What does a social worker do?

Social workers provide assistance to individuals, families and communities to address problems in their everyday lives. They can work in a “macro” role directly coordinating with organizations or policymakers, or a “micro” role focusing on individuals and their families. The job description varies—social workers can have a wide variety of duties: Find those in need of help Work with people in all stages of life from birth to end of life Assess their situation: what they need, who supports them, what their goals are and develop interventions and strategies to help Collaborate with community resources to offer a network of care and refer clients accordingly Diagnose and treat mental, behavioral, and emotional health problems Maintain clear case files and records Raise awareness and advocate for solutions at the local, state, or even national level Navigate crisis situations, such as child abuse, family and community violence, or health emergencies

What are the 9 social work competencies as described by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)?

According to the CSWE’s most recent Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards, the 9 Social Work Competencies are listed as such: Demonstrate Ethical and Professional Behavior Engage Diversity and Difference in Practice Advance Human Rights and Social, Economic, and Environmental Justice Engage in Practice-informed Research and Research-informed Practice Engage in Policy Practice Engage with Individuals, Families, Groups, Organizations, and Communities Assess Individuals, Families, Groups, Organizations, and Communities Intervene with Individuals, Families, Groups, Organizations, and Communities Evaluate Practice with Individuals, Families, Groups, Organizations, and Communities

Master of Social Work (MSW) Program

Earn an MSW degree with Herzing University

Accreditation	Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Program length	24 months when attending full-time
Credits to graduate	60 credits
Eligibility	Current bachelor’s degree holders in a non-social work major
Format	100% online classes delivered asynchronously, with hands-on clinical field practicums
Curriculum	Curriculum includes virtual, simulated experiences to enhance distance learning
Specializations	Clinical-focused social work curriculum with your choice of 3 specializations

Waived Enrollment Fee Classes start January 9th

Become an active agent of social change
for individuals, families, and their communities

Many individuals in the US, especially those in underserved communities, lack access to earnest social advocates capable of recognizing inequities, identifying solutions, and facilitating inclusive, healthier outcomes.

You can learn what it takes to achieve those outcomes. Discover the professional skills and knowledge required to join the field of social work and begin making a significant impact in the lives of individuals, families, and their communities.

We are proud to introduce our Master of Social Work (MSW) online program, designed for non-social work bachelor’s degree holders seeking a new, rewarding career path.

Your career in social work is possible with Herzing University

Learn online in Herzing’s Everywhere Classroom: on your schedule, at your pace
CSWE aligned curriculum²
Core class topics include Human Behavior in the Social Environment, Social Policy and Services, Clinical Social Work Interventions, Psychosocial Assessment & Clinical Diagnosis, and much more
Full-time and part-time enrollment options available

Classes Start January 9th

Learn More Today

Have you taken the TEAS test?

Yes

By submitting this form, I consent to Herzing University contacting me by phone for marketing messages (including mobile and manual/autodialed means) and email using the information I have provided. I understand that my consent is not a condition of enrollment.

Opt-In to Receive SMS Messages

By selecting this button you agree to receive updates and alerts from Herzing University. Text HELP to 85109 for help, Text STOP to 85109 to end. Msg & Data Rates May Apply. By opting in, I authorize Herzing University to deliver SMS messages and I understand that I am not required to opt in as a condition of enrollment. By leaving this box unchecked you will not be opted in for SMS messages. Click to read Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

Why choose Herzing University?

Key specializations

Focus your education in one of three fast-growing social work specializations: Mental Health, Medical Social Work, and Children, Families, and Aging Services.¹

Extensive support

You are never alone. Your online learning experience is personalized and asynchronous, with access to a host of student services.

Practiced faculty

All Herzing MSW program instructors are Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSW) with deep experience in the field.

Over 90%

Satisfaction rate

Our overall student satisfaction rate, according to the 2021 Herzing Graduate Survey.

Curriculum

MSW program classes & curriculum details

Our curriculum is designed to prepare you to become a culturally informed clinical practitioner through both academic coursework and practical application. The program emphasizes lifelong learning, professional development, service, networking, and adherence to the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Code of Ethics.

