The Use of Criminal Background Checks in Social Work Education

Abstract

This article reports the findings of an electronic survey regarding the use of criminal background checks, using a convenience sample with 119 BSW and 53 MSW programs responding. Requiring applicants or students to undergo a criminal background check was reported by 25% of BSW and 34% of MSW programs. An additional 66% of BSW programs and 57% of MSW programs reported that,although not a requirement of their programs, criminal background checks were required by some of their field agencies. A procedure for the use of criminal background check information was reported in only 7% of BSW and MSW programs. Safety and welfare of future clients, student privacy, and liability if background checks are not conducted were identified as the issues of greatest importance regarding criminal background checks in social work education. Implications for social work education policy and procedure are considered.