Program Overview

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Introduction to the Master of Social Work (MSW) Program

The Master of Social Work degree prepares graduates for advanced social work practice in one of two broad specializations — either clinical social work practice with individuals, families and groups, or social work macro practice aimed at social service administration, social policy development and social advocacy.

Program Overview

The MSW program at the University of Kansas is fully accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) and is ranked among the top public institution social work programs by U.S. News & World Report. Courses guide students on how to engage and assess the needs of individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. Students learn how to intervene and evaluate those interventions at all levels of practice.

Curriculum

The School of Social Welfare requires a total of 38 credit hours for the Advanced Standing Plan of Study, consisting of:

• 24 credit hours of classroom work
• 14 credit hours of practicum All Advanced Standing applicants admitted to the program begin courses during the summer term.

Clinical Concentration

The 32-credit-hour clinical concentration prepares MSW students for clinical social work with individuals, families and groups. We recommend students who anticipate taking the Licensed Specialist Clinical Social Work (LSCSW) examination pursue a clinical concentration.

Macro Concentration

The 32-credit-hour macro practice concentration curriculum prepares MSW students for leadership and administration in social work agencies and social services organizations.

MSW Practicum Placements

Social work internships (practicums) provide each student with real-world social work experience, working directly with individuals, families, and communities. Our Practicum Education Office works closely with students and agencies to secure skill-based practicum experiences with qualified social work mentors.

Program Length and Format

The Advanced Standing MSW at KU can be completed in one year of full-time study or two years of part-time study. The online format is blended synchronous, combining online coursework with live online classes taking place every other week at a specific date and time. Online MSW courses meet on Saturdays.

Admissions and Application Requirements

Applicants who meet the following criteria will apply to the Advanced Standing Plan of Study:

• Bachelor of Social Work degree from a CSWE-accredited social work program
• Bachelor of Social Work grade-point average of 3.0 or above is preferred The deadlines to apply for admission to the Advanced Standing Master of Social Work program for summer 2026 are:
• Feb. 3, 2026 - Full-time and part-time Advanced Standing MSW application deadline

Application Requirements

The online application gives you the ability to submit all supporting documents in one form and save in progress. You will be asked for the following, which will be required to complete the online application:

• Resume with current/prior work or volunteer experience
• Narrative statement
• Contact information for three professional references
• College education & transcripts
• Selection of your area of interest

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost for the Online MSW program is:

• $695 per credit hour, inclusive of all fees, regardless of residency status Degree-seeking students taking online courses are generally eligible for financial aid. March 1 is the recommended FAFSA filing date for graduate students interested in financial aid or scholarships.

Student Support and Aid

MSW students access quality teaching, mentoring and enrollment assistance through advising services and practicum experiences. Online MSW students can apply for scholarship programs and other funding sources. Scholar programs in the KU School of Social Welfare provide monetary support and expanded learning opportunities. These programs require a separate application after students are admitted to the MSW program.

Conclusion

The Master of Social Work program at the University of Kansas offers a comprehensive education in social work practice, preparing graduates for careers in clinical or macro practice. With a strong curriculum, practicum placements, and support services, the MSW program at KU is an excellent choice for those looking to advance their careers in social work.