Social work has become a global profession. The transnational nature of issues such as poverty, violence, and environmental degradation require a global perspective. Social workers need to look beyond their communities and national borders and find ways to connect with colleagues around issues of common concern. This program provides such opportunities.

The International Summer School at the University of Lapland in Rovaniemi, Finland enables students and professionals in social work and related human service fields to explore the meanings, practices and implications of social work from a global perspective. A multinational cohort of students and faculty create an enriching environment for expanding and deepening understanding of global issues and how social workers can work collaboratively to address them. Participants engage in lectures, small group discussions, agency visits, and informal interaction. They learn about issues and challenges faced by social workers in different parts of the world and innovative responses to them. In addition, participants have opportunities to travel throughout Finland learning about its progressive social welfare system and social work services and experiencing Finland’s environmental and cultural treasures.

For more information, see the Summer School webpages.