Social Work MSW Program Specifics

The Master of Social Work program is a 62-credit degree program that can be completed full time in two years or part time in three to four years. Students in the program benefit from the broad expertise of faculty who take the time to get to know them and invest in their success. Our faculty, and the camaraderie between students, yields a deep sense of community in the School of Social Work.

View the Admissions Process

What to Expect - Course Requirements by Year

First Year

In the foundation year, students take:

  • 2 direct practice courses
  • 2 policy and organizing courses
  • 2 human behavior courses
  • 1 research course
  • 1 data analysis course

Second Year

In the advanced year, students choose a concentration in either clinical practice or macro practice.

Additional Requirements

Students also complete:

  • 3 required practice courses
  • 3 electives
  • 1 professional development course
  • 2 advanced research courses

Moreover, in both foundation and advanced years, students complete a required practicum internship. (Many students opt to take electives during Summer Session or early spring to lighten their course load in the final year of graduate study.)

lightbulb_outline

Interested in Our MSW Program?

Admissions Process

Admission Requirements

Admission to the Master of Social Work program is on a selective basis and is determined by the quality of the total application. Certain admission requirements may be waived under special circumstances if the applicant demonstrates sufficient cause.

General Requirements

Students must:

  • have a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher education (Students who have completed all but their last semester of baccalaureate work may also apply.)
  • show evidence of the intellectual capacity to participate successfully in academic work at the graduate level
  • have a diverse, liberal arts academic background that includes coursework in the human biological sciences, social sciences, humanities and mathematics

Specific Academic Requirements

An applicant must have: 

  • a minimum GPA of 3.00 on a 4.00 scale in undergraduate coursework
  • at least 15 credit hours drawn from coursework in psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics and political science
  • coursework in human biology
  • coursework in the humanities (English, visual and performing arts, philosophy, language and Western and non-Western history)

Required Qualities and Experience

Applicants must:

  • show evidence of a combination of personal qualities considered essential to professional social work practice, such as responsiveness and sensitivity in relationships, commitment to improving social conditions and the ability to function both independently and collectively with others
  • demonstrate a commitment to social work as a profession based in part on personal experience in the field (This experience may have been attained in a variety of ways, such as through volunteer work, practicum placement in conjunction with course work, life experiences, etc.)

MSW Resources and Forms

Rhode Island College entrance

Contact the Director of MSW Admissions

Juliana Alcantara

Director of MSW Admissions

COE Recruitment & Mentorship Coordinator