Mar 28, 2024  
Undergraduate/Graduate Catalog 2013-2014 
    
Undergraduate/Graduate Catalog 2013-2014 [ARCHIVED CATALOG] See drop-down menu above to access other catalogs.

Social Work, MSW


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Department: School of Social Work 

The Curriculum

In order to prepare graduates to work successfully with a variety of client systems often presenting multiple, complex problems, the MSW program provides a resilience theory and strengths-based approach for intergenerational practice that incorporates content on the profession’s history, purpose and philosophy and a specific body of knowledge, values and skills. The curriculum emphasizes critical and creative thinking that enables alumni to initiate, adapt and evaluate interactions for the demographic and cultural groups in our region.

The Advanced Year


With 32 credits, the advanced year broadens and deepens the foundation content while offering students choices among modules or quarter courses that introduce the skills needed to work with particularly vulnerable populations. In some instances, quarter courses may be combined with semester-long courses. Students may also use these electives to take graduate courses outside the School of Social Work, such as those in the Master of Public Administration, Master of Science in Management, Master of Education in Health Promotion or other approved master’s degree.

The advanced year also offers an integrated seminar that will require students to draw on their foundation course work in human behavior in the social environment, research, policy and practice. Second-year students will take the following courses:

Electives (9 credits)


 Nine additional credits in elective courses including SCWK 580 Special Topics or an equivalent course in another department.

Total minimum credits: 62


Admission Requirements


The admissions process involves the following components

  • A completed application to the MSW program, available through the College of Graduate Studies. Applications are due on Jan. 10.
  • An updated résumé
  • Official transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate course work
  • A personal statement about interest in master’s-level social work practice
  • Three letters of reference, ideally from supervisors, faculty members and others able to attest to the applicant’s readiness to undertake graduate education in social work
  • Standardized test scores such as the GREs and the GMAT are not required, but students are welcome to submit such scores
  • Minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0

The admission committee’s decision will be based on the applicant’s demonstrated academic ability, interpersonal skills and self-awareness – indicators of the likelihood that the applicant can successfully complete the program. In addition, evidence of a commitment to the social work profession and to the mission of the Bridgewater State University MSW program, and of the likely contribution the applicant might make to the citizens of Southeastern Massachusetts will be assessed. Social work requires the ability to withstand difficult emotional challenges, to work with people whose cultural backgrounds and/or personal values differ from one’s own, and to practice in a demanding and changing political and fiscal environment. Special attributes such as linguistic ability compatible with those in the region, a demonstrated commitment working with underserved populations, and particular skills such as those in research and policy implementation will be considered.

Part-time Program


Students electing to complete the MSW degree on a part-time basis must do so in four years, beginning in the fall semester. Designed for students who work during the day, the program offers classes in the late afternoon, evening and on weekends.

Advanced Standing


Student seeking to enter the program in the second year with full advanced standing must meet all of the requirements listed below. In addition they must have earned a BSW or BA/BS in social work degree from a CSWE-accredited program within the last six years. Students who completed their BSW degrees more than six years ago will be evaluated individually to determine their preparedness for year II. Applicants who wish to transfer into the MSW program after completing year I elsewhere will also be considered for advanced standing.

Advanced standing students complete a 35 credit program which inlcudes the following required courses:

Electives (6 credits)


Six additional credits in elective courses including SCWK 580 Special Topics or an equivalent course in another department which must be preapproved by the student’s adviser and program coordinator.

Total minimum credits: 35


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