Regular program
Designed for students whose undergraduate degree is outside social work or whose BSW does not meet Advanced Standing eligibility.
Review Regular program optionsMasters
MSU School of Social Work
Turn your purpose into lasting change.
An MSW from Michigan State University gives you the knowledge, practical experience and professional perspective to create change with individuals, families, organizations and communities.
Top 25 program among public universities
Flexible online, hybrid and on-campus pathways
Practice intensive field education grounded in real communities
Education with impact
Preparation for the work people and communities need.
The MSW program brings theory, policy, research and practice methods together with intensive field experience. Students build the judgment and skills needed to respond to complex challenges with competence, ethics and purpose.
Whether you are entering social work after completing a bachelor’s degree or returning with years of professional experience, MSU offers pathways designed to support your next step.
Explore information for prospective studentsProgram pathways
An MSW path shaped around where you are now.
Choose the standing and delivery option that aligns with your academic background, schedule and professional goals.
Advanced Standing
An accelerated pathway for eligible graduates of accredited bachelor’s-level social work programs.
Review Advanced Standing optionsStatewide Blended
Explore online, hybrid and East Lansing options designed to serve students across Michigan and beyond.
Compare all program optionsAdvanced social work practice
Build the perspective to work across systems.
- Clinical social work Prepare for direct practice with individuals, couples, families and groups through a person-in-environment and strengths-based perspective.
- Organization and Community Leadership Develop the ability to address larger systems through leadership, advocacy, policy, program development, research and evaluation.
- Field education Connect academic learning with supervised professional experience in agencies and communities.
Plan with confidence
Get the complete picture before you apply.
Learn more about MSU’s flexible program options by attending an MSW information session. For a complete description of the program, policies and academic expectations, review the MSW Handbook.
Attend an MSW information session Review the MSW Handbook
Professional licensure and certification information
Professional licensure and certification requirements vary by state and jurisdiction. Prospective and current students should review the requirements for the location where they intend to practice. Review social work licensure resources
MSW stories
See where an MSW can lead.
Meet social work professionals whose careers show how advanced education, lived experience and a commitment to service can create lasting impact.
Jeremy McClendon’s journey in child welfare advocacy
Learn how Jeremy’s MSW experience at Michigan State helped transform his career as a psychotherapist and child welfare advocate.
Watch Jeremy’s story on YouTubeElizabeth Montemayor’s 20-year journey in child welfare
Hear how Elizabeth has built a career dedicated to transforming the lives of children and families through child welfare practice.
Watch Elizabeth’s story on YouTube