On-Campus Master of Social Work (MSW)

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Earning your Master of Social Work (MSW) on campus at Case Western Reserve University places you in a vibrant community of individuals with a shared commitment to improve society. 

A signature program at the Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences, the on-campus MSW combines research, theory and hands-on practice to help you tackle today’s complex social challenges and emerge as a change leader in the field.

On-Campus MSW Program Overview

39-60 Credits | 12-20 Months | Full-Time and Part-Time Options

Advanced Standing

Applicants who hold a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) are automatically considered for advanced standing status. The advanced standing option allows on-campus students to earn their MSW in as little as one year.


On-Campus MSW Paths of Study

We are committed to preparing you for a range of social work careers through specialized coursework. We offer these paths of study to on-campus students:


Field Education

As the bridge between classroom and practice, field education provides a supportive, supervised opportunity for you to apply classroom knowledge to professional social work practice. During the MSW program, you will complete 500 field education hours if you are an advanced standing student, or 900 hours if you are a traditional student. 

Learn About Our Approach to Field Education


Need a Different Program Format?

We offer the same high-quality MSW degree in both weekend and online formats, providing flexible options to fit your career, family and lifestyle needs. 


Student Life at the Mandel School

As an on-campus student in our MSW program, you will be able to take advantage of opportunities to enrich your learning and expand your network. You’ll have access to the Mandel School’s expert faculty, alumni mentorship and networking opportunities and be immersed in the community and culture of Cleveland, Ohio.

You can also: 

  • Join student groups to meet like-minded peers and get involved on campus.
  • Take advantage of our Licensure Prep Course to prepare for the ASWB exam.
  • Use career services—counseling, career fairs and more—to prepare for your social work career.
  • Attend events, including lectures and social gatherings, hosted by the Mandel School.

Discover More About Campus Life