Program Overview

Introduction to the MA/MSW Dual-Degree Program

The MA/MSW Dual-Degree Program is an interdisciplinary initiative that combines the principles of social work and medicine. This program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the values and techniques that underlie both fields. By integrating the curricula of the Master of Arts in Bioethics and the Master of Social Work, students can develop a unique set of skills that will enable them to address the complex ethical dilemmas that arise in healthcare, aging, and mental health.

Program Overview

The MA/MSW Dual-Degree Program is a "side-by-side" program that brings together existing elements of ongoing programs offered by the faculty of the Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences and the Department of Bioethics. This program is distinct from other dual-degree programs in the United States, as it provides students with a rigorous interdisciplinary education that prepares them for advanced practice in social work and bioethics.

Application Requirements

Students must apply separately to the Mandel School and the Department of Bioethics for admission into each program. Admission to one program does not guarantee admission to the other, and applications to both programs should be submitted simultaneously. A joint committee of the two programs will review the joint degree applications.

Course Requirements

The MA/MSW Dual-Degree Program requires students to complete a total of 78 credits, with 30 credits in the MA program and 60 credits in the MSW program. The course requirements for each program are as follows:

• MA Degree:
  • Foundations in Bioethics I and II (BETH 401 and BETH 402): 12 credits
  • Clinical Ethics Rotation (BETH 405): 3 credits
  • Clinical Ethics: Theory and Practice (BETH 422): 3 credits
  • Capstone in Bioethics and Medical Humanities (BETH 402C): 1.5 credits
  • Mini elective in Bioethics and Medical Humanities: 1.5 credits
  • Elective in Bioethics and Medical Humanities: 3 credits
  • MSW Credits in Bioethics and Medical Humanities relevant courses (MSASS course(s)): 6 credits
• MSW Degree:
  • "Pure" MSW Courses: 48 credits
  • Clinical Ethics Rotation (BETH 405): 3 credits
  • Clinical Ethics: Theory and Practice (BETH 422): 3 credits
  • MSW Credits in Bioethics and Medical Humanities relevant courses (MSASS course(s)): 6 credits

Program Outcomes

Graduates of the MA/MSW Dual-Degree Program will be equipped to address the complex ethical dilemmas that arise in healthcare, aging, and mental health. They will be able to provide ethical consultations, counsel healthcare providers and organizations, participate in setting policy, and teach others about bioethics and social work. The program will prepare students for advanced practice in social work and bioethics, enabling them to make a positive impact in their communities.