Open House for Long Island University Social Work Program at Hispanic Counseling Center on March 12

Brookville, N.Y. – Hispanics are one of the fastest-growing ethnic populations in the United States with Census projections forecasting more than 60 million living here by 2025. A 2006 study by the National Association of Social Workers and the Center for Workforce Studies found that 77 percent of licensed social workers in the U.S. serve at least some Hispanic or Latino clients.

In order to meet the needs and properly treat Hispanic individuals, families, groups, communities and organizations, social workers must take into account not only behaviors, but various biological, psychological and social factors.

Professionals who speak fluent Spanish or wish to serve the Hispanic community can learn more about graduate programs leading to a Master of Social Work degree by attending an open house sponsored by the C.W. Post Campus of Long Island University Department of Social Work on Wednesday, March 12 at the Hispanic Counseling Center, 344 Fulton Ave., in Hempstead from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Faculty and advisors will be on hand to answer questions and provide information about degree programs, career opportunities, admissions and financial assistance. Interested students should contact the Department of Social Work at (516) 299-3924.

The two-year M.S.W. program will feature bilingual instructors who will focus on the special needs of the Hispanic community by bridging the language gap and encouraging cultural competency in a segment of the population that is underserved.

C.W. Post’s M.S.W. program offers three in-demand specializations: Gerontology (either Long-Term Care Administration or Senior Community Service), Alcohol and Substance Abuse or Non-Profit Management. Created in response to specific needs within the community and the field of social work, the program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, signifying that it meets the highest standards of quality and academic excellence. Graduates are prepared to work with under-served at-risk populations and to fill leadership and administrative positions in a wide variety of organizations throughout the community.

For more information about the Master of Social Work degree program contact Betsy Klipera, Social Work Program coordinator, at (516) 299-3924 or e-mail betsy.klipera@liu.edu. Visit the social work Web site at www.liu.edu/socialwork.