BCWEP: Empowering the Next Generation of Social Workers Through Practicum-Based Learning

The Baccalaureate Child Welfare Education Program (BCWEP) is a unique and impactful partnership between the New Jersey Department of Children and Families (DCF) and a consortium of participating universities, including Seton Hall University. Designed to prepare undergraduate social work students for careers in public child welfare, BCWEP offers a robust pathway for students to gain hands-on experience, professional mentorship and direct exposure to the vital work of the Division of Child Protection and Permanency (DCP&P).

The collaboration between Seton Hall's undergraduate program in social work and BCWEP provides students with an extraordinary opportunity to apply their classroom knowledge in real-world settings. Through structured practice learning experiences and intentional support, students are immersed in the realities of child welfare, advocacy and family support.

What truly brings the program to life are the stories and reflections of the students themselves.

Spotlight on BCWEP Students: Real Voices, Real Impact

Breyanna Williams — senior social work major

So far, I am thoroughly enjoying my experience. This has been an amazing opportunity to grow both personally and professionally. I am eager to continue gaining hands-on experience in the field and develop stronger social work skills. This program benefits me because they are fundamentally providing me with the necessary resources to further my skills. Although we just began, I feel supported by staff and students in the program, and I look forward to seeing it through.

Breyanna highlighted orientation as a pivotal event. It was during this time that she built relationships with peers and instructors, including her own instructor, who also happened to be a former BCWEP student.

I am widely appreciative of this opportunity. BCWEP has challenged me to grow and has affirmed my passion for social work and child welfare. Every step I take toward helping others is a step toward becoming the best version of myself!

Erick Morey — senior social work major

My time in BCWEP thus far has been incredible. This program is one I will forever be grateful for. It has connected me to a great cohort of like-minded students across many campuses and fantastic advisors and supervisors who are all dedicated to the success of all BCWEP students.

Erick described his first day at the Union East Local Office of DCP&P as deeply emotional and profoundly impactful.

I've learned so much through the BCWEP program and in my internship with NJ-DCF. Through it, I've been able to secure a bright future for myself post-graduation and pursue the work I am most passionate about, helping children and families lead their best lives.

Alexiss Salimbene — senior social work major

My experience with BCWEP so far has been wonderful! My supervisor and all other people who work in the Somerset County office have been amazing, very inclusive of me and all of the possibilities that exist for my learning opportunities.

What stood out most for Alexiss was being out in the field, seeing firsthand the challenges families face and how DCP&P intervenes to support and protect them.

It is very different to hear stories and then see them with your own eyes. This has been a very educational experience that I am grateful to be a part of. I’ve learned how DCP&P uses its resources to make situations better and how rewarding it must be to create positive change in families’ lives.

Why BCWEP Matters
BCWEP is more than just a practicum placement; it is a transformative experience. BCWEP builds bridges between academic training and real-world practice. It introduces students to the complexities and rewards of working in public child welfare. Most importantly, it equips students with the skills, support and confidence to begin their careers in child welfare with purpose and preparation.

The voices of students like Breyanna, Erick and Alexiss remind us that the future of child welfare is in the promising hands of passionate and prepared social work professionals.

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