All didactic, lecture-style courses are delivered online, with 900 total field practicum hours.

You will need to choose one of three career-focused social work specializations: Mental Health, Medical Social Work, and Children, Families, and Aging Services.

Program	Monthsⁱ	Credits
Master of Social Work (MSW)	24	60

i. Average number of months for students to complete program.

Required Core Courses

All courses, 37.00 semester credit hours, are required.

MSW 500 - Human Behavior in the Social Environment I 2.00

This course examines theories of human development over the lifespan from birth through end of life. Theories include PIE environmental theory, psychological, social, and biological theories that affect the person throughout their development.

MSW 501 - Human Behavior in the Social Environment II Oppression and Inequality 2.00

This course examines additional theories of development with a macro focus. The impact of race, religion, poverty, trauma, oppression, and inequality will be examined as it applies throughout the lifespan. Students will learn other multidisciplinary theoretical frameworks specific to other aspects of development to engage with clients and constituencies. Students will learn how empowerment practice, social justice and advocacy impact health and optimal growth and development.

MSW 510 - Perspectives on Diversity and Global Society 3.00

This introductory theory and practice course focuses on ecological and social justice theories to help frame the individual complexity of working with diverse clients in a global context. Students will differentiate among key terms such as diversity, equity, and inclusion and equality as well as among terms such as prejudice, racism, discrimination, microaggressions, and privilege. Differentiate among individual, institutional, structural discrimination in the global context through the lens of a social justice paradigm. Use concepts of reflective practice to demonstrate self-awareness and cultural humility. Utilize intersectionality and racial identity development theories to inform strategies for client-centered and culturally appropriate helping interventions.

MSW 520 - Generalist Social Work with Individuals/Families/Groups 3.00

The course will focus on multidisciplinary theoretical frameworks in the analysis of assessment data from clients and constituencies. Students will learn to use empowerment-based practice strategies to develop mutually agreed-on intervention goals and objectives based on the critical assessment of strengths, needs, and challenges within clients and constituencies. Students will identify and utilize appropriate intervention strategies based on the assessment, research knowledge, and values and preferences of diverse clients and constituencies to engage in the problem-solving process.

MSW 521 - Generalist Practice with Organizations/Community 3.00

This course focuses on direct social work theories and interventions for groups and communities. Covers ways in which clinical supervision and management impact direct services to clients and are related to effective client outcomes. Emphasis on professional NASW Code of Ethics and professional ethics in macro practice as it dynamically interfaces with micro and mezzo social work clinical practices.

MSW 530 - Social Work Research Methods and Application 2.00

This foundational research course teaches students to be critical consumers of research articles by introducing basic research design, methodology, and analysis. Students will demonstrate the ability to use practice experience and theory to inform scientific inquiry and research; use single case design to examine clinical intervention efficacy, applies critical thinking to analysis research findings and use research evidence to inform and improve practice, policy, service delivery and program evaluation.

MSW 540 - Social Policy and Services 3.00

This course examines federal state and local policy and services and the impact on social work practice and services. Students will learn the importance of policy and programs on desired outcome goals with clients served. Students will learn theories of policy analysis, policy advocacy skills, and policy development. The class will cover the historical foundations of major social policies dealing with poverty, safety, children, aging, veterans, education, medical, mental health and juvenile and criminal justice.

MSW 600 - Clinical Social Work Theory and Practice 3.00

This course focuses on evidence- based practice theories of intervention with individuals, groups and communities. Systems theory, person in environment, trauma informed theory, crisis theory, grief, human behavior over the lifespan and human diversity are emphasized.

MSW 610 - Clinical Social Work Interventions 3.00

This course focuses on specific clinical interventions that are evidence based and effective. Effective interventions including trauma informed care/treatment, motivational interviewing, task oriented, cognitive behavioral, EMDR overview, rational emotive therapy, family therapy, interventions will be explored. Students will demonstrate application through case studies and analysis.

