An On-Campus Master’s for Working Professionals
Case Western Reserve University creates diverse educational opportunities that are accessible to all, because nothing should stop you from pursuing your passion for helping others. We offer our hallmark Master of Social Work (MSW) degree program in an weekend format designed to fit the lifestyle of working professionals.
Students are able to continue their full-time work responsibilities and pursue a master’s in social work during weekends at the Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences.
Weekend Program Overview
Complete in 2-3 years | 39-60 Credit Hours
As a student in the weekend master’s program, you will be required to commute to Case Western Reserve University’s campus in Cleveland, Ohio, one weekend per month to attend classes. Most classes are held on Saturday and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. However, some classes meet Friday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. as well as Saturday and Sunday. The structure of Weekend Program requires independent work prior to class and in between classes. This cohort format includes lectures and group work.
Students typically pursue two classes each semester, along with participating in field education—an essential component of any master’s in social work program.
Advanced Standing
Applicants to the weekend master’s program who hold a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) are automatically considered for advanced standing status. The advanced standing track allows students to earn their master’s in social work in as little as 2 years in the intensive weekend format.
A Hands-On, Practical Master’s in Social Work Curriculum
Our MSW curriculum teaches practical skills across a range of social work topics, so you can learn over the weekend and use your new knowledge to make decisions in your current role during the week.
Paths of Study
You will choose advanced elective coursework that offers you the opportunity to tailor your master’s in social work curriculum to fit your personal learning objectives and career goals. We offer three paths of study in our intensive weekend program.
- Children, Youth and Families: You’ll provide a broad range of services to individuals and families, including marital therapy, family counseling, parent education and child welfare. Read more about the Children, Youth and Families path of study.
- Mental Health: You’ll be an advocate for community-based mental health practice in professional settings such as hospitals, schools, child and family service agencies, substance abuse treatment programs and mental health centers. Read more about the Mental Health path of study.
- Substance Use Disorders and Recovery: You’ll work to diagnose and treat substance use and dependence, explore the interaction of mental health issues and substance abuse, and the impact of substance use on different populations. Read more about the Substance Abuse Disorders and Recovery path of study.
A Diverse, Passionate Cohort
Your cohort provides a uniquely supportive environment while working toward your master’s in social work. You’ll build a network of like-minded individuals who share your drive to go above and beyond, seeking higher education opportunities in weekend programs.
Your peers’ diverse experiences will inform your learning in the classroom. Past participants in the intensive weekend program have worked in roles such as:
- Addiction specialist
- Child welfare officer
- Higher education administrator
- Private practitioner
- Program manager
- Trauma specialist