M.S.W. Program

Admissions review consideration for the M.S.W. Program

The admissions review process involves an evaluation of each application in four broad areas:

  1. Educational preparation
    What is the quality of the applicants’ undergraduate education? If the undergraduate grades are not very strong, is there other evidence of academic ability? For example, has the applicant already successfully completed graduate level course work and received high grades? Applicants accepted tend to have strong social science undergraduate preparation and good grade point averages. A B.S.W. is not required except for the advanced standing program.
  2. Work experience
    Are applicants making informed decisions in seeking to become professional social workers? Have they worked with those in need? Do they have voluntary or paid experience in the human services? Almost all applicants accepted have had prior experience in human services through internships, employment and/or volunteer experiences.
  3. Personal statement
    This is a very important part of the application packet. What is/are the reason(s) for seeking the M.S.W. degree? Does the applicant understand the mission of professional social work and the nature of the careers available? Are there specific career goals that build on prior life, work, educational and/or volunteer experiences and that are appropriate for students in our program? Does the statement demonstrate commitment to, and understanding of, the values of the social work profession and the NASW Code of Ethics? Are the essays well-written, thoughtful, reasoned and substantial? If there are weaknesses in the application, e.g., low grade point average, do the applicants adequately explain them? Do the applicants understand, and plan for, the time and resource commitments of the M.S.W. program?
  4. Recommendations
    Almost all recommendations we receive are positive. Are the recommendation letters specific, detailed and thoughtful? Do the recommenders understand the nature of professional social work and graduate education? Are the recommendations from those who can speak to the applicant’s ability, as well as professional practice, academic ability, or the potential to perform as a social worker?