MSW Admissions

Applications for the Spring and Fall 2025 semesters are open! Contact: admissions@ssw.umaryland.edu or call 410-706-3025.

Master of Social Work (MSW) Program

The University of Maryland School of Social Work MSW Program prepares future social work practitioners and leaders through a combination of coursework and supervised real-world experiences in the field, with a strong focus on justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion. Our students work across the spectrum of social work with individuals, families, groups, organizations, communities, and society—and build on this strong foundation to practice at an advanced level of clinical and/or macro social work.

Whether you are new to social work, wish to expand your options by earning a masters degree, or plan to change careers, our MSW program has a place for you. Download our Admissions Information and Guide for a comprehensive review of our admissions process, key dates and deadlines. If you have any questions, please email us at admissions@ssw.umaryland.edu.

 

MSW Program Options

  • Hybrid MSW Program

     

    Complete your MSW in 2 to 4 years by taking the majority of classes in in-person or hybrid formats, with some online asynchronous / synchronous classes.

    60 Credit Hybrid MSW Program

  • Online MSW Program

     

    Complete your MSW in 3 years by taking all of your courses online. Field practicum is in-person.

    Online MSW Program

  • Hybrid Advanced Standing MSW Program

    Complete your MSW in 11 months to 2 years by taking the majority of classes in in-person or hybrid formats, with some online asynchronous / synchronous classes.

    36-Credit Hybrid Advanced Standing MSW

We want your admissions experience to be a positive one. We are ready to assist you in learning more about us, completing your application, understanding the field education program, and financial aid. There is a place for you here and we are ready to help!

Danielle White, Associate Dean, Admissions and Enrollment

UMMSW Application Deadlines

(download a copy of 2024-2025 UMSSW Program Deadlines)

General Application Requirements & Guidelines

MSW Program Options

60-Credit MSW Programs 

  • Baltimore Campus (Hybrid): Available for students pursuing the Clinical or Leadership, Policy, and Social Change concentrations.
  • Shady Grove Campus (Hybrid): Available only for students pursuing the Clinical concentration.
  • Online Program: Available only for students in Maryland and surrounding areas pursuing the Clinical concentration. Courses are delivered in synchronous and asynchronous online formats, with in-person Field practicum experiences. 

36-Credit Advanced Standing MSW Programs 

For students with a BSW degree earned within the last 5 years. 

Note: Applicants may only submit one application per admission cycle (Spring/Fall of the upcoming year). 

MSW Application Process

Download a PDF of the MSW Application Process.

MSW Application Process 

Step 1  

CREATE AN ACCOUNT  

  • Click “Go to Application”  
  • Select “CREATE AN ACCOUNT”  
  • Enter legal first and last name, email, and phone, etc.  
  • Create username and password  

Step 2  

COMPLETE ALL REQUIRED FIELDS  

  • To start your application, select the semester you plan to begin classes, either Spring 2025 or Fall 2025 
  • Select the correct academic program (Social Work 36-Credit Hybrid Advanced Standing or Social Work 60-Credit Hybrid or Social Work 60-Credit Online or Social Work Transfer), campus (Baltimore, Shady Grove, or Online), and enrollment status (full or part-time)  
  • Enter personal demographic information and address  
  • Complete all application sections 
  • Enter personal statement essay answers into applicable text boxes  

Step 3  

VERIFY AND SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION  

  • Certify application and click ‘submit’ button  
  • Request fee waiver or pay $65 application fee 

Step 4  

BEGIN SUPPLEMENTAL ITEMS  

  • Go to ‘My Account’ & click ’View’ to work on supplemental items  
  • Upload a PDF or word version of chronological resume  
  • Request official transcripts 
  • Enter accurate information for recommenders (2 for hybrid and online MSW program applicants, 3 for advanced standing)  

Step 5 

COMPLETE SUPPLEMENTAL ITEMS  

  • Sign in to track application status and updates  
  • Send reminders to recommenders  
  • To complete application, verify all supplemental items have been received before the deadline 

Step 6  

REVIEW ADMISSION DECISION  

  • Check email for notification of an application decision  
  • Sign in to view the application decision 
  • To accept offer, pay $300 confirmation deposit 
  • Complete all steps on the ‘Accepted Students’ webpage 

Applications are reviewed only when all required documents have been received. 

Personal Statement Essay Questions

The personal statements in your application offer the Admissions Committee a glimpse into your past experiences and how you connect them to the field of social work. These statements also demonstrate your capacity for critical thinking and effective writing. Please ensure each response stays within a 300-word limit. 

