. . . providing high-quality care and treatment to Latino communities lies in instilling in mental health providers . . . the importance of communicating with each consumer in a way that acknowledges the consumer’s beliefs about mental health. (UC Davis Center for Reducing Health Disparities , 2012)
The Social Work with Latinos Certificate (SWLC) Fulfillment of the SWLC requirements enhance the skills of graduate social work students in culturally competent practices that improve the lives of Latinx individuals, families, and communities. In keeping with the School’s mission and vision, the SWLC prepares the next generation of culturally-competent social workers, dedicated to serving and improving the lives of vulnerable individuals, families, and communities. PLEASE NOTE: This certificate may not be available in AY25-26 or for cohorts admitted after Fall 2024.
While the demand for culturally and linguistically competent MSWs continues to grow, California’s public mental health systems simultaneously struggle with barriers that limit access to care, including a shortage of qualified mental health professionals able to provide culturally and linguistically appropriate services. This shortage of culturally competent providers correlates to a significant underutilization of mental health services, leading in turn to inadequate care and overall poorer mental health outcomes, particularly for populations already impacted by increasing health disparities.
UC Berkeley’s School of Social Welfare is committed to addressing this unmet need by creating a dedicated program of study in our MSW program, leading to eligibility for the Social Work with Latinos Certificate issued by Berkeley Social Welfare.
Requirements for the Social Work with Latinos Certificate
The Social Work with Latinos Certificate requires a total of at least six (6) units, including:
- one required anchor course
- at least two additional elective courses chosen from an approved list
- a minimum of 120 hours of direct practice in an agency serving predominantly Spanish-speaking Latinx clients
Applying to the Social Work with Latinos Certificate Program
To be eligible for the Social Work with Latinos Certificate, candidates:
- Must be registered and enrolled in a graduate degree program at UC Berkeley.
- Must be in good academic standing (e.g., GPA of 3.0 or better).
- Must demonstrate Spanish language proficiency at an intermediate level.
- Complete the 2023-2024 Application and Academic Plan Form (link is external).
Application Process
Students should generally express their interest as early into their graduate studies as reasonable, to ensure the ability to complete program requirements in the normative time allowed for their graduate degree program (generally two or three years for masters students).
Please contact swmswadvisor@berkeley.edu(link sends e-mail) before May 1 of the semester in which you plan to graduate. A faculty member will certify that you have met all requirements. The certificate will be added to your degree plan at graduation checkout time.
