Social Work, MSW

The curriculum of the MSW Program is designed to prepare students for advanced level professional practice in social work. The program provides a rigorous intellectual base, an opportunity for effective skill development, and an educational perspective that views human diversity as desirable and enriching to society.

The MSW Program offers:

• Preparation for the advanced practice of social work
• A degree program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education
• Full-time & Part-time
• Online and On-Campus tracks 
• Regional field placements
• Advanced standing program for qualifying students with a BSW

The degree program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education.

Admission Requirements

An applicant for admission as a degree candidate in social work (either full-time, part-time, or advanced standing) must fulfill the general admission requirements of both the Graduate School and the MSW Program prior to admission. The applicant must therefore complete application forms for both the Graduate School and the MSW Program. It is the applicant’s responsibility to make sure that all required application materials have been received. Applications for Advanced Standing must be received by March 31. Full-time and part-time applications will be reviewed throughout the year as students may start the program in the fall or spring semesters. 

The applicant must submit the following to the Graduate School:

• Graduate application.
• An official transcript from each college or university attended (must include content in liberal arts coursework) sent directly to the Graduate School.

The applicant must submit the following to the School of Social Work:

• An essay of 3-6 typed pages explaining (double-spaced, one inch margins):
  • What motivates you to pursue a career in social work? (Describe the personal, academic, or professional experiences that have inspired you to seek a career in social work). How have these experiences shaped your decision to pursue an MSW degree?
  • Describe a time you helped someone overcome a challenge or crisis.
  • Describe a time you worked with people from diverse backgrounds.
  • What role do you see yourself playing in addressing inequities experienced by marginalized groups?
  • Select ONE of the following and respond:
    • What is the role of social workers in addressing mental health crises in today's society? Discuss the rising awareness of mental health challenges and how social workers can advocate for better mental health resources, policies, and services.
    • How should social workers respond to the ongoing opioid crisis? Examine the role of social workers in helping individuals an communities impacted by substance use disorders, especially in the context of the opioid epidemic.
    • How can social workers address the disparities in health care access and equity? Reflect on the role of social workers in addressing health care inequities and advocating for vulnerable populations who experience barriers to accessing care.
    • How should social workers approach the issue of mass incarceration and criminal justice reform? Examine the role of social workers in advocating for criminal justice reform, supporting individuals affected by mass incarceration, and addressing issues like rehabilitation, re-entry, and restorative justice.
• A recent resume which highlights social work or human service experience.
• Four letters of reference/recommendation forms (including one from immediate supervisor, if employed).

In addition, applicants to MSW program must have:

• Undergraduate degree in social work or a related field.
• Minimum GPA of 3.00 in all coursework taken prior to application for admission to the MSW full-time or part-time program.
• Well-balanced liberal arts curriculum.
• Interview with a member of the faculty may also be required.

Admission to the master’s degree program is on a selective basis and is determined by the academic preparation and personal qualifications of the applicant. Intellectual maturity, emotional stability, motivation, and the capacity to work with people are essential qualifications.

Openings for admission are limited, and competition is considerable. Individuals who have the strongest qualifications in terms of the MSW program’s admission criteria are selected for admission. Students admitted to the MSW program must register for courses the same calendar year they are accepted. Students must indicate their intention to enroll by the deadline indicated in the letter of acceptance.

The Advanced Standing option is an accelerated track of the MSW program that is completed in 11 months. Enrollment for the Advanced Standing is highly competitive, and limited to applicants who have excelled in all elements of an undergraduate social work program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education.

Students should indicate their preference for Advanced Standing in their application to the MSW program. The requirements for Advanced Standing include:

• A baccalaureate degree in social work completed within the last five years from a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education;
• A minimum overall GPA of 3.2 and a minimum GPA in social work courses of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale;
• Demonstration of superior performance in field practicum as evidenced by submission of undergraduate field evaluations;
• For students graduating in May, acceptance will be contingent upon receipt of a final transcript and proof of BSW degree.

Applicants not accepted into Advanced Standing placement will be notified in writing of their option to enter the pool for admission into the full-time or part-time programs.

Applicants should be aware that having a prior felony conviction or prior sanctions for unprofessional conduct may impact future potential for obtaining licensure as well as field placements and social work employment. All individuals applying for a social work license in the state of Ohio are required to submit a criminal records check.

Students are expected to adhere to the program format under which they were admitted. Any changes in this initial admission status will be based on the program’s ability to accommodate the change. Changes must be requested in writing at the beginning of the previous academic year. The Admissions Committee may require an in-person interview at its discretion.

For the in-person cohort, the days and times courses are offered may vary from year to year. Students enrolled in either full-time, part-time, or advanced standing programs must be prepared to be flexible when the schedule of classes changes. Online courses are offered in an asynchronous format, and are not subject to a set schedule. 

Transfer Students

An applicant who wishes to transfer from another MSW program must follow the same admission process and meet the same admission requirements as other degree candidates. A formal written request for transfer must be made at the time of application for admission. A maximum of 20 graduate credit hours may be transferred from another program accredited by the Council of Social Work Education. The credits must fall within the six-year time limit for degree completion. A grade of “B” or better is required for transfer credit. The Admissions Committee will determine acceptance of transfer credit. Credit will not be given for work or life experience. Transfer students must submit field work evaluations at the time of application for admission.

Program Requirements

• Complete a minimum of 60 graduate credits of approved courses in social work with an average grade of “B” or better on all classroom courses and satisfactory grades in all field courses. Students must register only for 600-level courses.
• Complete an approved program of courses which include the following required courses: