Master of Social Work (MSW) | National University

Master of Social Work (MSW) | National University
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Master of Social Work (MSW)
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Master of Social Work (MSW)
Program Overview
Degree Requirements
Career Outlook
Admissions
Why National University
Accelerate Your Career With NU
FAQs
Next Start Date
Every Monday
Apply Now
Master of Social Work (MSW)
Degree:
Master of Social Work (MSW) Degree
Application:
$0 application fee. No exams.
Our CSWE-accredited Master of Social Work (MSW) degree program will prepare you for diverse career opportunities within a variety of social service settings. Using a curriculum that aligns with competencies from the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), you’ll gain knowledge, skills, and experience that you can transfer directly into the workplace. This program consists of two tracks to accommodate those with an undergraduate degree in social work and those new to the field.
Degree Requirements
Admission to a University master’s program requires a conferred bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited academic institution or an international institution that is determined to be equivalent through an approved evaluation service. Admission into MSW-Advanced Standing requires a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree from a CSWE accredited program.
Time to Completion
Generalist Track
The University allows 6 years to complete all Master’s programs of 36 credits or more.
The median time to completion for this program is 48 months.
Time to completion varies depending upon the pace in which a student completes courses and the number of transfer credits accepted. As most University students are working adults, balancing educational, professional, and personal commitments, our academic and finance counselors will work with you to develop a program schedule that works best for your needs.
Students following the preferred schedule designed by the Dean for this program, and applying no transfer credits, can expect to finish in as little as 24 months.
Core courses
11 Courses
The Master of Social Work, Generalist track program can be completed in 60 credit hours.
The Master of Social Work, Generalist track program requires the foundation courses to be completed prior to enrolling in the Advanced Standing track. The program capstone will be completed as the last course in the degree program.
3.0 Credits
This course presents an introduction to the practice of contemporary social work. You will review concepts and theories to better understand populations at risk and to enhance awareness of personal values. You also will examine the individual, familial and community context of social work. Finally, you will evaluate professionalism, ethics, communication, and key skills in social work practice.
3.0 Credits
In this course you will explore concepts of diversity, cultural humility, human rights, and justice. You will explore social work practices with diverse populations and assess multisystemic advocacy approaches to social and environmental justice. You also will examine multidisciplinary frameworks of social work to gain a better understanding of human behavior in social environments. You will apply specific theories relevant to diverse client systems and human development.
3.0 Credits
In this course, you will focus on the social worker-client relationship development with both individuals and families. You will investigate client assessment techniques and principles of professional client relationship building. Evidence-based practice and service delivery will be explored. Elements of justice from the social work perspective as they apply to individuals and families also will be reviewed.
3.0 Credits
In this generalist course, students will explore historical and current social welfare policies, programs, and institutions in the United States as well as the social, racial, economic, and environmental justice issues that shaped these responses to identified social problems. You will learn the legislative process by which social welfare policies are enacted and understand the relevance of policy to social service delivery and social work practice. The course also provides a framework for the critical analysis of social welfare policy including recognition of how such policies contribute to oppression, marginalization, and injustice.
3.0 Credits
In this course students will focus on the social work with organizations and communities. Students will assess the impact of diversity on these constituents and the social work roles at the mezzo level in organizations and communities. Students will evaluate usage of evidence-based practices service delivery in organizations and communities. Students will examine how economic policies impact social welfare and by extension, the types of services needed. Students will also review emerging forms of technology used for service delivery.
3.0 Credits
This course will introduce social work in behavioral health practice. Students will be introduced to laws and regulations that define mental health services and scope of practice. Students will be introduced to evidence-based practices and service delivery models used in behavioral health. Students will also explore intervention plans and strategies social workers use in behavioral health. Knowledge and skill development for multi-systems practice in mental health settings will be explored. Students will examine conceptual frameworks for practice at the micro, mezzo and macro levels.
3.0 Credits
Models of ethical decision making in social work will be discussed in this course. Students will assess the need for ethics in working with diverse populations and constituents, as well as analyze governmental policy that guides social work practice with diverse clients. Students also will examine the ethics of social workers as advocates to ensure justice for constituents.
3.0 Credits
The focus of this course is on the fundamentals of quantitative and qualitative approaches to social work research. Students will gain an understanding of the strengths and limitations of each approach and how these methods apply to social work research. This course also provides students with a foundation in research ethics, and skills, in conducting literature reviews and scholarly writing. Students will also conduct a critical analysis of existing research on diverse and oppressed populations.
3.0 Credits
This course introduces students to the process and practice of social work engagement and collaboration with other professionals as a team to deliver services to diverse populations. Students will explore communications styles that comprise interdisciplinary therapeutic interventions. Practice interventions supported by research for integrated care settings will also be examined.
3.0 Credits
In this course you will receive social work practice training through supervised experiential learning in a social work/social services agency setting. You will incorporate social work values and ethics including social justice and cultural competency. Emphasis is placed on the application of the generalist intervention model with individuals, families, groups, and communities. You will demonstrate social work competencies, theoretical integration, ethics, and personal and professional development.
3.0 Credits
In this course you will continue your social work practice training through supervised experiential learning in a social work/social services agency setting. You will incorporate social work values and ethics including social justice and cultural humility. Emphasis is placed on the application of the generalist intervention model with individuals, families, groups, and communities. You will demonstrate social work competencies, theoretical integration, ethics, and personal and professional development.
Advanced Courses
9 Courses
3.0 Credits
In this course, students will apply evidence-based practice in addressing client problems to gain an understanding of their personal and professional values as a social worker engaged with clients who have complex needs. Students will be exposed to unique ethical considerations regarding practice interventions with both individuals and families. The application of regulations and standards in working with diverse populations will also be assessed. Students will critique the effectiveness of specific practices and explore the adjustment of interventions based on client needs. Students will also explore various family types and dynamics, cultural factors, and other factors influencing family interaction within the family system, with organizations, and the community. Students will also integrate DSM-5 guidelines.
3.0 Credits
In this course, students will examine what is meant by marginalized populations such as those experiencing homelessness, victims of natural disasters, veterans, and those with severe and persistent mental illness. Students will learn how discrimination and oppression impacts the lives of marginal populations. Students will also gain an understanding of the needs and services of diverse populations and the problems they face in accessing social services. Additionally, students will work to advocate for oppressed populations for social, political, legal, and economic justice. Students will explore the role of research, to include the minority stress model, in understanding the needs of marginalized and oppressed populations and in increasing opportunities for oppressed populations to improve resilience and access additional options.
3.0 Credits
In this course, students will examine current and emerging health behavior theory, research, practice, and interventions specific to various health related settings used by diverse populations. Students will explore theories of behavior change, including resilience orientation, to assist the student’s continuous professional growth. Students will also gain insight into the ethics of social worker facilitation of transitions and endings in medical care. Students will develop knowledge of community resources to assist with social work consultation, advocacy, referral and networking on behalf of clients to include working with DSM-5 guidelines.
3.0 Credits
In this course students will examine DSM-5 inclusion with facets of mental health intervention needs for individuals with severe and persistent mental illness from a social work perspective. Of particular focus for students in this course will be distinguishing between evidence-based practice, best practices, and areas with emerging research knowledge. Students will also examine strategies that evaluate and monitor client progress and treatment outcomes as well as the recovery paradigm for individuals with severe and persistent mental illness. Students will also critically analyze the impact of health/mental health policies on populations-at-risk.
3.0 Credits
In this course, students will examine the core clinical skills in forensic social work practice. Students will explore contemporary and complex social problems, including health and justice disparities. Common populations and issues regarding forensic social work, including children and families, adults, and older adults as well as theories integral to forensic social work practice will be evaluated. Students will also explore the diverse roles and careers in forensic social work, along with the collaborative relationships that forensic social workers engage in with physicians, nurses, psychiatrists, legal professionals, law enforcement, and correctional officers.
3.0 Credits
In this course, students will explore the skills needed to cultivate leadership and professional behavior and work effectively with multi/interdisciplinary teams. Students will examine the delivery of supervision, leadership development, strategic planning, and transitioning from clinician to a leadership position. The role of leader at the organizational level will also be evaluated, including legislative advocacy and a review of jurisdictional regulations and requirements related to licensure and practice. Students will examine the expectations of administrative leadership for the daily operation of social work service delivery systems, including the functions of management, team-work, decision-making, use of authority, program planning, and staffing.
