Social Work, M.S.W.

Program Requirements

The traditional Master of Social Work (M.S.W.) program requires 60 credits. Students may complete the residential program on either a full-time or part-time basis. Full-time study can be completed in 2 years; part-time study is very flexible and typically takes 3-4 years depending on course load.

The Advanced Standing Master of Social Work (M.S.W.) is an accelerated experience for students who have already completed a bachelor’s degree in social work. Students may complete this 36-credit program on either a part-time or full-time basis. With full-time study, the Advanced Standing MSW can be completed in as few as 10 months.

Online M.S.W. program information

Extensive field experience occurs across two internships totaling 900 hours, in a variety of social work settings with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. Students will gain first-hand experience in research-informed practices, advancing justice, ethical principles, and shaping their own identity as a social work professional. Internship scheduling is flexible for part-time students to work around their schedules, and those already working in human services field may be able to complete paid, workplace-based internships.

Both programs allow students to choose from two concentrations, which will be the focus on their second internship:

• Advanced Clinical Practice (ACP) Concentration: designed for those who want to become mental health clinicians and practice in a clinical setting. There is a focus on incorporating clinical practices compatible with a client’s culture and values, in addition to identifying barriers to treatment.
• Advanced Integrated Practice (AIP) Concentration: Designed for those who want to pursue direct practice and leadership in a wide range of increasingly complex human service organizations. Students work on multi-disciplinary teams in community-based settings at both the direct and indirect service level. There is a focus on advocacy and both the understanding and development of public policy around mental health and social work delivery.

Coursework areas include:

• Clinical Practice with Children, Adolescents and Families
• Human Diversity on Social Contexts
• Social Work Practice in Mental Health
• Family Systems Theory
• Treatment of Complex Trauma with Individuals
• Policy Practice and Advocacy

More information on academic requirements available in the Syracuse University Course Catalog for the Social Work M.S.W. or the Advanced Standing Social Work M.S.W. A combined M.S.W./J.D. program is also available in partnership with the College of Law.

For current students: Forms and Information | Licensure Information | Field Instruction