In Pennsylvania, school social work is called “Home-School Visitor Certification.” Individuals with the Home and School Visitor Certification (HSV) provide professional social work services in a variety of K-12 educational institutions. The University of Pennsylvania is approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Education to prepare students to apply to the state for this certification. Students in the MSW program who wish to complete the HSV certification complete required courses, special seminars, and a school-based field placement in order to meet the requirements set forth by the Pennsylvania Department of Education. These requirements include content on accommodations and adaptations for students with disabilities in an inclusive setting and meeting the needs of English Language Learners. The Penn Home and School Visitor Certification program is open only to students enrolled in Penn’s Master of Social Work program. Alumni of Penn’s MSW program who have questions about getting their Home and School Visitor certification may contact the Associate Director of Academic Affairs for more information. Current students can view certification requirements here.
