PCWCP Program
What is PCWCP?
The Public Child Welfare Certification Program (PCWCP) has been implemented by the Kentucky Cabinet for Families and Children and ten university undergraduate social work programs in order to better serve the children and families in this state. The goal of this program is to fill the ranks of Child Welfare Workers with the most competent and well-trained workers who can provide high quality services immediately following employment. The Cabinet has partnered with the Universities to offer Bachelor Social Work juniors and seniors their academic program in conjunction with participating in the Cabinet’s child welfare training curricula prior to graduation. These students are provided full instate tuition, a stipend and must complete a two year employment commitment with the Cabinet upon successful completion of this program.
Who is eligible?
To be eligible for this program, you must be a full-time BSW social work major. You must have:
• An overall cumulative GPA of 2.5.
• A cumulative GPA of 3.0 or a “B” average in all Social Work courses.
• At least three semesters and not more than four of undergraduate Social Work courses left to take.
• Have taken a Social Work practice course prior to taking the second of two PCWCP courses.
An application selection process is used to choose fulltime students each academic year at each of the participating universities.
What are the benefits?
There are numerous benefits to this program.
1. Your instate tuition will be paid in full (the Cabinet will pay tuition at private universities equal to the rate of the highest tuition at a participating public university) through this project for up to four semesters.
2. You will be given a $1300 per semester stipend for your books, living expenses and travel related to this program for four semesters.
3. Once you have completed this program and have graduated with at least a 3.0 GPA or a “B” average in your social work courses, you will be certified as having successfully completed the Public Child Welfare Certification Program and given priority for employment with the Cabinet for Families and Children.
What would my obligations be?
As a participant in this program you will be obligated, by contract, to the Cabinet for Families and Children. You will be expected to apply for employment within 1 month and accept a position with the Department for Community Based Services, in the Social Service Worker series, within six months of certification and remain employed there for two (2) years. If a participant does not meet these obligations or does not successfully complete the program, this may result in the forfeiture of all funds received and the reimbursement to the Cabinet for its costs.
Should I apply?
If you are interested in being a part of this exciting, unique program, ask yourself the following questions:
• Do I have the necessary GPA?
• Do I have at least three semesters and not more than four semesters remaining before graduation?
• Will I graduate within two years?
• Am I willing to work for the Department for Community Based Services, in the Social Service Worker series for two (2) years after I graduate?
• Do I have a positive, optimistic attitude toward working with families and children in crisis?
