Some agencies only accept a certain level of student (i.e. MSW students only), what is the reason for this and can it be changed?

There are many agencies that require advanced practice skills more appropriate to an MSW. These agencies have specifically indicated that they will only accept MSW students or even, only Specialist-year MSW students.

One factor that is often considered by both the Practicum Office and the agency is whether the student would gain knowledge, values, and skills appropriate for generalist practice areas. For example, the Practicum Office would not place a BSW in a clinical setting that requires advanced practice skills.

The practicum placement agency determines what level of student can be accommodated, not the Practicum Office. Therefore, it is unlikely that this will change.

Some examples of agencies that only accept MSW students are: the US Department of Veterans Affairs, clinical placements, many (but not all) hospital/medical placements, and some (but not all) school districts.