Student Chapters of Professional and Academic Organizations

Phi Alpha Honor Society

Phi Alpha is the National Honor Society for Social Work students. The Eta Sigma Chapter of Phi Alpha was chartered at Baylor University in 1998. The purpose of Phi Alpha is to promote a closer bond among students of social work and to foster humanitarian goals and ideals. Phi Alpha proudly encourages high standards of education for social workers and invites into membership those who have attained excellence in scholarship and achievements in social work. To be eligible for membership you must satisfy the following requirements:

Graduate Students

• Be enrolled in the MSW program at Baylor University
• Have completed at least 37.5% of the total hours/credits required for the social work graduate degree (Standard – 22.75 hours out of 58; Advanced Standing – 11.25 hours out of 30)
• Rank in the top 35% of the MSW program

Invitations are sent to those students who qualify. The membership fee is $30. There is an induction ceremony where students can participate and is considered the annual membership meeting. There are opportunities for Phi Alpha members to help in the community, as well as within the School, in the role of ambassadors for School of Social Work events.

Social Work Student Association

The School encourages social work students to organize. Students may choose to participate in the Garland School of Social Work Student Association. Organizational activity will be determined by student interest and engagement. The organization aims to provide an opportunity to participate in the school's governance, coordinate their interests, connect with their colleagues, and act cooperatively on behalf of all social work students and those they serve. The Social Work Student Association is divided by undergraduate and graduate students (with separate associations for our Waco and Online campuses), and each has its own faculty advisor. Students interested can reach out to their student support manager or the MSW program manager for information on how to get involved at the beginning of the fall trimester/semester. All students are welcome and encouraged to participate. Students who have an interest in forming other identity-based or interest groups should reach out to the MSW Program Director to discuss options. 

National Association of Social Workers

“The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) is the largest membership organization of professional social workers in the world. NASW works to enhance the professional growth and development of its members, to create and maintain professional standards, and to advance sound social policies.” (NASW brochure. For more information, visit the NASW website at: www.naswdc.org). By joining NASW, student members receive the information, contacts, and resources needed for launching a successful social work career, with savings on a regular membership.

Student Representation on School Committees

Student representatives on school committees are identified and recruited by members of the Student Development Committee. All students will receive notification of these opportunities through email and the VOICE newsletter, with an opportunity to apply for consideration. Responsibilities include regular attendance and communication from students to committee and from committee to students. Student representatives who are unable to fulfill their responsibilities should resign to the Student Development Committee Chair so that they might be replaced.