3.0 Credits
Advanced Practicum consists of two courses with a focus on experiential learning, offered within a community social service agency, or practice, and supervised by approved community practitioners. In this course, students will apply practice skills with families, groups, and individuals in their social contexts. The emphasis for this first advanced practicum is on developing professional roles and relationships, engaging in interactions with clients, and applying multi-systems assessment and interventions.
3.0 Credits
This course identifies the goals of behavioral analysis as a science, explains the philosophical assumptions underlying the science of behavior analysis, describes and explains behavior from the perspective of radical behaviorism and the dimensions of ABA, and distinguishes among the four branches of ABA.
3.0 Credits
The capstone course is designed to provide students with the opportunity to consolidate what has been learned in the social work program and effectively apply concepts to real-world social work practice. Students will collaborate with their field placement to identify a project in which they will evaluate a selected aspect of the organization or agency work. Students will also evaluate their ability to integrate social work knowledge, values, and practice skills in their professional role as a social worker. The capstone is a course at the end of the MSW process that provides students the opportunity to demonstrate key social work competencies at an advanced level with the potential to engage in research-informed practice which may lead to publications.
One of the following:
3.0 Credits
The capstone course is designed to provide students with the opportunity to consolidate what has been learned in the social work program and effectively apply concepts to real-world social work practice. Students will collaborate with their field placement to identify a project in which they will evaluate a selected aspect of the organization or agency work. Students will also evaluate their ability to integrate social work knowledge, values, and practice skills in their professional role as a social worker. The capstone is a course at the end of the MSW process that provides students the opportunity to demonstrate key social work competencies at an advanced level with the potential to engage in research-informed practice which may lead to publications.
3.0 Credits
The capstone course is designed to provide you with the opportunity to consolidate what has been learned in the social work program and effectively apply concepts to real-world social work practice. You will draw on your practicum placement experience to evaluate a selected aspect of the organization or agency work. You will also evaluate your ability to integrate social work knowledge, values, and practice skills in your professional role as a social worker. The capstone is a course at the end of the MSW process that provides you the opportunity to demonstrate key social work competencies at an advanced level with the potential to engage in research-informed practice.
*Students can take MSW-6103 or any Elective Course at the 6000 level in the JFK School of Psychology and Social Sciences.
**Students in California are required to complete MSW-6903CA as the Capstone Course.
Advanced Standing Track
The University allows 5 years to complete all Master’s programs of 36 credits or less.
The median time to completion for this program is 24 months.
Time to completion varies depending upon the pace in which a student completes courses and the number of transfer credits accepted. As most University students are working adults, balancing educational, professional, and personal commitments, our academic and finance counselors will work with you to develop a program schedule that works best for your needs.
Students following the preferred schedule designed by the Dean for this program, and applying no transfer credits, can expect to finish in as little as 12 months.
CORE courses
3 Courses
The Master of Social Work – Advanced Standing track can be completed in 36 credit hours.
3.0 Credits
This course presents an introduction to the practice of contemporary social work. You will review concepts and theories to better understand populations at risk and to enhance awareness of personal values. You also will examine the individual, familial and community context of social work. Finally, you will evaluate professionalism, ethics, communication, and key skills in social work practice.
3.0 Credits
In this generalist course, students will explore historical and current social welfare policies, programs, and institutions in the United States as well as the social, racial, economic, and environmental justice issues that shaped these responses to identified social problems. You will learn the legislative process by which social welfare policies are enacted and understand the relevance of policy to social service delivery and social work practice. The course also provides a framework for the critical analysis of social welfare policy including recognition of how such policies contribute to oppression, marginalization, and injustice.
3.0 Credits
The focus of this course is on the fundamentals of quantitative and qualitative approaches to social work research. Students will gain an understanding of the strengths and limitations of each approach and how these methods apply to social work research. This course also provides students with a foundation in research ethics, and skills, in conducting literature reviews and scholarly writing. Students will also conduct a critical analysis of existing research on diverse and oppressed populations.
Advanced Courses
9 Courses
3.0 Credits
In this course, students will apply evidence-based practice in addressing client problems to gain an understanding of their personal and professional values as a social worker engaged with clients who have complex needs. Students will be exposed to unique ethical considerations regarding practice interventions with both individuals and families. The application of regulations and standards in working with diverse populations will also be assessed. Students will critique the effectiveness of specific practices and explore the adjustment of interventions based on client needs. Students will also explore various family types and dynamics, cultural factors, and other factors influencing family interaction within the family system, with organizations, and the community. Students will also integrate DSM-5 guidelines.
