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A planning guide for a master’s in social work degree

Last updated: April 20, 2021

A master of social work (MSW) is highly sought after because the degree opens up professional options within the social welfare field.

IN THIS GUIDE

  • What you need to get an MSW?
  • Choosing the right MSW program
  • MSW degree requirements
  • MSW admissions
  • Career outlook
  • School listings
  • Expert advice

With an MSW, social work professionals can practice clinically in many different areas (this ranges from kids through geriatrics and from addition to marriage and family counseling). An MSW is also considered a strong cornerstone degree to pursue other social welfare-related opportunities such as management and administration.  

MSW-level professionals hold a variety of social work positions. Initially, most professionals will work as counselors, crisis staff, case managers, and other specialty positions in community mental health, public health, or medical social work. 

Later in their careers, many MSWs choose to go into private practice. Other MSW-level professionals will write policy, oversee programs, and do contract work at the state and federal level. MSW coursework prepares students to work with individuals as well as in administration for a large organization or agency upon graduation. 

What do you need to get an MSW?

Consider the future

While MSW degrees are often lumped together, there are many distinguishing characteristics between programs. Some MSW programs have a pronounced clinical focus, while others have more of an administrative or management focus. 

Complete prerequisites

The cost degree programs will vary slightly with regard to prerequisites. However, most social work graduate degree programs will have baseline requirements that look similar. The following prerequisites are standard: 

Undergraduate degree 

All MSW programs will require a bachelor’s degree unless the program is a BSW to MSW (bachelor of social work to master’s of social work) bridge program.

A bridge program is an accelerated program allowing the student to finish their BSW and go directly into an MSW program within the same university. The benefit is that students don’t need to go through the admissions process again.

Most standalone MSW degree programs require a bachelor’s degree in social science. Common examples include a bachelor of social work (BSW), bachelor of science in psychology or sociology (BS), and other popular humanities majors.

Most programs will require that applicants received their degree from an accredited undergraduate program.

Curriculum history  

Undergraduate experience should demonstrate basic math, sciences, history, and political science. Additionally, most MSW programs require completion of a statistics course or multiple courses within a certain number of years.

This is an important requirement because so much of understanding trends and data in the field is completed by research. During an MSW degree students are expected to complete research

Grade Point Average (GPA) 

All schools will likely have a required GPA that the applicant obtained during their undergraduate career. The average GPA that schools list on their application materials is somewhere between a 3.0 and 3.5

Graduate Record Examination scores (GRE) 

Some schools will require GRE scores that are current from within several years of the application date. The GRE is a standard test to ensure that applicants have a baseline understanding of academic writing, decision-making, and reading comprehension.

The GRE tests for an MSW generally include verbal reasoning, analytical writing, and quantitative reasoning. The scores for the verbal reasoning section range from 130-170, with competitive scores averaging from 158-162 points.

The scores for the analytical writing section range from 0-6, with competitive scores averaging 4.5. Finally, the scores for the quantitative reasoning section range from 130-170, with competitive scores averaging from 159-164 points. Potential students should aim for these scores or higher. 

Seven steps to help identify potential MSW degree programs

After getting the background steps out of the way, it’s time to focus on more specific master of social work program details. Some of the more important things to think about include:

  1. Location – Do you have to move to enroll in your preferred program? If you answer no, have you checked out online MSW programs? 
  2. Cost – Some programs will be more expensive than others based on the status of the university being either private or public — and the overall amount of financial assistance available. 
  3. Program focus – Does the focus area of the program align with your overall career interests. For example, some programs will focus heavily on child welfare while others might focus heavily on medical social work.  
  4. Requirements for admission – Admission requirements vary school-by-school, so its best to make a checklist.
  5. Length of program – Different programs will require differing levels of participation. Full-time participation for two years is standard for many degree programs and others will allow for part-time participation for three to four years. 
  6. Acceptance rate – It can take applying to several different schools and programs before getting accepted into an MSW program. So make sure and set reasonable expectations about getting into a social work graduate school program. Luckily, admission rates and the data is usually available from each school to help with expectation setting. According to 2015 data from the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), the acceptance rate into a master’s program is higher than into a Ph.D. program. Data from 2015 indicated that 45,640 people had applied nationally to an MSW program and 29,793 applicants were granted admission (CSWE, 2015). It is likely that the increasing need for social workers in recent years will drive an increase in MSW program applicants. Of course, top-ranked schools can have very low acceptance rates. For example, the University of California at Berkeley is ranked among the top 10 schools nationally and had an acceptance rate of 27.5 percent in 2015 (MSW Programs, 2020). 
  7. Ranking — Not all MSW programs are created equal. Check out the rankings for degree programs over the past few years. 

Understand MSW degree requirements

Just as some programs have different prerequisite requirements than others, the degree completion requirements also vary from school-to-school. The MSW program at the University of Washington, for example, does not have a thesis requirement (while many MSW programs do). Instead, the University of Washington’s program requires a capstone project.

Another place where schools differ is that some require social work research-related courses to complete an MSW. While others do not.

Core MSW classes will include a historical perspective of social work, policy courses, behavioral health and assessing/diagnosing courses, individual, group, and family counseling courses, research courses, and the chosen electives based. 

Understand the admission requirements and process

Most universities have similar admission requirements for an MSW application. These could include the following but are subject to change depending on the chosen university for application: 

  1. Transcripts from previous universities/colleges showing proof of completion of all pre-requisite courses and grade point average
  2. Letters of recommendation from previous professors and/or employers
  3. Completion of a personal statement or essay indicating why the potential student wants to earn a master of social work degree and what life experiences brought them to this application
  4. Completion of a personal statement or essay indicating why the potential student is a good fit for that specific university’s degree program
  5. Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores for many programs

Universities will have very specific timelines regarding when applications are due. Most will be approximately nine months to one year prior to the start of the program.

