Advanced Standing students and Foundation students who are taking practicum for the first time at our school are required to attend a virtual orientation & watch two videos prior to starting their practicum. To clarify, "Advanced Standing" students are admitted with a BSW and will complete the program in one year, while regular "Advanced" students complete the program in two years and have attended orientation previously for their Foundation year - these students do not need to attend this year. Only new students need to attend.
In addition to attending orientation, Foundation students are expected to attend Learning Lab to better prepare them for their placement and the requirements of the program.
Orientation Videos
Prior to attending Orientation, ALL NEW students are required to watch two videos:
Click here to watch the Practicum Education Videos
Video 1: Ethical Responsibilities, Code of Conduct, and Safety
Video 2: Use of Self: Compassion Satisfaction and Compassion Fatigue
Advanced Standing Students
Advanced Standing students are required to attend a virtual Practicum Orientation on August 27, 2026, from 9 AM - 12 PM.
Click on this link to REGISTER for Advanced Standing Orientation.
2026 Advanced Standing Practicum Orientation AGENDA.pdf
Foundation Students
Foundation students are required to participate in Orientation AND Learning Lab prior to beginning their practicum. Students will be introduced to, and practice, basic social work skills connected to the first learning competency. Instruction will be provided through a combination of live-virtual learning, asynchronous learning, and an in-person day of learning activities.
Day 1 - Virtual PRACTICUM ORIENTATION will be held Tuesday, August 25, 2026, from 8:45 AM to 12:45 PM.
***Foundation students will receive an email with the link to register for the orientation webinar***
2026 Foundation Practicum Orientation AGENDA.pdf
Day 2 - In-Person LEARNING LAB (Students can sign in starting at 8:30 AM)
- Shady Grove Campus (for students placed in the DC Metro Area): Tuesday, September 1, from 9 AM - 4:30 PM
- Baltimore Campus (for students placed in the Baltimore Metro Area): Thursday, September 3, from 9 AM - 4:30 PM
2026 Learning Lab Schedule.pdf
Campus Locations for Learning Lab
September 1, 2026 - USG Campus
Check in: Building II - Conference Center
Universities at Shady Grove Campus
9630 Gudelsky Drive
Rockville, MD 20850
September 3, 2026 - Baltimore Campus
Check in: Auditorium - First Floor
UM School of Social Work
525 W. Redwood Street
Baltimore MD 21201
DINING OPTIONS FOR DAY 2
Breakfast and lunch will not be provided. Students may either bring their lunch or purchase lunch from a nearby vendor. Click on the links below for dining options for each campus. Some vendors accept pre-orders. We will provide waters and you are welcome to bring your water bottle along.
Places to Eat - Baltimore Campus
PARKING UMB Parking Garages