Kiphart Scholars Program in Global Health and Social Development
Overview
Kiphart Scholars will embark on a rigorous course of study focused on understanding social problems, social policy, and on-the-ground practice in a globalized world. The Kiphart Scholars Program in Global Health and Social Development focuses on providing students with both a particular knowledge base (on global processes, historical trends, and comparative perspectives) and a set of skills (including intercultural awareness, self-reflection, critical assessment, project implementation, program evaluation, etc.). It places particular emphasis on understanding and working with culturally diverse and economically disadvantaged populations, attention to the needs and circumstances of individuals in the context of their local environment and in light of the structures and influences that shape their conditions and opportunities at more macro levels, and an understanding of the social construction of social problems that hones students’ capacity to think critically and flexibly across contexts. This program is rooted in values of self-awareness, community-centeredness, consultation, and accountability to self and others.
Global social work practice has some similarities and distinctions from US practice; students interested in global practice need a comparative perspective and experience. Global social work practice tends to integrate direct practice and social administration; our students need the opportunity to learn across these concentrations. Our students need an understanding of frameworks common in global practice, including Human Rights and associated Conventions, Social and Community Development, Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS).
Kiphart Scholars Program Requirements
Winter Quarter: First Year
- Community building workshop
- Discussion series: #1
Spring Quarter: First Year
- Ethics workshop
- Discussion series: #2, #3
Summer Quarter through Graduation
- Integrated seminar for all Kiphart Scholars, co-facilitated by a clinical and an administrative field consultant for the duration of the time at Crown Family School
- One required Spring quarter class in the first year, 2 global electives thereafter.
- A summer international internship or study abroad program
- Advanced coursework completed in parallel with a nine-month field placement selected from approved Kiphart-coded placements in the field database
- Preparation and delivery of community presentation in the spring of graduating year, or opt-in to independent study/completion of capstone project