Fall 2025 | Dec 20, 2025
Embedded Files
As we wrap up the year, we hope you enjoy the holiday season—and if you don’t celebrate, we still wish you a relaxing and well-deserved break. Happy New Year!
A quick reminder that Winter Term begins on January 5th. If you haven’t registered for your classes yet, please do so as soon as possible. Low-enrolled courses may be cancelled, and registering early helps ensure you get the schedule you need. If you have questions or need support, please connect with your academic advisor.
Quick Reminders:
Checked in with your Advisor? Society & Identity Pathway Advising
The Portland Resources here
Important Dates: Academic Calendar
School wide SSW Newsletter
Sign up to Student Legal Services newsletter
Make sure you click on the links below for the program's update (the green square button)
CSWE Advocacy Update: (article link here): following the federal government reopening, key student aid and education programs have resumed. CSWE continues to advocate for access to affordable social work education, focusing on federal loan policies, public service loan forgiveness, and workforce funding.
NASW ARTICLE: What DOE’s Proposed Change Means for Social Work Degrees
The U.S. Department of Education has proposed removing MSW and DSW degrees from the "Professional Degree" category under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA). We want to clarify what this means for our profession.
What does this mean for you?
If you are a practicing social worker or have already borrowed federal loans, your current loans, repayment plans, Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) eligibility, and licensure will not change.
This proposal only affects future borrowing for graduate students, such as Future MSW students and Current MSW students who will need additional loans before completing their degree
Under the proposed rule, MSW and DSW programs would not qualify as "professional degrees," reducing federal loan limits to $20,500 per year and a lifetime total of $100,000. This reduction may not cover the full cost of many MSW or DSW programs, forcing students to rely on private loans that are not eligible for PSLF.
Why does this matter?
Declassifying the MSW and DSW degrees will reduce access to affordable social work education, thereby increasing reliance on high-interest private loans. Additionally, it could lead to declines in enrollment in social work educational programs, especially among first-generation, low-income, and BIPOC students.
This proposal affects the future pipeline of social workers and the strength and diversity of our profession. NASW-Florida will submit public comments when the comment period opens and will share instructions for members to participate.
Your voice matters!
Sign the petition - Action Center - and ensure that the Department of Education hears from you! Also, we will notify all Florida social workers when the Department of Education opens public comments.
#SocialWorkIsProfessional #ProtectSocialWorkDegrees
SSW Undergraduate Programs
SSW Undergraduate Programs
Looking for WINTER TERM Courses: check out these courses below
(course description available BSW/CYFS/HS page)
CRN: 40469, CFS 450 Youth Work Practice
CRN: 40472, CFS 462, Child Life Hospitalized
CRN: 40473, CFS 488 Structural Oppression (R)
CRN: 41252, HS 305 HUMAN SVCS MGMT SYSTEMS
CRN: 43779, HS 412 PRACTICE & SKILL DEVELOP II
SSW Announcements
EVENTS: PDX Event Calendar
Thank you to everyone who came out for community time (Dec. 4th). We’re so grateful to share this space with you.
And a big thank-you to our faculty and staff for bringing in cookies!
Just a quick reminder that our Boren Awards Essay Writing Workshop is happening this Friday from 12:30–1:45 PM (in person and zoom options). If you’re planning to apply or even just exploring whether Boren might be a good fit, this session will really help you clarify your goals, strengthen your essays, and get expert guidance. We’ll cover what selection committees look for, how to explain your language choice and national security relevance, and how to craft strong, compelling statements.
You’ll find the flyer attached in this email. Register here: https://forms.gle/U9pyGgbSBuLdhWAz8
The Equity, Partnership, and Inclusion Committee (EPIC) is looking for BSW, CYFS, and FSHS students to join! EPIC is focused on advancing our School's commitment to racial justice. EPIC meet (virtually) on the first Tuesday of every month from 11 to 12. Please email Miranda Mosier-Puentes (miran2@pdx.edu) or (jesrodr@pdx.edu) if you're interested.
