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The Master of Social Work degree requires students to complete 60 semester credit hours (20 courses). This number includes:

  • Required coursework in family-centered, community-based, and global social work, mental health, human behavior, and diversity
  • Elective courses (which may include required courses for concentrations within the MSW)
  • A total of 1,080 hours of supervised practice and fieldwork experience in partnering social service agencies
  • Related field practicum courses
Time to Completion
  • Full-time students in the full MSW program can expect to complete the 60 credit hour requirements for the degree over four continuous semesters (two years).
  • Part-time students in the full MSW program should anticipate eight semesters (three calendar years) to complete the 60 credit hour requirements.

Change in status from full time to part time is permitted; change in status from part time to full time is not allowed. View a sample curriculum for full-time and part-time students.

Advanced Standing Option

Applicants with a bachelor’s degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited program may be eligible for advanced standing. The advanced standing program consists of 30-credit hours of required and elective coursework (10 courses), including 20 hours of fieldwork (per week) and related field practicum courses. Full-time advanced standing students can expect to complete the 30-credit hour requirements for the MSW in as little as nine months. Part-time advanced standing students can expect to complete the 30-credit hour requirements for the MSW in two years. View a sample plan of study for advanced standing students.