MSW 620 - Psychosocial Assessment and Clinical Diagnosis 3.00

This course focuses on understanding psychopathology, behavioral health assessment, and diagnosis across the lifespan using the DSM-V. Symptoms, risk factors, protective factors and interventions are explored. The process of psychosocial assessment, use of screening tools including; mental status exams, depression and anxiety screening tools, differential diagnosis, multi-axial assessment are covered. Additional emphasis on trauma, diversity and emphasis on how social work must use empowerment practice with medical model diagnosis as a tool for psychosocial assessment of clients' needs and goals.

MSW 630 - Advanced Research and Program Evaluation 3.00

Quantitative and qualitative research methods will be utilized to gain new understanding of social problems. Students will use critical analysis and recommendations for future research based on existing literature. Students will demonstrate the ability to determine outcome/dependent variable and construct a program design and instrumentation to evaluate effective interventions. Methods of program evaluation, data analysis and summary, and qualitative case studies will also be explored.

MSW 640 - Advanced Policy: Social Justice and Advocacy 3.00

This class focuses on advancing human rights and social, economic, and environmental justice and will demonstrate the impact of social policies on desired client outcomes. Students will apply their understanding of social, economic, and environmental justice to advocate for human rights at the individual and system levels. Students will gain a deeper understanding of social work role in advocating for policy changes in their specialization areas, in addition to understanding political processes related to access and program funding and increase access to services and resources. TANF, SSI, Medicaid, Medicare, private insurance coverage, telehealth policies, confidentiality and privacy issues related to mental healthcare are some of the major topics this course will cover.

MSW 650 - Social Work Seminar 2.00

This course enhances the student's experience in their specialized field practicum and offers additional guidance on the integration of the NASW Code of Ethics into direct work with clients, policies that influence practice in the field agencies, and social work clinical interventions. The role of MSW supervision and preparation for professional practice, cultural humility, self-care and reflective practice will all be emphasized. Integrating knowledge, values, and skills from the curriculum with the field experience is a key focus. Students will use journals, case presentations, process recordings, and presentations to demonstrate the integration of the knowledge, values, skills, cognitive and affective processes.

MSW 660 - Capstone Social Work Seminar 2.00

This course is the final capstone seminar course where students integrate evidence-based practice, theories, the NASW Code of Ethics, policies that influence practice in the field agencies and specialized social work interventions. Integrating knowledge, values, and skills from the curriculum with the field experience is a key focus. The role of MSW supervision and preparation for independent practice, cultural humility, self-care, reflective practice, professional networking and membership, and licensure will all be explored. Students will create a digital portfolio with evidence to support their demonstration of each of the 9 competencies in their specialization areas.

Required Project Residency Core Courses

All courses, 14.00 semester credit hours, are required.

MSW 535 - Generalist Field Practicum I 3.00

This course is the first of two generalist field practicum courses where students practice each of the 9 Council on Social Work Education competencies in an agency under the supervision of an approved MSW field instructor. Students will work with clients in an agency for 200 contact hours to earn clinical experience in a social work role. Students will have online journal and discussion board assignments in conjunction with their field practicum to discuss the integration of classroom curriculum and field education. Topics include application of the NASW Code of Ethics, relevant laws and regulations, models for ethical decision-making, ethical conduct of research, evidence-based practice, cultural awareness and humility, and social work theory. Students will use reflection and self-regulation to manage personal values and maintain professional boundaries in practice situations. Students will be monitored throughout the field experience including formal evaluation of competency proficiency at the mid-term and final stages of the practicum.

MSW 545 - Generalist Field Practicum II 3.00

This course is the culmination of the social work generalist practicum courses and allows students to continue to practice / perform practice behaviors to demonstrate each of the 9 Council on Social Work Education competencies in an agency under the supervision of an MSW approved field instructor. Students will continue to work in an agency for 200 contact hours to earn clinical experience in a social work role. Students will continue to utilize the online journal and discussion board assignments in conjunction with their field practicum to discuss the integration of classroom curriculum and field education. Students will be monitored throughout the field experience with formal evaluation at midterm and at the conclusion of the semester.

