Resources, events and traditions
Commencement
The Diana R. Garland School of Social Work (GSSW) participates in the Baylor Commencement ceremony each year, usually held in either the Ferrell Center or McLane Stadium. Specific details are forthcoming each year as the University finalizes details for each ceremony.
Walking - It is assumed that you will walk in the Commencement ceremony. If you are unable to attend then you must let the Registrar's office know by filling out the Non-Participation Form on the Commencement Website.
Diploma - You will receive your diploma during the Commencement ceremony as long as you filed at least 8 weeks prior to graduation. If you have filled out the non-participation form then your diploma will be mailed to you after the ceremony. This may take up to two weeks.
Transcript - An official transcript will be available after five business days from Academic Records. You may find more information regarding transcripts here.
Graduation Checklist for Prospective Graduates
- File to graduate
- BSW students will file to graduate in the fall semester preceding the spring semester during which they graduate. This will be done through advising. BSW students are not required to complete any additional paperwork,other than what is sent to them by the BSW Program Manager.
- MSW students file for graduation by submitting the Intent to Graduate Form. Please note that we need to know how to contact you in the upcoming semester. Don’t forget to also update your personal information on BearWeb.
- Ensure that all incomplete coursework and assignments are turned in one week prior to the last day of class (or by the deadline that your professor requires).
- Run a degree audit and confirm that all degree requirements are met.
- Respond to all graduation-related emails.
- Submit the student statement to Krista Barrett
- Purchase Regalia
- If you missed the one-stop shopping opportunity at Bear Faire, you can purchase your regalia at the bookstore. MDiv and MTS Joint Degree students can purchase Truett hood and wear master’s robe for Truett graduation.
- Although technically, the bachelor’s robes are not correct for the master’s degrees because of the cut of the sleeves, you will not be barred from participating in Convocation and Commencement just because you have the wrong robe on.
- The GSSW will provide the first stole at no cost. If for some reason you need a replacement, please contact Krista Barrett.
Capstone
The Capstone course is required of all graduating BSW and MSW students.
The BSW Capstone consists of a weekly seminar that focuses on the preparation and presentation of a professional portfolio of learning that is reflective of the social work curriculum, and on the entry of students into the social work profession.
The MSW Capstone consists of two weeks of four hours of class daily focusing on integration and synthesis of the major themes and objectives of the MSW program and on collegial consultation in preparation of a professional presentation delivered to the practice community.
Convocation
On the day preceding Baylor University's commencement exercises in May, the School of Social Work holds a Convocation ceremony to recognize and honor its graduates (including all campuses/all grad dates from that year). More intimate and much smaller than Baylor's commencement, this event is a joyous celebration with family and friends of our student's academic accomplishments. (Business dress)
Family Dinner
Not just another banquet, but more like a family reunion, this spring event celebrates another successful academic year where students, faculty, staff, BOA members and other friends enjoy a catered meal and presentations by student award recipients, and the School of Social Work Alumni of the Year. (Business dress)
Career Services
The GSSW offers Career Services to both students and alumni. Services such as resume reviews, interview prep, job opportunities and more. Check out the website here for more information.
Grace Table
An undertaking of the School's NASW-Baylor chapter, the Grace Table is located in the School's Student Lounge on the first-floor break area and provides light snacks for students to help nourish them throughout their busy days.
Student Representatives
Students have a rare opportunity in academic circles to participate in the School's academic, curricular and Board of Advocates committees, providing an important voice in the school's decision-making process. Students may indicate interest in committee service at the beginning of the academic year to their associate dean.
The Voice E-newsletter
The School of Social Work e-mails a newsletter every Monday to faculty, staff, students and pre-social work students with notices regarding academic, social, and events information. Submit your notices to The Voice by 5 p.m. on the Friday previous to the Monday it will be sent.