San Diego State University School of Social Work offers 1, 2, 3, and 4-year plans for obtaining the MSW degree. In addition, the School of Social Work also offers two dual degree programs: Master in Social Work Degree / Master in Public Health Degree (MSW/MPH) and a Master in Social Work Degree / Juris Doctor Degree (MSW/JD).
MSW Program Mission Statement
The mission of the MSW program is to prepare versatile leaders for professional, ethical, and advanced specialist social work practice. The program focuses on evidence-informed practices, advancing equity and social justice, promoting human rights, and engaging in social action to enhance individual and community well-being. The program prepares graduates to meet the evolving needs of the diverse US-Mexico border-connected region, indigenous communities, and beyond.
Program Goals
The goals of the graduate program are to implement the mission by preparing advanced practitioners in the specialized areas of Direct Practice or Administration/Community Development who
- are well-grounded in the values and ethics of the profession;
- have multiple competencies that can be used in a wide variety of settings, with systems of various sizes and with diverse and vulnerable populations;
- are able to critically examine issues of social, economic and environmental justice and are committed to the realization of human rights;
- utilize research evidence in practice decision making;
- are committed to lifelong professional development;
- are prepared to be leaders in the profession.
Student Learning Outcomes
The Council of Social Work Education (CSWE) adopted a competency-based framework for baccalaureate and master’s degree programs in social work education in the United States. The curricula for BASW and MSW degrees within the SDSU School of Social Work are based on the nine competency-centered learning outcomes and are designed to build capacity for student achievement from generalist (BASW) to advanced specialist (MSW) practice.
- Demonstrate Ethical and Professional Behavior
- Engage Diversity and Difference in Practice
- Advance Human Rights and Social, Economic, and Environmental Justice
- Engage in Practice-informed Research and Research-informed Practice
- Engage in Policy Practice
- Engage with Individuals, Families, Groups, Organizations, and Communities
- Assess Individuals, Families, Groups, Organizations, and Communities
- Intervene with Individuals, Families, Groups, Organizations, and Communities
- Evaluate Practice with Individuals, Families, Groups, Organizations, and Communities
Program Structure
The MSW Program is organized around two distinct methods of concentrations, Direct Practice/Clinical or Administration and Community Development, and focus areas (mental health, children/youth/families, and health/aging). The first-year foundation courses present an orientation to social work practice and provide the necessary base upon which to build the more advanced body of knowledge, practice principles and skills offered in the second year.
All students must complete a multiple choice exam at the completion of 31 units of work (i.e., qualifying exam). In the final year of the program, students choose between completion of a thesis (Plan A) or a Comprehensive Exam (Plan B). A data driven article suitable for publication is also an option for eligible students under Plan A . Those who select the thesis will be required to complete a substantive research project directed by a faculty thesis committee recruited by the student. Students selecting the comprehensive exam must pass a 4-hour multiple choice exam.
Additional Program Details
A detailed description may be found in the Social Work section of the SDSU Graduate Bulletin.
Included are admission requirements, course and electives listings, and detailed program requirements.