Culturally Responsive Child Welfare Education Program Application Due Date February 15, 2026 (Applications will be online mid-October.)
Interested in Promoting Child Safety with an Equity and Culturally Relevant Lens?
Do you have a passion for working with children and families? Are you looking for hands-on experience while receiving up to $6,000 in tuition remission as you complete your degree? If so, consider applying for the Culturally Responsive Child Welfare Education Program! BSW students apply during their junior year and participate in the program during their senior year. Students in the program are welcome to join our monthly Culturally Responsive Leaders Seminar.
Questions? We invite you to attend one of our upcoming Information and Q & A Sessions (please rsvp) to learn more about the program.
Contacts: Laurie Leasure, lleasure@pdx.edu and Radhika Niles, rniles@pdx.edu
The Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is now available. Complete your form annually to be eligible for all financial aid opportunities, including federal or state grants, loans, and Work Study.
Navigating the FAFSA application process can be challenging, please know that the PSU Financial Aid Office is standing by to offer any support you may need:
Students can book a one-on-one appointment with Financial Aid to complete the FAFSA. (in-person or virtual)
We are offering Saturday drop-in sessions on April 6th and 13th from 10am to 1pm. Families are welcome to come. (in-person; basement of FMH building)
Financial Wellness Center: New Updates & Student Opportunities
Scholarship Workshops
Our Scholarship workshops are now in full swing! These sessions cover scholarship fundamentals and introduce students to Scholarship Universe, the University’s platform that matches students with funding opportunities aligned with their background and goals. Students will learn how to set up their profiles, improve their chances, and stay organized throughout the application process.
Workshop Dates:
December 2 & 18 at 12:40 p.m.
January 6 & 22 at 12:40 p.m.
February 3 & 19 at 12:40 p.m.
Critical Language Scholarship (CLS) Program
https://clscholarship.org/languages
No matter your major—business, engineering, law, medicine, science, social sciences, arts, or humanities—you’re encouraged to apply.
If you’d like to learn more or discuss your eligibility, please contact me at sroulon@pdx.edu to set up an appointment. I’m happy to answer questions and help you navigate the application process. Learn more and apply: www.clscholarship.org
SSW Health Resources
Health Resources for Students:
PSU CARES connects students with resources when they are experiencing distress or other concerns. Send a referral at this link, email askdos@pdx.edu, or call 503-725-4422
Center for Student Health & Counseling (SHAC): Counseling Services Staff are available to assist any student in need of support or faculty/staff needing support in working with a student. During SHAC hours of operation call 503-725-2800, walk in to SHAC at the corner of SW 6th & Hall or schedule online
Visit SHAC's Emergency & Crisis Resources for a comprehensive list of culturally specific crisis service options.
PSU Resources:
Available anytime
Walk-in hours M-F 10am to 5pm
Peer Recovery Support Specialist at SHAC, SMART Recovery meeting every Tuesday from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Shac Suite 340E or virtually on Wednesdays during the same time at https://pdx.zoom.us/j/89898328009.
Connect & Chat: Reproductive Health Group, Wednesdays 5:30-6:30pm, UCB student well-being lounge
Worksystems launched a job placement program called "Here for Portland" with the goal is to quickly match students in need of part-time employment. WorkSystems have some time-limited job opportunities and grant-funded opportunities to work at various behavioral health agencies in Portland. If you are interested in either one of these possibilities, you can learn more about the requirements, positions, and application here: https://hereforportland.com/psu-behavioral-health-student-recruitment
Northwest Oregon Works, through their Oregon Behavioral Health Grant Program, has funding for Work-based Learning towards careers in Behavioral Health. They have up to $20,000 per person, for those enrolled in a bachelors or masters program which can eventually lead to clinical licensure. Funding can support candidates who are living, interning and/or working in the following Oregon counties: Benton, Linn, Lincoln, Tillamook, Clatsop, or Columbia. To learn more, please contact Adrienne Peters, Project Manager at adrienne@nworegonworks.org
OTHER PSU RESOURCES:
OTHER PSU RESOURCES:
Get FREE pantry staples, diapers, and activity kits delivered to you at home! The RCSC is partnering with PSU Eats to provide this free resource to students with children and their families. Spots are limited so sign up now!
