Program Overview

The University of Nevada, Reno's Online Master of Social Work (MSW) program is built to develop ethical, competent, advanced generalist social work professionals prepared to lead across diverse settings. With a flexible and fully online format, this program equips graduates to practice autonomously and reflectively within complex environments and at multiple systems levels. The curriculum fosters a commitment to equity, inclusion, and social justice while building practical expertise for real-world impact.

Credits Required

The program requires 30-60 credits.

Cost per Credit

The cost per credit is $385.

Delivery

The program is delivered online.

Start Terms

There are three start terms per year.

Program Tracks

The MSW program offers two distinct paths:

• Traditional Program: Ideal for students without a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), this 60-credit-hour track includes both foundation and concentration coursework. Students can complete the program in as few as eight consecutive semesters (including summers).
• Advanced Standing Program: Designed for students who hold a BSW from a CSWE-accredited institution, this 30-credit-hour track focuses on advanced coursework and can be completed in as few as four semesters (15 months), including summer terms.

Curriculum Highlights

The Online Master of Social Work program offers a comprehensive curriculum grounded in Advanced Generalist Practice. Whether you enroll in the Traditional or Advanced Standing track, the coursework is designed to help you build practical, evidence-informed skills to work with individuals, families, groups, and communities in diverse practice settings.

Traditional Program Curriculum

Complete 30 credit hours of foundation courses, including:

• SW 610: Structural Oppression
• SW 611: Theoretical Perspectives on Human Behavior
• SW 620: Social Work Methods with Individuals
• SW 621: Social Work Methods with Groups
• SW 623: Social Work Methods with Organizations, Communities, and Legislatures
• SW 624: Social Work Methods with Couples and Families
• SW 630: Social Work History and Social Welfare Policy
• SW 640: Elements of Evidence-Informed Practice
• SW 680: Foundation Practicum I
• SW 681: Foundation Practicum II

Concentration Courses

All students, including those in the Advanced Standing Program, complete 30 credit hours of concentration courses, which include:

• SW 710: Advanced Multi-Dimensional Assessment
• SW 720: Therapeutic Interventions with Individuals
• SW 721: Therapeutic Interventions with Groups
• SW 723: Social Work Administration I
• SW 724: Therapeutic Interventions with Families
• SW 725: Social Work Administration II
• SW 741: Practice and Program Evaluation
• SW 780: Advanced Practicum I
• SW 781: Advanced Practicum II
• SW 793: Integrative Case-Based Seminar – Advanced Generalist Practice

Admission Requirements

Traditional Program

• Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution (non-social work)
• Academic preparation in liberal arts, including coursework in social sciences, humanities, research, and human biology
• Completion of statistics and research methods courses
• Minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75
• Evidence of strong written communication skills
• Career goals aligned with advanced generalist social work

Advanced Standing Program

Applicants to the Advanced Standing Program must have earned a BSW from a CSWE-accredited program within the past seven years, with a minimum GPA of 2.75 and no grade lower than a "C" in social work courses. Strong performance in a professionally supervised BSW field placement must also be documented.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the Online Master of Social Work program are prepared for diverse professional roles in healthcare, education, public policy, and community-based services. With a focus on Advanced Generalist Practice, the program supports students' pursuit of licensure and meaningful impact.

Career Pathways

• Clinical Social Worker
• Mental Health Counselor
• Community Organizer
• Social Work Administrator
• Policy Analyst

Employment settings range from hospitals and government agencies to nonprofits, schools, and private practice.

University of Nevada, Reno

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Overview:

The University of Nevada, Reno (UNR) is Nevada's first university, established in 1874. It is a public research university located in Reno, Nevada, and is known for its commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering student success. UNR is ranked among U.S. News & World Report's Best National Universities.

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Services Offered:

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

UNR offers a vibrant campus experience with a variety of activities and opportunities for students to engage in. Students can participate in student organizations, attend sporting events, enjoy the beautiful campus, and explore the surrounding area. The university also provides access to resources such as the E. L. Wiegand Fitness Center and the Wolf Pack Map, an online campus map for navigation and information.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Strong academic programs:

UNR offers a wide range of academic programs with expert faculty in a supportive learning environment.

Beautiful campus and location:

The university is located in Reno, Nevada, a city known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities.

Vibrant student life:

UNR offers a variety of activities and opportunities for students to engage in, both on and off campus.

Commitment to student success:

The university is dedicated to providing students with the resources and support they need to succeed.

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Academic Programs:

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Other:

UNR is known for its strong research programs, particularly in the areas of mining, engineering, and environmental science. The university also has a strong commitment to community engagement and outreach.