Child Welfare Stipend Program (CWSP)
Who Should Apply
Individuals who are driven to support the safety, permanency, and the well-being of children and families through complex challenges. They bring empathy, professionalism, cultural humility, and critical thinking to their work, along with a strong commitment to responsibility and a genuine eagerness to contribute to Virginia’s child welfare system as agents of positive change. Academic requirements are as follows:
- Must be enrolled in a full-time BSW or MSW program at one of the five participating universities
- Must successfully complete two Child Welfare courses (Child Welfare Policy Elective and a Child Welfare Practice Elective)
- MSW stipend recipients must complete one field practicum in a child serving setting and one field practicum at a local department of social services (primarily in a foster care, adoption, or in-home role)
Application Process
Review and complete the Child Welfare Stipend Application and submit all required documentation. The application deadline for BSW applications is February 20, 2026 by 5:00 pm. ANY APPLICATIONS SUBMITTED AFTER THAT TIME WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED. The priority deadline for MSW applications is March 20, 2026. After March 20, 2026, applications will be reviewed until all available slots are filled.
Child Welfare Stipend Program Application 2026/2027
More Information
Contact: Jackie Cowan, MSW
Child Welfare Stipend Program Coordinator
804-524-1240
jcowan@vsu.edu