It can take universities many months to accept or deny potential students. Some students may be given a preliminary acceptance letter that will become a full acceptance after completion of additional prerequisites (for example a more recent statistics course). 

Generally upon receiving an acceptance letter, there will be a timeline for accepting or denying the place in the MSW program. 

Once you accept an offer to join a program, there is usually an orientation component, which will allow you to meet your advisor, program professors, and other students.

Because there will be a practicum course eventually where students will be required to work under supervision with community members, they will also likely to complete a health physical, ensure proof of vaccinations, and receive a flu shot. These requirements will change depending on the specific program as well. 

Increasing the chances for MSW admission

If you know what university or universities you are interested in applying to, there are several common strategies for increasing the chances of getting accepted. 

Meet with an advisor or program students to ask questions

Meeting with the advisors at the university is an incredible way to understand the program’s ideal student profile. This information will allow you to tailor your application materials, especially with things like the personal statement and essays. Additionally, previous students will be able to offer inside information about the application process and what might stand out. 

Retake classes

It can be helpful for some students who do not have stellar GPA scores to retake a few classes to increase their GPA. If you fall into this group, retaking select course could increase your chances of acceptance.

Enroll in a GRE study program

Good GRE scores are of the cornerstone of a strong admissions application. Because it is a difficult and expensive test to take, enrolling in a study course or paying for private study from a professional is an incredible way to boost GRE score results. 

Tuition cost

According to the National Center for Education Services, the average cost of an MSW degree per year at public universities is $13,800.00 (Cost Helper, 2020). The average cost per year at a private university is $36,000.00. You also need to include the cost of textbooks as well as account for any time they may have to take off from work to complete their degree. For example, during practicum requirements it becomes difficult to work full-time because you may have to complete 10 to 20 hours per week of practicum hours that are usually unpaid. 

Social work career outlook

There is currently a great demand for social workers as the baby boomer generation continues to age. This segment of our population will require social work services at high rates. There is also a crisis nationally with homelessness, substance use, disability, and mental health supports that are needed. 

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (2018), between 2016 and 2026 the number of social work jobs added to the workforce will be 109,700 jobs overall. This shows a 16 percent growth rate in the upcoming years. (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2018). 

Because of these factors, social workers finishing school should expect to find employment rather quickly. While community health work and public health work like this may not pay extremely well, generally the benefits are great. Because an individual with an MSW can earn licensure to independently practice counseling, there is an opportunity to launch a private practice, where clinicians generally may very good salaries for themselves. According to 2017 data, the average social worker salary was $47,980.00.

CHECK OUT OUR CAREER RESOURCE SECTION FOR MORE DETAILS

Future social workers will be able to support and help individuals in all different life situations. Social workers service patients across the lifespan: from birth until death. This makes the profession one that is both satisfying and readily available for employment. Because the need for social workers is expected to grow so much, choosing the right program becomes necessary for future professionals. 

