Social Work Master's Degree
Influence systemic change, tackle societal inequalities, and advocate for marginalized communities.In-Demand Career
There is now a huge demand for social workers with advanced degrees in Southeast Kansas. The 16-county area has the lowest ratio of clinical social workers per resident in the state.
How to Become a Social Worker
The practice of social work requires a Bachelor’s (BSW) or Master’s (MSW) degree. PSU offers both degrees. Students with a BSW can apply for Advanced Standing in the MSW program. The Advanced Standing Program of study can be completed in one or two calendar years with classes taking place on Mondays on the PSU campus. Those who have a bachelor's degree in a field other than social work may apply to the Traditional Program of study which can be completed in two or four years, also taking place on Mondays on the PSU campus. The PSU MSW program has a clinical focus, preparing graduates to work with individuals, families, and groups, but the MSW allows social workers to practice in a wide variety of settings in addition to clinical practice.
Two Tracks to a Graduate Degree
The program has two courses of study: a full time one-year and part-time two-year program for students who have a Bachelor’s in Social Work (“Advanced Standing”), and a full-time two-year and part-time four-year program for students who have a degree in something else (“Traditional Plan of Study”). For students in the Traditional full-time two-year or part-time four-year program, the full-time first year or part-time year one and two will be considered their generalist plan of study. The full-time first year or part-time year three and four will be considered the clinical or advanced program. Students in the full-time or part-time Advance Standing program will proceed directly to their clinical program. The master’s social work program can be completed in four (4) calendar years of part-time study.
Quality and Convenience
Students will participate in coursework one day a week. This allows students the option to work while attending class and fulfilling practicum requirements. The practicum is similar to an internship and provides students with an opportunity to develop experience as social workers in a community based social service agency.
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employment growth for social workers by 2029 according to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics
employment growth for social workers will happen in Kansas by 2026
of all mental health services in the U.S. are provided by social workers
professional social workers employed by the Department of Veterans Affairs, one of the largest employers of MSWs in the US
"Our MSW program offers a close-knit community of students and faculty. Caring, attentive faculty provide personalized support and the tools needed for academic and professional success."
Dr. Jeremey Wolfe, director of the MSW program
Social Work Careers
With a focus on evidence-based practice, our MSW program prepares social workers to critically analyze research and apply innovative interventions to address emerging challenges in the field. Graduates are prepared to hold positions in the following sectors:
- Mental Health and Counseling Centers: A Clinical Social Worker assesses, diagnoses, and provides therapeutic interventions for individuals dealing with mental health challenges.
- Hospitals, Hospice, and Home Health: A Medical Social Worker collaborates with healthcare teams to address patients' psychosocial needs, facilitate communication, and coordinate post-discharge care.
- K-12 Schools: A School Social Worker supports students' academic and social-emotional development, addresses behavioral issues, and collaborates with educators and families.
- Child Welfare: A Case Worker investigates reports of child abuse or neglect, assesses family situations, and develops plans to ensure child safety and well-being.
- Corrections: A Correctional Social Worker assists incarcerated individuals with reintegration into society, addresses behavioral issues, and provides support for rehabilitation.
- Probation and Parole: A Probation Officer monitors and supports individuals on probation, develops rehabilitation plans, and facilitates community resources for successful reintegration.
- Assisted Living Centers: A Geriatric Social Worker assesses and addresses the social and emotional needs of older adults in assisted living settings, coordinating services to enhance their quality of life.
- Addiction Treatment: A Substance Abuse Counselor provides counseling and support for individuals struggling with substance abuse, facilitating recovery and relapse prevention.
- Crisis Centers: A Crisis Intervention Specialist responds to immediate mental health crises, offering support and connecting individuals with appropriate resources.
- Governmental Agencies: A Social Services Program Manager oversees social service programs, ensuring effective delivery of services to the community.
“There is a demand for social work professionals here and a growing demand for services addressing social problems," said Kristen Humphrey, professor of Social Work and director of the Bachelor's program.