phd social work michigan

Wayne State University

School of social work, doctoral program doctoral program, doctoral program.

For 86 years, the School of Social Work at Wayne State University has been recognized nationally as a leader in producing highly competent practitioners as well as for developing innovative models in social work practice and social work education. Building on this rich tradition, our PhD program equips social work scholars to engage in research on contemporary urban issues and problems for the advancement of social work practice and social welfare policy.  Our students  are prepared to assume leadership positions as social work educators, researchers and agency administrators. Known for being the best economic value in terms of money expended and quality of education received, our advanced training program enables graduates to assume positions of leadership in the social work profession locally, regionally, and nationally.

The School of Social Work offers personalized attention in its new state-of-the-art building where students can come together for scholarly activities, advisement and socialization. Classified as a "doctoral university: very high research activity" by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education, students are offered an intimate learning experience with the support of extensive resources only found at a large urban institution. Located in the heart of  Detroit , our diverse faculty, students, and environment support the development of relationships across a variety of cultural, religious, ethnic and economic boundaries. Our doctoral program is lead by service-oriented  faculty  who provide personalized advisement and support geared toward maximizing degree completion and success.

​The application deadline is December 1. Students start the following fall semester.

Degree options

The programs of study leading to a   PhD in Social Work are designed to prepare students for leadership in social work research, teaching, clinical scholarship, and social welfare policy. Students are offered full- and part-time program options with evening, weekend and online class options. Students will complete intensive courses in research and theory in a cognate that include coursework outside of the School of Social Work based on their area of interest (eg. Public Health, Criminal Justice, Political Science). Additionally, students have the option to select from dual-title or interdisciplinary degree options noted below.  Participation in a dual-title or interdisciplinary degree is not required. 

• Research PhD in Social Work
• Dual-title in Social Work and Gerontology
• Dual-title in Social Work and Infant Mental Health
• Social Work and Anthropology (SWAN) trans-disciplinary program

We also offer a  Graduate Certificate in Research and Evaluation for those interested in learning advanced research and evaluation skills, need additional time to prepare their doctoral program application or wish to "test the waters" prior to admission into a doctoral program.

Pre-requisites

Doctoral applicants must have a minimum graduate GPA of 3.0. An MSW is preferred, but in some cases, an applicant may apply to a joint MSW/PhD program. Two years post-Masters experience is preferred.  Application Information

Program requirements

The Doctoral Program leads to the Doctor of Philosophy in Social Work (PhD) research degree. A minimum of 90 credit hours is required for graduation. Students are required to achieve and maintain an overall GPA of 3.0 throughout the program.

The Doctoral Program requires rigorous training in qualitative and quantitative research methods; advanced coursework in social work theory; completion of a cognate area in another discipline; mastery of specialized content areas; and the completion of a PhD dissertation. Full-time students may complete the degree requirements in four years. The part-time program permits students to meet the degree requirements within a five-year period.  All students have a seven-year time limit to complete all requirements for the PhD degree.  The seven-year period begins with the end of the semester during which the student was admitted to doctoral study.  Learn more

• Full-time program : The first two years of graduate study for full-time students are focused on core coursework in statistics, research methods, and social work theory at the micro, mezzo and macro levels. Students also complete at least nine credit hours in coursework in a cognate discipline (e.g., psychology, sociology, education, health, gerontology) associated with their area of research. These courses provide a foundation for PhD-level knowledge and skills and are assessed through qualifying exams in these core curricular areas. During the third and fourth years of the program, students will complete a one-credit Dissertation Seminar, any remaining elective courses and all of their dissertation credits. 
• Part-time program : All required courses in social work and the student's cognate area are completed within the first three years of the part-time program. In year three, students will take the Research Practicum in the fall semester. The Comprehensive Qualifying Examinations are taken after completion of relevant coursework. During the fourth and fifth years of the program, students will complete a one-credit Dissertation Seminar, any remaining elective courses and all of their dissertation credits.

Stella Resko, PhD PhD Program Director and Professor [email protected]

• Prospective Students
• Current Students
• Postdoctoral Fellows
• Faculty and Staff
• Make a Gift
• Programs of Study

Graduate education at the University of Michigan is a shared enterprise. The Rackham Graduate School works together with faculty in the schools and colleges of the University to provide more than 180 graduate degree programs and to sustain a dynamic intellectual climate within which graduate students thrive.

• Certificate Programs
• Dual Degree Programs
• Graduate and Professional Degree Programs Not Administered by Rackham

• Departments and Units
• Majors and Minors
• LSA Course Guide
• LSA Gateway

Search: {{$root.lsaSearchQuery.q}}, Page {{$root.page}}

• Program Areas
• Undergraduates
• Alumni & Friends
• Prospective Students

• Accelerated Master's Degree Program
• Career/Internship Exploration
• Photos & Videos
• Student Organizations
• Subject Pool
• Honors Program
• Preparing for Graduate School
• Service Learning Opportunities
• Student Resources
• Transfer Credit
• Major in Psychology or BCN
• Registration and Grades
• STAR Scholars Program
• Study Abroad
• Where Do I Find...?
• Alumni Directory
• Stay Connected
• UM Resources
• Giving Opportunities
• Alumni Profile - Send Us Your News
• Donor Impact
• Department Newsletters
• Undergraduate
• Transfer (Undergraduate)
• Social Psychology
• Biopsychology
• Clinical Science
• Cognition and Cognitive Neuroscience (CCN)
• Developmental Psychology
• Combined Program in Education & Psychology (CPEP)
• Gender and Feminist Psychology (G&FP)
• Personality and Social Contexts (P&SC)
• Social Psychology Admissions
• Social Psychology Curriculum
• Social Psychology Tenured/Tenure-Track Faculty
• Social Psychology Affiliated Faculty
• Social Psychology Emeriti Faculty
• Social Psychology Research Fellows
• Social Psychology Students
• Social Psychology Research Laboratories
• Social Work and Psychology

Area Chair:   Ethan Kross , Professor of Psychology and Management/Organizations

2022 Social Psychology Area

Since the late 1940's, the Ph.D. Program in Social Psychology at the University of Michigan has consistently been ranked among the top programs in the world, and many of the leading contributors to the field graduated from Michigan. We strive to continue this tradition through cutting-edge research training that prepares students for a research career in academic or non-academic settings. Several features distinguish the Michigan program from many others:

With 18 core faculty in social psychology and more than 10 emeriti and affiliated faculty, the social psychology program spans a large and diverse range of research topics and methodologies.

