Master of Social Work Degree (MSW)

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MSW Overview

The SDSU School of Social Work offers a 2, 3, and 4-year plan for obtaining the MSW degree. Please refer to the MSW FAQ and the Course Sequence pages for further information.

A 1-year plan, the Advanced Standing Program (MSW-ASP) is available to those meeting additional requirements, including possessing an undergraduate degree from an accredited social work program.

The MSW Program is organized around two distinct methods of concentrations, direct practice/clinical or administrative, and focus areas (mental health, children/youth/families, and health/aging). The first-year foundation courses present an orientation to social work practice and provide the necessary base upon which to build the more advanced body of knowledge, practice principles and skills offered in the second year.

All students must complete a multiple choice exam at the completion of 31 units of work, in the final year of the program, students choose between completion of a thesis (Plan A) or a Comprehensive Exam ( Plan B). Those who select thesis will be required to complete a substantive research project directed by a faculty thesis committee recruited by the student. Students selecting comprehensive exam must pass a 4-hour essay/case statement exam.

Program Details

A detailed description may be found in the Social Work section of the SDSU Graduate Bulletin.

Included are admission requirements, course and electives listings, and detailed program requirements. Potential applications should print this document.

PLEASE NOTE- Course and graduation requirements for all SDSU programs change periodically. While every attempt is made to present the most current requirements on this web site, it is imperative for all current and prospective students to check the printed registrar-maintained catalogs for the current requirements. Copies are available in the bookstore and may be borrowed from department staff.