An essential element of social work education is applied learning and demonstration of competence in practice. Practicum education is widely considered to be the “signature pedagogy” for the profession of social work. 

Our practicum education program is designed to extend and integrate learning achieved in class with real-world social work practice. Through practicum, students have an opportunity to employ social work interventions and ethical decision-making processes with different client populations at multiple levels.  

Students work under the mentorship and supervision of experienced social workers in partner agencies across Iowa and in neighboring states, giving them access to diverse and meaningful practice experiences. 

The sections to the left of this website will provide you with more information about our program, whether you are a student, prospective practicum site, or current practicum supervisor.  

Meet the practicum education administrators

Iowa City

Marcia Valadez

Marcia Valadez, EdD, MSW, LCSW

Title/Position
Practicum Education Program Coordinator
Adjunct Instructor
sarah witry, a white woman with brown hair, wearing a blue shirt and glasses

Sarah Witry, MSW, LMSW

Title/Position
Clinical Assistant Professor
Practicum Education Director
Iowa City and Online Field Administrator

Des Moines

Peggy_Tropser

Peggy Trosper, MSW

Title/Position
Clinical Assistant Professor
Practicum Administrator – Des Moines

Sioux City

Portrait of Sarah Stevens

Sarah Stevens, MA, MSW, LISW, LIMHP

Title/Position
Sioux City practicum and program administrator
Visiting Assistant Professor

Online

sarah witry, a white woman with brown hair, wearing a blue shirt and glasses

Sarah Witry, MSW, LMSW

Title/Position
Clinical Assistant Professor
Practicum Education Director
Iowa City and Online Field Administrator