Social Work, MSW

You’re ready to grow your professional impact and sharpen your ability to serve rural communities. The Master of Social Work program helps you build the skills to advocate for those facing the unique challenges of rural life.

You’ll graduate ready to tackle complex problems in fields like mental health, family violence and community development. A deeper understanding of rural poverty and social justice prepares you for leadership roles that make a real difference.

Field instruction

You’ll apply what you learn through hands-on field practicums. These opportunities are essential for your development as a professional social worker. By working directly with agencies to serve communities, you'll gain the experience necessary to succeed in your career. Your faculty advisor will help you navigate the process to select an appropriate site that matches your interests.

Professional integrity

Social work requires a commitment to ethical practice. As a student, you'll uphold the standards of the National Association of Social Workers Code of Ethics. You'll develop the emotional and intellectual maturity required to serve your clients with compassion and respect.

Curriculum tracks

You'll choose the curriculum track based on your undergraduate area of study:

Earned a Bachelor of Social Work?

View our "Advanced Standing Track" details.

Bachelor's degree is not in social work?

• You'll complete the 64 credit-hour "Non-advanced Standing Track".
• In this hybrid program, you’ll spend your first year building a foundation in generalist social work before moving into advanced practice. Your foundation courses will be in-person and online, and advanced practice may be taken fully online.
• This track is designed for completion within two years of full-time study.