  1. What personal, academic, and/or professional experiences have motivated you to become a social worker? And specifically, why have you chosen to apply to UMB's MSW program? Please discuss any aspects of our curriculum, programs, faculty, research opportunities, or community partnerships that interest you. (Limit your response to 300 words)
  2. Identify a specific social problem that you are passionate about addressing as a social worker. Drawing from reliable sources as well as your own experiences, discuss the scope of the problem and why it is important to you. (Limit your response to 300 words)
  3. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are core values in the field of social work. Please describe a specific experience where you actively contributed to promoting diversity, equity, or inclusion. What challenges did you face (if any), and what did you learn from this experience? (Limit your response to 300 words)

Additional Advanced Standing Statement 

Advanced Standing applicants must also submit a case plan with the following information:   

Choose a direct practice example involving an individual, group, family, or organization. Organize your response using the following headings, and please ensure to disguise names and identifying information. If you do not have a direct practice example, please create your own to answer this question (Limit your full response to 300 words).

  • Brief Agency Description: Provide a concise overview of the agency, including its primary function and purpose.
  • Assessment: Summarize the essential case data, including: • Age, ethnicity, and race of the individual(s) • Presenting problem and history of the problem • Coping abilities • For groups or organizations: describe the type, membership makeup, and purpose.
  • Case Plan: Describe the case plan and explain how it is informed by the assessment.
  • Interventions: Detail and analyze your practice interventions, explaining their connection to the case plan and assessment.  

Optional Statement 

If there are any aspects of your academic record (e.g., grades) or personal history (e.g., personal or professional challenges) that you feel require further explanation, provide a brief account. How have these experiences prepared you for success in our MSW program? (Limit your response to 300 words)

 Applicants who have an undergraduate GPA of 2.99 or below, please use this optional statement space to explain how your previous/current educational experience helped you develop strategies to successfully maintain a 3.0 cumulative GPA in our MSW program.

Applicants reapplying after being dismissed from the MSW program or from another graduate program should follow the additional instructions under the section Readmission and Reinstatement after Dismissal.

 

Application Fee Waiver Information

Understanding Fee Waivers: How It Works

At the University of Maryland School of Social Work, we value the contributions of various service members and alumni. To facilitate your application process, we offer fee waivers to the following groups:

  1. Americorps (Teach for America, Public allies, VISTA)
  2. Peace Corps
  3. McNair/TRIO/SSS Scholars
  4. Fulbright
  5. Veterans/Active Military
  6. Nation Guard
  7. Foreign Service
  8. Indonesia Republic and Marshall Island

If you belong to one of these groups and are awarded a fee waiver, you can submit your application without any payment. However, please note that fee waivers require proper documentation for approval (see details below), and if your fee waiver request is denied, you will be notified. In such cases, payment through credit card, check, or money order will be required to submit your application.

Documentation Requirements:

To request a fee waiver, prospective applicants must provide the following information to the admissions office:

  • Your full legal name, current address, phone number(s), email address, and any other relevant contact information.
  • A copy of your acceptance letter into Americorps, Peace Corps, McNair/TRIO, Fulbright, National Guard, Foreign Service, Indonesia Republic/Marshall Island, or proof of your status as a Veteran or Active Military member. (Veterans should submit a copy of their DD214 form, while active duty members should provide written proof of their current service).

Submission Deadline:

Please submit the proper documentation to Admissions admissions@ssw.umaryland.edu at least 7 days before the application deadline. Please note that invitation letters will NOT be accepted as proper documentation.

We value your service and commitment, and our goal is to make the application process as accessible as possible. If you have any questions or need further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us. We are here to help you every step of the way.

Instructions for Submitting Transcripts

Official transcripts play a vital role in your application process. Please follow these guidelines for a smooth submission.

Submission Methods

  • Transcripts can be submitted either by mail or electronically to Admissions admissions@ssw.umaryland.edu
  • If your school does not offer an electronic transcript option, you must request that your transcript be mailed to our address.

Mailing Address
University of Maryland School of Social Work
Attn: Office of Admissions
525 West Redwood Street
Baltimore, MD 21201

Important Note

  • DO NOT send materials to the Graduate School, as it may cause delays or cancellations in your application process.

University of Maryland College Park Transcripts

  • For transcripts from the University of Maryland College Park, please use the mailing option only. DO NOT use the electronic submission method.

Identification Information

  • Ensure your complete full legal name and social security number are clearly provided when submitting application materials by mail.

Questions or Assistance

FAQs

Is the MSW program accredited through the Council on Social Work Education?
Yes. The Masters of Social Work Program at the University of Maryland is accredited through CSWE.

 What is the admissions committee looking for in an applicant?

  • Applicants with promising academic performance.
  • Applicants with professional and volunteer experience related to the field of social work.
  • Career changers with solid rationale and clear plans to practice social work.
  • Well-crafted personal statements and resume.
  • Applicants with a commitment to social justice.
  • Applicants who contribute to the diversity of the student body, particularly in gender, ethnicity, and geography.

All applicants are considered based on a holistic analysis of their application. 

With limited to no social work experience, what can I do to make my application as strong as possible?
We are seeking applicants that possess:

  • Related volunteer or work experience
  • Clear goals after you complete the MSW program
  • Powerful experiences that led you to social work as a career path
  • Values aligned with the Code of Ethics
  • Strong skills and interactions with clients and/or disenfranchised populations
  • References that reinforce your fit and abilities with social work

Applicants should use the personal statement questions, resume, and references to create a compelling application that address these areas. 

