The Master of Social Work (MSW) degree program through CSUSB School of Social Work is modeled on the requirements of the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), the national accrediting body for social work programs.
MSW courses are offered, online or in-person at the San Bernardino Campus (SBC) or Palm Desert Campus (PDC).
To accommodate student needs, the School of Social Work offers many opportunities for students to attain a Masters of Social Work Degree although it must be emphasized that an MSW program is very demanding of time and energy.
The following can assist you in determining which MSW program option is the best fit for you. All options are offered at the San Bernardino Campus and Palm Desert Campus beginning 2025. Online options are available as indicated below.
-
MSW Advanced Standing Program: (35 units) New students begin each Summer. The curriculum is equivalent to curriculum for MSW students in their advanced year of the traditional MSW Program, beginning with summer courses.
-
MSW Advanced Standing (1 year option). Completed within 12 months. It is strongly recommended that students DO NOT work during this program option.
-
MSW Advanced Standing (2 year option). Completed in 5 semesters. Online option available through our Pathway Distance Education Program.
-
-
The Two-Year Program: (60 units) Two academic years (4 semesters) of coursework. This option is best for students who are able to focus their time and attention to full-time, intensive study.
- The Three-Year Program: (60 units) Three academic years (6 semesters) of coursework. No less rigorous or intensive than the two-year program, but spread out over three years. This option is best for students who have to work (or have other, similar obligations) while they are enrolled in school.
- Offered in person, face to face instruction OR
- Offered online through the school's Pathway Distance Education Program
- Master of Social Work / Master of Public Administration Concurrent Degrees (MSW/MPA): (73 units) The MSW/MPA concurrent degrees are to serve students who envision a career path that includes high level administrative roles in social service agencies. The Two-Year and Three-Year program (on campus or online) options offer the MSW/MPA concurrent degree program. The MSW/MPA degrees program is not available to students in the MSW Advanced Standing Program. The MSW/MPA Concurrent Degrees Program class schedule is determined by the cohort MSW students are admitted into; either MSW 2 year option or MSW 3 year option. Students will need to include additional courses as required through Public Administration and as outlined in the Sample Course Plans.
For all MSW Course Descriptions, please visit the Campus Bulletin.
In addition to classroom learning, MSW students concurrently complete their Practicum Education.
Interested applicants must meet admission requirements and apply during the application process.
MSW Admission Requirements
How to apply
MSW Curriculum