Master’s in Social Work Programs

SchoolLocationProgram Name
Abilene Christian UniversityAbilene, TexasMaster of Science in Social Work
Adelphi UniversityGarden City, New YorkMaster’s in Social Work
Alabama A & M UniversityHuntsville, AlabamaMaster of Social Work
Alabama A&M UniversityNormal, AlabamaMaster of Social Work
Alabama State UniversityMontgomery, AlabamaMaster of Social Work
Albany State UniversityAlbany, GeorgiaMaster of Social Work
Alvernia UniversityReading, PennsylvaniaMaster of Social Work
Andrews UniversityBerrien Springs, MichiganMaster of Social Work
Anna Maria CollegePaxton, MassachusettsMaster of Social Work
Appalachian State UniversityBoone, North CarolinaMaster of Social Work
Arizona State UniversityPhoenix, ArizonaMaster of Social Work
Arkansas State UniversityJonesboro, ArkansasMaster of Science in Social Work
Arkansas State University-Main CampusJonesboro, ArkansasMaster of Science in Social Work (M.S.W.)
Asbury UniversityWilmore, KentuckyMaster’s in Social Work
Auburn UniversityAuburn, AlabamaMaster of Social Work
Aurora University (George Williams College)Aurora, IllinoisMaster of Social Work – Advanced Standing
Azusa Pacific UniversityAzusa, CaliforniaMaster of Social Work
Ball State UniversityMuncie, IndianaMaster of Social Work
Barry UniversityMiami Shores, FloridaMaster of Social Work
Baylor UniversityWaco, TexasMaster of Social Work
Binghamton UniversityBinghamton, New YorkSocial Work (MSW)
Binghamton University, State University of New YorkBinghamton, New YorkMaster of Social Work
Boise State UniversityBoise, IdahoMaster of Social Work
Boston CollegeChestnut Hill, MassachusettsMaster of Social Work
Boston UniversityBoston, MassachusettsMaster of Social Work
Bowling Green State UniversityBowling Green, OhioMaster of Social Work
Brandman UniversityIrvine, CaliforniaMaster of Social Work
Bridgewater State UniversityBridgewater, MassachusettsMaster of Social Work
Brigham Young UniversityProvo, UtahMaster of Social Work
Brigham Young University-ProvoProvo, UtahMaster of Social Work
Bryn Mawr CollegeBryn Mawr, PennsylvaniaMaster of Social Service
California Baptist UniversityRiverside, CaliforniaMaster of Social Work
California State University, BakersfieldBakersfield, CaliforniaMaster of Social Work
California State University, ChicoChico, CaliforniaMaster of Social Work
California State University, Dominguez HillsCarson, CaliforniaMaster of Social Work
California State University, FresnoFresno, CaliforniaMasters in Social Work
California State University, FullertonFullerton, CaliforniaMasters of Social Work
California State University, Long BeachLong Beach, CaliforniaMasters of Social Work
California State University, Los AngelesLos Angeles, CaliforniaMasters of Social Work Advanced Standing
California State University, Monterey BaySeaside, CaliforniaMaster of Social Work
California State University, NorthridgeNorthridge, CaliforniaMaster of Social Work
California State University, SacramentoSacramento, CaliforniaMaster of Social Work
California State University, San BernardinoSan Bernardino, CaliforniaMaster of Social Work
California State University, San MarcosSan Marcos, CaliforniaMaster of Social Work
California State University, StanislausTurlock, CaliforniaMaster of Social Work
California State University-BakersfieldBakersfield, CaliforniaMSW Program
California State University-ChicoChico, CaliforniaMSW in Social Work
California State University-Dominguez HillsDominguez Hills, CaliforniaMaster of Social Work
California State University-East BayHayward, CaliforniaSocial Work (MSW)
California State University-FresnoFresno, CaliforniaMaster of Social Work
California State University-FullertonFullerton, CaliforniaMaster of Social Work
California State University-Long BeachLong Beach, CaliforniaMaster of Social Work (MSW)
California State University-Los AngelesLos Angeles, CaliforniaMaster of Social Work – Advanced Standing
California State University-Monterey BayMonterey, CaliforniaMaster of Social Work
California State University-NorthridgeNorthridge, CaliforniaMaster of Social Work
California State University-SacramentoSacramento, CaliforniaMSW Program
California State University-San BernardinoSan Bernardino, CaliforniaMaster of Social Work
California State University-San MarcosSan Marcos, CaliforniaMaster of Social Work
California State University-StanislausStanislaus, CaliforniaMaster of Social Work
California University of PennsylvaniaCalifornia, PennsylvaniaMaster of Social Work
Campbellsville UniversityCampbellsville, KentuckyMasters of Social Work
Carlow UniversityPittsburgh, PennsylvaniaMaster of Social Work
Case Western Reserve UniversityCleveland, OhioMaster’s in Social Work
Catholic University of AmericaWashington, District of ColumbiaMaster of Social Work
Chicago State UniversityChicago, IllinoisMaster of Social Work
Clark Atlanta UniversityAtlanta, GeorgiaMaster of Social Work
Clarke UniversityDubuque, IowaMaster of Social Work
Cleveland State UniversityCleveland, OhioMaster of Social Work
College of Saint RoseAlbany, New YorkMaster of Science in Social Work
College of Saint ScholasticaDuluth, MinnesotaMaster of Social Work
College of Staten IslandStaten Island, New YorkMaster of Social Work
College of Staten Island CUNYStaten Island, New YorkMSW Program
Colorado State UniversityFort Collins, ColoradoMaster of Social Work
Colorado State University-Fort CollinsFort Collins, ColoradoSocial Work (M.S.W.)
Colorado State University-PuebloPueblo, ColoradoMaster of Social Work
Columbia UniversityNew York, New YorkMaster of Social Work
Concordia University WisconsinMequon, WisconsinMaster of Social Work
CUNY Graduate School and University CenterNew York City, New YorkMSW Program
CUNY Hunter CollegeNew York City, New YorkMSW Program
CUNY Lehman CollegeNew York City, New YorkSocial Work M.S.W. Program
CUNY York CollegeNew York City, New YorkMSW Program
Daemen CollegeAmherst, New YorkMaster of Social Work
Delaware State UniversityDover, DelawareMaster of Social Work
DePaul UniversityChicago, IllinoisMaster of Social Work
Dominican UniversityRiver Forest, IllinoisMaster of Social Work
East Carolina UniversityGreenville, North CarolinaMaster of Social Work
East Tennessee State UniversityJohnson City, TennesseeMaster of Social Work
Eastern Michigan UniversityYpsilanti, MichiganMaster’s in Social Work
Edinboro University of PennsylvaniaEdinboro, PennsylvaniaMaster of Social Work
Erikson InstituteChicago, IllinoisMaster of Social Work
Fairfield UniversityFairfield, ConnecticutMaster of Social Work
Fayetteville State UniversityFayetteville, North CarolinaMaster of Social Work
Ferris State UniversityBig Rapids, MichiganMaster of Social Work
Florida Agricultural and Mechanical UniversityTallahassee, FloridaMaster of Social Work
Florida Atlantic UniversityBoca Raton, FloridaMaster of Social Work
Florida Gulf Coast UniversityFort Myers, FloridaMaster of Social Work
Florida International UniversityMiami, FloridaMaster of Social Work
Florida State UniversityTallahassee, FloridaMaster of Social Work
Fordham UniversityNew York, New YorkMaster of Social Work
Gallaudet UniversityWashington, District of ColumbiaMaster of Social Work
George Fox UniversityNewberg, OregonMaster of Social Work
George Mason UniversityFairfax, VirginiaMaster of Social Work
