GATEKEEPING THROUGH TERMINATION OF UNSUITABLE SOCIAL-WORK STUDENTS - LEGAL ISSUES AND GUIDELINES

Social work educators are responsible for graduating professionals who are academically, behaviorally, and ethically suitable to practice as social workers. Studies have indicated that few students are terminated from undergraduate and graduate social work programs, a fact which might be due to fear of possible legal ramifications. In this legal study, the authors analyze relevant court cases related to academic and disciplinary dismissals of students, including those who are substance abusers. Termination guidelines are then provided to assist educators as they develop behavioral and ethical criteria and make the difficult decisions regarding student suitability.