Phi Alpha Honor Society

Xi Pi (ΞΠ) Chapter

Through Knowledge – The Challenge to Serve

The purpose of Phi Alpha Honor Society is to provide a closer bond among students of social work and promote humanitarian goals and ideals. Phi Alpha fosters high standards of education for social workers and invites into membership those who have attained excellence in scholarship and achievement in social work.

Qualifications for membership

All social work majors who meet the criteria outlined below may be eligible for consideration as a member of Phi Alpha and are invited to submit an application. An induction ceremony is held once a year for new members.

BASW requirements

  • Be and remain a declared social work major
  • Achieve junior status
  • Complete 9 quarter-hours of required social work courses
  • 3.5 GPA

MSW requirements

  • Complete one quarter of course work with a minimum of six social work credits
  • 3.75 GPA

Note: Xi Pi Chapter membership qualifications differ from the national minimum qualifications.

Minimum requirements for maintaining annual membership

  1. Attendance at two official Phi Alpha meetings
  2. Participation in online meetings and email newsgroup
  3. Participation in at least one Phi Alpha function (i.e., guest lectures, community service, conferences, etc.)

Benefits of membership

  • Becoming a member of a nationally recognized organization that supports high standards in social work education.
  • Being honored with a medallion, honor cords and/or a certificate prior to your graduation ceremony.
  • Participation in scholarly activities and social action events.
  • Working together with student colleagues and professors on social issues and creating a scholarly environment at the University of Washington Tacoma.
  • Identification in your resume or vitae as a Phi Alpha Honor Society member, which adds acknowledgement of academic excellence and open doors for professional success.

The Xi Pi Chapter is administered by student officers, consisting of president, vice president, secretary and treasurer. Students who believe they may be eligible for membership should review the chapter bylaws and constitution and submit an application for consideration.