FAQs

When can I start the program?

Students may start the program during fall, summer, or spring. Students who opt to start in the summer or spring are able to accomplish certain core courses or electives, but they are not able to start in the practicum until the next fall semester.

How long are courses?

Most of our core courses are in a 16 week format. There are some exceptions to this. Students who enter the traditional track full-time will take two 8-week courses. Additionally, summer session courses are offered in a 6-week or 7-week format. Only electives are offered in the summer.

Where are in-person classes located?

MSW courses are held in Hayman Hall. Students can take electives in other graduate programs across the University, so those in-person offerings may be held in other campus buildings.

When are classes held on campus?

MSW required core courses are stacked in the evenings, with courses taking place from either 5-7 p.m. or 7:30-9:30 p.m. We attempt to have part-time students on-campus 1-2 nights a week and full-time students on-campus 1 night a week. In addition to the two hour block time, each course requires an hour of asynchronous work to achieve credit hours. Additionally, students take 3-4 electives over the course of the program. These can be in social work or other programs. Social work electives are either in-person or online asynchronous.

Is there a practicum component?

Yes, a practicum is required for experiential learning. Students work with the Practicum Office to identify a location that meets their educational and professional goals. Students may also embed in a place of employment, as long as they can meet CSWE educational requirements and can secure an MSW supervisor. Traditional students complete two practicums (500 hours over two semesters during the 500 level and 600 hours over the 600 level). Advanced standing students complete 600 hours over the 600 level. The practicum course sequence only starts in the fall semester.

Is there a capstone project or similar assignment?

Students complete an integrative project. This project is developed with a faculty mentor and is individualized based on a student’s area of focus (the electives they took), their practicum location, and their career goals. Projects have included starting a food pantry, developing employee retention work at non-profit organizations, and conducting extensive research on campus services.