MSW Program Mission and Goals
The Master of Social Work (MSW) program educates social workers as competent and compassionate agents of change who, guided by professional knowledge, skills, and values, practice ethically and effectively with diverse individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. Graduates of the MSW program hold professional social work positions in public service and in private agencies and qualify for the State of Connecticut Master-Level Social Worker License (LMSW).
The MSW program prepares social workers who:
- Identify as social workers with a commitment to the values and goals of the profession.
- Practice with cultural humility, cultural responsiveness, and respect for diverse populations.
- Seek innovative solutions to human and social needs.
- Pursue lifelong learning and professional development.
- Collaborate with local and global communities in building an inclusive and just society.
The MSW program (60 credits) may be completed in two or three years of full-time study, including 950 hours of supervised practicums. Employed students are strongly encouraged to choose the three-year program plan.
The MSW Program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).
CT Health Horizons Scholarship
Students enrolled in Southern's MSW program are eligible to receive up to $10,000 in tuition assistance through CT Health Horizons. To qualify for this need-based grant students must have a graduation date of May 2025 and be Pell Grant eligible or be living in a CT Alliance School District.
MSW Degrees
The Department of Social Work offers the following MSW Programs:
MSW and MA in Women’s & Gender Studies, Dual Degree
MSW Concentration in Clinical Practice
MSW Concentration in Community Practice: Community Organization, Policy, and Leadership
Non-Matriculated and Post-Graduate Students
Non-matriculated Social Work students may take up to 9 credits in the following courses: SWK 510, 550, and 551. Social workers who hold an MSW degree may enroll in any Social Work course except practicum seminar and capstone classes (SWK 570, 571, 574, 575, 576) on a space-available basis with permission of the MSW program coordinator.