3.0 Credits
In this course, students will examine what is meant by marginalized populations such as those experiencing homelessness, victims of natural disasters, veterans, and those with severe and persistent mental illness. Students will learn how discrimination and oppression impacts the lives of marginal populations. Students will also gain an understanding of the needs and services of diverse populations and the problems they face in accessing social services. Additionally, students will work to advocate for oppressed populations for social, political, legal, and economic justice. Students will explore the role of research, to include the minority stress model, in understanding the needs of marginalized and oppressed populations and in increasing opportunities for oppressed populations to improve resilience and access additional options.
3.0 Credits
In this course, students will examine current and emerging health behavior theory, research, practice, and interventions specific to various health related settings used by diverse populations. Students will explore theories of behavior change, including resilience orientation, to assist the student’s continuous professional growth. Students will also gain insight into the ethics of social worker facilitation of transitions and endings in medical care. Students will develop knowledge of community resources to assist with social work consultation, advocacy, referral and networking on behalf of clients to include working with DSM-5 guidelines.
3.0 Credits
In this course students will examine DSM-5 inclusion with facets of mental health intervention needs for individuals with severe and persistent mental illness from a social work perspective. Of particular focus for students in this course will be distinguishing between evidence-based practice, best practices, and areas with emerging research knowledge. Students will also examine strategies that evaluate and monitor client progress and treatment outcomes as well as the recovery paradigm for individuals with severe and persistent mental illness. Students will also critically analyze the impact of health/mental health policies on populations-at-risk.
3.0 Credits
In this course, students will examine the core clinical skills in forensic social work practice. Students will explore contemporary and complex social problems, including health and justice disparities. Common populations and issues regarding forensic social work, including children and families, adults, and older adults as well as theories integral to forensic social work practice will be evaluated. Students will also explore the diverse roles and careers in forensic social work, along with the collaborative relationships that forensic social workers engage in with physicians, nurses, psychiatrists, legal professionals, law enforcement, and correctional officers.
3.0 Credits
In this course, students will explore the skills needed to cultivate leadership and professional behavior and work effectively with multi/interdisciplinary teams. Students will examine the delivery of supervision, leadership development, strategic planning, and transitioning from clinician to a leadership position. The role of leader at the organizational level will also be evaluated, including legislative advocacy and a review of jurisdictional regulations and requirements related to licensure and practice. Students will examine the expectations of administrative leadership for the daily operation of social work service delivery systems, including the functions of management, team-work, decision-making, use of authority, program planning, and staffing.
3.0 Credits
Advanced Practicum consists of two courses with a focus on experiential learning, offered within a community social service agency, or practice, and supervised by approved community practitioners. In this course, students will apply practice skills with families, groups, and individuals in their social contexts. The emphasis for this first advanced practicum is on developing professional roles and relationships, engaging in interactions with clients, and applying multi-systems assessment and interventions.
3.0 Credits
This course identifies the goals of behavioral analysis as a science, explains the philosophical assumptions underlying the science of behavior analysis, describes and explains behavior from the perspective of radical behaviorism and the dimensions of ABA, and distinguishes among the four branches of ABA.
One of the following:
3.0 Credits
The capstone course is designed to provide students with the opportunity to consolidate what has been learned in the social work program and effectively apply concepts to real-world social work practice. Students will collaborate with their field placement to identify a project in which they will evaluate a selected aspect of the organization or agency work. Students will also evaluate their ability to integrate social work knowledge, values, and practice skills in their professional role as a social worker. The capstone is a course at the end of the MSW process that provides students the opportunity to demonstrate key social work competencies at an advanced level with the potential to engage in research-informed practice which may lead to publications.
3.0 Credits
The capstone course is designed to provide you with the opportunity to consolidate what has been learned in the social work program and effectively apply concepts to real-world social work practice. You will draw on your practicum placement experience to evaluate a selected aspect of the organization or agency work. You will also evaluate your ability to integrate social work knowledge, values, and practice skills in your professional role as a social worker. The capstone is a course at the end of the MSW process that provides you the opportunity to demonstrate key social work competencies at an advanced level with the potential to engage in research-informed practice.
