About Social Work/Public Administration at CSUSB
Dual Impact. Dual Expertise. One Purpose: Leadership in Social Services.
If your career goals include serving in a high-level administrative or leadership role in a social service agency, the concurrent Master of Social Work (MSW) and Master of Public Administration (MPA) program at Cal State San Bernardino could be the perfect fit.
This interdisciplinary graduate program equips you with both the clinical understanding and the administrative acumen needed to lead and shape the future of social service organizations.
Why Choose the MSW/MPA Concurrent Degree?
- Earn two graduate degrees—MSW and MPA—through a streamlined program
- Develop skills in clinical social work, public policy, organizational leadership, and program management
- Gain a unique blend of human-centered care and systems-level strategy
- Prepare for leadership roles in nonprofits, public agencies, health and human services, and policy-making organizations
Real-World Learning with Lasting Impact
As a student, you’ll complete culminating experiences that ensure you’re career-ready and confident in your abilities, including:
- A thesis or applied research project, presented to faculty and community partners
- A comprehensive exam that demonstrates your mastery of key concepts across both disciplines
You’ll graduate with the tools to make transformative change—both in individual lives and across entire systems.
Lead with Compassion. Manage with Confidence.
With the MSW/MPA concurrent degree from CSUSB, you’ll be prepared to take on leadership roles that require deep empathy, strategic thinking, and a commitment to equity and service.
Apply now or connect with an advisor to learn how this powerful dual degree can help you define the future of social service leadership.
Careers in Social Work/Public Administration
The MSW/MPA concurrent degree from Cal State San Bernardino opens doors to a broad range of leadership roles in social services, public administration, and nonprofit management. Whether you’re focused on direct care, systems-level leadership, or public policy, this program prepares you to lead with compassion, strategy and purpose.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, job growth for both social workers and social and community service managers is expected to be faster than average between 2024 and 2034. This reflects the growing need for professionals who can navigate both clinical and administrative challenges in today’s complex social service landscape.
Career Paths You May Pursue:
- Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
- Substance Abuse Counselor
- Public Affairs Specialist or Manager
- Policy Analyst or Manager
- CEO, CFO, or COO of a nonprofit or public agency
- Human Resources Manager or Director
- Urban or Regional Planner
- Development Coordinator
- Budget Analyst
- Financial Analyst
- Data Analyst
- Logistics Analyst
- Cybersecurity Specialist (in public sector or human services settings)
- Park Manager or Recreation Director
Some positions may require licensure, certifications, or additional training depending on the field and jurisdiction.
Where Compassion Meets Strategy
With advanced training in clinical social work, organizational leadership, fiscal management, and public policy, CSUSB’s MSW/MPA graduates are uniquely qualified to lead programs and agencies that serve vulnerable populations, drive equity, and strengthen communities.
Sample Courses
Management of Public Organizations
Examines public service management, including the role of the public executive, theories of public organizations, human behavior in public organizations, innovation, and professional ethics.
Nonprofit Management and Leadership
Introduction to the theory and practice of nonprofit management. Students will identify the unique role of nonprofits as public service private organizations; understand the nonprofit legal framework; review concepts in nonprofit leadership and governance, including the roles and responsibilities of the board of directors; learn how to strategically manage staff and volunteers; and understand the unique financial management practices of nonprofit organizations.
Administrative Regulation
Topics include Constitutional analysis, legal research, administrative immunity, rulemaking, evidentiary adjudication, due process, transparency, and privacy, as well as judicial and legislative review of administrative action.
Meet Professor Monty Van Wart, Ph.D.
Opportunities for Students
Connect. Lead. Belong.
Professional Involvement and Student Engagement
At Cal State San Bernardino, we believe your graduate experience should be as collaborative and community-focused as your future career.
As a student in the MSW/MPA concurrent degree program, you’ll be encouraged to get involved in student organizations and professional networks that enrich your learning and prepare you for leadership in the field.
Join a Community of Future Public Service Leaders
- Pi Alpha Alpha – Become a member of CSUSB’s chapter of the National Honor Society for Public Affairs and Administration, recognizing academic excellence and commitment to ethical leadership.
- Professional Associations – Participate in local and national public administration organizations, such as the American Society for Public Administration (ASPA), National Association of Social Workers (NASW), and other discipline-specific groups.
These organizations offer leadership opportunities, networking events, conferences, and access to mentors and professionals who share your passion for service.
You’re Not Just Earning Two Degrees—You’re Joining a Purpose-Driven Community
From academic excellence to community engagement, you’ll find that at CSUSB, you’re supported at every step by faculty, peers, and a wider professional network committed to making a difference.
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