Georgia State UniversityAtlanta, GeorgiaSocial Work, M.S.W.
Governors State UniversityUniversity Park, IllinoisMaster of Social Work
Grambling State UniversityGrambling, LouisianaGraduate Social Work
Grand Canyon UniversityPhoenix, ArizonaMaster of Social Work
Grand Valley State UniversityGrand Rapids, MichiganMaster of Social Work
Hawai`i Pacific UniversityKaneohe, HawaiiMaster of Social Work degree program
Hawaii Pacific UniversityHonolulu, HawaiiMaster of Social Work Degree
Howard UniversityWashington, District of ColumbiaMaster of Social Work
Humboldt State UniversityArcata, CaliforniaMaster of Social Work
Hunter College, City University of New YorkNew York, New YorkMaster of Social Work
Idaho State UniversityPocatello, IdahoMaster of Social Work
Illinois State UniversityNormal, IllinoisMaster of Social Work
Indiana State UniversityTerre Haute, IndianaMaster of Social Work
Indiana UniversityIndianapolis, IndianaMaster of Social Work
Indiana University-BloomingtonBloomington, IndianaMaster of Social Work
Indiana University-Purdue University-IndianapolisIndianapolis, IndianaMaster of Social Work
Jackson State UniversityJackson, MississippiMaster of Social Work
Johnson C Smith UniversityCharlotte, North CarolinaMaster of Social Work
Johnson C. Smith UniversityCharlotte, North CarolinaMaster of Social Work
Kean UniversityUnion, New JerseyMaster of Social Work
Kennesaw State UniversityKennesaw, GeorgiaMaster of Social Work
Keuka CollegeKeuka Park, New YorkMaster of Social Work
Kutztown UniversityKutztown, PennsylvaniaMaster of Social Work
La Salle UniversityPhiladephia, PennsylvaniaMaster of Social Work
Lehman College, City University of New YorkBronx, New YorkMaster’s of Social Work
Lewis UniversityRomeoville, IllinoisMaster of Social Work
Loma Linda UniversityLoma Linda, CaliforniaSocial Work (MSW)
Long Island UniversityBrookville, New YorkMaster of Social Work (MSW)
Long Island University Post and Long Island University Brooklyn CollaborativeBrookville, New YorkMaster of Social Work
Louisiana CollegePineville, LouisianaMaster of Social Work
Louisiana State University and A&M CollegeBaton Rouge, LouisianaMaster of Social Work Program Baton Rouge Campus
Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical CollegeBaton Rouge, LouisianaMSW Program
Loyola University ChicagoChicago, IllinoisMaster of Social Work/Master of Arts in Social Justice
Madonna UniversityLivonia, MichiganMaster of Social Work
Marshall UniversityHuntington, West VirginiaMaster of Social Work
Marywood UniversityScranton, PennsylvaniaMaster of Social Work
Metropolitan State University of DenverDenver, ColoradoMaster of Social Work
Miami UniversityOxford, OhioMaster of Arts in Social Work
Miami University-OxfordOxford, OhioMasters of Arts in Social Work
Michigan State UniversityEast Lansing, MichiganMaster of Social Work
Middle Tennessee State UniversityMurfreesboro, TennesseeSocial Work, M.S.W.
Millersville University of PennsylvaniaMillersville, PennsylvaniaMaster of Social Work
Millersville University of Pennsylvania and Shippensburg University CollaborativeShippensburg, PennsylvaniaMaster of Social Work
Minnesota State University, MankatoMankato, MinnesotaMaster of Social Work
Minnesota State University-MankatoMankato, MinnesotaMaster of Social Work
Mississippi Valley State UniversityItta Bena, MississippiMaster of Social Work Advanced Standing
Missouri State University-SpringfieldSpringfield, MissouriMaster of Social Work
Monmouth UniversityWest Long Branch, New JerseyMaster of Social Work
Montclair State UniversityMontclair, New JerseyMaster of Social Work
Morgan State UniversityBaltimore, MarylandMaster of Social Work
Nazareth CollegeRochester, New YorkMaster of Social Work Program
Nazareth College of RochesterRochester, New YorkMaster of Social Work
New Mexico Highlands UniversityAlbuquerque, New MexicoMaster of Social Work
New Mexico State UniversityLas Cruces & Albuquerque, New MexicoMaster of Social Work
New York UniversityNew York, New YorkMaster of Social Work
Newman UniversityWichita, KansasMaster of Social Work
Norfolk State UniversityNorfolk, VirginiaMaster of Social Work
North Carolina A&T State UniversityGreensboro, North CarolinaJoint MSW Social Work
North Carolina Central UniversityDurham, North CarolinaMaster of Social Work
North Carolina State UniversityRaleigh, North CarolinaMaster of Social Work
North Carolina State University at RaleighRaleigh, North CarolinaMSW Program
Northcentral UniversityLa Jolla, CaliforniaMaster of Social Work
Northeastern Illinois UniversityChicago, IllinoisMaster’s in Social Work
Northeastern State UniversityTahlequah, OklahomaSocial Work, M.S.W.
Northern Kentucky UniversityHighland Heights, KentuckyMaster of Social Work
Northern Michigan UniversityMarquette, MichiganMaster of Social Work
Northwest Nazarene UniversityNampa, IdahoMaster of Social Work
Nyack CollegeNyack, New YorkMasters in Social Work
Ohio State UniversityColumbus, OhioMSW
Ohio UniversityAthens, OhioMSW Program
Our Lady of the Lake UniversitySan Antonio, TexasMaster of Social Work
Pacific UniversityEugene, OregonMaster of Social Work
Park UniversityParkville, MissouriMaster of Social Work
Portland State UniversityPortland, Central Oregon, OregonMaster of Social Work
Purdue University Fort WayneFort Wayne, IndianaMaster of Social Work
Quinnipiac UniversityHamden, ConnecticutMaster of Social Work
Radford UniversityRadford, VirginiaMaster of Social Work
Ramapo College of New JerseyMahwah, New JerseyMaster of Social Work
Rhode Island CollegeProvidence, Rhode IslandMaster of Social Work
Roberts Wesleyan CollegeRochester, New YorkMaster of Social Work
Rutgers University-New BrunswickNew Brunswick, New JerseyMaster of Social Work (M.S.W.)
Sacred Heart UniversityFairfield, ConnecticutMaster of Social Work
Saginaw Valley State UniversityUniversity Center, MichiganMaster of Social Work
Saint Ambrose UniversityDavenport, IowaMaster of Social Work – MSW
Saint Cloud State UniversitySt. Cloud, MinnesotaMaster of Social Work (M.S.W.)
Saint Louis UniversitySt. Louis, MissouriMaster of Social Work
Salem State UniversitySalem, MassachusettsMaster of Social Work
Salisbury UniversitySalisbury, North East, California, Hagerstown, & Wye Mills, MarylandMaster of Social Work
Samford UniversityBirmingham, AlabamaMaster of Social Work
San Diego State UniversitySan Diego, CaliforniaMaster of Social Work
San Francisco State UniversitySan Francisco, CaliforniaMaster’s of Social Work
San Jose State UniversitySan Jose, CaliforniaMasters of Social Work
Savannah State UniversitySavannah, GeorgiaMaster of Social Work
Seattle UniversitySeattle, WashingtonMaster of Social Work
Seton Hall UniversitySouth Orange, New JerseyMaster of Social Work Advanced Standing
Shippensburg University of PennsylvaniaShippensburg, PennsylvaniaMaster of Social Work
Simmons UniversityBoston, MassachusettsMaster’s in Social Work
Smith CollegeNorthampton, MassachusettsMaster of Social Work
Southeastern UniversityLakeland, FloridaMaster of Social Work – M.S.W.
Southern Adventist UniversityCollegedale, TennesseeMaster of Social Work
Southern Connecticut State UniversityNew Haven, ConnecticutMaster of Social Work
Southern Illinois University CarbondaleCarbondale, IllinoisMaster of Social Work