*Students can take MSW-6103 or any Elective Course at the 6000 level in the JFK School of Psychology and Social Sciences.
**Students in California are required to complete MSW-6903CA as the Capstone Course.
Career Outlook
Data Source:
The career outcomes data presented is sourced from
Lightcast
, which provides insights based on real-time job postings, public datasets, and analytics. Lightcast derives its data from sources such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW), and the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES). While accurate and reliable, this data reflects general labor market trends and may not represent individual outcomes or specific local conditions. For more details on Lightcast’s methodology, visit their
Data Overview
Here are some careers this degree could prepare you for:
Please select the state you will work in to view job data in your area
Top Jobs in this field
Median Salary
Job Openings
Healthcare Social Workers
$68,086
avg. salary (USA)
19,664
job openings (past yr.)
past year
Provide individuals, families, and groups with the psychosocial support needed to cope with chronic, acute, or terminal illnesses. Services include advising family caregivers. Provide patients with information and counseling, and make referrals for other services. May also provide case and care management or interventions designed to promote health, prevent disease, and address barriers to access to healthcare.
Median Salary:
$68,086
annual
+41%
above US average
Job Openings:
19,664
past year
Salary Range:
Low
$44,917
Medium
$68,086
High
$101,183
ALl of USA
Most Desired Skills
Social Work
Medical Records
Mental Health
Medical Social Work
Treatment Planning
Crisis Intervention
Auditing
ALl of USA
Top Companies Hiring
Headway
Thriveworks
LifeStance Health
Kaiser Permanente
Amedisys
Senior Care Therapy
Che Behavioral Health Services
Data Source:
The career outcomes data presented is sourced from
Lightcast
, which provides insights based on real-time job postings, public datasets, and analytics. Lightcast derives its data from sources such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW), and the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES). While accurate and reliable, this data reflects general labor market trends and may not represent individual outcomes or specific local conditions. For more details on Lightcast’s methodology, visit their
Data Overview
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers
$61,331
avg. salary (USA)
15,551
job openings (past yr.)
past year
Assess and treat individuals with mental, emotional, or substance abuse problems, including abuse of alcohol, tobacco, and/or other drugs. Activities may include individual and group therapy, crisis intervention, case management, client advocacy, prevention, and education.
Median Salary:
$61,331
annual
+27%
above US average
Job Openings:
15,551
past year
Salary Range:
Low
$39,393
Medium
$61,331
High
$108,327
ALl of USA
Most Desired Skills
Behavioral Health
Social Work
Mental Health
Case Management
Psychology
Treatment Planning
Crisis Intervention
ALl of USA
Top Companies Hiring
CVS Health
Elevance Health
Telecare
LifeStance Health
ViaQuest
UnitedHealth Group
Rbha Services Limited
Data Source:
The career outcomes data presented is sourced from
Lightcast
, which provides insights based on real-time job postings, public datasets, and analytics. Lightcast derives its data from sources such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW), and the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES). While accurate and reliable, this data reflects general labor market trends and may not represent individual outcomes or specific local conditions. For more details on Lightcast’s methodology, visit their
Data Overview
Healthcare Social Workers
$68,086
avg. salary (USA)
19,664
job openings (past yr.)
past year
Provide individuals, families, and groups with the psychosocial support needed to cope with chronic, acute, or terminal illnesses. Services include advising family caregivers. Provide patients with information and counseling, and make referrals for other services. May also provide case and care management or interventions designed to promote health, prevent disease, and address barriers to access to healthcare.
Median Salary:
$68,086
annual
+41%
above US average
Job Openings:
19,664
past year
Salary Range:
Low
$44,917
Medium
$68,086
High
$101,183
ALl of USA
Most Desired Skills
Social Work
Medical Records
Mental Health
Medical Social Work
Treatment Planning
Crisis Intervention
Auditing
ALl of USA
Top Companies Hiring
Headway
Thriveworks
LifeStance Health
Kaiser Permanente
Amedisys
Senior Care Therapy
Che Behavioral Health Services
Data Source:
The career outcomes data presented is sourced from
Lightcast
, which provides insights based on real-time job postings, public datasets, and analytics. Lightcast derives its data from sources such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW), and the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES). While accurate and reliable, this data reflects general labor market trends and may not represent individual outcomes or specific local conditions. For more details on Lightcast’s methodology, visit their
Data Overview
Child, Family, and School Social Workers
$58,540
avg. salary (USA)
38,219
job openings (past yr.)
past year
Provide social services and assistance to improve the social and psychological functioning of children and their families and to maximize the family well-being and the academic functioning of children. May assist parents, arrange adoptions, and find foster homes for abandoned or abused children. In schools, they address such problems as teenage pregnancy, misbehavior, and truancy. May also advise teachers.