MSW 655 - Specialized Social Work Field Practicum I 4.00

This is the first of two courses in the advanced field practicum experience where students will practice all 9 Council on Social Work Education competencies through 250 contact hours of direct work with clients under the supervision of an approved field MSW field instructor. Students integrate the knowledge, values, skills, cognitive and affective processes learned through their specialization coursework into their direct practice with clients in an organization their communities. Students will work in conjunction with their field instructor and program faculty to create a specific learning plan with practice behaviors and learning activities that allow the student to demonstrate proficiency in all 9 Council on Social Work Education competencies. Student progress will be monitored throughout the semester, with formal evaluation at midterm and at the end of the semester.

MSW 665 - Specialized Social Work Field Practicum II 4.00

This is the final field experience course where students demonstrate proficiency of all 9 competencies through 250 contact hours of direct work with clients within an organization in their specialization areas. The student will continue to be supervised by a master's level clinical social worker and will demonstrate proficiency of each of the 9 competencies and specialized practice behaviors through working on specific tasks in their learning plan. Students will work in conjunction with their field instructor and program faculty to create a specific learning plan with practice behaviors and learning tasks that allow the student to master all 9 competencies. This course is the culmination of the advanced clinical coursework including theory, research, policy, specialization knowledge, values and skills and professional clinical practice.

Required Specialization

One of the following specializations is required. 9.00 semester credit hours constitute a specialization.

Required Courses in Mental Health Social Work Specialization

All courses, 9.00 semester credit hours, are required.

MSW 624 - Substance Use Disorders and Treatment 3.00

This course focuses on a wide range of substance use and other addictive disorders and interventions. The impact of substance use, interventions and relapse prevention strategies are a focus. Evidence based interventions such as current treatments for substance use disorders and addictive behaviors including therapy and medication treatment are explored.

MSW 626 - Trauma Focused Theory and Interventions 3.00

Course description: this course focuses on evidence- based trauma effective trauma interventions for people throughout their lifetime. Examination of the efficacy of various therapies, policies and practices through a trauma informed lens.

MSW 628 - Mental Health Services and Interventions 3.00

The role of social work within the mental and health systems will be explored. The role of social work with lobbyists to pursue desired policy/ program access for desired outcomes for clients served. Students will also learn how mental health policy impacts their clinical social work interventions with clients. This class will also cover access to services including Medicaid, Medicare, private insurance coverage, telehealth resources, client access to needed services, confidentiality and privacy issues related to mental health.

Required Courses in Medical Social Work Specialization

All courses, 9.00 semester credit hours, are required.

MSW 622 - Medical Social Work Services and Interventions 3.00

This course focuses on social work practice in medical settings with clients and their families who are experiencing significant health challenges across the lifespan. Medical terminology, roles, organizations, case management, theories of intervention and resource development are explored. Healthcare policies across the lifespan including Medicaid and Medicare. The role of social work in prevention framework and client health education, bereavement, grief therapy, and end of life care will be covered. Public health and community policies are explored. Private healthcare, nursing homes, hospice, managed care policies and impact on services also are covered.

MSW 636 - Community Health and Prevention 3.00

This course focuses on community health strategies, and efforts of prevention, interventions and improving physical and mental wellbeing. Topics also include reducing social isolation, policy efforts and community engagement.

MSW 624 - Substance Use Disorders and Treatment 3.00

MSW 632 - Gerontology Services and Interventions 3.00

This class covers aspects of aging both in place and in supportive care settings. The impact of social policy and social work advocacy will be addressed. Topics covered will include Medicare, Medicaid, end of life polices, advanced directives, power of attorney, nursing home equity, home health access, hospice services, social security, and disability insurance.  students will gain advanced knowledge of evidence-based clinical practices in working with clients in later adulthood. In addition, MSW clinical social work students will be able to apply appropriate types of biopsychosocial, spiritual and cultural factors to understand best practice methods to promote client engagement.

Required Courses in Children, Families, and Aging Services Specialization

All courses, 9.00 semester credit hours, are required.

MSW 632 - Gerontology Services and Interventions 3.00

MSW 634 - Clinical Practice with Families 3.00

This course covers theory and strategies of family therapy and interventions. Diversity in family constellations, family life stages, communication, relationships, divorce, mediation, adoption, and multigenerational families are topics covered. Students will learn strategies in family engagement, assessment, interventions and evaluation.