An average of 30 graduate students, at different stages of their graduate careers, provides an equally rich and stimulating peer environment, while maintaining a student to core faculty ratio of less than 2:1.

The social psychology program is located in one of the top-ranked psychology departments. We encourage students to work with faculty across area boundaries and the flexible program requirements allow them to do so.

The University of Michigan is widely considered the leading center for social and behavioral science research in the world and its top-ranked departments and research centers provide an unusually rich interdisciplinary intellectual environment for social psychologists. We encourage students to take full advantage of these opportunities.

Building on this interdisciplinary strength, Michigan offers several interdisciplinary training programs in which social psychology students can participate. These include, among others, a Culture & Cognition Program in collaboration with the Department of Anthropology , a Decision Program that cuts across many departments and professional schools, an Evolution and Human Adaptation Program , a program in Organization Studies , a program in Social Work and Psychology , and a program in Women's & Gender Studies and Psychology .

In addition, students have the opportunity to work with researchers at Michigan's numerous research centers, including the Institute for Social Research and its units, the Research Center for Group Dynamics, Survey Research Center, Center for Political Studies, and Population Studies Center; the Center for Human Growth and Development; the International Institute; the Institute for Policy Studies; the Mental Health Research Center; and many others [see research centers page].

Many research centers offer their own training opportunities, which enrich the departmental offerings. These opportunities include summer schools in survey research techniques , statistical analyses, and new developments in psychological methodology .

As befits such a rich environment, students have access to well- equipped laboratories, a departmental participant pool for experiments, computing facilities and data archives. In addition, there are many area, departmental, and university sources of funding for student research.

All students admitted to the program receive full financial support , as described by the department.

What Others Say About Us

The social psychology program at the University of Michigan is arguably one of the strongest, if not the very strongest, in the country, if not in the world. It has occupied this preeminent position for a very long time, and can be expected to maintain that stature going into the future. Any historical chronology of the great events of social psychology is destined to read like a chronicle of events at Michigan; any 'who’s who in social psychology' is bound to read like a listing of Michigan faculty and Michigan Ph.D.’s. -- From an outside review committee, appointed by the Dean of the College of Literature, Science and the Arts, 1998

The strength of the social psychology program at Michigan is, in many respects, strength through diversity. Historically, and today as well, the social psychology program has been a welcome home to many and diverse theoretical perspectives, substantive concerns, and methodological orientations. It has been, and continues to be, a program that operates at multiple levels of analysis, from the cognitive through the interpersonal through the group to the cultural levels of functioning, with research programs at each of these levels as well as ones that span and integrate these levels of analysis. -- From an outside review committee, appointed by the Dean of the College of Literature, Science and the Arts, 1998 .

Few, if any, training programs can offer either the quantity, diversity, or quality of training facilities or experiences that students in the Michigan program have the opportunity to experience. -- From the NIMH review of our training grant renewal, January 2004 .

The faculty are impressive in breadth, productivity, and level of extramural support. They have an outstanding record in mentoring and graduating first-rate students. -- From the NIMH review of our training grant renewal, January 2004 .

For Prospective Students

How to Apply to the Social Psychology Program?

• Information For
• Current Students
• Faculty and Staff
• Alumni and Friends
• More about LSA
• How Do I Apply?
• LSA Magazine
• Academic Advising
• Global Studies
• LSA Opportunity Hub
• Social Media
• Update Contact Info
• Privacy Statement
• Report Feedback

