Introduction to the Online MSW Program

The Simmons University Online Master of Social Work (MSW) program is designed to prepare students for a career in social work, with a focus on clinical practice and social justice. The program is fully accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) and can be completed in as few as 9 months.

Program Tracks

The Online MSW program offers several tracks to accommodate different student needs and goals:

• Advanced Standing: For students with a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from a CSWE-accredited program, this track requires 34 credits and can be completed in as few as 9 months.
• Accelerated: This intensive track requires 65 credits and can be completed in as few as 16 months.
• Full-Time: This track allows students to complete a standard course load each term, requiring 65 credits and taking as few as 23 months to complete.
• Extended: This track allows students to earn their degree at a more convenient pace, requiring 65 credits and taking as few as 32 months to complete.

Curriculum

The Online MSW curriculum incorporates social justice values and a multicultural perspective, preparing students for direct practice in a wide range of clinical settings. The curriculum includes:

• Ecological systems theory
• Human development
• Sociocultural theory
• Psychodynamic theory
• Cognitive behavioral theory
• Solution-focused therapy
• Motivational interviewing

Certificate Programs

Students may choose to pursue a certificate program in a specific area of interest, including:

• Mental Health Practice
• Trauma Practice
• Military Practice

Practicum Education

The Online MSW program provides students with practical experience in community settings, including:

• Traditional MSW students: More than 1,000 hours of practicum education
• Advanced Standing students: 672 hours of practicum education
• Simulated Practicum Experience (SPX): An immersive online course that offers students a supportive environment to practice their skills through simulated client encounters

Student Experience

The Online MSW program offers a warm and inclusive student experience, with opportunities to connect with classmates and faculty through:

• Weekly, interactive classes with an average of 20 or fewer students
• Live classes that allow students to speak directly with a diverse group of classmates and expert faculty
• 24/7 access to all tools, features, and course content
• Student life, mentoring, and enrichment opportunities, such as the Student Leadership Council or the First Generation Mentoring Program

Accreditation

The Simmons School of Social Work is accredited by the CSWE, and Simmons University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Become a Licensed Social Worker

A Master of Social Work from a CSWE-accredited college or university is required to pursue social work licensure in most states, including Massachusetts. The Online MSW program prepares students to pursue licensure as a clinical social worker in Massachusetts and other states.

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Other:

• The program is clinically focused and CSWE-accredited.
• It incorporates social justice values and a multicultural perspective.
• It prepares students for direct practice in a wide range of clinical settings.
• The program can be completed in as few as 9 months or as many as 32 months.
• There are three cohort start dates per year, and admission decisions are made on a rolling basis.
• The final deadline for the September 2024 cohort is July 24, 2024.
• Scholarships are available.
• The program offers full-time, part-time, and accelerated tracks, as well as an advanced standing track for BSW graduates.
• The program provides traditional MSW students with more than 1,000 hours of practical experience in community settings; Advanced Standing students complete 672 hours of practicum education.
• Simmons’ dedicated placement team will help you secure a practicum education placement in or near your community, where you will receive supervision from professional social workers.

Simmons University

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Overview:

Simmons University is a private university located in Boston, Massachusetts. It is known for its focus on women's leadership and its commitment to social justice. The university offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including online options, and is recognized for its real-world learning opportunities and integrated career advising.

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Services Offered:

Simmons University provides a variety of services to its students, including:

Academic Advising:

Customized support throughout the academic journey, from first-year advising to career guidance.

Campus Dining:

A variety of dining options on campus.

Community Engagement:

Opportunities for students to engage in social justice initiatives and community service.

Student Support & Resources:

A range of resources to support student success, including academic support, counseling, and health services.

Library:

Access to a comprehensive library with extensive resources.

Athletics:

A variety of athletic programs and opportunities for students to participate in sports.

Events:

A calendar of events and activities for students to participate in.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

Simmons University offers a vibrant campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can expect:

A small college feel:

A close-knit campus community with a focus on student support and engagement.

A dynamic city location:

Located in the heart of Boston, students have access to a wealth of cultural, historical, and professional opportunities.

Real-world learning opportunities:

Students gain practical experience through internships, research, and creative projects.

A commitment to inclusivity:

A welcoming and supportive environment for students from diverse backgrounds.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Real-world learning:

Students gain practical experience through internships, research, and creative projects.

Integrated career advising:

Customized support throughout the academic journey, from first-year advising to career guidance.

Accelerated graduate programs:

Shorten the time to a graduate degree with accelerated undergraduate to graduate programs.

Location in Boston:

Access to a wealth of cultural, historical, and professional opportunities.

Commitment to social justice:

A focus on women's leadership and social justice initiatives.

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Academic Programs:

Simmons University offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Undergraduate programs:

A variety of majors and minors in fields such as business, health sciences, humanities, and social sciences.

Graduate programs:

Master's and doctoral programs in fields such as business, education, health sciences, law, and social work.

Online programs:

A range of online undergraduate and graduate programs for adult learners.

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Other:

Simmons University has been recognized with the 2024 Carnegie Elective Classification for Leadership for Public Purpose, which acknowledges its commitment to leadership and the collective public good. The university also has a strong alumni network and offers a variety of resources for alumni to stay connected.