Median Salary:
$58,540
annual
+21%
above US average
Job Openings:
38,219
past year
Salary Range:
Low
$40,549
Medium
$58,540
High
$94,076
ALl of USA
Most Desired Skills
Social Work
Case Management
Mental Health
Psychology
Crisis Intervention
Human Services
Treatment Planning
ALl of USA
Top Companies Hiring
YMCA
United States Department of Veterans Affairs
Catholic Charities USA
Commonwealth Of Pennsylvania
CVS Health
The Salvation Army
Fresenius
Data Source:
The career outcomes data presented is sourced from
Lightcast
, which provides insights based on real-time job postings, public datasets, and analytics. Lightcast derives its data from sources such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW), and the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES). While accurate and reliable, this data reflects general labor market trends and may not represent individual outcomes or specific local conditions. For more details on Lightcast’s methodology, visit their
Data Overview
Program Learning Outcomes
At National University, you can earn your Master of Social Work degree online, when it’s convenient for you. And although you attend class online, you still receive the personal support and guidance you deserve thanks to our one-to-one learning model. We also have no residency requirements, no GRE/GMAT requirements, and no group projects. This offers the flexibility you need to fit higher education into your busy schedule.
Demonstrate
ethical and professional behavior.
Advance
human rights and social economic, and environmental justice.
Engage
Anti-Racism, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (ADEI) in Practice.
Engage
in practice informed research and research informed practice.
Engage
in policy practice.
Engage
with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities.
Assess
individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities.
Intervene
with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities.
Evaluate
practice with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities.
Learning outcomes are derived from the Council on Social Work Education’s (CSWE) nine core competencies.
Admissions
JFK SOPSS will no longer admit students from Washington State.
Next start date: Every Monday
Year-round enrollment
Transfer Students Welcome
More about transferring to NU.
Enrolling in a university is a big decision. That’s why our dedicated admissions team is here to guide you through the admissions process and help you find the right program for you and your career goals.
To that end, we’ve simplified and streamlined our application process, so you can get enrolled in your program right away. Because we accept and review applications year round, you can begin class as soon as next month, depending on your program and location of choice.
Learn more about undergraduate, graduate, military, plus admissions information for transfer students. You can also learn more about our tuition rates and financial aid opportunities.
To speak with our admissions team, call
(855) 355-6288
or request information and an advisor will contact you shortly. If you’re ready to apply, simply start your application today.
APPLY NOW
Scholarships and Financial Aid
National University is dedicated to making higher education affordable, as well as accessible. Through NU scholarship offerings, eligible students are able to reduce the financial burden of college, start classes sooner, and finish their programs faster while focusing on achieving their goals.
Helping You Save Money
1:1 assistance for navigating the financial aid process, generous transfer credit policy, needs-based tuition reduction grant, and $77+ million in scholarships.
National University Key Grant
Do you qualify for a needs-based scholarship? Learn more about the NU Key Grant Scholarship and other scholarship opportunities to unlock the door to your dreams!
Accreditations
The Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) accredits public and private schools, colleges, and universities in the U.S.
Accreditation of a baccalaureate or master’s social work program by the Council on Social Work Education’s Commission on Accreditation indicates that the program meets or exceeds criteria for the assessment of program quality evaluated through a peer-review process. An accredited program has sufficient resources to meet its mission and goals and the Commission on Accreditation has verified that it demonstrates compliance with all sections of the Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards. Accreditation applies to all program sites and program delivery methods of an accredited program. Accreditation provides reasonable assurance about the quality of the program and the competence of students graduating from the program.
Why Choose Master of Social Work (MSW) at National University
We’re proud to be a Veteran-founded, San Diego-based nonprofit. Since 1971, our mission has been to provide accessible, achievable higher education to adult learners.
