Social Work (MSW)

GRADUATE PROGRAM

Social Work (MSW)

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

SCAN TO VIEW THE CURRICULUM FOR THIS PROGRAM

Through education, service and leadersh USF’s Social Work (MSW) prepares students to become social workers who are committed to social and economic justice while working with individuals, families, groups, organizations and communities. The program aims to prepare culturally conscious leaders to ethically and competently serve and work alongside diverse populations, using social work values and evidence-based methods of intervention to effect change at all levels.

The Advanced Generalist concentration allows students to choose from a variety of specialties in the field of Social Work that are developed through research, practicum and elective coursework including:

• Aging/Gerontology

• Child Welfare

• Criminal Justice

• Developmental Disabilities

• Domestic Violence

• Forensics

• Health Care

• Immigration

• International Concerns

• Legal Systems

• Mental Health

• Schools

• Substance Use

The School Social Work concentration trains the social worker to bring unique knowledge and skills to school systems and student services teams. They are trained to:

• Address mental health concerns.

• Address behavioral concerns.

• Provide positive behavioral support.

• Provide academic and classroom support.

• Utilize individual and group counseling techniques.

• Consult with teachers, parents, and administrators.

Julia Stenzel ‘20, Program Graduate

“Having graduated from The University of St. Francis with my bachelor’s in psychology over 15 years ago, I wanted to continue my education with a master’s in social work at the same school based on my previous experience. The class sizes are small enough that there is personal attention to the students, which allows for the professors to get to know each student as an individual and to help each student to nurture their strengths while improving their weaknesses. The professors want the students to succeed and make themselves available as well as encourage the students to seek help at any time. The Social Work master’s program taught me so much about myself and taught me to be more open-minded. The other students and professors are like family which enhances the quality of education being given.”

FEATURES

USF’s MSW program is designed for working professionals because it offers convenient evening, weekend and online classes. Full-time students can expect to complete the degree in two years or four semesters. Applicants with a bachelor’s degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited program may be eligible for advanced standing and should anticipate one academic year for completion. Part-time options are also available.

BENEFITS

Now more than ever, a Master of Social Work degree is critical to professional success in the social work field. Those earning an MSW degree have increased professional competency and job satisfaction, along with opportunities for career advancement. The field has shown an increased demand for individuals with the MSW degree, making it a must in today’s competitive market.

OUTCOMES

Graduates of this program will be able to:

• Engage in micro, mezzo, and macro level practice.

• Exhibit the necessary leadership skills to meet the needs of multicultural communities.

• Act as leaders focused on empowering historically, socially and economically disadvantaged and oppressed groups.

• Exhibit critical thinking and evaluation skills.

• Increase analytical and self-reflective skills.

• Engage ethically and professionally with clients and colleagues, as well as within practice settings and broader society.

• Integrate advanced treatment modalities into their practice.

• Synthesize and apply, with a high degree of competency and autonomy, a broad range of knowledge into their practice skills.

FINANCING YOUR EDUCATION

Students are eligible for financial aid in the form of student loans, payment plans and tuition reimbursement deferment. All students should submit the Free Application for Federal Aid (FAFSA) at studentaid.gov. USF’s code is 001664.