Representatives from FMDS-UPOU and DSWD collaborate to promote professional development through further education in the field of Social Work. 

(Source: DSWD Academy)

The Faculty of Management and Development Studies of UP Open University (FMDS-UPOU), in collaboration with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Academy, promoted further education and professional development in the field of Social Work through an online orientation program for the university’s Diploma in Social Work and Master of Social Work (D/MSW) programs.

Held on 19 May 2026, this collaborative effort with DSWD was themed “Advancing the Social Service Workforce: Orientation on UPOU Social Work Diploma and Postgraduate Programs.” With over 300 social workers and social welfare and development workers all over the country in attendance, many expressed interest in the accessible programs and the opportunity UPOU offers to broaden their professional backgrounds.

Assistant Secretary Janet P. Armas of the Regulatory Services and Institutional Development Group of DSWD opened the event. The FMDS-UPOU Dean Finaflor F. Taylan, who also serves as the D/MSW Program Chair, discussed the program overview, and FMDS Secretary and SW faculty, Lloyd Lyndel P. Symporios, discussed the admission requirements and procedures.

The two programs offered by UPOU-FMDS provide opportunities in Social Work, extending to those interested in pursuing licensure for professional practice in the field. Intended for non-social workers, the Diploma in Social Work (DSW) program consists of 33 units, providing both theoretical and practical foundations in Social Work.

Upon completion of the DSW program, learners may proceed to the Master of Social Work, a 36-39-unit program offering two tracks: thesis or comprehensive examination. To qualify for the Licensure Examination for Social Workers (LESW), non-BS Social Work degree holders must complete both the DSW and MSW programs. These programs provide 5 field instruction courses to satisfy the 1,000 hours for supervised fieldwork for LESW. On the other hand, BS Social Work degree holders may proceed directly to the MSW program for further professional education with three choices for specialization: clinical practice, social administration, and community organization.

This synergy between DSWD and FMDS-UPOU stemming from its partnership is more than an expansion of one’s career opportunities; it also provides accessible capacity-building programs and empowerment to work with the marginalized communities and structures towards social transformation.

Written by: Michaela Dorothy Castro • Edited by: Dina Mae Rejano & Finaflor F. Taylan

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