Jump to navigation

Search form

The Graduate School

• Faculty/Staff Resources
• Programs of Study Browse the list of MSU Colleges, Departments, and Programs
• Graduate Degree List Graduate degrees offered by Michigan State University
• Research Integrity Guidelines that recognize the rights and responsibilities of researchers
• Online Programs Find all relevant pre-application information for all of MSU’s online and hybrid degree and certificate programs
• Graduate Specializations A subdivision of a major for specialized study which is indicated after the major on official transcripts
• Graduate Certificates Non-degree-granting programs to expand student knowledge and understanding about a key topic
• Interdisciplinary Graduate Study Curricular and co-curricular opportunities for advanced study that crosses disciplinary boundaries
• Theses and Dissertations Doctoral and Plan A document submission process
• Policies and Procedures important documents relating to graduate students, mentoring, research, and teaching
• Academic Programs Catalog Listing of academic programs, policies and related information
• Traveling Scholar Doctoral students pursue studies at other BTAA institutions
• Apply Now Graduate Departments review applicants based on their criteria and recommends admission to the Office of Admissions
• International Applicants Application information specific to international students
• PhD Public Data Ph.D. Program Admissions, Enrollments, Completions, Time to Degree, and Placement Data
• Costs of Graduate School Tools to estimate costs involved with graduate education
• Recruitment Awards Opportunities for departments to utilize recruitment funding
• Readmission When enrollment is interrupted for three or more consecutive terms
• Assistantships More than 3,000 assistantships are available to qualified graduate students
• Fellowships Financial support to pursue graduate studies
• Research Support Find funding for your research
• Travel Funding Find funding to travel and present your research
• External Funding Find funding outside of MSU sources
• Workshops/Events Find opportunities provided by The Graduate School and others
• Research Opportunities and programs for Research at MSU
• Career Development Programs to help you get the career you want
• Graduate Educator Advancement and Teaching Resources, workshops, and development opportunities to advance your preparation in teaching
• Cohort Fellowship Programs Spartans are stronger together!
• The Edward A. Bouchet Graduate Honor Society (BGHS) A national network society for students who have traditionally been underrepresented
• Summer Research Opportunities Program (SROP) A gateway to graduate education at Big Ten Academic Alliance universities
• Alliances for Graduate Education and the Professoriate (AGEP) A community that supports retention, and graduation of underrepresented doctoral students
• Recruitment and Outreach Ongoing outreach activities by The Graduate School
• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Funding Funding resources to recruit diverse students
• Graduate Student Organizations MSU has over 900 registered student organizations
• Grad School Office of Well-Being Collaborates with graduate students in their pursuit of their advanced degree and a well-balanced life
• Housing and Living in MI MSU has an on and off-campus housing site to help find the perfect place to stay
• Mental Health Support MSU has several offices and systems to provide students with the mental health support that they need
• Spouse and Family Resources MSU recognizes that students with families have responsibilities that present challenges unique to this population
• Health Insurance Health insurance info for graduate student assistants and students in general at MSU
• Safety and Security MSU is committed to cultivating a safe and inclusive campus community characterized by a culture of safety and respect
• Why Mentoring Matters To Promote Inclusive Excellence in Graduate Education at MSU
• Guidelines Guidelines and tools intended to foster faculty-graduate student relationships
• Toolkit A set of resources for support units, faculty and graduate students
• Workshops Workshops covering important topics related to mentor professional development
• About the Graduate School We support graduate students in every program at MSU
• Strategic Plan Our Vision, Values, Mission, and Goals
• Social Media Connect with the Graduate School!
• History Advancing Graduate Education at MSU for over 25 years
• Staff Directory
• Driving Directions

School of Social Work

Link to department website

Link to RCR plan - Date on Plan: 10/14/2016 - RCR Contact:  Joe Messina

Link to MSW Graduate Handbook

Program: Clinical Social Work - Advanced standing Academic Plan: CLSCW2_MSW Award Type: MSW Phone: 517-355-7519 Email: [email protected] Address: Baker Hall, 655 Auditorium Rd, Room 239, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824

Program: Clinical Social Work - Two Year Academic Plan: CLSCW1_MSW Award Type: MSW Phone: 517-355-7519 Email: [email protected] Address: Baker Hall, 655 Auditorium Rd, Room 239, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824

Program: Organization and Community Leadership Academic Plan: ORCKAS_MSW Award Type: MSW Phone: 517-355-7519 Email: [email protected] Address: Baker Hall, 655 Auditorium Rd, Room 239, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824 Advanced standing Program - beginnings in the summer

Program: Organization and Community Leadership Academic Plan: ORGCML_MSW Award Type: MSW Phone: 517-355-7519 Email: [email protected] Address: Baker Hall, 655 Auditorium Rd, Room 239, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824

Program: Social Work Academic Plan: SOCIAL_PHD Award Type: PHD Phone: 517-355-7519 Email: [email protected] Address: Baker Hall, 655 Auditorium Rd, Room 239, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824

Link to Graduate Handbook

• Call us: (517) 353-3220
• Contact Information
• Privacy Statement
• Site Accessibility
• Call MSU: (517) 355-1855
• Visit: msu.edu
• MSU is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity employer.
• Notice of Nondiscrimination
• Spartans Will.
• © Michigan State University

University of Michigan Fully Funded Joint PhD in Social Work and Social Science

University of michigan.

The University of Michigan based in Ann Arbor, MI offers a fully funded Joint PhD in Social Work and Social Science. Students earn an interdisciplinary degree in Social Work and one of four social science fields. Joint PhD students reflect the populations they serve and address society’s challenging issues through scientifically rigorous social and behavioral research. The Joint Program in Social Work and Social Science provides all incoming doctoral students with a multi-year funding package. They combine fellowship awards, graduate student research assistant positions, and graduate student instructorships to offer most students five years of full funding, which includes tuition, and stipends.

• Deadline: Nov 18, 2024 (Estimated)*
• Work Experience: Any
• Location: North America
• Citizenship: Any
• Residency: United States

Create an Account / Log In

Please create a free ProFellow account or log in to view listings in our database.

Fellowship Resources

• Calls for Applications
• Upcoming Fellowship Deadlines
• Fellowships Database
• Interviews with Fellows
• International Fellows Network
• Graduate Funding Directory

Fellowship Tips

• What is a Fellowship?
• Fully Funded Course
• Graduate School Funding
• Fellowship Application Tips
• Fulbright Application Tips
• Fellowship Application Guide
• Our Mission, History & Values
• ProFellow Winner Testimonials
• Fully Funded Course Testimonials
• Fellowship Industry Report
• Advertise With Us
• Terms & Privacy

ProFellow is the go-to source for information on professional and academic fellowships, created by fellows for aspiring fellows.

©2011-2024 ProFellow, LLC. All rights reserved.

School of Social Work, Graduate, Full Term, 2020-2021

Graduate tuition.