MSW 638 - Child Welfare Services and Interventions 3.00

This course explores the child welfare system, policies, and programs to provide protection for children and families. Topics include foster care, permanency planning, adoption policies and laws, mandated reporting, abuse prevention. This course also covers the juvenile justice and family court systems. Emphasis on the role of risk and protective factors related to desired clients' outcomes will be emphasized.

Choose a career-focused specialization

When you enroll in the Herzing MSW program, you will choose one of three unique specializations:

Mental Health

Develop an understanding of mental health assessment, diagnosis and intervention. Learn theories of human behavior, trauma, and diversity—and how to apply this knowledge to mental health provision and wellbeing.

Discover policies and laws related to mental health systems and become familiar with the service delivery structure of public and private mental health facilities.

Medical Social Work

Build an understanding of medical diagnoses in the context of a person-in-environment model. Study social work intervention strategies including crisis intervention, biopsychosocial assessment, and trauma-informed clinical approaches.

Immerse yourself in a curriculum focusing on how you can utilize evidence-based social work research in clinical practice of community public health and prevention services.

Children, Families, and Aging Services

Become an advocate for vulnerable children, families, and elderly clients in need of assistance. Build your understanding of social problems and their impact on individuals, families, and their communities across all age groups.

This specialization explores the delivery structure of social services and how you can become a key facilitator of protective services for pediatric and gerontological clients.

Unsure what to choose? Our admissions team can help you determine what specialization is right for you based on your personality and desired career path.

Field Practicums

Prepare for practice through field education

Your education begins by establishing key social work concepts through didactic coursework and culminates in field practicums putting your learning into practice to fully prepare you to succeed as a social worker.

Discover how to apply social work knowledge, values, skills, and cognitive affective processes in many potential types of practice settings, including:

Schools
Hospitals
Mental health facilities
Community agencies
Criminal justice organizations
Counseling centers

Field education informs your understanding of how social work theory and research inform social work practice.

Apply what you’ve learned in career-focused field practicums to fully prepare for career success.

Practicum highlights

General and Specialized field practicums
General Field Practicum: 400 hours, 2 semesters
Specialized Field Practicum: 500 hours, 2 semesters
Where you complete each practicum can vary widely based on your location and specialization you choose. We encourage you to choose your preferred Field Agency, but our Director of Field Education will provide support should you need help securing practicum sites.

Tuition & Cost

The cost of tuition for the Master of Social Work program is $595 per credit.

You can potentially earn even greater savings by transferring credit from prior college coursework, applying for financial aid, or potential partnership opportunities through your employer.

Our goal is your career advancement. That’s why we are always working to improve our curriculum and processes to make our program as affordable as possible while preparing you best for success in your work.

Find my estimate

Scholarships & Financial Aid

You may be eligible for multiple scholarships and grants, both through Herzing University and several national scholarship websites.

Find scholarships and grants

Military/Veteran Discounts

Veterans, Active Duty U.S. Servicemembers, and spouses may qualify for a 10% tuition discount or tuition reduction to $250 per credit.

VA/Military benefits

Requirements

MSW program enrollment requirements

Prerequisites to enroll in the Herzing University Master of Social Work program include:

Baccalaureate degree from a college or university accredited by an agency recognized by the US Department of Education
Minimum 2.5 GPA in baccalaureate degree
No GRE required
Completed application including:
- Two completed recommendations
- Personal statement addressing MSW prompts
Interview with program chair, designee, or admission representative

Please contact admissions for details regarding the application.

Meet our Program Chair

Elizabeth Wilson - PhD, MSW, LCSW

"It is an honor and privilege to be part of a building a new MSW program with current, evidence-based curriculum to prepare students for high demand jobs in the areas of mental health, medical social work and children, families and aging services.

Our goal is to help support each student through our program to maximize their potential as a social worker and be a successful change agent."

