UH Manoa School of Social Work praised by accrediting commission

Combined bachelor's and master's programs fully accredited for eight years

University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa
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Posted: Jul 8, 2003

The University of Hawaiʻi at Manoa School of Social Work has been notified that its degree programs have been fully accredited by the Council on Social Work Education.

The Council praised the School for its "clearly articulated objectives" and commitment to diversity, multiculturalism and community involvement, noting that interim dean Jon Matsuoka "has developed a strong and committed Board of Advisors."

"Of course we are all very pleased with this highly positive review from the Council," Matsuoka said. "Faculty, staff, students and advisory board members deserve all of the praise they received, and we look forward to building on their recommendations for improvements in the years ahead."

The eight year reaccreditation is the maximum term a social work program can be accredited. US News and World Report graduate school rankings have consistently placed the UHM master‘s in social work (MSW) in the top thirty such programs in the country. It is the only MSW degree program in the state and is offered by distance education technology at UH neighbor island campuses as well as at Manoa.

UH Manoa Chancellor Peter Englert welcomed the news. "Outside review of our programs is always welcome, and we are especially gratified that the accrediting council recognizes the effective manner in which School of Social Work faculty, administrators and the community interact in a mutually supportive way.

"Manoa has a special obligation to assure that the state‘s need for social workers is met, and we have made a special effort to make sure that the School‘s degree programs are available statewide through distance learning," Englert added.

The Council‘s Commission on Accreditation reviewed the School‘s combined bachelor‘s and master‘s programs in June. Preparations for reaccreditation had been underway for three years.

"This has been a good year for us," Matsuoka added. "The Board of Regents in May granted permanent status to our PhD in Social Welfare, so that at this time all of our degree programs are in good standing. These achievements are the result of a strong team effort and point to a spirit of cooperation and positive energy within the school."

The Commission‘s report also noted:- Student/faculty relationships are strong, with students commenting that faculty are accessible, responsive and helpful- Faculty are "energized," and have taken leadership in curriculum development and administrative responsibilities- Interim dean Matsuoka is a seasoned social work educator and scholar … "visionary in his outlook for the School," and committed to building academic programs of high quality.