Southern Illinois University EdwardsvilleEdwardsville, IllinoisMaster of Social Work
Southern Illinois University-CarbondaleCarbondale, IllinoisMaster of Social Work
Southern Illinois University-EdwardsvilleEdwardsville, IllinoisMaster of Social Work
Southern University at New OrleansNew Orleans, LouisianaMaster of Social Work
Spalding UniversityLouisville, KentuckyMaster of Social Work
Spring Arbor UniversitySpring Arbor, MichiganMaster of Social Work
Springfield CollegeSpringfield, MassachusettsMaster of Social Work
St. Ambrose UniversityDavenport, IowaMaster of Social Work
St. Catherine UniversitySt. Paul, MinnesotaMaster of Social Work
St. Cloud State UniversitySt. Cloud, MinnesotaMaster of Social Work
State University of New York at Stony BrookStony Brook, New YorkMaster of Social Work
Stephen F Austin State UniversityNacogdoches, TexasSocial Work, M.S.W.
Stephen F. Austin State UniversityNacogdoches, TexasMaster of Social Work
Stockton UniversityGalloway, New JerseyMaster of Social Work
Stony Brook UniversityStony Brook, New YorkMaster of Social Work
SUNY at AlbanyAlbany, New YorkMaster of Social Work
SUNY College at BrockportBrockport, New YorkSocial Work (MSW)
Syracuse UniversitySyracuse, New YorkMaster of Social Work
Tarleton State UniversityStephenville, Waco, and Fort WorthMaster of Social Work
Temple UniversityPhiladelphia, PennsylvaniaMaster of Social Work
Tennessee State UniversityNashville, TennesseeMaster of Social Work
Texas A & M University-CommerceCommerce, TexasMSW – Social Work
Texas A & M University-KingsvilleKingsville, TexasMaster of Social Work
Texas A&M University-CommerceCommerce, TexasMaster of Social Work
Texas A&M University-KingsvilleKingsville, TexasClinical/Activist Master in Social Work
Texas Christian UniversityFort Worth, TexasMaster of Social Work
Texas State UniversitySan Marcos, TexasMaster of Social Work
Texas Tech UniversityLubbock, TexasMaster of Social Work
Texas Woman’s UniversityDenton, TexasMaster of Social Work
The College of Saint ScholasticaDuluth, MinnesotaMaster of Social Work Degree
Touro CollegeNew York, New YorkMaster of Social Work
Troy UniversityTroy, AlabamaMasters of Social Work
Tulane UniversityNew Orleans, LouisianaMaster’s Degree in Social Work
Tulane University of LouisianaNew Orleans, LouisianaMaster of Social Work
Union UniversityJackson, TennesseeMaster of Social Work
University at Albany, State University of New YorkAlbany, New YorkMaster’s in Social Work
University at Buffalo, State University of New YorkBuffalo, New YorkMaster of Social Work
University of AkronAkron, OhioMaster of Social Work
University of AlabamaTuscaloosa, AlabamaMaster of Social Work
University of Alabama at BirminghamBirmingham, AlabamaMaster of Social Work
University of Alaska, AnchorageAnchorage, AlaskaMaster of Social Work
University of ArkansasFayetteville, ArkansasMaster of Social Work
University of Arkansas at Little RockLittle Rock, ArkansasMaster of Social Work
University of California at BerkeleyBerkeley, CaliforniaConcurrent Degree in Social Welfare and Public Policy (MSW/MPP)
University of California at Los AngelesLos Angeles, CaliforniaMaster of Social Welfare
University of California-BerkeleyBerkeley, CaliforniaMaster of Social Work (MSW)
University of California-Los AngelesLos Angeles, CaliforniaMaster of Social Work (MSW)
University of Central FloridaOrlando, FloridaMaster of Social Work
University of ChicagoChicago, IllinoisMaster’s Program in Social Work and Social Welfare
University of CincinnatiCincinnati, OhioMaster of Social Work
University of Cincinnati-Main CampusCincinnati, OhioMaster of Social Work
University of ConnecticutHartford, ConnecticutMaster’s of Social Work
University of DenverDenver, ColoradoMaster of Social Work
University of GeorgiaAthens, GeorgiaMaster of Social Work
University of Hawai’i at ManoaHonolulu, HawaiiMasters of Social Work
University of HoustonHouston, TexasMaster of Social Work | Face to Face
University of Illinois at ChicagoChicago, IllinoisMaster of Social Work
University of Illinois at Urbana-ChampaignUrbana, IllinoisMaster of Social Work
University of IndianapolisIndianapolis, IndianaMaster of Social Work
University of IowaIowa City, Des Moines, Sioux City, Quad Cities, IowaMaster of Social Work
University of KansasLawrence, KansasJoint Degree Program in Social Work and Law
University of KentuckyLexington, KentuckyMaster of Social Work
University of LouisvilleLouisville, KentuckyMaster of Science in Social Work
University of MaineOrono, MaineMaster of Social Work
University of Maryland BaltimoreBaltimore, MarylandMaster of Social Work
University of MemphisMemphis, TennesseeMaster of Social Work
University of MichiganAnn Arbor, MichiganMaster of Social Work
University of Michigan-Ann ArborAnn Arbor, MichiganMaster of Social Work
University of Minnesota-DuluthDuluth, MinnesotaMaster of Social Work
University of Minnesota-Twin CitiesSt. Paul, MinnesotaMaster of Social Work
University of MississippiOxford, MississippiMaster of Social Work
University of MissouriColumbia, MissouriMaster of Social Work
University of Missouri-ColumbiaColumbia, MissouriMSW Program
University of Missouri-Kansas CityKansas City, MissouriMaster of Social Work
University of Missouri-St LouisSt. Louis, MissouriMaster of Social Work
University of Missouri-St. LouisSt. Louis, MissouriMaster of Social Work
University of MontanaMissoula, MontanaMaster of Social Work
University of Nebraska at OmahaOmaha, NebraskaMaster of Social Work
University of Nevada, Las VegasLas Vegas, NevadaMaster of Social Work
University of Nevada, RenoReno, NevadaMaster of Social Work
University of Nevada-Las VegasLas Vegas, NevadaMaster of Social Work
University of New EnglandPortland, MaineMaster of Social Work
University of New HampshireDurham, New HampshireMaster of Social Work
University of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel Hill, North CarolinaMaster of Social Work
University of North Carolina at CharlotteCharlotte, North CarolinaMaster of Social Work
University of North Carolina at GreensboroGreensboro, North CarolinaSocial Work, M.S.W.
University of North Carolina at PembrokePembroke, North CarolinaMaster of Social Work
University of North Carolina at WilmingtonWilmington, North CarolinaMaster of Social Work
University of North Carolina WilmingtonWilmington, North CarolinaMaster’s of Social Work (M.S.W.)
University of North DakotaGrand Forks, North DakotaMaster of Social Work
University of North FloridaJacksonville, FloridaMaster of Social Work
University of North TexasDenton, TexasSocial Work (M.S.W) – Joint Program
University of North Texas & Texas Women’s University CollaborativeDenton, TexasTexas Woman’s University – University of North Texas Joint Degree
University of Northern IowaCedar Falls, IowaMaster of Social Work
University of OklahomaNorman, OklahomaMaster of Social Work
University of Oklahoma-Norman CampusNorman, OklahomaMaster of Social Work
University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphia, PennsylvaniaMaster of Social Work
University of PittsburghPittsburgh, PennsylvaniaMaster’s Degree in Social Work
University of Saint JosephWest Hartford, ConnecticutMaster of Social Work
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Expert advice for aspiring graduate students

