Program structure

The Master of Social Work (MSW) Program at the University of Maryland School of Social Work (UMSSW) is structured to provide a comprehensive education in social work, combining theoretical coursework with practical field experience.

Program Components:

1. Foundation Curriculum (27 credits):

   • Core Courses: Students complete courses in social welfare policy, structural oppression, human behavior, social work practice with individuals, communities, organizations, groups, and families, and social work research.
   • Field Practicum: A two-semester practicum, requiring two days per week in a social service setting, allows students to apply classroom knowledge in real-world environments.

2. Advanced Curriculum (33-36 credits):

   • Concentrations: After completing the foundation curriculum with a minimum GPA of 3.0, students choose a concentration in Clinical Social Work or Leadership, Policy, and Social Change.
   • Advanced Courses: The curriculum includes advanced policy courses, methods courses specific to the chosen concentration, electives, and an advanced field practicum.

Program Formats:

• 60-Credit Hybrid MSW Program: Combines in-person and online learning, with options for full-time or part-time enrollment.
• 60-Credit Online MSW Program: Offers a fully online curriculum, designed to be completed in three years.
• 36-Credit Hybrid Advanced Standing MSW Program: For students with a recent Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree, this program builds on existing knowledge and can be completed in 11 months to two years.

Additional Requirements:

• Prerequisite Course: All incoming students must complete "A Brief History of Oppression and Resistance," a self-paced online course accessible through Blackboard, before the first day of classes.
• Field Practicum: Field placements are integral to the program, with foundation placements requiring two days per week and advanced placements involving more intensive commitments.
• Academic Standards: A minimum GPA of 3.0 is required for graduation, and students must earn a "Pass" in all field courses.

For detailed information on the MSW program's structure and requirements, please visit the UMSSW Academics page.

Fees and Funding

The University of Maryland School of Social Work (UMSSW) utilizes a per-credit tuition structure for all students. Specific tuition and fee details for each campus—Baltimore, Universities at Shady Grove (USG), and Online—are available on the Student Financial Services Website.

Notably, UMSSW offers in-state tuition rates to eligible Washington, D.C., residents, making it the first accredited social work program in Maryland to do so.

SSW Umaryland

For the Fall 2024 semester, the bill due date is August 26, 2024, and for the Spring 2025 semester, it is January 27, 2025.

SSW Umaryland

Please be aware that the University reserves the right to adjust tuition, fees, and other charges as necessary. For comprehensive information on tuition, billing, and payments, please visit the Student Financial Services Website.

Scholarship Guidance

The University of Maryland School of Social Work (UMSSW) offers several scholarships and fellowships to support MSW students. Below are specific programs with their respective financial benefits:

1. Child Welfare Fellowship:

   • Stipend: $5,000 per semester, applied toward tuition.
   • Commitment: Post-graduation employment in a Maryland Local Department of Social Services for a period equivalent to the fellowship duration.
   • Details: This fellowship includes specialized training in trauma-responsive services and motivational interviewing skills.

2. Fellowship for School-Based Mental Health:

   • Tuition Scholarship: $15,000 per year for MSW fellows.
   • Living Expense Stipend: $8,000 for both BSW and MSW fellows.
   • Additional Support: Preparation for Advanced Standing application, LMSW license test preparation, and mentorship.
   • Commitment: Two years of service in a school setting post-MSW graduation.
   • Details: This fellowship aims to increase access to quality mental health services for youth in urban K-12 settings.

3. Behavioral Health Workforce Integration Service and Education (BHWISE) Fellowships:

   • Stipend: Varies by specific fellowship within the BHWISE program.
   • Details: These fellowships provide specialized training for MSW students committed to careers in behavioral health services, particularly in underserved communities.

4. Substance Use Disorder Interventions Fellowship (SUDIF):

   • Total Stipend: $28,000 over two years ($6,000 per semester in the foundation year and $8,000 per semester in the advanced year).
   • Commitment: Two years of full-time employment in a pre-approved substance use disorder treatment program post-graduation.
   • Details: This fellowship focuses on training MSW students in evidence-based interventions for substance use disorders.

For comprehensive information on these and other financial support opportunities, please visit the UMSSW Scholarships and Fellowships page.

