Code of Ethics
The Indiana University School of Social Work is committed to preparing ethical, competent, and professional social workers who uphold the values and standards of the profession in their academic work, practicum experiences, and future practice.
Students are expected to conduct themselves in a manner consistent with the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Code of Ethics, university policies, and the professional expectations of the School of Social Work.
The Code of Ethics serves as a guide for professional decision-making, ethical conduct, and accountability throughout a social worker's career.
Ethics and Professional Education
Professional social work education extends beyond the acquisition of knowledge and skills. Students are expected to develop the professional behaviors, ethical judgment, and self-awareness necessary for effective practice.
Ethical conduct is expected in:
- Classroom participation
- Written and scholarly work
- Relationships with peers
- Relationships with faculty and staff
- Practicum experiences
- Community engagement activities
- Research activities
- Use of technology and social media
Students should demonstrate behavior that reflects positively on themselves, the School of Social Work, their practicum sites, and the profession.
Core Values of Social Work
The social work profession is grounded in six core values that guide practice and professional behavior.
Service
Social workers use their knowledge, skills, and resources to help individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities address challenges and improve well-being.
Students are encouraged to approach their education and professional development with a commitment to service and community engagement.
Social Justice
Social workers seek to address barriers and conditions that negatively affect individuals, families, and communities.
Students are expected to demonstrate an understanding of the social, economic, environmental, and systemic factors that influence well-being and access to opportunity.
Dignity and Worth of the Person
Every person deserves respect, compassion, and recognition of their inherent value.
Students should treat classmates, faculty, staff, practicum instructors, clients, and community members with professionalism and respect.
Importance of Human Relationships
Relationships are central to social work practice and positive change.
Students are expected to develop effective communication skills, collaborate respectfully with others, and contribute positively to learning and professional environments.
Integrity
Integrity requires honesty, transparency, accountability, and ethical decision-making.
Students should:
- Present their work honestly
- Accept responsibility for their actions
- Follow professional standards
- Maintain trustworthiness in academic and practicum settings
Integrity is fundamental to both academic success and professional practice.
Competence
Social workers are responsible for continually developing their knowledge and skills.
Students are expected to:
- Participate actively in learning opportunities
- Accept feedback professionally
- Engage in self-reflection
- Seek assistance when needed
- Commit to lifelong learning
Professional Responsibilities as a Student
Students are expected to demonstrate professional behavior consistent with the standards of the profession.
Professional responsibilities include:
- Attending classes and practicum activities as scheduled
- Completing assignments and responsibilities on time
- Communicating respectfully and professionally
- Maintaining appropriate boundaries
- Responding constructively to feedback
- Following agency and university policies
- Protecting confidential information
- Representing the School and profession professionally
Professional expectations apply in face-to-face, online, hybrid, and practicum environments.
Ethical Decision-Making
Ethical questions arise throughout professional practice and education.
When faced with an ethical concern, students should:
- Identify the ethical issue.
- Review applicable policies and standards.
- Consult the NASW Code of Ethics.
- Seek guidance from appropriate faculty, advisors, or practicum personnel.
- Consider potential impacts on all parties involved.
- Document actions when appropriate.
- Reflect on outcomes and lessons learned.
Students are encouraged to seek consultation early when concerns arise.
Confidentiality and Privacy
Respect for privacy and confidentiality is a fundamental ethical obligation.
Students must safeguard information obtained through:
- Practicum activities
- Classroom discussions
- Research projects
- Service activities
- University records
Confidential information should not be disclosed unless permitted by law, policy, supervision, or educational requirements.
Additional guidance is available on the Confidentiality page.
Professional Boundaries
Social workers are expected to maintain appropriate professional boundaries.
Students should:
- Avoid conflicts of interest
- Recognize dual relationship concerns
- Maintain appropriate professional relationships
- Use professional judgment in all interactions
Professional boundary expectations apply in both in-person and digital environments.
Technology and Social Media
Professional standards extend to online communication and social media use.
Students should:
- Protect confidential information
- Maintain professional boundaries
- Use respectful communication
- Consider the permanence of online content
- Represent themselves professionally online
Online conduct that violates professional standards may result in academic or professional review.
Ethical Conduct in Practicum Education
Practicum education provides opportunities for students to apply ethical principles in professional settings.
Students are expected to:
- Follow agency policies
- Protect client confidentiality
- Demonstrate professionalism
- Maintain accurate documentation
- Seek supervision when needed
- Uphold the values of the profession
Failure to meet professional and ethical expectations may affect a student's academic standing, practicum performance, or continuation in the program.
When Ethical Concerns Arise
Students who have questions or concerns regarding ethical conduct should consult:
- Their instructor
- Academic advisor
- Program director
- Practicum instructor
- Faculty practicum liaison
- School administration
Seeking guidance is a sign of professional responsibility and supports ethical decision-making.
Additional Resources
National Association of Social Workers (NASW)
The NASW Code of Ethics provides the profession's primary framework for ethical practice and professional conduct.
School of Social Work Policies
Students are expected to follow all School of Social Work policies, handbook requirements, and University regulations.
Indiana University Student Code
University expectations regarding rights, responsibilities, and conduct apply to all students.