Dr. Wilson is an established social work professor with over 20 years of teaching experience and 15 years as a social work program director in higher education. Dr. Wilson has extensive practice and teaching experience in crisis response, crime victimization, child abuse and neglect, family violence, mental health, and suicide prevention. She has delivered numerous professional presentations, continuing education sessions, and chaired numerous dissertations focusing on social issues. Dr. Wilson is a licensed clinical social worker in the state of Missouri, a member of NASW, and has provided service to many community boards. Dr. Wilson has received several teaching recognitions and was awarded the Jane Bierdeman-Fike Humanitarian Award in 2019.

Elizabeth Wilson

Program Chair
Master of Social Work

Clinically confident. Culturally informed. Competent social workers.

MSW Mission Statement

The mission of the Herzing University’s Master of Social Work (MSW) program is to educate and empower competent, ethical social work practitioners with the culturally informed knowledge, values, and skills necessary for advanced practice within diverse populations and environments. Consistent with the purposes and values of the social work profession, Herzing’s social work program is committed to service, social and economic justice, the dignity and worth of the individual, and the importance of human relationships. We are dedicated to preparing leaders who will critically analyze systems, evaluate and implement evidence-based interventions, advocate for social and economic justice, use a person-in-environment framework, provide inclusive services, and practice strength-based approaches to promote the health and wellbeing of all individuals, families, and communities.

MSW Program Goals

The program will prepare confident, professional social work practitioners who are qualified to practice in advanced specializations, including mental health, medical social work, and children, families, and aging services.
The program will prepare professional social worker practitioners who will advocate for populations experiencing oppression and discrimination by critically examining systems, developing and changing policies, advocating for social justice, and increasing access to services in their specialization areas.
The program will prepare culturally informed practitioners who will conduct multi-dimensional assessments and provide specialized, evidence-based clinical practice interventions at all practice levels.
The program will promote clinical social work excellence through lifelong learning, professional development, service, networking, and adherence to the NASW Code of Ethics.

Classes Start January 9th

Waived Enrollment Fee

Apply Now Request Info

Career Possibilities

What you can do with a master’s in social work

While the field of social work has evolved to become more diverse and specialized, core master’s degree courses prepare you for a wide variety of job possibilities.

Choose the MSW specialization best reflecting the social work career path you want to walk.

Job titles can vary widely with overlap across each specialty.³

Your choice of specialty today doesn’t necessarily preclude you from pursuing job possibilities in other areas.

Behavioral Health Therapist
Mental Health Social Worker
Psychiatric Social Worker
Psychosocial Coordinator
Residential Therapist
Substance Use Disorder Clinician
Suicide Prevention Specialist
Therapist
Victim Advocate

Home Health & Hospice Social Worker
Hospice Social Worker
Medical Social Worker
Oncology Social Worker
Residential Treatment Coordinator
Social Work Case Manager

Adoption Social Worker
Adult Protective Services Worker
Child Protective Services Supervisor (CPS Social Worker)
Domestic Violence Advocate
Family Protection Specialist
Family Resource Coordinator
Family Service Worker
Foster Care Social Worker
Gerontology Social Worker
Pediatric Social Worker
School Social Worker
Veteran Affairs (VA) Social Worker
Youth Specialist

Job outlook

12%

Projected employment growth, 2020-2030, Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)*

Employment of social workers is expected to increase across all specialties, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. U.S. News and World Report scores social worker an 8 out of 10 in terms of future growth.

Among available BLS occupational groupings, employment of mental health and substance abuse social workers is expected to rise the fastest (15% growth).

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Social workers provide assistance to individuals, families and communities to address problems in their everyday lives. They can work in a “macro” role directly coordinating with organizations or policymakers, or a “micro” role focusing on individuals and their families.

The social work job description varies—social workers can have a wide variety of duties:

Find those in need of help
Work with people in all stages of life from birth to end of life
Assess their situation: what they need, who supports them, what their goals are and develop interventions and strategies to help
Collaborate with community resources to offer a network of care and refer clients accordingly
Diagnose and treat mental, behavioral, and emotional health problems
Maintain clear case files and records
Raise awareness and advocate for solutions at the local, state, or even national level
Navigate crisis situations, such as child abuse, family and community violence, or health emergencies

Educational and licensing requirements can vary by state and employer across both jobs. The disciplines are distinct enough to demand separate master’s degree curriculums.

