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Social Work Programs
for Residents of Ohio (Online BSW, MSW)

Find your educational pathway to a career in social work in Ohio. Prepare to change lives, impact your community, and embark on a highly rewarding career path.

Program Length

12-36 Mo.

Format

Online

Degree Pathways

BSW, MSW

Accredited by1

CSWE
calendar

NEXT START March 2nd

Waived Enrollment Fee

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Programs

Choose your degree pathway in social work

You have multiple degree options with Herzing University, depending on the level of education you’ve already earned:

A social worker with a BSW attentively listens and takes notes while engaging in a one-on-one counseling session with a client in a comfortable, plant-filled office setting
Bachelor of Social Work
Length36 months
FormatOnline courses + fieldwork
TransferUp to 90 approved credits
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Social Worker LCSW Guiding Client Through Community Resource Documents
Master of Social Work
Length24 months
FormatOnline courses + practicum
RequiredNon-social work bachelor's
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Advanced Standing MSW
Advanced Standing MSW
Length12 months
FormatOnline courses + practicum
EligibilityBSW required
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Quick facts about Herzing’s Social Work programs for Ohio residents

AccreditationCSWE accredited MSW program;1 Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
EligibilityOhio residents are eligible to apply; options available for students of all educational and career backgrounds
Format100% online classes delivered asynchronously, with hands-on clinical field practicums; full- and part-time options available
Field practicumWe can assist students in finding a practicum site, as well as allow paid and employment-based practicums
MSW TracksTraditional and Advanced Standing MSW tracks; options available for both non-BSW and BSW students
QuickPathsTransfer credit, stackable credentials, and adaptive learning technology build a faster pathway to a higher education with Herzing University

Learn More Today!

Classes start: March 2nd

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

Students in Ohio are eligible to apply for our bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in social work. Our CSWE-aligned curriculums emphasize the career-focused skills required to help students of all backgrounds begin or advance their career in social work and excel in the field.

We can get you on the path quickly regardless of your current education and experience. With rolling admissions and six start dates per year, you can get started soon and discover new career possibilities.

You are capable of making a significant impact on the lives of the people who need it most. Take the first step towards a brighter, meaningful future with Herzing University.

Smiling Herzing University graduate in cap and gown holding academic hood during commencement ceremony.

  • Career-focused curriculum

    Discover the crucial knowledge and skills required to succeed in your work and build a foundation for continued career growth.

  • Flexible schedule

    You can take classes during the day or in the evening.  We work hard to help you maintain school-life balance, striving to be as flexible as possible for busy non-traditional students.

  • Virtual services

    Access to extensive virtual services, including academic advising, tutoring, support services, technical support and library services.

  • Lifelong support

    We support your ongoing career advancement by providing comprehensive, personalized student services with lifelong career coaching.

  • Rolling admissions

    No application deadlines to worry about. Apply when you’re ready and prepare to get started soon.

Careers

Career possibilities in the field of social work

Earning a BSW helps prepare you for generalist roles in the field of social work in the state of Ohio, including direct service roles, administrative and advocacy-based jobs, school or youth-related roles, or elder/disability services. 

Becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Ohio will require earning a Master of Social Work (MSW). If you have already earned a bachelor’s in a non-social work major, you may qualify for the MSW program. If you have not yet earned a bachelor’s degree, completing the BSW program can put you on a faster track in an Advanced Standing MSW program in the future.

Salary potential & job outlook estimates in Ohio

CategoryHourly salary*Annual salary*Emp. change, 2022-2032**
Child, Family, and School Social Workers$26.22$54,5504.3%
Healthcare Social Workers$31.91$66,3806.1%
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers$24.74$51,4708.0%
Social Workers, All Other$32.26$67,0907.1%
Curriculum

Courses & Curriculum Details

Each of our career-focused social work programs offer a combination of online didactic coursework and practical experience. Build a solid foundation in academic coursework, learn to put it into practice, and enter the field confident and ready to succeed in your work.

