The scientific seminar "International Cooperation on Developing a Master's Program in Social Work" was held at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities on August 5, 2010.The seminar focused primarily on discussing effective solutions to clarify the most important theoretical and practical issues of social work. It also aimed to build the basis for a collaborative Master's program in Social Work with San Jose State University (USA), to be conducted at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities - Vietnam National University, Hanoi. Speaking about the joint program, Professor Alice Hines from San Jose State University stated: The Master's program in Social Work is designed to suit the specific economic conditions and unique cultural values of Vietnam. Students will choose one of four specializations based on their interests and the needs of the local area where they wish to work: Child, Youth and Family; Labor and Social Security; Education/School; and Health, Public Health and Mental Health.
In addition, Professor Alice Hines also presented details about the Master's program in Social Work. She emphasized that this program ensures students have the opportunity to study in three specific areas: classroom theory (35 credits), internship (12 credits), and thesis (10 credits). Classes are divided into two types: basic courses and specialized courses. Specialized courses are further divided into compulsory and elective courses. Furthermore, the graduation requirements for the Master's program in Social Work, as well as the special graduation requirements for students who completed the 22 postgraduate training courses funded by UNICEF for the University of Social Sciences and Humanities in 2009-2010, were also specifically outlined at the seminar. A detailed and clear internship program for both the first and second years of the Master's program in Social Work was also presented. Currently, there are 32 universities and colleges nationwide offering bachelor's degrees in social work, but none offer postgraduate programs in social work. In his opening remarks at the seminar, Associate Professor Dr. Nguyen Van Kim – Vice Rector of the University – stated that, with the assistance of UNICEF and the cooperation of the School of Social Work, San Jose State University, the University of Social Sciences and Humanities has implemented a training program on social work. The program has completed three training courses, and the university is now holding its fourth course with the participation of 97 students. Through the program, students not only receive theoretical lectures but also exchange practical experiences with Vietnamese and international lecturers. He expressed his hope that the first master's program in Social Work in Vietnam will soon be launched at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities. Many other opinions and discussions have also pointed out the need to develop and train social work professionals in a more systematic and in-depth manner. Therefore, international cooperation in master's degree training in social work will contribute to building a program that is both internationally standardized and relevant to Vietnamese society, practically meeting the demands and requirements of Vietnamese society now and in the future.
