Division of Humanities & Social Sciences
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Department of Children Services
Consortium Information
- The Brian A. lawsuit found negligence on the part of the state of Tennessee Department of Children Services (DCS). The plaintiffs have, as part of their settlement, mandated various changes including reforming policies/procedures, practices, and the re-education of its employees statewide. The most significant change to be made in the department is that all workers with direct contact with clients must have a BSW degree or certification. To this end, the new commissioner of DCS enlisted all universities in the state.
- Consortium: 13 universities in the state have accredited BSW programs.
- DCS will give a stipend to students who pursue their BSW and guarantee them employment after graduation. These students will sign an agreement with DCS prior to starting their junior year agreeing to work for DCS for 24 months post-graduation. They will receive training from their chosen university in the form of field placements at DCS while they are in their junior and senior year.
- Tuition is covered up to $10,000 per year per student
- The starting salary after graduation from a BSW program is approximately $31,000
- The student must agree to work at any DCS in the state of Tennessee for at least 2 years after graduation.
