT HANDBOOK/ REV. JANUARY 2020 20
STUDENT HANDBOOK/ REV. JANUARY 2020 21
School of Social Sciences and communications
Degree Master in Social Work: specialty Forensic Social Work
Credit: 54
Curriculum
Program: SOCIAL Work
Course Code Course Title Credits Requirements
First term
SOWO 500 Human Behavior and Social Environment I 3
SOWO 510 Fundamentals of Professional Practice in Social Work I 3
SOWO 512 PRACTICUM I: Social Work Practice I 3
Second term
SOWO 507 Human Behavior and Social Environment II 3 SOWO 500
SOWO 511 Fundamentals of Professional Practice in SOCIAL work II 3 SOWO 510
SOWO 512 PRACTICUM I: Social Work Practice I (CONT.) 0
Third term
SOWO 504 Social Policy and Social Welfare Services 3
SOWO 505 Research in Social Work 3
SOWO 513 PRACTICUM II: Social Work Practice II 3 SOWO 512
Fourth term
SOWO 506 Analysis of social reality, oppression and social justice 3
SOWO 513 PRACTICUM II: Social Work Practice II (CONT.) 0
Fifth term
FSWO 600 Fundamentals of Forensic Social Work 3
FSWO 610 Legal aspects and jurisprudence in forensic SOCIAL work 3
FSWO 650 PRACTICUM III: Forensic Social Work Practice 3
Sixth term
FSWO 612 Forensic Social Evaluation 3 FSWO 600 FSWO 610
FSWO 635 Forensic Approach to Substance Abuse 3
FSWO 650 PRACTICUM III: Forensic Social Work Practice (CONT.)
0
Seventh term
FSWO 625 Writing Of Reports And Expert Testimony 3 FSWO 610 FSWO 612
FSWO 630 Application of The Diagnostic Criteria of Mental Disorders 3
STUDENT HANDBOOK/ REV. JANUARY 2020 22
VII. Admission Requirements
a. Evidence of a baccalaureate degree in Social Work from a college or university accredited by a
CSWE, a non-accredited Social Work baccalaureate or evidence of the baccalaureate degree in
another discipline.
b. Overall average of 3.00 or higher on a scale of 4.00
c. Deliver the following to the Admissions Office:
1. Application for admission completed in all its parts
2. Official copy of the academic records of previous university studies.
3. Three (3) letters of recommendation, containing opinions on the chances of success of the candidate in graduate studies (the forms included in the application for admission will be used).
4. Written about the professional and educational goals.
5. Send the corresponding payment for the admission fee with the Admission Application (it is not refundable).
Once the above requirements have been met, the student will be cited for an interview with the
Program Admission Committee.
A. Course Validation:
Transfer students have the option of validating courses taken no more than 10 years prior to
admission for equivalent courses offered at Universidad Ana G. Méndez Gurabo campus. The
students must have a minimum grade of C in each course. The Social Work Program follows the
academic standards of the Universidad Ana G. Méndez Gurabo campus. Students who are
admitted to our program receive and initial orientation in which they are informed about our
criteria for evaluating their academic and professional performance. It is the policy of the
program that any course of the program may be validated for work experiences or life
experiences such, but not limited to volunteering in NGOs, community activities, among others.
FSWO 660 PRACTICUM IV: Practice Of Forensic Social Work 3 FSWO 650
Eighth term
FASW 675 Professional Practice Evaluation 3
FSWO 660 PRACTICUM IV: Practice of Forensic Social Work (CONT.) 0
Comprehensive Exam March/October by
approving 51 credits
STUDENT HANDBOOK/ REV. JANUARY 2020 23
addition to the orientation, they are advised to access the program´s link at the UAGM, website
to find our policies for admission, retention and termination. Students who do not comply with
the academic norms will be referred to academic advisor. The student record will be evaluated
for recommendation on course repetitions to improve the GPA. If after one year the student
does not meet the require GPA, will be terminated.
B. Policies and procedures used for awarding advanced standing:
The UAGM Gurabo Master Program admission criteria guarantee that advanced standing is
awarded only to graduates holding degrees from baccalaureate social work programs accredited
by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), to complete the master's degree in one year.
In this case, the curriculum is designed to take the 27 specialty credits and meet 500 hours of
supervised practice. In this sense, the 27 credits of the core component will be validated, after
evaluating the official copy of the academic records and the content of the courses taken by the
applicant to confirm that he/she approved the required courses of the Baccalaureate in Social
Work in a University accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).
