Program Overview

Master's in Social Work

The Master of Social Work (M.S.W.) program at the University of North Dakota is a top-ranked, accredited program that prepares students for clinical, policy, and leadership roles in social work. The program is offered in both online and on-campus formats, providing maximum flexibility for students.

Program Details

• Program Type: Master's Degree
• Format: On Campus or Online
• Estimated Time to Complete: 1-3 years
• Credit Hours: 36-60

Why Choose UND's Master's in Social Work?

• UND offers both on-campus and online master's in Social Work programs, including the only online Social Work master's program in North Dakota.
• Students contribute directly to North Dakota communities through internships, research, and service.
• The program is designed for working professionals who want to advance their careers while making a meaningful impact.
• With flexible online and on-campus options, students can earn their CSWE-accredited M.S.W. without putting their life on hold.
• Small class sizes and regionally involved faculty emphasize advanced generalist practice with a strong focus on rural and underserved communities.

M.S.W. Advanced Generalist Degree Online and On Campus

• Complete the master's in Social Work in as few as three semesters (36 credits) by attending class full-time, on campus or online.
• The Advanced Generalist program prepares students for all practice settings, including clinical social work.
• Students will be prepared to provide advanced social services and develop the skills needed for advanced positions.

M.S.W. Generalist Degree Online

• The online master's degree in Social Work is especially tailored for students who work full-time.
• The Online (Distance) Generalist program is for those without a B.S.W. but with a bachelor's degree in a related field.
• Students develop the proper social work foundation in the first half of the program and complete advanced standing courses in the second half.

Accredited Master's in Social Work

• UND's master's in Social Work program was established in 1989 and fully accredited in 1993.
• The program is continuously reaffirmed for accreditation and updates its curriculum to adhere to revised standards established by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).

Affordable M.S.W. Degree

• Field placement possibilities in rural and tribal communities.
• Financial support is provided to qualified students who commit to working in an approved child welfare agency in North Dakota upon graduation.
• Opportunities to get involved with the national award-winning Student Social Work Association or Phi Alpha, the social work honor society.

Career Opportunities with a Master's in Social Work

• 6% Projected job outlook for social workers through 2034 (faster than the average for all occupations) according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
• Average UND graduate starting salary: $60,000 (UND Career Services).
• With a master's in Social Work, graduates can take on roles such as social worker, substance abuse counselor, community outreach coordinator, therapist, or pursue law degrees and engage in social work research.

Courses You Can Take

• Advanced Generalist Practice with Individuals (SWK 530)
• Advanced Generalist Practice with Families (SWK 533)
• Advanced Generalist Practice with Treatment Groups (SWK 534)
• Generalist Practice Field Education (SWK 515)
• Human Behavior in the Social Environment (SWK 501)
• Social Policy (SWK 506)

How is the Online Master's in Social Work Offered?

• Live online M.S.W. classes are held in real-time, allowing for active discussion and immediate feedback.
• Local social work field placement opportunities are available, allowing students to serve their own community.

Accredited and Ranked Among the Best Online M.S.W. Programs

• Ranked among the top online M.S.W. programs in the nation by various ranking sites.
• Criteria for ranking include financial data, academic rigor, student gratification, and employment rate.

Why UND Online?

• Over 160 online graduate programs are available.
• UND is one of the most affordable online colleges in the region.
• The same online M.S.W. tuition rates are offered regardless of legal residency.

Flexible Learning, Real-World Experience

• UND's online M.S.W. program offers flexible learning options and real-world experience through field placements and internships.
• Students have access to resources and services tailored to their needs, including free online tutoring and unlimited academic coaching.

FAQs

What is the Cost of an M.S.W. Program?

• Compare online and on-campus costs to find that UND is one of the most affordable social work schools in the Midwest.
• A range of financial aid options is available, including scholarships, grants, and loans.

Is the Online M.S.W. Different from the On-Campus Program?

• The online M.S.W. program coursework is completed remotely, allowing for greater scheduling flexibility.
• The transcript and diploma offered by UND are the same for online and on-campus students.

How Long Does it Take to Complete the M.S.W. Degree?

• The duration for completing UND's M.S.W. degree ranges from 1 to 3 years based on enrollment.
• Full-time students attending the M.S.W. program on campus can complete it in as few as three semesters.

Are International Students Eligible for the Online M.S.W.?

• Yes, international students are eligible for the online M.S.W. program provided by UND.
• To apply, they must complete the application, submit required documents, and fulfill immunization and TB screening requirements.

How Hard is the M.S.W. Program?

• The difficulty of the M.S.W. program varies from student to student.
• With hard work, dedication, and a genuine interest in the field, many students find the program manageable and even rewarding.