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How to choose a Master's in Social Work (MSW) Program

People come to social work from different backgrounds. Some have experience in social services and are pursuing a MSW to advance their careers. Others purse a MSW to change from careers they no longer find satisfying. While others may have had experience with a social worker and saw how their assistance changed a problematic situation. The common thread among all those interested in social work is the desire to help people and make a difference.

When choosing a MSW program, consider what has attracted you to social work and how you would like to make a difference.

Then look for a program that matches your interests and would fit within other responsibilities you may have. Specifically, you will want to consider: 

• What options are available to concentrate in an area of interest to you?
• Flexibility of the program — are there on-campus and online options? If you're in the online program, can you still access on-campus services and participate in on campus activities?
• Flexibility of field internships — are flex-time options or employment-based internships available? 
• What family, work, or other responsibilities do you anticipate during the course of your studies? How will you fulfill these obligations while completing 16 hours per week over two semesters in the foundation year and 20 hours per week over two semesters in the advance year in field internships?
• Cost of the program — how much will the program cost? How will you pay for the program?
• What types of financial aid are available? 

Why Get an MSW at Catholic University?

The National Catholic School of Social Service at Catholic University celebrated its 100th anniversary of social work education in 2019. Its mission is to educate students from diverse faiths and cultures who in their professional endeavors will embody the values of social justice, service, and scholarship. Our MSW program offers a small, intimate learning environment, as students are given the opportunity to develop a professional working relationship with our faculty. The faculty acts as mentors enabling students to become part of a valuable professional network that students can tap into for years to come. 

A flexible online MSW program

With three starts per year (fall, spring, and summer), our online MSW program can be completed on a full-time, part-time, or accelerated basis. An Advanced Standing option is also available for applicants who have earned a bachelor’s degree in social work within five years of applying for the MSW program. 

Our master's in social work online program includes the same features that make the on-campus program unique:

• Small class sizes — classes are typically capped at 25 students
• A hands-on, responsive faculty
• Student input in identifying field placements
• Emphasis on the understanding and application of theory in evidence-based practices

The online MSW program prepares you for advanced clinical practice through courses that cover social work topics, such as: 

• Psychopathology
• Assessment, Diagnosis, and Treatment of Mental Illness
• Clinical social work with adults, children, and families
• Cognitive-behavioral and psychodynamic theories