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2010-2011 Undergraduate & Graduate Catalog

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Master of Social Work

Web Site: www.gvsu.edu/grad/msw/

Programs of Study

The School of Social Work offers a 60 credit hour Master of Social Work (M.S.W.) degree program on both a full time and part time basis. Students pursuing part time study may choose either a three or four academic year model. All requirements for graduation must be completed within four years after coursework has begun. The distribution of course requirements for both programs of study are set forth below.

Requirements for the M.S.W.

The M.S.W. degree consists of a minimum of 60 credit hours.

Primary Foundation (all required):

Advanced Generalist Concentration (all required):

(Choose 1 of 4):

Field Practicum (all required):

(Choose 1 of 2):

(Choose 2 of 4):

Electives (choose one course of at least 3 credits):

M.S.W. and M.P.A. Degree Programs

The Schools of Social Work and Public and Nonprofit Administration offer prospective students the option to pursue both graduate degrees offered by these units (MSW and MPA). This entails taking coursework in both disciplines in order to be well prepared to seek middle- and upper-level management position is either public or private human service organizations. Those earning the two degrees will attain the knowledge, skills and values of the social work profession with the advanced administrative and technical expertise developed through the study of public administration to become leaders in their organizations and communities. Currently, Grand Valley State University policies enable a student to pursue the MSW degree as the first masters degree and the MPA degree as a second masters degree by completing 21 credits in the MPA program.

Applicants must submit the following items to the Grand Valley State University Admissions Office in Allendale, Michigan:

  • Completed graduate application for admission to both the MSW program and MPA program
  • $30 nonrefundable application fee
  • Official copies of transcripts from all institutions of higher education attended, other than Grand Valley
  • Three letters of recommendation from individuals able to attest to the candidate's qualifications for graduate work and professional practice
  • Current resume detailing work and volunteer experience
  • A 2 to 3 page essay about life experiences that have led to an interest in administrative practice in a social agency, including assessment of personal strengths and areas for growth
  • A 2 page essay articulating how pursuing the MSW and MPA degrees will help achieve educational and professional career goals

No further action on candidacy will be taken until all requested materials have been received by the Admissions Office. Applications may be obtained through the University or either school. Completed application files will be reviewed by the MSW program and the MPA program. Students must meet the basic requirements for graduate study as defined by each School. Either program may also request additional information from an applicant before granting full admissions status and a personal interview may be required.

M.S.W. and M.P.A. Requirements

For students who are not seeking or do not qualify for Advanced Standing, 78 credit hours of study are required. For Advanced Standing students, 63 credits are required. Students must be willing to take a minimum of two courses per semester, including spring/summer, and are expected to complete coursework within four calendar years. A three-semester practicum is required; students will spend a major portion of the time applying the knowledge learned in the classroom regarding macro practice. Students must complete a minimum of 21 credits of Public Administration courses along with the courses necessary to earn the MSW.

Foundation Core (all required*)

* See your advisor - not required for students with a CSWE accredited BSW or Child Welfare Training Certification.

Advanced Generalist Concentration (all required with 2 noted PA/SW options)

Public Administration Core (all required):

Advanced Policy (required)

Field Practicum (all required):

Advanced macro (all required with 2 noted PA/SW

Social Work Electives (choose 1 of 4):

Public Administration Electives (choose 1 of 4):


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