Curriculums align with professional competencies defined by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) and the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Code of Ethics.

All didactic courses are delivered 100% online. Fieldwork/practicum hours vary by program.

ProgramMonths iSemester Credits
Bachelor of Social Work36120
Master of Social Work2460
Master of Social Work – Advanced Standing1236

Average number of months for students to complete the program attending full-time.

BSW curriculum

Required Courses

All courses, 59.00 semester credit hours, are required.

This course introduces the topics of diversity, equity, and inclusion within the behavioral health sector.  Students will examine the topics of diversity and difference in the areas of gender, political views, physical abilities, race, class, culture, sexual orientation, religion, age, and mental health. This course will provide the tools to improve equity and inclusion within the behavioral health sector through engagement with others, identifying and addressing unconscious bias, understanding the concept of social stratification, examining microaggressions, fostering an inclusive climate, discussing oppression and suppression, and privilege. Students will demonstrate how to effectively engage with clients, recognize the dignity and worth of all people, and demonstrate self-awareness and cultural humility.

This course examines the ethical, legal, and professional issues facing behavioral health professionals.  It is designed to introduce critical ethical issues, problem-solving, ethical decision-making models, theory, the intersection of law, values, and ethics, HIPPA, client rights, mandated reporting laws, ethical conduct, and conflicting values. This course will also explore ethical principles such as informed consent, self-determination, conflict of interest, dual relationships, transference and countertransference, boundaries, professionalism, privacy, and confidentiality.

This course focuses on skills in research within the Behavioral Health field. Topics include the development of research and writing skills and critical analysis of current research.  Students develop a research project that would apply to the behavioral health field, identify variables, data collection, research methods, and how to analyze the data.

Or HH 510 Inquiry and Information Literacy

This course examines the development that occurs in adulthood as well as the processes involved with aging. The biological, cognitive, and sociocultural factors that influence development will be considered. Students will also explore how to support aging, case management techniques, how to recognize the dignity and worth of all people, and interdisciplinary team approaches to working with the aging population.

This course examines how to develop basic communication skills that will be applied within the Behavioral Health field. Students will be introduced to the major theoretical systems of counseling, the helping process, communication skills, and basic written communication techniques will be explored. The helping process will examine how to engage others, apply professional use of self, and ethical communication, development of interpersonal skills, and demonstration of empathy.  Students will demonstrate communication skills that will include nonverbal messages, verbal messages, listening and responding, interviewing, paraphrasing, active listening, practicing mindfulness, and observation. In addition, students will apply basic professional writing skills including common tools used within behavioral health.

This course examines the behavioral health principles associated with drug and behavioral addictions as well as interventions for addressing the behaviors. Topics will also include how addictions impact the family systems, how sociocultural factors influence treatment, and the concepts of self-determination and harm-reduction.

This course examines human development theories and life stages. Students will acquire an understanding of basic human development theories including sociocultural, biopsychosocial, and social change. Students will apply these theories to developmental stages from infancy through aging. In addition, this course will explore developmental milestones, challenges, common interventions for each stage in life, and an understanding of the capacities, limitations, and resiliency of human systems.

This course explores the key components of case management and crisis intervention. Topics include case management techniques, tools, and challenges, application of assessment, planning, and evaluation tools in working with individuals, how to identify resources and conduct referrals, assessment, and analysis of needs of clients through observation, interviewing, active listening, consultation, and research, and how to engage in conflict.  Students will obtain the skills to conduct crisis and suicide prevention, assessment, and interventions, discuss how to recognize the dignity and self-worth of others, demonstrate self-awareness, professional use of self and empathy, develop skills congruent with the code of ethics, clients right to self-determination and the least restrictive environment, an understanding of resilience, and advocate for equity and inclusion.

This course explores how to apply knowledge, theory, and skills in working with families and groups within Health and Human Services. Students will acquire skills and knowledge to work with families and groups: including the application of theory, assessment, planning, and evaluation.   Topics will also include:  how to identify resources and conduct referrals, discuss how to recognize the dignity and self-worth of others, demonstrate self-awareness, professional use of self and empathy, develop skills congruent with the code of ethics, group facilitation skills, family systems, and advocate for equity and inclusion.