C. Not to repeat policy:
It is the policy of the Department of Social Work that students who are admitted to the master's
program do not repeat thematic content previously acquired in their baccalaureate courses. The
Master’s Program admits students who do not have a baccalaureate in Social Work or who come
from a baccalaureate not accredited by the Council on Social Work Education. These students
are considered students who have not mastered the Professional Competencies of the CSWE,
since their programs are not based on them. Those students must complete 900 hours of
supervised practice and 54 credits, of which 27 corresponds to core courses, identifying these
as a component of fundamentals and methodologies of the general practice of social work.
These courses contain the foundations of Social Work and generalist methodologies aligned to
the competencies of the CSWE, advanced literature, teaching techniques and evaluation of
greater complexity, responding to the fact that the master’s students come with analytical and
critical conceptualization skills superior to an undergraduate student. The will completed the
degree in two years.
STUDENT HANDBOOK/ REV. JANUARY 2020 24
D. Not Grant Social Work course credit
It is the policy of the program we do not grant social work course credit for life experience or
previous work experience.
E. Transfer students:
Transfer students are considered for admission must meet the admission requirements of the
UAGM Gurabo Social Work Master Program explained above. Transfer courses must be from
an accredited Council on Social Work Education University. The student must not be subject to
academic or disciplinary sanctions by the institution of origin and must satisfactorily pass an
interview with the SW Master Program Coordinator.
The student must submit two official credit transcripts with admission application and description
of each approved courses of the graduate institution of origin. In order to transfer credit they
must have approved at least three credits from Council on Social Work Education accredited
university with a minimum academic index equivalent to 3.00 in a scale of 4.0. Credits validated
as credits attempted and will not be considered the retention index. Students who are transferring
from a CSWE accredited university outside of Puerto Rico must submit a course catalog from
the previous institution.
F. Readmission Conditions: Have interrupted the studies for a semester or more.
a. Have an accumulated academic index equal to or higher than the retention rate
b. Approve the percent of credits required and the total of credits attempted.
c. Have completed the period of suspension due to academic index, credits accumulated or
by disciplinary motive, if it were the case.
d. Have the authorization of the corresponding program coordinator.
e. Meet the requirements of the master's program at the time of applying for admission.
VIII. Field Practice
A. Criteria and procedures for the admission of students to supervised practice courses Admission requirements:
1. Enrolled in the Master Program in Social.
STUDENT HANDBOOK/ REV. JANUARY 2020 25
2. Have a minimum average of 3.00.
3. Attend an individual interview and orientation meetings for the Practice as determined by the Practice Coordinator.
4. Delivery of documents required by the program and agencies, such as but not limited to Certificate of Health, Certificate of Criminal Record, and Certificate of Verification of Criminal History of Providers of Care Services for Children and Elderly Persons of Puerto Rico (Law 300), two 2X2 photos.
5. Write an essay of a minimum of 400 words where you address: your interest in the academic specialty you will study, knowledge and skills to contribute to the practice center, as well as those aspects with which you identify difficulty to work.
6. Supervised Practice Course of other Universities will not be validated without an academic evaluation and it will be certified that the student complies with the required in our curriculum; as well, work experiences will not be validated in substitution of the Supervised Practice. For the complete specific policy, refer to Supervised Practice Manual page 22.
IX. Grade Requirement
1. Complete 54 credits of the curriculum with a minimum of a 3.00 GPA.
2. Complete the supervised practice courses with a grade of A or B. (900 hours)
3. Passed the two comprehensive exams with 75% or more.
4. File the application for graduation in the Office of the Registrar according to the date established in the calendar
X. Comprehensive Examination:
The Master’s in Social Work Program of the Universidad Ana G. Méndez Gurabo campus uses
two broad methods for the evaluation of the competencies developed throughout the program:
The Comprehensive Examination and the Specialized Application Examination. The
Comprehensive Examination focuses on the assessment of the knowledge acquired on the
foundation of the discipline and of the profession. The Specialized Application Examination is
designed to assess specialized competencies related to assessment and intervention process.
The Comprehensive Test is offered twice a year, in October and March, on dates determined by
the Program of Social Work. The student must submit an application (Appendix A) to the
Department of Social Work, no later than 30 days before the date on which it is administered.
STUDENT HANDBOOK/ REV. JANUARY 2020 26
You must also pay the charges established by the institution, before being authorized to take it.