Today, we educate students from across the U.S. and around the globe, with over 250,000 alumni worldwide.
“National University has impacted my career. You can immediately apply what you learn in class to your business.”
Francisco R.,
Class of 2016
What makes a degree
with National University unique?
Free Tutoring Sessions
Access personalized tutoring sessions at no cost — empowering your learning.
Online and In-Person
Flexibility meets quality education with our online and in-person learning options.
24/7 Support
Get assistance anytime, anywhere with our round-the-clock support services.
Military Friendly
Committed to serving those who serve — diverse resources and support for veterans and family.
Military and Veteran Admissions.
Mentoring Network
Individual student and alumni career guidance, professional development opportunities, and customized career support.
Transfer Students Welcome
NU makes it easy to get your degree, even if you started it with another university.
Learn more about transferring to NU
Accelerate Your Career With NU
At National University, you’re part of a family. As a student, you’ll have the support of staff, faculty members, students, and alumni who will be there with you every step of the way, cheering you on as you pursue your goals.
Our network of 250,000 alumni is a large global community that provides our graduates with the professional connections to get a leg up in your new career.
Help Pave the Way for Change Through Education
Admission to an NU master’s program requires a conferred bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited academic institution or an international institution that is determined to be equivalent through an approved evaluation service. Admission into MSW — Advanced Generalist requires a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree from a CSWE-accredited program.
Admissions
Admission to an NU master’s program requires a conferred bachelor’s degree from a nationally or regionally accredited academic institution or an international institution that is determined to be equivalent through an approved evaluation service.
Admission into MSW — Advanced Generalist track requires a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) or Bachelor of Science in Social Work (BSSW) degree from a CSWE-accredited program within the past five years (with some approved exceptions)
The MSW program will allow for transfer of up to six credit hours for the Advanced Generalist track and 12 credits for the Generalist track. Transfer credits for the Generalist track must be completed at a regionally accredited institution and must be awarded a “B”/3.0 or higher grade. For the Advanced Generalist track, students may apply for transfer of up to six credit hours of graduate credit hours from a CSWE-accredited MSW program (grades must be “B” or higher) under the following guidelines.
Coursework which would be over five years old at the completion of the degree program (as defined by the student’s plan of study) may not be used
Acceptance of transfer credits will depend upon how they fit within the MSW requirements and the student’s overall plan of study
Only applicants from CSWE-accredited graduate social work programs will be considered for admission as transfer students for the Advanced Generalist track
Additional State requirements may need to be met for Basis for Admissions into a program:
Basis for Admissions – Washington State Students*
*National University is authorized by the Washington Student Achievement Council and meets the requirements and minimum educational standards established for degree­granting institutions under the Degree-Granting Institutions Act.
This authorization is subject to periodic review and authorizes the University to offer field placement components for specific degree programs.
The Council may be contacted for a list of currently authorized programs.
Authorization by the Council does not carry with it an endorsement by the Council of the institution or its programs.
Any person desiring information about the requirements of the act or the applicability of those requirements to the institution may contact the Council at P.O. Box 43430, Olympia, WA 98504-3430 or by email at
[email protected]
The transferability of credits earned at the University is at the discretion of the receiving college, university, or other educational institution.
Students considering transferring to any institution should not assume that credits earned in any program of study at the University will be accepted by the receiving institution.
Similarly, the ability of a degree, certificate, diploma, or other academic credential earned at the University to satisfy an admission requirement of another institution is at the discretion of the receiving institution.
Accreditation does not guarantee credentials or credits earned at the University will be accepted by or transferred to another institution.
To minimize the risk of having to repeat coursework, students should contact the receiving institution in advance for evaluation and determination of transferability of credits and acceptability of degrees, diplomas, or certificates earned.
The Master of Social Work (MSW) program provides support to students in securing quality internship placements that include, but are not limited to, the field education director and full-time faculty to help guide students through this process, speak with potential placement sites that have been identified as a possible fit for the student, a national database of potential placements sites, and training materials to help students present in a professional and appropriate manner.
The MSW program cannot require potential placement site to hire students, thus it is the responsibility of the student to present their self in a professional manner and secure a placements site and supervisor.
We encourage students to contact the Field Education Director for any additional individualized support they may need in this process.
