Skip to Main Content
Syracuse University Libraries

Social Work Practice: Resources for After Graduation

Social Work Practice

black and white photo of backs of peoples heads Source: https://blackwhite.pictures/image/music-blur-people-night-eiffel-tower-1784

Conducting Research After Graduation

Congratulations on Your Graduation!

As a Syracuse University graduate, you may have grown accustomed to the wealth of resources available through the Libraries. However, most publisher license agreements restrict online access to enrolled students, faculty, and staff. This limited access can pose challenges for practicing social workers, whose Code of Ethics emphasizes the importance of staying informed:

"Social workers should critically examine and keep current with emerging knowledge relevant to social work and fully use evaluation and research evidence in their professional practice."
NASW Code of Ethics, 5.02 Evaluation and Research, section c, 2021

additionally

"Social workers should contribute to the knowledge base of social work and share with colleagues their knowledge related to practice, research, and ethics.
NASW Code of Ethics, 5.01 Integrity of the Profession, section d, 2021

Fortunately, a variety of resources are available to support your research needs after graduation. Many of these are accessible online and include:

  • Open access journals and books

  • Association publications

  • Data

  • Government information

  • Agency reports

  • News sources and more

Use the tabs to the left to explore these different formats. Additionally, consider connecting with libraries in your area to access even more resources.

  • Public Libraries: Often free and may provide interlibrary loan services to help you obtain access to full text.

  • Academic Libraries: Many allow on-site research, though access policies may vary. Call ahead to confirm what services and materials are available.

Stay engaged, stay informed, and continue building your professional knowledge.