Master of Social Work (MSW) FAQ's

The master's in social work degree (MSW) opens doors to social service career opportunities in a wide range of career fields. Concentrating in direct service to individuals and groups can lead to rewarding careers as a social worker in schools, healthcare facilities, service agencies, or community projects. Or you can concentrate in broader issues of social policy, working with communities, and fostering social change on a larger scale.

The MSW degree prepares you to work with diverse populations in such areas as child welfare, mental health, substance abuse, gerontology, individual counseling, and legislative advocacy. With your mater's in social work you will have the flexibility to work in a clinical or non-clinical setting, or in private practice.

Washington, DC, is an ideal location for studying social work. Direct social services opportunities in DC span a wide range of concentrations and populations. And there is no more impactful place to engage in macro-level social service than in the nation's capital, where policy development and legislative advocacy are happening on the local, regional, and national levels.

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    How to Choose a MSW Program

    When choosing a MSW program, consider what attracted you to social work, how you want to make a difference, on-campus and online options, flexibility of field internships, cost, and financial aid.

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    What Jobs Can You Get with a Master of Social Work Degree?

    A masters degree in social work can lead to jobs in schools, hospitals, nursing homes, mental health, child welfare, and substance abuse programs.

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    What is a Master of Social Work (MSW) Internship?

    MSW internships are required by all accredited master of social work (MSW) programs. A set number of internship hours must be completed throughout the MSW program.  These are known as Field Education placements and are the signature pedagogy of social work education.

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    What Can You Do with a Master of Social Work MSW Degree?

    MSW careers include school, child and family, healthcare, mental health, and substance abuse social work, as well as advocacy and managerial opportunities.

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    What Is the Difference between a Master of Social Work MSW and LCSW?

    LCSW means Licensed Clinical Social Worker. MSW means Master of Social Work. A LCSW needs to be a MSW, plus meet state requirements and pass the LCSW exam.

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  • MSW Students

    MSW Program

    The MSW program gives you the knowledge and skills to become an advanced social work practitioner. It prepares professionals who, consistent with their chosen concentrations, act as agents of change to promote individual and societal well-being.

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