This course introduces the social work profession, including its history, foundational values, ethical principles, and diverse areas of practice. Students will explore the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Code of Ethics and its application in professional decision-making. The course examines key theoretical frameworks, systems of practice, and the profession's commitment to advancing social justice, human rights, equity, and inclusion. Students will gain an understanding of the multidimensional roles of social workers across various fields, including social services, mental health, substance use treatment, child welfare, criminal justice, violence prevention, healthcare, education, and aging services. This course serves as a foundation for future social work courses, equipping students with essential knowledge and skills for ethical, culturally competent, and justice-oriented practice.

This course explores human development across the lifespan, from birth to end of life, through the lens of social work theory and practice. Students will examine how biological, psychological, social, and environmental factors shape individual and collective experiences. Emphasizing Person-in-Environment (PIE) and ecological systems perspectives, this course integrates key developmental theories, including psychosocial, cognitive, behavioral, and attachment theories, to understand how individuals navigate life transitions and challenges. Students will learn how to apply theories of human behavior to engage, assess, intervene and evaluate services with clients across all levels of practice.

This course expands on human development theories, focusing on macro-level influences that shape individuals, families, and communities across the lifespan. Students will examine the impact of systemic factors, including race, religion, poverty, trauma, oppression, and inequality, on health, well-being, and development. Through a multidisciplinary lens, students will explore structural and environmental influences that affect diverse populations and apply theoretical frameworks to engage, assess, and intervene and evaluate clients and constituencies.

This introductory theory and practice course explores ecological and social justice theories as foundational frameworks for understanding the complexity of working with diverse clients in a global context. Students will examine key social justice concepts, differentiating between diversity, equity, inclusion, and equality, as well as prejudice, racism, discrimination, microaggressions, and privilege. Through a critical lens, students will analyze how individual, institutional, and structural discrimination operate in a global context. Emphasizing reflective practice, self-awareness, and cultural humility, this course integrates intersectionality and racial identity development theories to inform client-centered and culturally appropriate social work interventions. Students will develop practical skills for engaging in anti-oppressive, strengths-based, and empowerment-oriented practice.

This course prepares students to engage in ethical, culturally responsive, and effective social work practice within micro-level settings by introducing students to generalist social work practice with individuals and families. The course emphasizes theoretical frameworks for assessing strengths, needs, and challenges with diverse clients. Students will develop skills in engagement and rapport building with clients through a series of video role plays demonstrating their skills conducting assessments, integrating empowerment-based, client-centered, and evidence-informed approaches to formulate mutually agreed-upon intervention goals and objectives. Students will learn to apply appropriate intervention strategies that align with research knowledge, ethical principles, and the values and preferences of diverse individuals and families. This course prepares students with the skills to engage in ethical, culturally responsive, and effective micro-level social work practice with individuals and families.

This course explores direct social work theories and interventions at the community and organizational levels, emphasizing their role in enhancing client outcomes and shaping effective service delivery. Students will analyze how supervision, leadership, and management influence direct services, organizational effectiveness, and systemic change. Through the application of assessment frameworks, students will learn to identify, analyze, and address community and organizational challenges, develop strategic solutions, and implement change initiatives. The course integrates the NASW Code of Ethics and professional ethical principles in macro practice, examining how macro-level decision-making intersects with micro and mezzo social work practices to create sustainable, client-centered interventions. This course prepares students to engage in ethical, evidence-informed, and equity-focused macro social work practice that supports communities, organizations, and direct service providers.

