About this Program
We prepare you for the full range of social work practice
The UMD Department of Social Work offers Advanced Generalist and Generalist programs that will prepare you for a wide range of social work roles. Both programs are ideally suited for both urban and rural social work, and include a special focus on American Indian social services. Coursework in both the Generalist and Advanced Generalist program can be used to meet the educational requirements for becoming a clinical social worker in Minnesota and many other states.
You can self-select from three areas of study based on your interests:
- Child welfare
- Mental health/clinical social work
- Macro/community-based social work practice.
What is unique about UMD’s MSW?
- We offer a hybrid model of course delivery, meaning most students are only on campus 1 day a week, and the majority of courses are taught by Full Time Faculty.
- We have a special commitment to American Indians with strong linkages to the American Indian community and specialized course content. UMD is also home to the Center for Regional and Tribal Child Welfare, which offers stipends, coursework and other cultural and experiential learning opportunities in the Child Welfare field.
- The program allows the flexibility to pursue your areas of interest by tailoring electives and field placements.
- Approximately 60% of our MSW students receive scholarships to help pay for their education.
- Graduates find work as therapists and case managers, community organizers and administrators. Specialized courses and field placements are available in areas such as clinical and child welfare practice, and American Indian social services. Content on developing cultural competence is integrated across the curriculum.
- We are a small, student-centered program with individualized faculty-student interaction. Our multi-racial/multi-gender faculty have expertise in serving culturally and socially diverse populations.
Career Possibilities
Admissions and Scholarships
- In 2020/2021, 60% of our MSW students received funding through a scholarship or stipend while earning their MSW.
- Students interested in child welfare practice can apply to become a child welfare scholar. Students receive scholarship funds, a stipend, and support specialized to child welfare practice.
- Students interested in clinical social work practice can apply for the clinical scholars program. We currently have 10 clinical scholars and future funding will be contingent on federal funding availability.
- Students are also eligible to apply for the College of Education and Human Service professions specific scholarships, as well scholarships available through the graduate school. To learn more, please visit the funding and scholarships page on our website.
Requirements
In addition to the general application instructions provided by the Graduate School, visit the Social Work program page for specific application instructions and deadlines related to the program. Also visit the catalog requirements page linked above for additional information.