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Social Work Practicum Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Build a strong foundation for a career in counseling, social work, marriage and family therapy, or ... Interns are responsible for coordinating required practicum or internship hours with their ...

Part Time Clinical Nursing Faculty

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$38.25 - $52.25/hr

The College of Health Professions also offers the Master in Public Health, Master of Social Work ... Community Health * Capstone Final Practicum * Fundamentals * Maternal Child * Mental Health

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Social Work Practicum information

See Iowa salary details

$12

$21

$34

How much do social work practicum jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for social work practicum in Iowa is $21.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.97 and $23.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a social work practicum?

A social work practicum is a supervised, hands-on learning experience that is part of a social work degree program. During the practicum, students work in real-world social service settings under the guidance of experienced professionals. This experience allows students to apply classroom knowledge to practice, develop essential skills, and gain exposure to different client populations. Practicums are usually required for graduation and are crucial for meeting licensing requirements in social work.

What kinds of support and supervision can I expect during a social work practicum?

During a Social Work Practicum, you will typically receive regular supervision from an experienced licensed social worker who oversees your progress, offers feedback, and helps you reflect on your experiences. Practicum students often participate in weekly supervision meetings, peer group discussions, and ongoing training sessions to enhance their skills. The work environment is usually collaborative, with opportunities to shadow professionals, engage in case discussions, and gradually take on more responsibility as your confidence grows. Access to resources, mentorship, and constructive feedback are key aspects to help you successfully transition from theory to practice.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a social work practicum student, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Social Work Practicum, you need foundational knowledge of social work theories, ethics, and intervention strategies, typically gained through coursework in a social work degree program. Familiarity with case management systems, documentation tools, and sometimes state-mandated reporting software is important. Strong interpersonal communication, empathy, and active listening skills help you build trust with clients and collaborate with supervisors and colleagues. These competencies are crucial for effective client support, ethical practice, and professional development in real-world social work settings.

What is the difference between Social Work Practicum vs Social Worker?

AspectSocial Work PracticumSocial Worker
CredentialsTypically enrolled in a social work program, may require academic prerequisitesRequires a degree (BSW or MSW) and state licensure
Work EnvironmentEducational setting, supervised field placementProfessional setting, independent case management
Employer & IndustryEducational institutions, internship sitesHospitals, social service agencies, community organizations
Search & Comparison IntentLearning experience, internship, field placementProfessional practice, employment, career development

In summary, a Social Work Practicum is an educational internship designed for students to gain practical experience, while a Social Worker is a licensed professional providing direct services. The practicum is part of training, whereas the social worker is a full-time practitioner in the field.

What are popular job titles related to Social Work Practicum jobs in Iowa?

For Social Work Practicum jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Social Work Practicum jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Social Work Practicum job openings:

Infographic showing various Social Work Practicum job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $43,945 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

Behavioral Health Adjunct Instructor-Part Time

Council Bluffs, IA • On-site

Iowa Western Community College
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 501 - 1,000 employees

$35 - $45/hr

Part-time

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Salary: $35.00 - $45.00 Hourly
Location : Council Bluffs, IA
Job Type: Regular, Part-Time
Division: Business and Community Education
Department: Continuing Education
Opening Date: 08/13/2026
Closing Date: 10/1/2026 11:59 PM Central
Description
The Behavioral Health Technician Instructor delivers high-quality instruction in behavioral health and wellness courses, preparing students for roles assisting individuals with mental health and behavioral needs. The instructor will design and deliver curriculum, assess student learning, support clinical and practicum experiences, and collaborate with academic leadership and community partners to align the program with workforce requirements.
Job Duties
  • Demonstrates IWCC's core mission, vision and values
  • Instruction and Curriculum Delivery
  • Teach classroom, lab, practicum, or hybrid courses related to behavioral health, mental health support, crisis response, therapeutic communication, and related competencies.
  • Develop, update, and implement lesson plans, syllabi, and instructional materials that align with program outcomes and state/national standards.
  • Use varied instructional methods to accommodate diverse learning styles and promote student success.
  • Prepare supplies as needed, for all classes at assigned locations.
  • Maintain the course records or testing records, to comply with campus regulations.
  • Student Assessment and Support
  • Coach students during record check evaluations with the Department of Human Services if needed.
  • Implement successful promotion and evaluation of all courses.
  • Maintain all course policies, attendance, grades, and skills records required by the college, the Department of Education and the Department of Inspections, Appeals & Licensure.
  • Assist with mentoring new instructors.
  • Ability to pass a background check
  • Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
Academic Credentials & Teaching Eligibility
  • Bachelor's degree or higher in Psychology, Behavioral Health, Social Work, Counseling, Human Services, or closely related field.
  • If the degree is outside the career technical field, at least 18 credit hours in behavioral health/related coursework or equivalent coursework.
  • Relevant professional experience in behavioral health settings (e.g., mental health services, community support, direct care) strongly preferred.
  • Ability to pass a background check

Work Experience & Professional Certification
  • Preferably 2+ years of relevant professional experience working with behavioral health clients or supporting behavior intervention plans.
  • Applicable professional credentials are highly desirable.

Instructional Skills & Competencies
  • Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with students from diverse backgrounds.
  • Experience with curriculum development and learning assessment.
  • Familiarity with Learning Management Systems (LMS)

Physical Demands
  • The employee frequently is required to sit for extended periods of time and use hands to operate computer keyboard, telephone and basic office equipment
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk and hear
  • Ability to drive company owned or personal vehicle.
  • Medium Work (lift 11-30)

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