Advanced Standing

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Applicants to our Master of Social Work program (on-campus, weekend and online) who have a Bachelor’s of Social Work degree are automatically considered for full Advanced Standing status and complete the degree in as few as 39 credit hours.

Advanced Standing students can complete the program in one year on campus.

To be eligible, your BSW must have been earned within the last seven years from a Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredited BSW program. Our advanced standing program requires you complete 39 credits, including 500 hours of field education.  Check out the length of each format below: 

  • On-campus weekly MSW full-time advanced standing program is completed in 1 year; 3 semesters (fall, spring summer)
  • Weekend MSW part-time advanced standing program is completed in 2 years; 5 semesters.
  • Online MSW part-time advanced standing program is completed in 2 years; 5 semesters.

We look forward to you applying to the Mandel School!

Completed your BSW more than 7 years ago?

Applicants with a BSW from a CSWE accredited program, but completed the degree beyond the 7 year post-graduation requirement may submit a written request for advanced standing consideration to the Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences. The exemption request should include a detailed statement of your social work experience and continuing education activities. Demonstration of professional growth through social work experience, continuing professional education, leadership, and advancement in the social work field would be elements for consideration. You may request this approval before applying. 

Completed your BSW in a country outside the United States?

Applicants that completed a Bachelor of Social Work degree from an institution outside of the United States are able to have their degree evaluated by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)  through the International Social Work Degree Recognition and Evaluation Service (ISWDRES). The Mandel School will award advanced standing credit to international students that have received official notification from the International Social Work Degree Recognition and Evaluation Service (ISWDRES) that the BSW they earned is equivalent to a CSWE accredited program and recognized by ISWDRES.
 

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