It is the responsibility of the student to present the original Treasury payment receipt (Appendix
D), along with his request for a comprehensive examination, within the term described above.
The application for the Comprehensive Test will be evaluated by the Program Coordinator, who
will determine if the student meets the minimum criteria to be admitted to the program. The result
of this evaluation will be notified (Appendix C) to the student at least 15 days before the
administration of the exam, to his official email, provided by the University. The criteria for the
evaluation of the application to take the Comprehensive Exam are the following:
1. Be taking or having passed the course of the first supervised practice conducted in an agency or entity designated by the institution. 2. Have an average in their graduate courses of 3.00 points or more. 3. Do not have incomplete courses required by their curriculum. 4. Be a student with active status.
XI. Specialty Academic Profile of graduates
a) The Master's Degree in Social Work, specializing in Forensic Social Work, is designed
that upon completion the graduate will:
i. Analyze the functional, evolutionary and behavioral aspects of individuals, families, groups, communities and society, as well as structural factors, oppression and socioeconomic injustice. ii. Demonstrate knowledge of ethnic, cultural, class, gender, sexual orientation, physical and mental ability, age and nationality, as well as the social, political and economic context of the Puerto Rican reality, which contextualizes the social work practice. iii. Apply knowledge about the conceptual foundations and methodological tools of qualitative, quantitative and mixed social research, and its application to Social Work. iv. Apply values, ethical aspects and standards in the exercise of the profession. v. Analyze the jurisprudence and legislation that has impacted the practice of Forensic Social Work. vi. Describe and distinguish the organizational structure of the Justice System, the procedures in the rooms for minors and families.
STUDENT HANDBOOK/ REV. JANUARY 2020 27
b) The Master's Degree in Social Work with Families is designed that upon completion the graduate will:
i. Understand and integrate the theories related to human behavior and the social
environment and the relationship and influence of biopsychosocial and spiritual factors in social systems.
ii. Critically analyze the circular interrelation between the micro levels (individuals and families), mezzo (groups) and macro (organizations, communities and society).
iii. Understand the forms and mechanisms of oppression and discrimination and
recognize the degree to which cultural structures and values, including social, economic, political and cultural exclusions, can oppress, marginalize, alienate or create privileges and power.
iv. Critically identify and analyze the impact of social, local, state and federal policies
on welfare, the provision of services and access to people's services.
v. Understand the value base, ethical standards, history, as well as the laws and regulations that impact the practice of the Social Work profession at the micro, mezzo and macro levels.
vi. Make ethical decisions applying the standards of the Code of Ethics of the CPTSPR
and the NASW, as well as the laws and regulations of the profession, models for the analysis of ethical dilemmas and ethical decision making.
vii. Demonstrate professional conduct in its projection, appearance and oral, written
and electronic communication.
viii. Carry out a professional practice based on evidence and demonstrate skills by accessing information sources, assessing their quality and scientific relevance and achieving the selection of best practices.
ix. Demonstrate competence by integrating specialized theoretical-methodological
knowledge and advanced skills in the process of establishing the professional relationship, assessment and effective intervention with children, adolescents and older adults, in diverse practice contexts, framed in the ethical principles of the profession and an attitude of respect for diversity.
x. Demonstrate competence by integrating specialized theoretical-methodological
knowledge and advanced skills in: the process of establishing the professional relationship, the assessment and effective intervention with couples and diverse families in heterogeneous practice contexts.
STUDENT HANDBOOK/ REV. JANUARY 2020 28
xi. Integrate and apply the scientific methodology when evaluating the effectiveness of professional practice, within the ethical principles of the profession and evidencing respect for human diversity.
XII. Standards for Academic Progress
The Social Work Master Program, governs its rules of academic progress according to established
standards in the UAGM Gurabo campus Manual of Academic Standards for Graduate Programs. These
documents are available to all students and set the procedures and regulations the students need to know.
You may access it at http://ut.suagm.edu/sites/default/files/uploads/Asuntos-Academicos/normas-
academicas/Normas_Acad_Prog_Maestrias_2013_r2.pdf in these documents you can find information
related to: academic performance, suspensions and appeals procedures.
The Master Program Coordinator provides guidance to students who are identified at risk of failing to meet
academic standards as a preventive measure. In these orientations, situations that may be affecting the
academic achievement of the student are identified, as well as providing alternatives for a better academic
progress.