Admission Requirements

The University of Maryland School of Social Work (UMSSW) offers several Master of Social Work (MSW) program options, each with specific admission requirements:

1. 60-Credit Hybrid MSW Program:

• Educational Background: A bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.
• Academic Performance: A preferred minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. Applicants with lower GPAs may still be considered but will undergo a more comprehensive review.
• Prerequisite Coursework: Completion of at least two three-credit courses in behavioral and/or social sciences, such as psychology, sociology, anthropology, political science, economics, or criminal justice.
• Application Components:
  • Personal statement addressing specific prompts.
  • Two professional references.
  • Current resume.
  • Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
  • Application fee.

2. 60-Credit Online MSW Program:

• Educational Background: A bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.
• Academic Performance: A preferred minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. Applicants with lower GPAs may still be considered but will undergo a more comprehensive review.
• Prerequisite Coursework: Completion of at least two three-credit courses in behavioral and/or social sciences.
• Application Components:
  • Personal statement addressing specific prompts.
  • Two professional references.
  • Current resume.
  • Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
  • Application fee.

3. 36-Credit Hybrid Advanced Standing MSW Program:

• Educational Background: A Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree from a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, completed within the last five years.
• Academic Performance: A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, with at least a 3.0 GPA in the last 60 credits.
• Coursework Grades: A grade of "B" or higher in all practice and field practicum courses.
• Application Components:
  • Personal statement addressing specific prompts.
  • One professional reference.
  • Current resume.
  • Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
  • Application fee.
  • Additional case plan submission.

General Notes:

• Degree Completion: Applicants must have their undergraduate degree conferred by specific dates: May 31st for Fall applicants and October 31st for Spring applicants.
• Application Submission: Applicants are encouraged to submit completed applications well in advance of deadlines for optimal consideration.
• Field Placement: Advanced Standing applicants currently enrolled in a Spring field block placement are not eligible to apply for Advanced Standing in the same academic year.

For detailed information on application deadlines, specific prompts for personal statements, and other requirements, please refer to the UMSSW Admissions Information and Guide.

Application Procedure

The University of Maryland School of Social Work (UMSSW) offers a Master of Social Work (MSW) program designed to prepare future social work practitioners and leaders. The program combines coursework with supervised real-world experiences in the field, emphasizing justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion. Students engage with individuals, families, groups, organizations, communities, and society, building a strong foundation for advanced clinical and macro social work practice.

SSW Umaryland

MSW Program Options:

1. 60-Credit Hybrid MSW Program: This program offers flexibility through a combination of in-person and online learning experiences at either the Baltimore or Universities at Shady Grove campuses. Students can complete the program full-time or part-time within 2 to 4 years.

   SSW Umaryland

2. 60-Credit Online MSW Program: Designed for those committed to clinical social work and seeking the convenience of online learning, this 3-year program provides real-time interaction with faculty and peers through synchronous and asynchronous courses. Synchronous classes are scheduled between 6-9 pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays, fostering active participation and a sense of community.

   SSW Umaryland

3. 36-Credit Hybrid Advanced Standing MSW Program: Tailored for individuals who have completed an undergraduate program in social work accredited by the Council on Social Work Education within the past five years, this program builds on foundational BSW coursework. It prepares students for advanced social work practice, with options to pursue concentrations in Clinical or Leadership, Policy, and Social Change.

   SSW Umaryland

Application Process:

Applications for the Spring and Fall 2025 semesters are currently open. Prospective students are encouraged to review the Admissions Information and Guide for comprehensive details on the admissions process, key dates, and deadlines. For further inquiries, contact the admissions office at admissions@ssw.umaryland.edu or call 410-706-3025.

SSW Umaryland

Additional Resources:

• Dual Degrees: UMSSW offers dual degree programs in partnership with other schools and universities, allowing students to expand their expertise and career opportunities.

  SSW Umaryland

• Financial Aid & Scholarships: Information on financial aid and scholarships is available to assist students in funding their education.

  SSW Umaryland

• Accepted Students: Newly admitted students can find guidance on the next steps to take after acceptance.

  SSW Umaryland

For more detailed information on the MSW program and admissions, visit the UMSSW Admissions page.