Can I start in the Spring?
Yes, Foundation and Advanced Standing students can enter either the Baltimore or USG campuses in the Spring. Students entering in the Spring must do so on a part time basis--enroll in ONLY 2 courses (6 credits) and then be prepared to enter Field Practicum the following Fall (both Foundation and Advanced Standing students).

To be eligible for Spring, applicants must already have their undergraduate degree, therefore December graduates are only eligible for Fall admission.

We do not offer a Spring start for the Online program at this time. 

Can I transfer credits?
Students enrolled in a non-MSW graduate program can transfer up to 6 credits that will be considered elective credits. Transcript review occurs after students have been accepted into the program and are conducted by the Registrar upon request.

Students who are enrolled in an accredited MSW program can transfer up to 30 credits, but must complete the remaining 30 credits at the UMB MSW program.

Do I have to take the GRE?
While there is no strict requirement, applicants with an undergraduate GPA of 2.99 or lower are encouraged to utilize the optional statement section to elaborate on how their past or current educational experiences have contributed to the development of strategies that will enable them to maintain a 3.0 cumulative GPA in our MSW program.

Can I change from full time to part time (or vice versa) once I’ve been accepted?
Although not guaranteed, students may request a change in enrollment status prior to the start of the academic year. All requests must be submitted to the Dean of Admissions for approval.

What is the distinction between full time and part time enrollment in terms of course load?For our 60 credit program:

  • Part-time students begin with 6 credits upon entering the MSW program and can complete the program in either 3 or 4 years
  • Full-time students typically take 15 credits each semester to complete the program in two years

 For our 36-credit Advanced Standing program:

  • Part-time students complete the program in two years 
  • Full-Time students complete the program in 1.5 years

For some examples of how our students move through the program, please refer to our Sample Plans of Study

Since tuition is per credit, a student will pay the same amount regardless of their enrollment status

 Can I switch campuses during the admission process?
During the application cycle, if an applicant is offered admission to the Baltimore or USG location, but wishes to switch locations, an email must be sent to the Dean of Admissions formally requesting to change locations. Not all requests can be granted. Students cannot switch to the Online program from either the Baltimore or USG campus, but Online students are allowed to switch to a traditional campus.  

 I am an international student, do I have additional application steps?
International students whose first language is not English and who have been in the United States less than five years are required to submit a TOEFL (minimum score of 94) or IELTS (minimum score is 7) score.  At the discretion of the Dean of Admissions, a waiver may be awarded.

Additionally, if international students earned any degrees abroad, they will need to have their transcript evaluated.  See more details in our  2024-25 Admissions Information and Guide. 

 Can I visit either the Baltimore or USG campus before I apply?
We would be happy to show you around!  Please contact Admissions admissions@ssw.umaryland.edu to set up a visit to either campus.

 Do I need to submit a transcript for classes that I took at another university?
If the grades from other schools you attended are listed on your transcript, Yes.
If the grades from other schools you attended are NOT listed on your transcript, Yes.

*All required transcripts must be received by the application deadline for your application to be complete.

When can I find out if I’ve been admitted?

Program Term Application Deadline  Decision By
60-credit Hybrid  Spring (part-time only) Nov 1 Dec 1
Fall (full & part-time)

Priority – Jan 15 

Final – Mar 15

Priority – Mar 1

Final – May 1
36-credit Hybrid Advanced Standing  Spring (part-time only) Nov 1 Dec 1
Fall (full & part-time)

Feb. 1

March 1
60-credit Online Fall (part-time only)

Priority – Jan 15 

Final – Mar 15

Priority – Mar 1

Final – May 1

Is a deposit required to save my spot after I am admitted?
Yes, after you are admitted, a non-refundable deposit of $300 is required. This deposit is submitted to reserve your space in the program and will be applied to your first semester's tuition bill.

If I’m accepted but cannot attend, can I defer?
Yes.  Students can defer only once, for up to one year.  The confirmation deposit must be paid first before requesting a deferral. After the confirmation deposit has been paid, students must email the Dean of Admissions and indicate:

  1. the reason for the request,
  2. enrollment status (full-time or part-time), and
  3. the term to which you wish to defer (spring/fall and year).

The confirmation deposit reserves the students' space in our MSW program.

I already have my MSW, but need to take a class in order to get my licensure. What do I have to do?
The Registration Office grants approval for Special Students. Please contact an the Office of Admissions upon approval.

Upcoming Events

22Oct
8:00 PM | Zoom Learn about our 3-year Online MSW Program. Nakiya Schurman, Director of the Online MSW Program, will provide a brief overview of the curriculum, program structure and admission requirements.
25Oct
12:00 PM | Zoom MSW Program Review for Baltimore Campus via zoom
30Oct
12:00 PM | Virtual Join us to explore the similarities and differences between the School of Social Work's three campus options for the 60-Credit MSW Program.

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