This course explores social work theories and interventions for groups, emphasizing the role of group work in mezzo, and social work practice. Students will examine group dynamics, stages of group development, leadership roles, rapport-building techniques, and assessment methods grounded in theoretical frameworks. The course highlights the ethical responsibilities of social workers in group settings, aligning with the NASW Code of Ethics and best practices in mezzo-level social work. Students will explore various types of social work groups, including therapeutic and clinical groups, educational, support, self-help, social action and advocacy groups. Students will develop group facilitation skills, conflict resolution strategies, and culturally responsive engagement techniques. By the end of the course, students will be prepared to plan, implement, and evaluate group interventions that address the needs of diverse populations across various social work settings. Students will learn the knowledge and skills to engage in ethical, evidence-based, and effective group work practice.

This course provides an exploration of the child welfare system, including its services, policies, and interventions designed to protect children and strengthen families. Students will examine theories of abuse and neglect, family risk and protective factors, as well as the roles of public and private systems in addressing child maltreatment. Emphasizing trauma-informed, strengths-based, and family-centered approaches, the course integrates social work values and ethical principles in assessing and responding to child welfare concerns. Topics covered include reporting, foster care, adoption, group homes, independent living for youth aging out of the system. Students will analyze systemic influences, policies, and practices in child welfare systems preparing them to engage in ethical and effective trauma-informed interventions that promote child safety, permanency, and well-being. This course prepares students to work effectively within child welfare systems, advocating for child protection, family empowerment, and systemic change to improve outcomes for vulnerable children and families.

This course explores theoretical frameworks related to intimate partner violence, focusing on power, control, and abuse within relationships. Students will examine the dynamics of intimate partner violence, child abuse, elder abuse, and other forms of family violence, as well as the structural and systemic factors that contribute to these issues. Through an evidence-based and trauma-informed approach, students will learn to identify warning signs of abuse, apply empirical assessment strategies, and develop safety planning interventions. The course also covers legal protections, including the process of applying for protective orders and examining relevant state laws. Additionally, students will explore social service interventions that support survivors and promote family safety and well-being. This course prepares students to engage in ethical, advocacy-driven, and survivor-centered social work practice in addressing family violence.

This course supports students in integrating their field practicum experience with the knowledge, values, and skills gained throughout the BSW curriculum. Emphasizing ethical practice, professional development, and reflective learning, students will explore how the NASW Code of Ethics guides direct client work, social work interventions, and policy engagement within field agencies. Key topics include the role of supervision, cultural humility, self-care, and reflective practice in professional growth and readiness for generalist social work practice. Students will critically analyze their field experiences through journals, case presentations, and class discussions, demonstrating their ability to apply social work competencies, cognitive and affective processes, and ethical decision-making in real-world settings.

This course examines the influence of federal, state, and local policies on social work practice and service delivery. Students will explore the impact of social policies and programs on client outcomes, with an emphasis on how policy decisions shape service accessibility, effectiveness, and equity. The course will introduce theories of policy analysis, policy advocacy skills, and policy development, preparing students to navigate and influence the policy landscape. Additionally, students will examine the historical foundations of key social policies related to poverty, child welfare, aging, veterans' services, education, healthcare, mental health, and juvenile and criminal justice.

Open Elective Courses

A minimum of 12.00 semester credit hours is required. Eligible students can take up to 12.00 credit hours of graduate level coursework to complete a portion of the open electives requirement.

Required Project Residency Core Courses

8.00 semester credit hours are required.

This course is the first of two generalist practicum experiences, providing students with the opportunity to apply social work knowledge, skills, and values in a supervised agency setting, allowing students to integrate classroom learning with experiential practice in social work. Under the guidance of an approved social work field instructor, students will complete 200 field education hours, engaging in social work practice and reflective assignments. Course topics include the application of the NASW Code of Ethics, legal and regulatory considerations, ethical decision-making models, research ethics, evidence-based practice, cultural humility, and social work theories. Students will be supported throughout their practicum experience, including initial, midterm, and final virtual site visits each semester and evaluations to assess competency development in all 9 Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) competencies and proficiency in generalist social work practice.

