Ann Arbor Times

Eastern Michigan University has been awarded $371,976 by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) as part of a statewide initiative to increase the number of master's degree-level social workers in the behavioral health workforce.

Under the initiative, Eastern’s Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) to MSW Program will offer a $30,000 stipend to bachelor's-level social workers to pursue their master’s degrees. The program aims to meet the growing demand for qualified behavioral health professionals across the state by providing financial support to students who enroll in Eastern’s full-time advanced standing MSW program and commit to at least two years of full-time employment in public sector behavioral health in Michigan.

"This grant will enable us to train more highly qualified social workers committed to serving in the public sector and addressing our state's critical behavioral health needs," said Janet Okagbue-Reaves, BSW program director and professor of social work at EMU. "Our BSW students are passionate about making a difference in their communities. This stipend will alleviate the financial burden of continuing their education and ensure that more of our graduates can provide essential behavioral health services across Michigan."

Eastern will begin contracting eligible students into the program immediately.

“This program is another investment by the state to increase access to behavioral health care for Michigan families,” said Elizabeth Hertel, MDHHS director. “We are committed to helping families access behavioral health care services when and where they need them.”

For more information about the program and how to apply, visit EMU’s School of Social Work MSW website.

Founded in 1849, Eastern is the second oldest public university in Michigan. It currently serves more than 13,000 students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, specialist, doctoral and certificate degrees in various fields through its Colleges of Arts and Sciences; Business; Education; Engineering and Technology; Health and Human Services; and its graduate school. National publications regularly recognize EMU for its excellence, diversity, and commitment to applied education. For further details about Eastern Michigan University or updates on university news, activities, and announcements, visit EMU Today.