Who Should Apply?

Prospective students who hold a bachelor's degree in social work (BSW) can earn their MSW in 3 semesters (full-time) or 4 semesters (part-time). Accepted students are awarded up to 24 credits from their BSW program and must complete 36 credit hours in our accelerated program to earn a MSW. 

BSW students who are accepted into our full-time Advanced Standing Program will begin their advanced field placement in the fall semester. It is expected that Advanced Standing students have demonstrated a high level of competence in foundational social work principles and practices. 

MINIMUM ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS FOR ADVANCED STANDING:

  • BSW from a CSWE-accredited program (in the last 5 years)
  • Minimum of 3.0 GPA overall and on the last 60 credits
  • Has demonstrated experience working with individuals, families, and/or communities
  • BSW applicants who are enrolled in a spring block field placement are NOT eligible to apply for Advanced Standing until next year's application cycle
  • Applicants with a "C" in any practice coursework (also called methods or interventions) are NOT eligible for Advanced Standing 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

  • Must complete program within 2 years of initial registration
  • December graduates are only eligible for admission the following fall
  • Fall applicants must complete their undergrad degree no later than May 31st
  • Submit two educational/professional references
  • Must submit a case plan in addition to the 3 personal statement questions
  • Shady Grove is for applicants concentrating in clinical social work

Students interested in the Advanced Standing program should apply here.

The Curriculum

Our 36-credit advanced curriculum builds on the foundation of the BSW coursework to prepare students for social work practice. Advanced Standing students select the Macro, Clinical, or combined concentrations at Baltimore, while they pursue the Clinical concentration at The Universities at Shady Grove location. 

 

Advanced Standing Program Structure

Our rigorous social work education is provided in in person, hybrid, and synchronous/asynchronous virtual formats.  

Fall and Spring semesters are 15 weeks long, and the Summer semester is 8 weeks long.

Semester

Courses

Credit

 

 

Fall 2023

 

SWCL 794/SWOA 794: Advanced Field Practicum I

6

SWCL/SWOA Methods (Concentration/Specialization Requirement)

3

Concentration/Specialization Requirement

3

Concentration/Specialization Requirement

3

Spring 2024

 

SWCL 795/SWOA 795: Advanced Field Practicum II

6

SWCL/SWOA Methods (Concentration/Specialization Requirement)

3

Summer 2024

Concentration/Specialization Requirement

3

Concentration/Specialization Requirement

3

TOTAL CREDITS

36

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Field Education

Field practicum experiences, in the first or second year of the program, are tailored to the student’s academic and professional experiences and are located within or near their geographic area.

Candidates currently working in the social work field may be able to complete internships at their place of employment. Our Field Education office works with each individual student to ensure an appropriate and engaging Field Practicum experience.

If a student is not pursuing an employment-based field practicum, they will need to be available for at least two weekdays during business hours for their Advanced Field practicum. 

Cost

For the 2023-2024 Academic Year, tuition is currently $676 per credit hour for Maryland residents, not including the additional cost of fees.  This is subject to change for the 2024-2025 academic year.  We recommend all students to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Ready to be a Changemaker?