Distance Learning Tuition

• search close Search search
• Academics Overview
• Majors & Programs
• Colleges & Schools
• Career Outcomes & Internships
• Academic Calendar & Resources
• Belmont Online
• Admissions & Aid Overview
• First-Year Students
• Transfer Students
• Graduate & Professional Students
• Adult Degree Students
• International Students
• Military Students
• Life at Belmont Overview
• Student Life & Leadership
• Housing & Dining
• Safety & Security
• Health & Wellbeing
• Student Success & Flourishing
• Spiritual Life
• Graduate Student Life
• Living In Nashville
• Belmont Stories
• About Belmont
• Belmont at a Glance
• Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging
• Christian Identity
• Our History
• Our Strategic Path to 2030
• Conservation & Sustainability
• University Leadership
• Request Info
• Visit Belmont
• Events Calendar
• Faculty & Staff
• Parents & Family

• Master of Social Work, MSW

Belmont’s Master of Social Work program combines cutting edge coursework and hands on experience to provide students with the skills and knowledge needed to effectively engage in advanced practice, lead teams and organizations in the provision of trauma informed services, and effect social change. 

In This Section

• Cost & Financial Aid

Why Belmont's Master of Social Work? 

The Belmont School of Social Work faculty and staff partner with Master of Social Work students from day one to ensure a student’s program of study, and hands-on experience in the field, equips them to serve the populations they have a passion for! Belmont Social Work students are known, loved, and deeply supported as they work to gain the knowledge and skills needed to practice in an array of contexts–including mental health agencies, health care, schools and community organizations–where they can address the complex needs of individuals, families, and communities.  The Belmont MSW offers a broad curriculum with a unique focus on trauma informed care and leadership in advocacy practice, ensuring our students have the cutting-edge training and support needed to gain licensure and impact change in their chosen field of practice.

What Sets Us Apart

Belmont MSW students are uniquely prepared for clinical and advanced generalist practice via our student-centered and personalized approach to their education. This includes:

• A cutting-edge curriculum that makes use of Belmont’s 60,000 square foot Center for Interprofessional Engagement and Simulation where MSW students counsel simulated clients, make home visits, and practice group therapy sessions – all in the comfort of a class session, with the support of their teachers and classmates!
• Preparation for the entry level licensure exam built into the curriculum – students work in class prior to graduation to study for this important exam under the guidance of experienced and licensed faculty!
• Over 900 hours of personalized field work that can include their place of employment.

What You'll Learn

Through personalized agency-based field placements, unique access to a 60,000 square foot interprofessional simulation center, and a state-of-the-art curriculum informed by the needs of our community, the Belmont MSW program prepares students to advance social work practice around trauma informed care, and lead in supporting clients and their communities immediately upon graduation.

Program Details

Courses you'll take add.

The Belmont MSW is a 60-credit hour advanced generalist in-person degree designed to provide students with the requisite knowledge, values, skills that support competency for advanced social work practice with individuals, families, groups, and communities/social systems.

• Foundational Coursework: 30 credit hours
• Advanced Coursework: 18 credit hours
• Trauma Theory and Leadership Coursework: 6 hours
• Elective Coursework: 6 credit hours
• Fieldwork/Internship: 900 clock hours over four courses