  1. What are the most important factors when deciding on an MSW program?
  2. How can students best prepare for an MSW program?
  3. How has the recent pandemic changed your MSW program?

Timothy Hilton
Professor of social work at Eastern Washington University
Read More
Dawn DeBiase
MSW program director, Fairfield University
Read More
Robin Bonifas
Professor and chair of the social work department, Indiana State University
Read More
Harry Russell
Associate professor of social work, Southern University at New Orleans
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Cathy McElderry
Social work department chair and professor, Middle Tennessee State University
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Timothy Hilton

Professor of social work at Eastern Washington University

What are the most important factors when deciding on an MSW program?

In my opinion, the most important considerations when deciding on an MSW program are future employment prospects and level of faculty engagement. If I were applying to an MSW program, I would want to know that the program will prepare me for the type of career that I am interested in pursuing. I would want to make sure that the program had relationships with employers in the area I would like to work. I would also look closely at potential field placement opportunities to ensure that I would be able to have the types of experiences that would allow me to obtain the types of jobs I wanted.

I would also seek out a program where I had the opportunity to get to know the faculty and where faculty would get to know me as well. Having close working relationships with faculty can really help when you are looking for a job. They can offer good advice, references and job leads.

How can students best prepare for an MSW program?

Most MSW programs do not have specific training or educational requirements for admissions. It is important to do well in whatever undergraduate program you pursue. Students with some social sciences background may have a slight advantage over other students in the first year of an MSW program, but this is not necessary for success. It always helps to have strong writing skills. It also helps to have at least some exposure to human services practice. Having an undergraduate internship or doing some volunteer work in your community can help give students some points of reference that make the MSW program easier.

How has the recent pandemic changed your MSW program?

The MSW program in which I teach has had to make several adjustments during the pandemic. All of our courses have moved online (until Fall 2021). Many students have had disruptions to their field placements and several students are completing field placement hours online. Many of our students have had personal challenges during the pandemic — financial and employment issues, health concerns, and family and childcare stressors. Our faculty are sensitive to our students and we are as supportive as possible while also upholding graduate program standards. Everyone is working very hard, students, faculty and staff. We are all looking forward to a return to more normal times. We have also learned a lot about the importance of human relationships and grace.

Dawn DeBiase

MSW program director, Fairfield University

What are the most important factors for students deciding on an MSW program?