This course serves as the culminating field practicum experience in the social work program, allowing students to further develop and demonstrate competency in each of the 9 Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) competencies. Under the supervision of an approved social work field instructor, students will complete 200 additional field education hours, engaging in experiential learning that integrates real world practice and classroom learning in a professional social work role. Students will continue to engage in online discussions and reflective assignments. Emphasis is placed on ethical practice, cultural competence, evidence-based interventions, and professional development. Students will be monitored and supported with virtual site visits and evaluations conducted at the beginning, midterm, and conclusion of the semester to assess competency progression and readiness for professional practice.

Required Capstone

3.00 semester credit hours are required

This course serves as the capstone seminar for undergraduate social work students, providing an opportunity to integrate theory, evidence-based practice, and field experience into professional social work practice. Students will examine the NASW Code of Ethics, social work interventions, and policies that shape practice, while critically reflecting on their development as generalist social workers. Key topics include the role of supervision, cultural humility, self-care, reflective practice, professional networking, licensure preparation, and ethical decision-making. Students will also explore strategies for career readiness and lifelong professional growth in the field of social work. A major component of the course is the development of a digital portfolio, where students will compile evidence demonstrating their proficiency in each of the nine CSWE competencies, showcasing their readiness for entry-level social work practice.

Dual Credit Courses

Eligible students can replace up to 12.00 semester credit hours of the core program requirements with approved dual credit graduate level coursework. A total of 12.00 graduate semester credit hours can be taken throughout the student's program. Graduate Program Applicable Dual Course Courses Master of Science in Health and Human Services Leadership HH 510 Inquiry and Information Literacy Master of Social Work There are no dual credit courses available for the MSW program. However, BSW program graduates may be eligible to apply for the MSW – Advanced Standing program (36 semester credits) instead of the standard MSW (60 semester credits).  

Required Courses in General Education

Students enrolled in this bachelor's degree must complete a minimum of 36.00 semester credit hours in general education distributed among the following disciplines. Refer to the General Education section of the catalog for specific information about courses within each discipline. Courses transferred from other accredited colleges may also be used to meet these requirements. EN 104 English Composition I, Semester Credit Hours: 3.00 EN 111 Information Literacy, Semester Credit Hours: 3.00 EN 116 Speech, Semester Credit Hours: 3.00 EN 304 English Composition II, Semester Credit Hours: 3.00 HU 140 Cultural Diversity, Semester Credit Hours: 3.00 HU 240 Introduction to Humanities, Semester Credit Hours: 3.00 HU 340 Humanities and Contemporary Popular Culture, Semester Credit Hours: 3.00 MA 109 College Algebra, Semester Credit Hours: 3.00 MA 320 Statistics, Semester Credit Hours: 3.00 SC 270 Environmental Literacy, Semester Credit Hours: 3.00 PS 101 Psychology, Semester Credit Hours: 3.00 SS 350 Social Issues and Technology, Semester Credit Hours: 3.00

Personal and Professional Development Courses

All courses, 2.00 semester credit hours, are required.

This course is designed to introduce students to methodologies that will prepare them for academic and professional success.  Topics include but are not limited to Canvas support, student support services, e-books, university policies, resumes, self-reflection, time management, goal setting, and strategies for anxiety reduction.

This course provides an opportunity for students to critically examine their skills and develop a plan to further their career and own financial literacy. Topics include research, job searching, developing career documents, refining interview and communication skills, and creating a personal budget.

MSW curriculum

Required Core Courses

All courses, 37.00 semester credit hours, are required.

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.

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. 

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. 

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.

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.

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. 

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.

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. 

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. 

This course focuses on understanding psychopathology, behavioral health assessment, and diagnosis across the lifespan using the DSM-5 TR. 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, and differential diagnosis 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. 

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. 

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.

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.

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.

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 field education 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.

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 field education 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.

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 field education 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.

This is the final field experience course where students demonstrate proficiency of all 9 competencies through 250 field education 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 Area of Practice Elective Courses

9.00 semester credit hours are required. Students should select three courses from the list below to learn more about areas of social work practice. Course availability depends on enrollment. 

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. 

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. 