The primary difference between clinical social workers and mental health counselors is the scope of their duties and the education required to perform them. Generally, counselors focus solely on mental health issues, while clinical social workers carry a wide variety of responsibilities including and beyond mental health care.

Becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) includes more involvement in managing your clients’ support network and larger community. While clinical social workers can potentially adopt a direct, active role in diagnosing and treating mental health issues, it’s not the sole purpose of the profession as it is for mental health counselors.

The average salary for a social worker depends on several factors, including where they work, the state in which they practice, how long they have practiced, and chosen specialization.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics provides average salary estimates for three different types of social workers:*

Child, family, and school social workers earn an annual average salary of $54,880 per year ($26.39 per hour)
Healthcare social workers earn an annual average salary of $62,310 per year ($29.96 per hour)
Mental health and substance abuse social workers earn an annual average salary of $57,800 per year ($27.79 per hour).

According to the CSWE’s most recent Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards, the 9 Social Work Competencies are listed as such:

Demonstrate Ethical and Professional Behavior
Engage Diversity and Difference in Practice
Advance Human Rights and Social, Economic, and Environmental Justice
Engage in Practice-informed Research and Research-informed Practice
Engage in Policy Practice
Engage with Individuals, Families, Groups, Organizations, and Communities
Assess Individuals, Families, Groups, Organizations, and Communities
Intervene with Individuals, Families, Groups, Organizations, and Communities
Evaluate Practice with Individuals, Families, Groups, Organizations, and Communities

No. Our 2-year MSW program is designed for those without a BSW.

As long as you’ve earned a non-social work bachelor’s degree earned through an accredited university recognized by the US Department of Education, you can potentially qualify to enroll in our program.

Yes, you can elect an extended 4-year part-time program as an alternative to the 2-year full-time plan. The extended 4-year plan spans 12 semesters as opposed to 6 semesters in the full-time plan.

Yes, you can potentially leverage your education and experience in nursing into a career as a social worker. You may choose to stay in the healthcare field as a medical social worker.

You'll want to consider a Master of Social Work degree program to earn the new skills in knowledge to succeed in the field and position yourself best when applying for jobs.

Learn more about the RN to social work pathway and discover some of the primary differences between each career path.

Locations

Program Finder

Social Work Degree Programs

Showing 1 programs for the Online campus

On Campus| Online

To learn more about this program, click the Request Info button to the right.

Request Info

Related Programs

Disclosures

Disclosures & Accreditation

1. The Bureau of Labor Statistics identifies three specialties projected to grow at a faster rate from 2020-2030 than all other types of social workers (6%): Mental health and substance abuse social workers (15%), Healthcare social workers (13%), and Child, family, and school social workers (13%).*

2. Herzing University is currently in Pre-Candidacy for Accreditation by the Council on Social Work Education’s Commission on Accreditation.

Pre-Candidacy for a master’s social work program by the Council on Social Work Education’s Commission on Accreditation indicates that it has submitted an application to be reviewed for Candidacy and had its Benchmark I approved in draft form to move forward with Candidacy review within one year. A program that has attained Pre-Candidacy has not yet been reviewed by the Commission on Accreditation or been verified to be in compliance with the Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards.

Students who enter programs in Pre-Candidacy that attain Candidacy in the academic year in which they begin their program of study will be retroactively recognized as having graduated from a CSWE-accredited program once the program attains Initial Accreditation. The Candidacy Process is typically a three-year process and there is no guarantee that a program in Pre-Candidacy will eventually attain Candidacy or Initial Accreditation.

Candidacy by the Council on Social Work Education’s Commission on Accreditation applies to all locations and delivery methods of an accredited program. Accreditation provides reasonable assurance about the quality of the program and the competence of students graduating from the program.

For more information about social work accreditation, you may contact Accreditation.

3. Individuals considering the Master of Social Work program should be aware that state certification/ licensure requirements and eligibility to apply for certification/licensure vary from state to state. While certification/licensure is not a requirement for certain types of jobs, in some states, it may be required for any positions titled ‘Social Worker’ and to refer to yourself as a Social Worker in professional settings.