Prospective MSW students need to be searching for a vocation, not just a job that issues a paycheck. The field of social work demands that its professionals be committed to human relationships, a curiosity for and a commitment to work with traditionally marginalized and oppressed populations, a sense of humility and eagerness to learn, to receive feedback, and to be reflective. It is important to note that there is no “prescribed” undergraduate major which is required for the MSW. Fairfield’s Program attracts students from a wide range of undergraduate majors – finance, marketing, international business, communication, sociology, to name just a few. You don’t HAVE to major in social work or psychology to be a candidate for an MSW program.

How can students best prepare for an MSW program?

Getting some “real world” experience in the human service field is important. While it’s not “essential” to have practical experience working with clients to earn your MSW, it’s important to have a sense of whether or not you’d find the work satisfying, and the best way to discern this is to actually work in the mental health field, in some capacity. Volunteering is another good way to obtain practical experience and knowledge. I will also say that social workers need to be good communicators — both written and oral. The academic curriculum is rigorous and requires strong writing skills. To succeed in an admission interview, meet with clients, to present case studies in class, and to work on group projects in school, one needs to be able to communicate effectively verbally. If a prospective MSW student struggles in either of these areas, one might want to consider getting support so that your admission interview, AND written package, is as strong as it can be!

Robin Bonifas

Professor and chair of the social work department, Indiana State University

What are the most important factors for students deciding on an MSW program?

Students need to ensure that the program is offered in the format they prefer, for example if they want online classes that the program actually offers online classes. In addition, students need to consider whether the program provides opportunity to learn the specialty area they are interested in, for example if they are interested in medical social work that there are internship opportunities in that area or if they are interested in practice with children, youth, and families that there are courses addressing how to work with that population. It is also important to consider the cost of the program, its location, and to make sure it is accredited.

How can students best prepare for an MSW program?

Students can best prepare by talking to social workers currently in practice to learn about the joy and heartaches of the work — social work practice is not easy and social workers are often witnesses to the suffering of others. Social workers make a difference in helping people overcome suffering, but there is personal cost being exposed to the suffering and students need to be ready to cope with that. In addition, social work has a social justice mission that supports equity and inclusion for all people — students need to be ready to push their boundaries in terms of exploring feelings of bias toward people who hold different values.

How has the recent pandemic changed your MSW program?

Students under quarantine can participate in in-person classes by distance technology; everyone wears a mask during class and during simulation (role plays to practice social work skills with trained actors as clients) so communication is different because we can’t see one another’s complete facial expressions, which are important in conveying empathy and understanding when demonstrating practice skills.

What does it take to be successful as an MSW student?

MSW students need to be open minded, consider the perspectives of others, strive for cultural humility, and put as much as they can into their own learning. MSW education isn’t about the course instructor giving the student knowledge and skills, but supporting the student to gain knowledge and skills him or herself.

What types of jobs are MSW graduates finding?

Many graduates are finding opportunity in behavioral health settings and in child welfare settings.

Harry Russell

Associate professor of social work, Southern University at New Orleans

What are the most important factors for students deciding on an MSW program?

I believe persons interested in social work should first have a commitment to uplifting all people, groups, and populations regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, gender, physical or mental challenge or any other thing used to impede interactions with people different from oneself.

Secondly, students should consider the specialization area that they would like to practice, then explore various programs to find the one that most fits their interest areas. Students consider accessibility and their learning styles, as these things have to do with online and on-ground program selection. Some students prefer and need online accessibility and others may need in-person learning environments on-ground.
Finally, cost is always a factor and students should look for accredited programs that are affordable and with good reputations of alumni success and licensing rates

How can students best prepare for an MSW program?

Students who may want to pursue social work as a profession should be open to new ideas, practice listening skills, develop good communication skills, have a basic understanding of computers and software. Also, they should be aware of current events and policies impacting social welfare, justice, and the environment. Finally, interested individuals can learn much from volunteering with agencies, organizations, political units, etc. providing social welfare and social work-related services.

How has the recent pandemic changed your MSW program?

The Millie M. Charles School of Social Work is part of a HBCU in New Orleans, which have seen its share of disaster and recovery in recent times. The current pandemic has helped to reshape the delivery of course work from on-ground in-person format to temporary online delivery. This reshaping/realignment has been challenging for both students and professors alike. However, the drive to meet the educational needs of students have helped to develop effective online and alternative technological teaching strategies.

What does it take to be successful as an MSW student?

Dedication to self, in that the student has the fortitude to endure the academic rigor and field practicum training.

The student should be very good with time management and prioritizing needs, as academic demands may conflict with time and other events. Students must be able to place things into perspective and in a manner that helps preserve self-care.

What types of jobs are MSW graduates finding?

Most MSW find work in clinical and or community organizations and agencies. There are other areas that students can be more engaged in the macro environment such as community engagement and organizing, policy and justice advocacy work, and community diversity and inclusion work, among others.

If you had to choose one or two books, articles, documentaries, podcasts, etc. to be included on a required reading list for social work students, what would it be?

There is not any particular material I suggest for reading, but I do suggest readings in area of local, state, national, and global policy and strategies that aim to address social ills such poverty, homelessness, global warming, sex trafficking, racism, human rights, conflict resolution, and economic and environmental policies. Also, I think students would benefit from reviewing NASW, ACOSA, and NABSW websites, Twitter, and Facebook pages and related blogs, there is often useful information and opportunities for students posted on the sites.

Cathy McElderry

Social work department chair and professor, Middle Tennessee State University

What are the most important factors for students deciding on an MSW program?

The most important factors for students deciding on a MSW program are interests in resolving critical social problems and sensitivity to structural inequality that exist in contemporary society. Students should ensure that they are enrolling in a program that aligns with their career interests. Social work, unlike other human service professions, places a strong emphasis on social justice. This perspective emphasizes the interactive nature of individuals and their environment. Students gain an awareness that problems do not always evolve at the individual level, but structural factors have the capacity to impact individuals, groups, and communities.