See All Program Requirements

Courses You'll Take

• SWK 5000 Social Policy, History, and Ethics This course delves into the historical, ethical, and policy foundations that shape social work practice. This course prepares students to develop their framework for social work practice that is anti-racist, anti-oppressive, reflective, and focused on seeking justice. In this course, students will examine the major fields of practice in the profession, and critically reflect on the development of social welfare policies, their historical contexts, and the ethical principles guiding social work interventions.
• SWK 5100 Social Work Practice I: Individuals and Families This course is one part of a series of required Social Work practice courses taken in the foundational year of the MSW program.  This course is an examination of the knowledge, values, and skills central to the generalist practice of social work with individuals and families. Students utilize an understanding of the social work process to develop skills in in problem solving within the context of social work values and ethics. Emphasis is placed on the ability to engage and assess with individuals and families using a strengths-based and culturally responsive approach.
• SWK 5200 Exploring Human Diversity This exploring human diversity social work course is designed to provide students with an understanding of the cultural, social, economic, and political factors that shape human diversity and the ways in which these factors impact individuals, families, groups, and communities. The course will cover the impact of systems of oppression, privilege, and discrimination on marginalized populations and how these systems are interconnected. Emphasis will be placed on understanding the unique experiences and perspectives of diverse populations and on developing skills in culturally responsive practice. The course will also cover self-care and self-awareness for the social worker. 
• SWK 5300 Human Behavior and the Social Environment This course provides an overview of development through the lifespan in an environmental context.  Students will utilize major theoretical frameworks to assess individual and family development and will examine the impact of diversity and of trauma on health and well-being. This course builds on a liberal arts background and is designed to provide an understanding of key biological, psychological, social, spiritual, historical, and cultural factors associated with individual development, as applied to social work practice.
• SWK 5400 Field Instruction I The signature pedagogy of the Master of Social Work degree is the field experience.  In this experiential course, students will complete 200 hours of fieldwork, supervised by a professional social worker in a local social service agency. This will provide the student an opportunity to apply classroom knowledge in a practice setting. Emphasis is on developing generalist social work practice skills with individuals, families, groups, and organizations. The accompanying seminar provides a supportive environment for processing the field experience, and space for students to reflect on their knowledge, skills and abilities as they move from theoretical understanding to applied learning.
• SWK 5500 Social Work Research Methods This course is designed to introduce social science research methods in the context of social work practice. This foundational level course will encourage critical thinking skills that build on a liberal arts undergraduate education in science, social sciences, and the humanities. Emphasis will be placed on how research skills are integrated within social work practice, using an ethical, anti-oppressive framework. Specifically, this course will examine the relationship between theory and research, conceptualization of research questions and hypotheses, and elements of research design. Both qualitative and quantitative methodologies will be introduced as a means of building knowledge for practice.
• SWK 5600 Social Work Practice II: Groups, Organizations, and Communities This course is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to work effectively with diverse groups and communities in a variety of settings. The course will cover group work theories and interventions, as well as social justice principles for community organizing. Emphasis will be placed on understanding the impact of systems of oppression and discrimination on groups and communities and learning how to address these issues in organizational practice settings. Students will develop skills in culturally responsive practice, including understanding and valuing the unique perspectives and experiences of group members and community members.
• SWK 5700 Social Work Policy Analysis and Advocacy This course examines the history of social welfare policy in the United States and analyzes the values and assumptions that form the foundation of social welfare policies and programs. This course introduces students to the key social policies and programs that shape current social work practice while providing a historical context for how they came to be. 
• SWK 5800 Psychopathology This course provides an in-depth exploration of psychopathology with a focus on understanding the complex interplay of biological, behavioral, emotional, cognitive, and social factors that influence mental health. Grounded in trauma-informed practice and utilizing the DSM-5 as a guide, students will examine how various influences converge to impact individuals' mental health trajectories.
• SWK 5900 Field Instruction II This course is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to work effectively with diverse groups and communities in a variety of settings. The course will cover group work theories and interventions, as well as social justice principles for community organizing. Emphasis will be placed on understanding the impact of systems of oppression and discrimination on groups and communities and learning how to address these issues in organizational practice settings, via 200 hours of fieldwork. Students will develop skills in culturally responsive practice, including understanding and valuing the unique perspectives and experiences of group members and community members.
• SWK 6000 Advanced Practice with Individuals & Families This course will provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to work effectively with individuals, couples, and families in a variety of settings. The course covers advanced practice theories, interventions, and ethical considerations specific to working with individuals and families. Emphasis will be placed on understanding the impact of systems of oppression and discrimination on individuals, couples, and families and learning how to address these issues in practice. Students will also develop skills in culturally responsive practice, including understanding the unique perspectives and experiences of clients. The course will also cover self-care and self-awareness for the social worker.
• SWK 6100 Advanced Practice with Groups This course is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to work effectively with diverse groups in a variety of settings. The course will cover advanced group work theories and interventions, as well as ethical considerations and cultural responsiveness in group practice. Students will learn how to design, facilitate, and evaluate group work, and will also examine the impact of systems of oppression on individuals and groups. Emphasis will be placed on the process of forming, developing, and terminating groups and the importance of self-care and self-awareness in group work practice.
• SWK 6200 Trauma Theory in Practice This course will present the current conceptualizations of trauma and trauma-informed care from an ecological perspective. Emphasis is placed on the biology and neuroscience of stress and trauma, the effects of trauma on populations at-risk and the evolving conceptualization of social work’s role in the treatment and prevention of stress and trauma. Acquisition of diagnostic skills will be emphasized throughout the course as well as the knowledgeable application of “trauma-informed care” to all levels of advanced practice. Students will consider issues such as vicarious trauma, compassion fatigue, and burn-out, exploring approaches to self-care and promotion of wellness. Through case presentations, written work, and class discussions students are encouraged to use their experiences in the field to deepen their understanding of course content.
• SWK 6000 Level Electives Students will be able to choose a minimum of two elective courses during their specialized curriculum. These courses will allow students a chance to explore theoretical perspectives more deeply, populations of interest, practice areas, or social problems. Exemplar courses include Race-Based Trauma, Poverty in the United States, Mental Health Practice, Crisis Intervention, School Social Work, and Family Practice in Social Work.
• SWK 6300 Field Instruction III In this third experiential course, students will complete an advanced generalist placement in a micro, macro and/or mezzo environment.  This second field placement, supervised by a professional social worker in a local agency, will provide the student an opportunity to further apply advanced knowledge to practice through the course of 250 required field hours. Students will engage in specialized practice in a local social service setting. Emphasis is on furthering skills of advocacy, and leadership in social work practice.  
• SWK 6400 Advanced Practice with Organizations & Communities This course explores contemporary theories, models, and practices for leadership in human service organizations, emphasizing skills in team building, program design and implementation, development and funding, organizational change and genuine commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. The community practice dimensions of this course engage students in examining theory, methods, and strategies for community practice within complex political and economic environments, emphasizing participatory action and anti-racist, anti-oppressive practice.
• SWK 6500 Evaluation for Advanced Social Work Practice This course provides students with the knowledge and skills needed to evaluate their practice and the programs in which they work. Students will develop evaluation skills which can be used as practical tools for social change by improving the quality of individual level and social programming. In acquiring these skills, in the context of their field placement, students will: a) explore ethical responsibilities associated with evaluating practice; b) apply research methods to conceptualize and measure problems and goals; c) implement research design and methods of evaluation; d) conduct data analyses and interpret results; and e) report their findings.
• SWK 6600 Leadership for Advanced Social Work Practice   This integrative seminar provides students with the knowledge and skills to be leaders in their practice environments and communities. Students will learn models and theories related to general supervision, power, and authority in public and nonprofit organizations. The course will explore the influence of politics, economics, technology, and socio-cultural factors within supervisory practice, across multiple contexts. Students will explore social work leadership ethics and deepen their understanding of caring for self and others. A capstone experience, this course will also support students in their preparation for employment and licensure.
• SWK 6700 Field Instruction IV The signature pedagogy of the Social Work degree is the field experience.  In this fourth experiential course, students will continue an advanced generalist placement in a micro, macro and/or mezzo environment, supervised by a professional social worker in a local agency. This will provide the student an opportunity to further deepen and apply advanced knowledge to practice through 250 required hours of field work. Emphasis is on deepening skills of advocacy, leadership and social work practice in a specialized setting. Additional attention is given to preparing students for post-program destinations.  