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. 

The role of clinical social work services within the mental health systems will be explored. A variety of topics including access to services, case management, direct intervention strategies, and interprofessional collaboration will be covered. Students will learn how mental health policy impacts their clinical social work with clients. This class will also cover access to services including Medicaid, Medicare, private insurance coverage, telehealth resources, confidentiality and privacy issues related to mental and behavioral health. 

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.

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. 

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. 

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.

Distribution of Contact Hours by Course

Distribution of Contact Hours by Course Course Number Lecture Clinical Practicum Total Contact Hours Credits MSW 500 30.00   30.00 2.00 MSW 501 30.00   30.00 2.00 MSW 510 45.00   45.00 3.00 MSW 520 45.00   45.00 3.00 MSW 521 45.00   45.00 3.00 MSW 530 30.00   30.00 2.00 MSW 535   200.00 200.00 3.00 MSW 540 45.00   45.00 3.00 MSW 545   200.00 200.00 3.00 MSW 600 45.00   45.00 3.00 MSW 610 45.00   45.00 3.00 MSW 620 45.00   45.00 3.00 MSW 630 45.00   45.00 3.00 MSW 640 45.00   45.00 3.00 MSW 650 30.00   30.00 2.00 MSW 655   250.00 250.00 4.00 MSW 660 30.00   30.00 2.00 MSW 665   250.00 250.00 4.00 AREA OF PRACTICE ELECTIVES MSW 624 45.00   45.00 3.00 MSW 626 45.00   45.00 3.00 MSW 628 45.00   45.00 3.00 MSW 622 45.00   45.00 3.00 MSW 638 45.00   45.00 3.00 MSW 632 45.00   45.00 3.00 Totals 690.00 900.00 1,590.00 60.00      

Advanced Standing MSW curriculum

Required Core Courses

All courses, 19.00 semester credit hours, are required.

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. 

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. 

This course focuses on understanding psychopathology, behavioral health assessment, and diagnosis across the lifespan using the DSM-5 TR. 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, and differential diagnosis 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. 

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. 

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.

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.

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, 8.00 semester credit hours, are required.

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 field education 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.

This is the final field experience course where students demonstrate proficiency of all 9 competencies through 250 field education 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 Area of Practice Elective Courses

9.00 Semester credit hours are required. Students should select three courses from the list below to learn more about areas of social work practice. Course availability depends on enrollment. 

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. 

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. 

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. 

The role of clinical social work services within the mental health systems will be explored. A variety of topics including access to services, case management, direct intervention strategies, and interprofessional collaboration will be covered. Students will learn how mental health policy impacts their clinical social work with clients. This class will also cover access to services including Medicaid, Medicare, private insurance coverage, telehealth resources, confidentiality and privacy issues related to mental and behavioral health. 

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.

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. 

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. 

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.
Requirements

Admissions requirements

Admissions requirements vary by program:

BSW admissions requirements

Prerequisites to enroll in the Herzing University bachelor's degree in social work program include:

  • Prior education requirement. Completion of high school diploma, GED, or equivalent.
  • Entrance testing. Applicants must demonstrate the capacity to succeed in college-level courses via prior ACT/SAT scores, completion of prior college credit, or additional entrance testing.
  • Availability of time, personal commitment, and a professional attitude. We exist to help enthusiastic students fully committed to reaching their highest career goals. Our faculty and leadership are dedicated to helping you reach them.

You will need to meet and interview with a Herzing University admissions advisor and complete an enrollment application to be admitted into the program.

If you have any additional questions regarding admissions into the program, please contact our admissions team.

MSW admissions requirements

The requirements for admission to the traditional MSW program track are: 

  • Minimum 2.5 GPA in baccalaureate degree
  • Prospective graduate students must have completed a bachelor’s or graduate degree not in social work from a college or university accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or have completed a three- or four-year bachelor’s degree at a foreign college or university recognized as equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s degree by an approved foreign credential evaluator
  • Transcript from baccalaureate degree program
  • Personal statement addressing MSW prompts – see admission advisor for details
  • Optional Recommendations for both traditional and advanced standing MSW tracks: students may choose to submit recommendations to be considered with their application but are not required 

Please contact admissions for details regarding the application.

