The University of Georgia's Master of Social Work (MSW) program is a comprehensive and highly respected graduate degree that prepares students for a career in social work. Located in Athens, Georgia, the program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) and is designed to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to become competent and effective social workers. With a strong focus on rural social work, health and mental health, and child and family well-being, the program offers a unique and specialized education that prepares students to work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, schools, non-profit organizations, and government agencies.
Program Structure and Curriculum
The University of Georgia’s MSW program is a 60-credit hour program that can be completed in two years of full-time study or three years of part-time study. The program is divided into two phases: the foundation phase and the concentration phase. The foundation phase provides students with a broad introduction to social work practice, including courses in human behavior, social policy, and research methods. The concentration phase allows students to specialize in one of three areas: health and mental health, child and family well-being, or community empowerment and program development. Students can also choose to pursue a dual degree, such as an MSW/MPH or an MSW/JD, which can be completed in three years.
Foundation Phase
The foundation phase of the program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive introduction to social work practice. Courses in this phase include:
- Human Behavior and the Social Environment
- Social Policy and Advocacy
- Research Methods in Social Work
- Introduction to Social Work Practice
- Social Work with Individuals, Families, and Groups
These courses provide students with a strong foundation in social work theory, practice, and research, and prepare them for the concentration phase of the program.
Concentration Phase
The concentration phase of the program allows students to specialize in one of three areas: health and mental health, child and family well-being, or community empowerment and program development. Courses in this phase include:
- Health and Mental Health: Advanced Practice with Individuals and Families
- Child and Family Well-being: Advanced Practice with Children and Families
- Community Empowerment and Program Development: Advanced Practice with Communities and Organizations
- Program Development and Evaluation
- Grant Writing and Fundraising
These courses provide students with advanced knowledge and skills in their chosen area of specialization, and prepare them for practice in a variety of settings.
| Concentration Area | Courses |
|---|---|
| Health and Mental Health | Advanced Practice with Individuals and Families, Health Policy and Advocacy, Mental Health Diagnosis and Treatment |
| Child and Family Well-being | Advanced Practice with Children and Families, Child Welfare Policy and Practice, Family Therapy and Counseling |
| Community Empowerment and Program Development | Advanced Practice with Communities and Organizations, Community Development and Organizing, Program Development and Evaluation |
Admissions and Financial Aid
Admission to the University of Georgia’s MSW program is competitive, and applicants must meet certain requirements, including a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, a minimum GPA of 3.0, and completion of prerequisite courses in statistics and human behavior. Applicants must also submit a personal statement, letters of recommendation, and official transcripts. The program offers a variety of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and assistantships, to help students fund their education.
Scholarships and Grants
The University of Georgia’s MSW program offers a variety of scholarships and grants to help students fund their education. These include:
- Merit-based scholarships
- Need-based scholarships
- Grants for students pursuing a dual degree
- Grants for students specializing in rural social work
These scholarships and grants can help students reduce their financial burden and focus on their studies.
Career Opportunities and Alumni Network
Graduates of the University of Georgia’s MSW program have a wide range of career opportunities available to them. Many go on to work in hospitals, schools, non-profit organizations, and government agencies, while others pursue careers in private practice, research, and academia. The program has a strong alumni network, with many graduates going on to become leaders in their field and making a positive impact in their communities.
What are the admission requirements for the University of Georgia’s MSW program?
+The admission requirements for the University of Georgia’s MSW program include a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, a minimum GPA of 3.0, and completion of prerequisite courses in statistics and human behavior. Applicants must also submit a personal statement, letters of recommendation, and official transcripts.
How long does it take to complete the MSW program?
+The University of Georgia’s MSW program can be completed in two years of full-time study or three years of part-time study.
What are the career opportunities available to graduates of the MSW program?
+Graduates of the University of Georgia’s MSW program have a wide range of career opportunities available to them, including work in hospitals, schools, non-profit organizations, and government agencies. Many also pursue careers in private practice, research, and academia.