Two Year Full-Time Program of Study add

Three Year Part-Time Program of Study add

Admissions Information add

Applications for admission and an applicant’s credentials are received exclusively through the Social Work Centralized Application Service (SocialWorkCAS). Learn more about the admissions process

Accreditation Status add

The Belmont University MSW program is currently in pre-candidacy for accreditation by the Council on Social Work Education’s (CSWE) Board of Accreditation (BOA). A program that has attained pre-candidacy status has not yet been reviewed by the BOA nor verified to be compliant with the Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards (EPAS). Students that are admitted to pre-candidate programs in the fall (or later) of the academic year in which the program is granted candidacy status will be retroactively recognized as graduates from a CSWE-BOA accredited program as long as the program attains initial accreditation. Review our program’s pre-candidacy status in CSWE’s Directory of Accredited Programs. For more information about social work accreditation, contact CSWE’s Department of Social Work Accreditation.

Social Work Licensure add

Once accredited by the Council on Social Work Education , those earning a Master’s degree in Social Work from Belmont University have met the first of several steps needed to attain state licensure to practice social work at the Master’s level. It is important to note that state licensure is a separate process from that of attaining your master’s degree and requires additional criteria. For example, Tennessee requires that additional examinations be taken. State licensure is handled through state boards and not through Belmont University. Students are advised to seek licensure information through the requisite state Department of Health’s Social Work Licensure Board. Belmont’s faculty and staff are a resource for Belmont MSW graduates seeking licensure but are the licensing authority.

Note that a felony conviction may affect a graduate's ability to be eligible to take the national certification examination or obtain state licensure.

Student Resources add

Student Handbook

Field Manual

Career Possibilities

A Master of Social Work degree from Belmont University can open the door to a diverse range of career possibilities. Graduates find success in various fields, utilizing their skills in unique and impactful ways.

Here are some of the many paths you may pursue after completing the MSW program:

Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Mental and Behavioral Health Counselor

Military Affairs Social Worker

Non-Profit Leader

Hospital Social Worker

Frequently Asked Questions

May i apply while i am still in the process of completing my undergraduate degree add.

Yes! You are welcome to apply in the year before you graduate. All credits associated with your bachelor's degree must be completed before June 1 and your final transcript sent to Belmont.

Do I need to have a bachelor’s degree in social work? add

No, students do no need an undergraduate degree in social work to apply. We do not require a specific major to apply for the MSW. Common majors include psychology, child and family studies, sociology, public policy, and other social science disciplines.

Do you offer Advanced Standing? add

Yes, we will begin enrolling for Advanced Standing in September 2026.

Is this program online? add

No, the Belmont MSW is a face-to-face program. However, our classes are scheduled such that students will not be on campus more than two days a week.

Please reach out to [email protected] if you have any questions.

Can I complete my internship/field hours where I work? add

Yes! Students working in a social work setting may be eligible to complete their internship at their place of employment during their work hours.

Is a specific major or courses required? add

No, there is not a specific major, or specific courses required. It is suggested that students have successfully completed approximately 18 credit hours of courses such as psychology, sociology, statistics, biology, anthropology, economics, history, political science, government, and/or languages.

I am not a Tennessee Resident may I still apply? add

Belmont University makes no distinction between in-state and out-of-state students for admission or tuition purposes, and all are welcome to apply.

Do you require an interview? add

No, however, the faculty reserves the right to request an introductory interview to ensure we are able to fully evaluate your application for admission. Additionally, information sessions and campus preview days will be scheduled throughout the year to offer students an opportunity to visit Belmont and learn more about the MSW and School of Social Work in person!

How long is the program and how many credit hours are required? add

The traditional program is 60 credit hours (5 classes a semester for four semesters). The Advanced Standing program is 30 credit hours (5 classes a semester for two semesters). The Advanced Standing program will begin accepting applications in September 2025.  

Can I go part-time? add

Yes, there is a part-time option enrolling now. Please reach out to your admissions counselor for further information.

When do classes meet? add

Students will attend class no more than two days a week throughout the program. Students in Year 1 of the program will complete approximately 13 hours a week of field work outside of class. Students in Year 2 of the program will complete approximately 16 hours a week of field work.

Do you accept transfer credit? add

Yes! Students with undergraduate course credit from a CSWE-accredited baccalaureate social work program – earned within the last seven years – are entitled to have generalist-equivalent course credit evaluated for waiver, regardless of the undergraduate degree they hold, or their ability to enter the advanced standing program. Applicants requesting a transfer of credits must also meet specific criteria and provide additional documentation. Institutional policy holds graduate applicants can request the transfer of up to 15 graduate credit hours, while advanced standing transfer applicants can request up to 9 credits.

See further details here.

Do you offer scholarships or other financial aid? add

Scholarships are not available. Students typically fund tuition through loans or private sources. All questions concerning financial aid should be directed to our Student Financial Services department. You can reach the Student Financial Services office by phone at 615-460-6403 or  online .

Learn more about financial aid for graduate students

Do you offer on campus housing for graduate students? add

Belmont does not offer graduate student housing but does have resources available to students who are looking to relocate to the Nashville area.

Off Campus Housing Helper

Request Information

Ready to apply.

Start Your Application

College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences

Sarah Caylor Assistant Director of Graduate Admissions (615) 460.6722 Email Sarah Schedule a Call

College Links

University of Michigan School of Social Work

Audience menu.