Advanced Standing MSW admissions requirements

Candidates for the Master of Social Work (MSW) – Advanced Standing track must meet several prerequisites for acceptance, including the following: 

  • Cumulative GPA of 2.75
  • Prospective graduate students must have completed a bachelor’s or graduate degree in social work from a college or university accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or have completed a three- or four-year bachelor’s degree at a foreign college or university recognized as equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s degree by an approved foreign credential evaluator; within 7 years of the date their BSW was conferred, OR, have a BSW license in good standing
  • Transcript—BSW from a CSWE accredited program
  • A personal statement addressing MSW prompts—contact admissions for details
  • Optional Recommendations for both traditional and advanced standing MSW tracks: students may choose to submit recommendations to be considered with their application but are not required

Tuition & Cost 

Tuition & Cost

The cost of tuition is for $530 for the Bachelor of Social Work program, and $675 per credit for the Master of Social Work program (including the Advanced Standing option).

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.

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  • 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 10-20% tuition discount.

    VA/Military benefits  

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Classes Start: March 2nd

Waived Enrollment Fee

Discover the educational pathway designed to maximize your career potential. Reach for greater heights with Herzing University.

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The Student Experience at Herzing

I never second-guessed my decision.
Dora Eirby
Behavioral Health | Online Campus
Disclosures

Disclosures

1. Herzing University's Master of Social Work (MSW) program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education’s (CSWE) Board of Accreditation (BOA). Accreditation of a baccalaureate or master’s social work program by the BOA indicates that it meets or exceeds standards of program quality evaluated through a peer review accreditation process. An accredited program has sufficient resources to meet its mission and goals and the BOA has verified that it demonstrates compliance with all sections of the Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards (EPAS).  

Accreditation applies to all program options, which includes locations and delivery methods.  Accreditation provides reasonable assurance about the quality of the program and the competence of students graduating from the program. Review our program’s accredited status in CSWE’s Directory of Accredited Programs. For more information about social work accreditation, contact CSWE’s Department of Social Work Accreditation.

Herzing University's Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program is currently in pre-candidacy for accreditation by the Council on Social Work Education’s (CSWE) Board of Accreditation (BOA).

Pre-candidacy for a baccalaureate or master’s social work program by the BOA indicates that it submitted an application to be reviewed for candidacy and received approval of its Benchmark 1 from CSWE accreditation staff to move forward for a candidacy review within 1-year. 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. Candidacy is typically a 3-year process and attaining pre-candidacy does not guarantee that a program will eventually attain candidacy and initial accreditation.

Pre-candidacy applies to all program options, which includes locations and delivery methods.

Accreditation provides reasonable assurance about the quality of the program and the competence of students graduating from the program.

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.

* BLS pay estimates calculate the median annual wage for various occupations. Per the BLS the median wage for an occupation is: "The wage at which half of the workers in the occupation earned more than that amount, and half earned less. Median wage data are from the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics survey." Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook 2024. BLS median wage estimates do not represent entry-level wages and/or salaries. Multiple factors, including prior experience, age, geographic market in which you want to work, and degree level and field, will affect career outcomes, including starting salary and earnings as an experienced employee. Herzing neither represents that its graduates will earn the median salaries calculated by BLS for a particular job nor guarantees that graduation from its program will result in a job, promotion, particular wage or salary, or other career growth.

** Projections Central, Long-Term Projections (2022-2032). Multiple factors, including prior experience, age, geography market in which you want to work, and degree field will affect career outcomes. Herzing does not guarantee that graduation from its program will result in a job, promotion, or other career growth.

Classes Start: March 2nd

Waived Enrollment Fee

Discover the educational pathway designed to maximize your career potential. Reach for greater heights with Herzing University.

Request Info Apply Now