Herzing University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org), an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

View Herzing University Accreditation and Approvals

* Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook 2020. BLS estimates do not represent entry-level wages and/or salaries. Multiple factors, including prior experience, age, geography market in which you want to work and degree field, will affect career outcomes and earnings. Herzing neither represents that its graduates will earn the average salaries calculated by BLS for a particular job nor guarantees that graduation from its program will result in a job, promotion, salary increase or other career growth.

Career Development The Life-Changing Impact of Mental Health Careers

Jessica Dickenson

Career Development The Benefits of a Career in Behavioral Health

Herzing Staff

Career Development Suicide Prevention in Social Work

Jessica Dickenson

I really liked that Herzing offered a fast-online degree. The program made it possible for me to chase my dreams.

Ashley R. Johnson

Healthcare Program

Online Campus

Master of Social Work Online Campus
Tuition
Cost per Credit	$595.00
Base Tuition	$35,700.00
Savings from Transfer Credits (9 x $595.00 )	(-$5,355.00)
Estimated Tuition Cost*	$30,345.00
Fees
One-time Program Fee	$0.00
Per-semester Program Fee	$0.00
Per-semester Learner Resource Fee	$490.00
Estimated Total Fee*	$2,940.00

Estimated Cost ²
Base Cost	Your Cost
$38,640.00	$33,285.00

Master of Social Work (MSW) Program
Herzing University

Earn an MSW degree with Herzing University

Become an active agent of social change
for individuals, families, and their communities

Your career in social work is possible with Herzing University

Classes Start January 9th

Why choose Herzing University?

Key specializations

Extensive support

Practiced faculty

Satisfaction rate

MSW program classes & curriculum details

Required Core Courses

Required Project Residency Core Courses

Required Specialization

Required Courses in Mental Health Social Work Specialization

Required Courses in Medical Social Work Specialization

Required Courses in Children, Families, and Aging Services Specialization

Choose a career-focused specialization

Prepare for practice through field education

Practicum highlights

Tuition & Cost

MSW program enrollment requirements

Meet our Program Chair

Elizabeth Wilson - PhD, MSW, LCSW

Elizabeth Wilson

Clinically confident. Culturally informed. Competent social workers.

MSW Mission Statement

MSW Program Goals

What you can do with a master’s in social work

Job outlook

Frequently Asked Questions

Program Finder

Related Programs

Disclosures & Accreditation

Related Blog Posts

Ashley R. Johnson

Available Scholarships

Questions?

Total Semesters ¹
Required	Needed
6	6

Master of Social Work (MSW) Program Herzing University

Earn an MSW degree with Herzing University

Become an active agent of social changefor individuals, families, and their communities

Your career in social work is possible with Herzing University

Classes Start January 9th

Why choose Herzing University?

Key specializations

Extensive support

Practiced faculty

Satisfaction rate

MSW program classes & curriculum details

Required Core Courses

Required Project Residency Core Courses

Required Specialization

Required Courses in Mental Health Social Work Specialization

Required Courses in Medical Social Work Specialization

Required Courses in Children, Families, and Aging Services Specialization

Choose a career-focused specialization

Prepare for practice through field education

Tuition & Cost

MSW program enrollment requirements

Meet our Program Chair

Elizabeth Wilson - PhD, MSW, LCSW

Elizabeth Wilson

Clinically confident. Culturally informed. Competent social workers.

MSW Mission Statement

MSW Program Goals

What you can do with a master’s in social work

Mental Health

Medical Social Work

Children, Families, and Aging Services

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a social worker do?

Clinical social worker vs. mental health counselor/therapist: what’s the difference?

How much does a social worker make?

What are the 9 social work competencies as described by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)?

Do I need a Bachelor of Science in Social Work (BSW) to enroll in Herzing’s program?

Can I enroll in the MSW program part-time?

Can I go from RN to social work?

Program Finder

Master of Social Work

Ready to get started?

Disclosures & Accreditation

Ashley R. Johnson

Available Scholarships

Herzing MSW Inaugural ScholarshipAmount: 10% tuition reduction

Questions?

Master of Social Work (MSW) Program
Herzing University

Become an active agent of social change
for individuals, families, and their communities