We recently spoke with Maria Beam, Director of Social Work Programs at Oakland University (OU), to learn more about their initiatives aimed at strengthening the social work profession in Michigan. Through strategic partnerships and targeted scholarship programs, OU is helping to expand the workforce, provide financial support to students, and prepare future social workers for meaningful careers.
EasterSeals Workforce Expansion Initiative
One of OU’s most impactful programs is the EasterSeals Workforce Expansion Initiative, a collaboration with EasterSeals Michigan, one of the largest CMS providers in the state. This initiative, backed by a $1.5 million contract (2022–2025), provides:
10 annual scholarships, offering up to $30,000 for counseling students and full tuition coverage for students pursuing a Master of Social Work (MSW).
A hands-on internship with EasterSeals, ensuring students gain real-world experience.
A three-year employment contract for program participants upon graduation.
The program is highly competitive, with only 10 students selected per year from a pool of 60 applicants. Currently, 11 students are interning, and 10 have already secured employment through this initiative.
Beyond new students, the program also supports current EasterSeals employees by providing a 10% tuition discount at OU, allowing them to advance their education while continuing their careers.
MDHHS Scholarship Program for Social Work Employees
Oakland University is also collaborating with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) to provide scholarships to four MDHHS employees pursuing their Master’s degrees in social work. This initiative helps existing professionals gain advanced credentials, further strengthening Michigan’s social work infrastructure.
SMART Grant Program: Preparing Future School Social Workers
To address the shortage of school social workers in Michigan, OU participates in the SMART Grant Program, a $1.6 million grant funded by the Michigan Department of Education. Through this initiative, 23 OU students receive financial support to complete their degrees and enter the school social work field.
A unique aspect of this program is the inclusion of a dedicated coach who works closely with grant recipients. Unlike a traditional supervisor, this coach provides mentorship, encouragement, and skill-building support to help students transition into their careers successfully. Coaching topics include:
Stress management and coping strategies
Work-life balance
Client navigation and barrier mitigation
Burnout prevention and career fulfillment
By providing both financial assistance and ongoing professional guidance, the SMART Grant Program equips students with the tools they need to thrive in school social work.
Becoming a Title IV-E Institution: Expanding Child Welfare Career Pathways
Oakland University is on track to become a Title IV-E institution, joining the Michigan Title IV-E Child Welfare Fellowship. This prestigious program provides up to $20,000 in tuition assistance for students committed to pursuing a career in child welfare agencies.
Once approved, OU will join five other Michigan universities in this initiative:
Central Michigan University
Michigan State University
University of Michigan
Wayne State University
Western Michigan University
This designation will provide aspiring child welfare professionals with valuable financial assistance and a clear pathway into the field, further strengthening Michigan’s social work workforce.
Building a Stronger Social Work Workforce for Michigan
Oakland University’s social work initiatives are making a measurable impact by expanding access to education, providing hands-on experience, and offering financial support to students and working professionals alike. Through collaborations with EasterSeals, MDHHS, and the Michigan Department of Education, OU is equipping future social workers with the skills, experience, and support they need to succeed.
Learn More
For more information about innovative work happening in Michigan and nationwide, check out our database of healthcare workforce initiatives at www.mhc.org/initiatives.