UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS URBANA-CHAMPAIGN · UNITED STATES
Master of Social Work (MSW)
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
18 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- CSWE AccreditedAccreditation
- 15:1Student-to-Teacher Ratio
- Approx. 25 studentsAverage Class Size
- Two ConcentrationsSpecialization Options
- Online and On-Campus OptionsProgram Format
- 75+ yearsProgram History
The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign offers a Master of Social Work (MSW) program designed to prepare students for advanced practice in social work. The program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) and has a long history of excellence. Students can pursue their degree through an on-campus or online format, allowing for flexibility to accommodate full-time work or other commitments. The curriculum focuses on developing advanced practice skills in areas such as policy, research, human behavior, and specialized topics, culminating in a significant internship experience. Both on-campus and online options are available. The on-campus program offers full or part-time study, while the online program allows students to work full-time while completing their degree through evening classes. Students can specialize in either Leadership and Social Change or Advanced Clinical practice. The program emphasizes a strong theoretical foundation combined with practical application through a required internship in the student's chosen concentration.
Curriculum
The MSW program requires a specific number of credit hours, including coursework in advanced social work practice, policy, research, and human behavior, as well as specialized topic-specific courses. A significant portion of the credit hours are dedicated to internship experiences.
- Foundation (for Traditional Students without BSW)
- Generalist Social Work Practice MethodsSOCW 400
- Human Behavior and the Social Environment ISOCW 451
- Social Welfare PolicySOCW 410
- Social Work Research MethodsSOCW 427
- Advanced Practice
Careers
The MSW program prepares graduates for diverse roles within the social work profession. Graduates gain practical experience through internships, equipping them for immediate impact in their chosen fields.
- Advanced Clinical Practice
- Leadership and Social Change roles
Frequently asked questions
- What are the academic requirements to apply for the Master of Social Work (MSW) program?
- You need a Baccalaureate Degree from an accredited college or university with a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale for the last sixty semester hours of coursework. Additionally, you must have completed twenty hours of prerequisite coursework in the social and behavioral sciences, humanities, and biological sciences.
- Are there specific English language requirements for international students?
- The provided information does not specify the exact English language requirements for international students.
- How do I apply for the MSW program?
- You must complete an online application through the Graduate College, submit official transcripts directly to the School of Social Work, and upload supporting documents including three letters of reference, a personal statement, your resume, and unofficial transcripts.
- When does the MSW program start?
- The program has different start times: Advanced Standing students begin in the Fall, and Traditional Students begin in the Summer Session II (mid-June).
- What are the tuition and living costs for international students?
- The provided information does not specify tuition fees for international students, but states that international students must demonstrate sufficient funds to cover living expenses and tuition for their studies to be eligible for a visa.
- What career paths can I pursue after completing the MSW program?
- The MSW program prepares graduates for roles in Advanced Clinical Practice and Leadership and Social Change. The program includes internships to equip students for immediate impact in their chosen fields.
Entry requirements
Baccalaureate DegreeFrom an accredited college or university.
GPAMinimum 3.0 on a 4.0 scale for the last sixty semester hours or ninety quarter hours of coursework.
Prerequisite CourseworkTwenty hours of coursework in the social and behavioral sciences, humanities, and biological sciences. A bachelor's degree in social work is not required; approximately 65% of students have degrees in other fields.
International applicants have additional requirements. Applicants must demonstrate the ability to self-support during their studies to obtain a visa. The Graduate College will not process applications until funding documents are received. Outside employment for the applicant or spouse is not a reliable means of support for visa purposes.
Fees
Tuition (international)Not specified
Tuition (home)Not specified
LivingNot specified
International students must demonstrate sufficient funds to cover living expenses and tuition for the duration of their studies to be eligible for a visa.
How to apply
1. Complete the Graduate College ApplicationApply online at www.grad.illinois.edu/admissions/apply.
2. Submit Official TranscriptsHave official transcripts from all previously attended colleges and universities mailed directly to the School of Social Work: 1010 W. Nevada Street, Urbana, IL 61801.
3. Upload Supporting Documents to the ApplicationAll the following items will be uploaded to the online Graduate College Application:
4. Provide Letters of ReferenceSubmit three (3) letters of reference, which should be academic and/or professional in nature.
5. Write a Personal StatementPrepare and upload your personal statement.
6. Submit Your ResumeInclude relevant education, volunteer, and work experience on your resume.
7. Upload Unofficial TranscriptsUpload unofficial transcripts from all colleges/universities attended.
Accreditation
Continuously accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) for over 75 years.
Frequently asked questions
What are the academic requirements to apply for the Master of Social Work (MSW) program?
+
You need a Baccalaureate Degree from an accredited college or university with a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale for the last sixty semester hours of coursework. Additionally, you must have completed twenty hours of prerequisite coursework in the social and behavioral sciences, humanities, and biological sciences.
Are there specific English language requirements for international students?
+
The provided information does not specify the exact English language requirements for international students.
How do I apply for the MSW program?
+
You must complete an online application through the Graduate College, submit official transcripts directly to the School of Social Work, and upload supporting documents including three letters of reference, a personal statement, your resume, and unofficial transcripts.
When does the MSW program start?
+
The program has different start times: Advanced Standing students begin in the Fall, and Traditional Students begin in the Summer Session II (mid-June).
What are the tuition and living costs for international students?
+
The provided information does not specify tuition fees for international students, but states that international students must demonstrate sufficient funds to cover living expenses and tuition for their studies to be eligible for a visa.
What career paths can I pursue after completing the MSW program?
+
The MSW program prepares graduates for roles in Advanced Clinical Practice and Leadership and Social Change. The program includes internships to equip students for immediate impact in their chosen fields.