To speak with our admissions team, call (855) 355-6288 or
request information
and an advisor will contact you shortly. If you’re ready to apply,
start your application today.
JFK SOPPS will no longer admit students from Washington State.
Please review your state MSW licensure requirements to make sure that the NU MSW program will assist you to meet those requirements.
State Supervision Requirements
Each state has rules and regulations outlining the requirements regarding the supervision experience, how many supervision hours are required, and the requirements for someone to be accepted as a supervisor in their state. In addition, some states specifically count client contact hours and supervision hours completed during the practicum experience at a CSWE-accredited program as applicable to post-graduate requirements.
Ask a Licensure Question
While each state board is the ultimate authority on their own rules and regulations governing the practice of Social Work in their state, sometimes it is difficult to know where to start or what to ask. If you are an applicant, student, or alumni and you have a question about licensure in your state do one or both of the following:
Each state has rules and regulations outlining the types of licenses offered, requirements for licensure, including specific educational components, post-graduation clinical experience and supervision, and examination requirements. Licensure requirements are subject to change, so you must keep up with the current licensure legislation in your state.
Contact our Clinical Training Administrative Team at
[email protected]
Click
here
to view licensure requirements by state.
2022-EPAS-Form-AS-M5-0-1(d)-Public-Reporting-of-Assessment-Outcomes-Master-s
Frequently Asked Questions
With a Master of Social Work degree, you can join or advance in the growing field of social work. According to the BLS, between 2023 and 2033, the social work field is expected to grow 7%. The national median salary for social workers is around $61,330 and the highest 10 percent earned more than $99,500, in May 2024. *
Here are just a few career opportunities:
Mental health social worker and addictions social worker
Aging and eldercare and hospice social worker
Healthcare or medical rehabilitation social worker
Social and community agency administrator and policy specialist
Human services and administrator
Drug court, probation, victims’ assistance, or correctional treatment specialist
Employee assistance programs
And many more, in public and private facilities of all different sizes!
*Source:
Social Workers: Occupational Outlook Handbook: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
(viewed Aug 8, 2025). Cited projections may not reflect local and short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee job growth.
Positions may require additional experience, training, and other factors beyond successfully completing this degree program. Many roles may also require state licensure, and it is the responsibility of the student to ensure that all licensure requirements are met.
If you want to advance in the field of social work, then yes, a master’s is worth it. However, if you don’t have strong motivation, then the challenge of a graduate degree may not be for you.
However, there are additional resources for students in The Marriage and Family Sciences Department. It provides students with the foremost clinical experience in MFT training. Currently, students have access to resources in the MFT Clinical Support module for tips, program information, and guides; and Career Services for resume and interviewing assistance.
Additional Resources
MSW Application Process
Practicum Placement Resources
Program Approvals & Accreditations
MSW Student Handbook
Master of Social Work Field Practicum Manual
Program Disclosure
Successful completion and attainment of National University degrees do not lead to automatic or immediate licensure, employment, or certification in any state/country. The University cannot guarantee that any professional organization or business will accept a graduate’s application to sit for any certification, licensure, or related exam for the purpose of professional certification.
Program availability varies by state. Many disciplines, professions, and jobs require disclosure of an individual’s criminal history, and a variety of states require background checks to apply to, or be eligible for, certain certificates, registrations, and licenses. Existence of a criminal history may also subject an individual to denial of an initial application for a certificate, registration, or license and/or result in the revocation or suspension of an existing certificate, registration, or license. Requirements can vary by state, occupation, and/or licensing authority.
NU graduates will be subject to additional requirements on a program, certification/licensure, employment, and state-by-state basis that can include one or more of the following items: internships, practicum experience, additional coursework, exams, tests, drug testing, earning an additional degree, and/or other training/education requirements.
All prospective students are advised to review employment, certification, and/or licensure requirements in their state, and to contact the certification/licensing body of the state and/or country where they intend to obtain certification/licensure to verify that these courses/programs qualify in that state/country, prior to enrolling. Prospective students are also advised to regularly review the state’s/country’s policies and procedures relating to certification/licensure, as those policies are subject to change.
National University degrees do not guarantee employment or salary of any kind. Prospective students are strongly encouraged to review desired job positions to review degrees, education, and/or training required to apply for desired positions. Prospective students should monitor these positions as requirements, salary, and other relevant factors can change over time.
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