The University of Kansas is starting a new program to address a shortage of social workers in western Kansas.
Data collected by the university's School of Social Welfare shows that fewer than 200 of the state's 4,000 licensed social workers live in the western half of the state.
Last month, the school launched a new yearlong Master of Social Work program based in western Kansas. It's the state's first such program west of Wichita.
Students will complete some work online. They'll also go to class every other weekend at either Fort Hays State University or Garden City Community College. Their instructors will be experienced local social workers.
University of Kansas faculty will set the curriculum and provide training.