Social Work MSW | Programs | Case Western Reserve University

MSW student smiling and writing on a white board

Master of Social Work (MSW), On Campus

About the Program

At the Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences, equity, innovation and transformation are at the core of all we do. It's one of the many reasons we're ranked among the country’s top 10 schools of social work—and #1 in Ohio—by U.S. News & World Report. Our on-campus master’s in social work program combines research, theory and hands-on practice to help you tackle today’s complex social challenges and emerge as a leader in the field.

What to Expect

In addition to coursework, you'll complete field education through one of more than 1,000 partners in Greater Cleveland and beyond. Students admitted with advanced standing are required to complete 500 hours. Students in our traditional master's program will complete 900 hours of field education.

Our MSW program uses an Ability Based Learning Environment that helps you develop and master eight core social work abilities:

Identify as a Reflective Professional Social Worker
Advocate for Social, Economic and Environmental Justice
Apply Social Work Methods
Uphold Social Work Values and Ethics
Integrate Cultural, Economic and Global Diversity
Think Critically About Theory and Research Knowledge
Communicate Effectively
Develop as a Social Work Leader

“Our students want to do something different. They think different. They step out on a limb to really engage in work that will move the needle to improve people’s lives.”

Dana Prince, Associate Professor

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Program Overview

39 - 60 Credits
12 - 20 Months
Full-Time and Part-Time Tracks

The Mandel School’s Master of Social Work (MSW) degree is designed for students seeking graduate education in social work. Our hallmark master’s in social work degree program emphasizes educating leaders in professional social work, and prepares students to enact social change at every level.

Plus, we offer a dual-degree program in social work and nonprofit management that allows you to earn two master's degrees (MSW and MNO) in 2.5 years—putting you on track to a leadership position faster.