SSW Student Emergency Fund
The SSW provides assistance through the SSW Student Emergency Fund, where students may access a $150 gift via direct deposit or check by filling out a google request form. The SSW Student Emergency Fund is open to all students enrolled in the SSW who are experiencing financial hardship.SSW Veterans Emergency Fund
The SSW provides assistance through the SSW Veterans Emergency Fund, where students may access a $500 gift via direct deposit or check by filling out a google request form. The SSW Veterans Emergency Fund is open to all students enrolled in the SSW who are veterans and are experiencing financial hardship.SHAC: there are a variety of events and activities, including a daily Health Promotion Open House
-SHAC highlights include: Free Food Market, Free Dental Screening, Acupuncture, WHAT Hut, Mental Health Recess & Play
Employment/Volunteer Opportunities
Employment/Volunteer Opportunities
We post these opportunities on the SSW Employment and Volunteer pageas we hear of them.
PSU Career Center has drop-in hours Monday-Fridays 1-2pm, in FMH 342 or via zoom.
This winter, students have the opportunity to live on campus. To qualify, you must be enrolled in a least 8 undergraduate or 4 graduate courses.
Give a SHOUT OUT!
Let’s share our words of appreciation and gratitude for each other. A SHOUT OUT is intended to identify and recognize individuals.
School-Wide Communication
What is our plan?
We want to ensure that this is an open discussion where everyone feels heard. Student safety is our top priority. Please make sure to communicate any safety concerns with an instructor or administrator so we can keep the conversation open and address any issues together. Let's keep the conversation open. What does this mean? For example, letting us know why you can't attend class; family hardships, taking on extra responsibilities, mental health days, class attendance, virtual lessons, etc.
SSW Resource page
Immigration- Related Resources
When ICE is watching
QRC Resources
Update on Federal Troops and PSU’s Dedication to a Safe Campus
It’s a confusing and uncertain time in the world right now, and we want to remind you that Portland State University is a Sanctuary Campus. PSU is committed to protecting and supporting our community. Please stay in communication with your instructors and with your program (BSW, CYFS, HS). We encourage open conversation—ask questions, reach out, and let us know how we can assist you or connect you with resources. –Ms. Shawe, SSW Program Admin
Here is how PSU is preparing & communicating: "PSU remains a sanctuary campus, in a sanctuary city in a sanctuary state — our Campus Public Safety Officers will not collaborate with ICE officers. To learn more about what it means that PSU is a Sanctuary Campus, visit this information page. Please know there are resources available for students and employees who need help." – Ann Cudd, PSU President
Student resources and/or policies to keep in mind:
Inclusive Guide: Meetings, Events, and Conferences: PSU Inclusive Events Guide Meetings Events and Conferences (pdx.edu)
Scheduling Campus Events: Welcome to the Portland State University Campus Events & Student Union Facility Use Request Form (FY24) (google.com)
Free Speech & Protest Information: Student Life Resources - Free Speech & Protest Information (google.com)
Chalking and Posting Policy: https://www.pdx.edu/facilities/resources
Signage Policy: https://www.pdx.edu/construction/sites/campusplanning.web.wdt.pdx.edu/files/2020-08/Signage-and-Wayfinding-standards_9-20-19.pdf
Student Conduct: https://www.pdx.edu/dean-student-life/student-conduct
Bias Review Team: https://www.pdx.edu/diversity/bias-review-team (bias reporting; discrimination report)
Report abuse