How can students best prepare for an MSW program?

Ideally, the best preparation for an MSW is acquisition of the BSW. However, for students who have other degrees, it is important to have a sound liberal arts background. Additionally, a commitment to service and social justice are important attributes.

How has the recent pandemic changed your MSW program?

The pandemic has resulted in a decrease in the number of in-person classes. Because of social distancing and the need to protect students and faculty, more classes are offered online or hybrid. With regards to the practicum experience, many agencies have had to alter their service delivery methods. As a result, students have had to rely on virtual experiences far more than pre-COVID. We adjusted our requirements for practicum to align with the Council on Social Work Education COVID guidelines.

What does it take to be successful as an MSW student?

Social work requires a strong commitment to the core values (e.g., service, integrity, dignity and worth, competence, importance of human relations and social justice). Social workers should have a clear understanding of the power imbalances that keep some groups disadvantaged while other groups benefit.

What types of jobs are MSW graduates finding?

There are an array of traditional and non-traditional career paths for social workers.
Career paths include areas of practice in mental and behavioral health, child welfare, school social work, palliative and end of life care, public health and private practice, to name a few. Social work is a field that is in high demand. The skill set of social workers prepares them for a variety of practice settings and specializations.

If you had to choose one or two books, articles, documentaries, podcasts, etc. to be included on a required reading list for social work students, what would it be?

· Amend: The Fight for America (2021) – Doc Series
· 13th (Documentary) by Ava Durvernay
· White Fragility (2018) by Robin DeAngelo
· From Here to Equality (2020) by William Darity & Kristen Mullen

Timothy Hilton

Professor of social work at Eastern Washington University

Timothy P. Hilton is Professor of Social Work at Eastern Washington University. He received his master’s degree and PhD from the University of Chicago (Social Service Administration). His main research interests are housing and homelessness, low-wage work, and welfare. While his research is primarily qualitative he also incorporates mixed methods (qualitative and quantitative). He has several years of experience in government, nonprofit management, and case management. Hilton is the author of several research studies related to homelessness and poverty and has also completed multiple applied research projects and evaluation studies. He is the first author of a research methods textbook entitled Applied Social Research: A Tool for the Human Services (10th Edition) published by Springer Publishing.

Dawn DeBiase

MSW program director, Fairfield University

Dawn DeBiase is the MSW Program Director at Fairfield University. She has held numerous academic and administrative positions at the university, and has taught classes related to marriage and family therapy. Outside of the academic environment, DeBiase has worked as a clinician and consultant. She earned an MSW from Boston College.

Robin Bonifas

Professor and chair of the social work department, Indiana State University

Dr. Robin Bonifas is a Professor and Chair of the Department of Social Work at Indiana State University. She has over 15 years experience working with elders and their families in both long-term care and inpatient psychiatric settings.

Her research focuses on enhancing psychosocial care for persons with chronic illness and disability, especially those with comorbid mental health conditions and those requiring long-term care, and on evaluating curricular interventions designed to prepare social work students for effective practice with older adults. Her current projects examine elder social justice issues such as resident-to-resident aggression in nursing homes, bullying among older adults, and other challenges to social relationships in senior care organizations. In addition, she is examining the impact of interprofessional education on students’ competencies for collaborative healthcare practice.

Dr. Bonifas is the author of Bullying Among Older Adults: How to Recognize and Address an Unseen Epidemic available through Health Professions Press. She is a John A. Hartford Faculty Scholar in Geriatric Social Work and earned her doctorate from the University of Washington in Seattle in 2007. She is the Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Gerontological Social Work, a consulting editor for Health and Social Work, and serves as the co-chair of the Gero-Ed Track for the Council of Social Work Education, and was selected as Transformational Educator of the Year by the Arizona chapter of the National Association of Social Workers in 2018.

Harry Russell

Associate professor of social work, Southern University at New Orleans

Dr. Harry Russell is a lifelong New Orleans resident with over 25 years of professional social work experience in areas of direct services, administration, and political experience. He holds a master’s degree in Social Work from Southern University at New Orleans and a PhD in Public Policy from Southern University and A&M College. Currently, he is an associate professor in the School of Social Work at Southern University at New Orleans, teaching at both the BSW and MSW levels. Dr. Russell has served on the faculty senate and as federal standards subcommittee chair for SACS re-accreditation committee. Currently serving as chair of the School of Social Work outcome/assessment and the DSW program committees. Dr. Russell is the founder and advisor of Phi Alpha Honor Society – Xi Phi Chapter.

Dr. Russell has background in grants management/evaluation, mental/behavioral health services, elderly adult home-based services, foster care, program administration and evaluation, public policy analysis/evaluation and other social services. He has served as Director of the Mayor’s Office of Health Policy, monitor of the healthcare for the homeless and the SAMSHA-CSAT grants for the New Orleans Health Department. Dr. Russell served as a principal investigator of HUD’s Harmony Oaks – HOPE VI Revitalization evaluation, conducted by the School of Social Work. Dr. Russell is former CEO-Administrator of residential ICF/MR title XIX programs in the South Louisiana area. He served as the therapeutic director of residential and home-based foster Care and juvenile services; and finally, former owner of Residential Living Consultants and Metropolitan Social Services.

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Cathy McElderry

Social work department chair and professor, Middle Tennessee State University

Dr. McElderry is a licensed certified social worker with more than 25 years of teaching and practice experience in health and mental. Her research has focused on health disparities and social determinants of health and well-being. Dr. McElderry’s scholarly activities extend to investigating the role of disparities in initiating, shaping and contributing to problematic outcomes such as substance abuse, poverty, access to health care and other social issues. Dr. McElderry is currently Chair and Professor in the Department of Social Work at Middle Tennessee State University.

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