XIII: professional advising policies and procedures
XIII. Student’s rights and Responsibilities
The Manual of Academic Standards for Graduate Programs consists of 40 articles. The Student
Regulations Manual has 10 articles. These documents are available to all students and set forth the rights
of students, along with corresponding responsibilities. You may access it at
http://ut.suagm.edu/es/academia/normas-academicas
Those documents also address issues associated with the relationship between the student and the
University. It provides information on protection in academic pursuit, and privacy of records, sets forth all the
conditions for responsible behavior on the campus, lists the various appeal and grievance procedures
available to students, and includes a section on student discipline with control and discipline of college
students. This document complies with relevant federal regulations such as the awarding of financial aid,
protection, privacy of records, and equal access/equal opportunity.
A. No discrimination policies
Social Work Master Program commitment is to provide equal opportunity to all students in the
learning environment without regard to their age, class, color, culture, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender
STUDENT HANDBOOK/ REV. JANUARY 2020 29
identity and expression, immigration status, political ideology, race, religion, sex and sexual orientation. In
the Social Work Master Program we state that quality teaching respects and affirms diversity and cultural
identity (including gender identity) and optimizes educational opportunities.
In accordance with the UAGM Gurabo Institutional Values Statement, Social Work Master Program
commitment is to provide equal opportunity to all students in the learning environment without regard to
their age, class, color, culture, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender identity and expression, immigration
status, political ideology, race, religion, sex and sexual orientation. In the Social Master Program
Handbook, we state that quality teaching respects and affirms diversity and cultural identity (including
gender identity) and optimizes educational opportunities. The SW Master Program Student Handbook
assures that there is no discrimination, neither prejudice actions in the admissions process, advising, and
all other academic aspects of the program. The UT Annual Security Report, identify some of the categories
of prejudice not tolerated or accepted in our university (page 6) as:
• Race: A preformed negative attitude towards a group of people who have common physical
characteristics, genetically transmitted by descent and inheritance that distinguish them as
a different division of the humanity.
• Gender: A preformed negative opinion or attitude toward a group of people because those
people are men or women.
• Religion: A preformed negative opinion or attitude towards a group of people who share the
same religious beliefs about the origin and the end of the universe and the existence or non-
existence of a Supreme Being.
• Sexual Orientation: A preformed opinion or attitude negative towards a group of people
based on their sexual attraction, and ability to respond to members of their own sex, or
members of the sex opposite.
• Race / National Origin: A preformed negative opinion or attitude toward a group of people
of the same race or national origin that share common characteristics or similar,
languages, customs and traditions.
• Disability: A preformed negative opinion or attitude towards a group of people based on
their deficiencies or physical or mental problems, whether said disability temporary or
permanent, congenital or acquired by inheritance, accident, injury, old age or illness.
STUDENT HANDBOOK/ REV. JANUARY 2020 30
B. Institutional policies
The institutional policies are available at the following website:
http://ut.suagm.edu/es/academia/art%C3%ADculo-iv-deberes-de-la-comunidad-universitaria
• Management protocol of violence in the workplace
• Policy on Sexual Harassment at Work
• Policy for a Free Community Alcohol and Controlled Substances
• Acceptable Internet Use Policy
• Policy for appropriate use of Electronic Mail Sy
C. Grievance policies and procedures
Students of the master's program in Social Work have the right to complain about any situation that
they understand impact their academic progress. For this, they must make the contacts in this
order.
• Academic Affairs (thematic content, evaluations in the classroom)
o Course faculty
o Program Coordinator
o Department Director
o Dean of the School
o Dean of Student Affairs
o Vice-Chancellor for Academic Affairs
o Chancellor
• Matters related to supervised practice courses
o Coordinator of Supervised Practice
o Department Director
o Dean of the School
o Dean of Student Affairs
o Vice-Chancellor r for Academic Affairs
o Chancellor
• Administrative matters (sequence of studies, enrollment)
o Student Services Officer
STUDENT HANDBOOK/ REV. JANUARY 2020 31
o Program Coordinator
o Department Director
o Dean of the School
o Dean of Student Affairs
o Vice-Chancellor r for Academic Affairs
o Chancellor
• Issues related to services (academic and administrative)
o Department Director
o Dean of the School
o Dean of Student Affairs
o Vice-Chancellor r for Academic Affairs
o Chancellor
To do this, they must request meetings through a phone call or email where they state the interest of the
meeting and the issues they are interested in attending.