• Connect with SSW
• Discover Social Work
• Privilege, Oppression, Diversity and Social Justice
• MasterTrack Online Certificate
• Online MSW Program
• Schedule a Visit
• Course Catalog
• Financial Aid & Tuition
• MSW Program
• Joint PhD Program
• SSW Faculty
• Class-Related Forms
• Student Guide

Academic Calendar

• Course Planning Worksheets
• Educational Agreement
• Office of Field Education
• Office of Student Services
• SSW Reservations
• Safety & Emergency Preparedness
• Student Advising
• Committee Meetings & Minutes
• Wolverine Access
• Faculty Handbook
• Instructional Faculty Resources
• SSW Directory
• Information Technology
• Faculty and Administrative Support Team
• U-M Webmail
• Community Forum
• Instructions

Search form

• Dean's Welcome
• Mission & Goals
• Contact & Building Hours
• Rankings, Facts & Figures
• Mission Statement
• Printable Strategic Plan
• Detailed Strategic Plan
• Action and Engagement
• Training/Resources
• Partnerships
• Employment Equity Learning and Action Collaborative
• Faculty Books
• Ongoing Magazine
• Presentations
• Research Publications
• Ann Arbor & Beyond
• Hotel Information
• Maps & Parking
• Welcome Letter
• Strategic Plan
• Social Work & Social Justice Dialogues
• DEI Impact Awards
• Student Diversity
• Anti-Racism Statement
• DEI & Anti-Racism Initiatives
• History of Social Work
• Land Acknowledgment Statement
• Oral Histories
• Social Justice Collection
• Current Openings
• Printing Computing Sites
• U-M Computing Sites
• MSW Brochure and Flyers
• Connect With an MSW Admissions Counselor
• Connect With a Current MSW Student
• Request MSW Program Information
• Visit Our MSW Program
• Financial Aid
• Part-Time Programs
• Program Length
• Special Programs
• Tuition & Fees
• Admitted Students
• CSWE Competencies Assessment
• MasterTrack
• PhD in Social Work and Social Welfare
• Joint PhD in Social Work and Social Science
• Students & Alumni
• Declarations and Requirements
• Certificate Programs
• Faculty & Staff
• Outreach Board
• Preferred Admissions
• Stories & Videos
• Funding Opportunities
• Community Action and Social Change Minor
• UM Dearborn
• U-M Sociology and Social Work
• Affidavit of Financial Support
• English Proficiency
• Health Insurance
• Student Stories
• LGBTQIA2S+ Students
• Prospective Field Instructors
• Licensure Requirements
• Exam Preparation
• Mailing List
• Global Activities Scholars Program
• Global Course Extension
• Global Independent Study
• Peace Corps
• Global Social Work Practice Pathway
• Exchange Visitors
• Identities Abroad
• Global Career Guide
• Scholarship
• Course Planning
• Courses & Field Placements
• Community Action & Research Certificate
• Interprofessional Mini-Certificate in Trauma-Informed Practice
• Groups/Labs/Centers
• Past Discoveries
• Faculty Support
• Newsletters
• Proposal Notification
• Responsible Conduct
• Schedule a Consult
• Evaluation Skills Video Resource Library
• Education/Training
• Signature Programs
• White Papers
• Become a Faculty Affiliate
• AHEAD Magazine
• Athletics Tickets
• Spaces for Students
• Students with Children
• Students with Disabilities
• Job Search Resources
• Job Preparation
• Licensing & Exam Prep
• Alumni Jobs & Salaries
• Graduate Fellowships and Assistantships
• Post-MSW Fellowships
• Student Employment
• Writing Assistance
• After Hours Transit Services
• SSW Building Maps
• Affordable Care Act
• Domestic Health Insurance
• International Health Insurance
• Liability & Auto Insurance
• Counseling and Psychological Services Embedded Therapist
• Virtual Student Mental Health Resources
• Get Help at U-M
• Student Help & Support
• Upcoming Ceremonies
• Past Ceremonies
• Commencement Calendar
• International Students
• International Applicants
• Student Activities
• Request a Community Conversation
• Upcoming Community Conversations
• Outside Classes
• Class Descriptions
• Credit Hour Policy
• Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
• Faculty and Administrative Support
• Contacts by Office
• Tenure-Track Faculty
• Clinical & Research Faculty
• Research Fellows
• Field Faculty
• LEO Lecturers
• Emeritus Faculty
• Joint PhD Students
• LEO & GSI
• Research Fellow
• Academics & Curriculum
• Continuing Education
• MSW Applications & Admission
• Registrar's Office
• Letter from the Director
• Halla Jomaa-Jouney
• Nancy Riske
• Charlotte Hoppen
• Madison Mariles
• Abigail Niehaus
• Ways of Giving
• Fundraising Initiatives
• Donor Impact
• Class Notes
• Host Your Own Event
• Get Your Transcript
• Lifelong Learning
• Alumni Recognition
• Alumni Board
• Present a Webinar
• Advances in Child Maltreatment Prevention
• Building Healthy, Strong Communities
• Conversations Across Social Disciplines
• Fedele F. and Iris M. Fauri Memorial Lecture
• Homecoming & Reunion Weekend
• Leon and Josephine Winkelman Memorial Lecture
• Social Justice Changemaker Lecture
• Social Work Month Celebration
• Contact Information
• Update My Record
• Meet the Team

Call to action menu

• Request Information

Anao Zhang Quoted in Everyday Health

Rogério M. Pinto Is Featured on the Academic Minute

Lexx Brown-James is Quoted in SELF Magazine

Matthew Smith Receives the MICHR 2024 Distinguished Clinical and Translational Research Mentor Award

Joonyoung Cho Successfully Defends Dissertation

Michelangelo Trujillo Successfully Defends Dissertation

Daphne Watkins Receives Pynn-Silvermann Lifetime Achievement Award

Terri Gilbert Receives Youth Justice Lifetime Achievement Award

Faculty Promotions

William Elliott Serves as Expert Witness on CSAs Before U.S. Senate Committee

Upcoming events, sexual health assessment and treatment in clinical practice.

