Online Master of Social Work (MSW)

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Social Work

A top-ranked MSW program in a high-demand field.

The PennWest MSW program is built around industry best practices, mentorship and networking opportunities.

If you’re passionate about being a voice for the vulnerable, enroll in PennWest’s nationally recognized online Master of Social Work program.

Built around professional best practices, our curriculum focuses on trauma-informed practice, family practice and rural social work practice. It is taught by dedicated faculty with extensive field experience. Count on our faculty to be your mentors, guiding you through many areas of social work.

Our program offers strong local, regional and national networks of internship partners, allowing you to gain extensive hands-on experience. Many of these lead to full-time employment and help you prepare for state licensure exams.

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View the MSW Student Handbook

View the MSW Student Outcomes Assessment

Top 10

Our MSW program was recently ranked among the top 10 online programs in the country by SR Education Group.

Accreditation Matters

This PennWest program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education’s Commission on Accreditation.

Approved SARA Institution

We may admit online graduate students from all 50 states, as well as international students and the military.

Fast Facts

16%

Expected job growth through 2026 for social workers.

Credits:

60

Format:

Format: 100% online

Contact:

Graduate Admissions
gradadmissions@pennwest.edu
724-938-4187

Start Terms:

Fall, Spring, Summer

Graduates with MSW Degrees Are in High Demand

When you earn a MSW from PennWest, you will have numerous job opportunities across several sectors. You may work in public schools or at colleges and universities, at corrections institutions, with children and youth services in church or community settings. You may opt to work for agencies that deal with substance abuse prevention and rehabilitation, victims services and advocacy programs or veterans' and military social work practice. You may also consider employment in organizations that provide counseling and mental health services, immigration and refugee services, hospice care, disability rights and other service organizations.

Graduate Outcomes

  1. Demonstrate ethical and responsible behavior
  2. Engage diversity, equity and inclusion in practice
  3. Advance human rights and social, economic and environmental justice
  4. Engage in practice-informed research and research-informed practice
  5. Engage in policy practice
  6. Engage with individuals, families, groups, organizations and communities
  7. Assess individuals, families, groups, organizations and communities
  8. Intervene with individuals, families, groups, organizations and communities
  9. Evaluate practice with individuals, families, groups, organizations and communities

Admissions Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution
  • Cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or greater
  • (2) Recommenders
  • Portfolio Statement
  • Priority application deadline for summer is May 1st, fall is July 1st, and spring is November 1st; faculty will continue to review applications until all seats are full.

The Power of PennWest

PennWest’s three campuses, California, Clarion and Edinboro universities, have been delivering award-winning online programs for more than 20 years. You’ll graduate with a degree from Pennsylvania Western University, completely supported by the expertise and community of learners on our brick-and-mortar campuses.

Flexible. Affordable.
Designed to Meet Your needs.
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