Program Overview

Master's Degree in Social Work (MSW)

The Master of Social Work (MSW) 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. The curriculum was designed with community and student input to ensure a dynamic, educational experience that incorporates real-world opportunities. KU's MSW program has consistently ranked in the top 12% of public institution social work programs, according to U.S. News and World Report.

What jobs can I get with an MSW degree?

Overall employment of social workers nationwide is projected to grow 9% from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations. From employee assistance, large corporation, and hospital positions, to private practice, schools, and therapy roles, options abound for social workers with a Master of Social Work degree from the KU School of Social Welfare. Health care, schools, and macro settings often require this level of education.

Is a master's degree in social work right for me?

KU's Master of Social Work degree is aimed at students who have completed a bachelor's degree. The KU MSW offers newly revised courses designed with community and student input to ensure a dynamic, educational experience that incorporates real-world opportunities. Graduates of KU's MSW program are equipped with the knowledge to provide counseling and direct services to individuals, families, and groups, and make changes in organizations, communities, and policies that affect large populations in our society.

Program Structure

KU's MSW degree is divided into two curriculum tracks:

• Traditional
• Advanced Standing. Students who have already earned a Bachelor of Social Work from a CSWE-accredited social work program will apply to the Advanced Standing Plan of Study; all others will apply to the Traditional Plan of Study.

How is the Master of Social Work degree structured?

The Master of Social Work degree program offers two plans of study.

• The Traditional plan of study, which admits individuals with any accredited bachelor's degree and can be completed over two years.
• The Advanced Standing plan of study is a one-year program which admits individuals with a BSW degree from a Council of Social Work Education (CSWE) accredited program who have strong academic records. Both plans of study have part-time and full-time options.

Why a KU social work degree?

• Flexible:
  • Saturday blended courses available
  • Interdisciplinary skillset
  • Electives allow students to tailor their degree to their interests
• Quality:
  • Credentialed, experienced faculty
  • Globally recognized academics
  • KU is one of 71 public university members of the prestigious Association of American Universities, a group of America's leading research universities
• Useful:
  • Learn it today, use it tomorrow
  • Courses address technical skills and career development
  • Courses apply to a variety of in-demand careers

Deadlines & Dates

• Advanced standing deadline: February 1
• Traditional full-time deadline: March 1
• Traditional part-time deadline: April 1

Affordability

Tuition, fees & aid, KU refund policies are available.

Requirements

Grading & Guides Program Requirements are available.