Program Overview

Master of Social Work

The Master of Social Work (MSW) program at Colorado State University is designed to provide students with advanced knowledge and skills in social work practice. The program focuses on advanced generalist practice, which integrates theoretical and methodological knowledge, research, and evaluation sophistication at all levels of practice.

Advanced Generalist Practice

Advanced generalist practice is a unique approach that prepares social workers to engage in independent and culturally responsive application of advanced social work knowledge, theories, skills, values, and ethics into assessment and intervention at all system levels. This approach is differentiated from generalist practice in that it includes the complexity of the problem and context of service provision, has enhanced technical abilities, and more sophisticated direct and indirect skills.

Why Advanced Generalist Practice?

The advanced generalist practice approach is aligned with Colorado State University's land-grant heritage and mission, which mandates providing educational access to diverse statewide communities. Studies have supported the efficacy of the generalist and advanced generalist curriculum, not only for rural practice but also for practice in larger settings. The approach also addresses the need for MSW-level social workers in rural communities, where access to programs with masters-prepared social workers is severely limited.

Program Goals and Information

The MSW program at Colorado State University has several goals, including:

• Preparing students for advanced generalist practice in social work
• Providing students with the knowledge and skills necessary to engage in independent and culturally responsive practice
• Addressing the need for MSW-level social workers in rural and urban communities
• Aligning with the university's land-grant heritage and mission

Research Areas

The School of Social Work at Colorado State University is involved in various research areas, including:

• RISE HAI Lab
• Serious Illness and End-of-Life Narratives Lab
• Social Work Research Center

Education Abroad

The MSW program at Colorado State University offers opportunities for education abroad, which provides students with the chance to gain international experience and broaden their understanding of social work practice in different contexts.

Advising and Support

The School of Social Work at Colorado State University provides advising and support services to students, including:

• Academic advising
• Career counseling
• Student involvement opportunities

Program Handbooks and Outcomes Data

The School of Social Work at Colorado State University provides program handbooks and outcomes data, which provide information on program goals, objectives, and outcomes. The handbooks and data are available to students, faculty, and staff, and are used to evaluate program effectiveness and make improvements.