September 13, 2024 - 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM ET

The objective of this training is to help mental health professionals develop confidence and a skill set for discussing sexual identity, health/wellness, and intimacy with their clients. Fundamentals of sex therapy from a biopsychosocial approach will be covered to  Press enter to read full text ...

Michigan Social Work Homecoming and Reunion Celebration

September 13, 2024 - 11:30 AM ET

Join us for the 2024 Michigan Social Work Homecoming & Reunion Celebrations!

Click Here to RSVP

Friday, September 13

Welcome reception 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m..

Enjoy light refreshments while you meet and reconnect with fellow alumni, faculty, and students!

Reunion  Press enter to read full text ...

Ssw homecoming networking + dessert social.

September 13, 2024 - 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM ET

Join us for an all-school networking dessert social at 1:30pm. All alumni, donors, faculty, staff and students are welcome to attend the dessert social at 1:30pm in the ECC.

Click Here to Register

CommuniTea with Joe Galura

September 16, 2024 - 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM ET

Please join us for our first CommuniTea of the semester with CASC Advisor and Lecturer, Joe Galura! An graduate of the MSW program, Joe is also a lecturer in the College of Literature, Science, and the Arts and has developed, implemented and taught service-learning  Press enter to read full text ...

Placement Verification Form Due to Field Instructor

September 17, 2024 (all day)

The student is encouraged to submit their PVF to allow sufficient time for your review and approval. PVF is due on 09/24/24.

Grand Rounds - Dr. Courtney D. Cogburn

September 18, 2024 - 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM ET

We are excited to announce the launch of our inaugural School of Social Work Grand Rounds series this fall. The Grand Rounds are designed to keep social work professionals informed about evolving areas within social justice.

Join Us for the First Grand Rounds Event!

  Press enter to read full text ...

Virtual Book Talk: Abolition and Social Work

September 18, 2024 - 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM ET

Join a virtual discussion with the editors of Haymarket Book's popular new title  Abolition and Social Work: Possibilities, Paradoxes, and the Practice of Community Care , hosted by University of Michigan students, staff, and faculty. This book is "a critical anthology  Press enter to read full text ...

Community Conversations Training

September 18, 2024 - 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM ET

We invite you to become a Community Conversations facilitator! We extend this opportunity to all SSW staff, students, and faculty.

There will be a two-session Community Conversations facilitator training, held on Zoom on September 18 and September 25 from 5:00 PM -  Press enter to read full text ...

MSW Prospective Student Information Session - Virtual

September 19, 2024 - 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM ET

This online session will provide the opportunity to learn more about the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor's School of Social Work MSW program. Topics covered will include: Online Program, On-Campus Program, Curriculum Options, Application Process, Financial Aid, and more!

All registered attendees will receive a recording of the session.

Click here to register »

• Add to Calendar Drop/Add/Edit Deadline for Full-Term Classes
• Add to Calendar Last Day to Withdraw from Term with 50% Tuition Reduction
• Add to Calendar Fall Study Break (October 14-15)
• Add to Calendar Backpack Opens for Winter Semester
• Add to Calendar Winter Registration: Begins by Appointment for Graduate Students (November 18 - November 20)
• Add to Calendar Winter Registration: Begins by Appointment for Undergraduate Students (November 21 - December 6)
• Add to Calendar Thanksgiving Break (November 27 - December 1)
• Add to Calendar Classes Resume
• Add to Calendar SSW Doctoral Class Sessions End
• Add to Calendar SSW Undergraduate Class Sessions End

Contact Us Press escape to close

• Phone 1 (734) 764-3309 Fax 1 (734) 936-1961
• Email MSW [email protected] CE [email protected] PhD [email protected]

University of Michigan School of Social Work 1080 South University Avenue Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1106

• Faculty, Staff & PhD Directory » Building Hours & Maps

School of Social Work College of Social Science

Being a social worker is not just a job to me. it's who i am..

- Brandy, MSU BASW '04

I didn’t find social work, social work found me.

- Ana, MSU BASW '19

I knew I made a difference by helping my clients go from homelessness to being housed.

- Jessica, MSU MSW '20

I wanted to make change and social workers are the ones to help us do it.

- Dr. James, MSU MSW '12

Social work changed my world view and helped me see the world in a systematic way.

- Ann, MSU MSW '07

Empower the underserved. Advocate for change.

If you are looking for a career where you can advance social justice, help vulnerable populations, and make a positive difference in people’s lives, social work is your path!

The MSU School of Social Work is equipping the next generation of change makers. Our teaching, research, and outreach synergistically promote social justice, positive change, and solutions to the problems facing diverse individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities.

Graduates can count on job security in a growing field with employment opportunities predicted to grow 13% in the next decade. Our accredited BASW and MSW programs prepare students to be outstanding practitioners in clinical, community, and organizational settings. Our PhD program prepares professionals to be cutting-edge researchers, inspirational educators, and effective policy analysts and advocates. When you start at MSU, the future is up to you.

Social Work Program at a Public University

MSU Social Work Graduates in the Field

of Graduates Got the Job of Their Choice

I knew social work was the right fit for me. It is not about the work you do, it's the lives you change. - Seth, ‘19 Alumni

Social work changed my life because it got me to do something I love. - Ian, ‘13 Alumni

I switched majors from business to social work because I realized that I needed to feed my soul and work in a field that genuinely helps people. - Aleigha, ‘19 Alumni

Ready to make a difference?

Our dedicated staff, faculty, and students all contribute to our mission. Our students bring unique and diverse perspectives and lived experiences that enhance our community. We’d love for you to join us.

Learn More About Our Programs