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Application Information and Instructions

Applications are reviewed and applicants are notified in a rolling process. We encourage applicants to submit the application and all supporting documents at the earliest date possible.

Dates to Remember:

  • August 1: Applications become available for submission
  • September 1: Application reviews begin by unit
  • Early Decision Deadline: December 8
  • Final Deadline: February 7

Before the Application:

Notice:

  • Candidates apply for the MSW program with identified program status and concentration
    • Status: Full-time vs. Part-time
    • Status: Advanced Standing vs. Regular
    • Concentration: Clinical vs. OCL (Organization and Community Leadership)
    • Students provide preference for modality (East Lansing vs. Statewide Blended)
    • Note: Modality is not guaranteed and is subject to change based on enrollment capacity and programmatic changes.

To Apply, You Will Need:

    • First Semester to Enroll:
      • Regular Standing MSW: Fall semester
      • Advanced Standing MSW: Summer semester
    • Major preference: under the College of Social Science

MSW Modality and Program Optionsa

Modality Option Regular MSW Advanced Standing Area of Specialized Practice
Full-time Part-time Full-time Part-time Clinical OCLb
East Lansing ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Statewide Blended ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

aProgram Options are based upon availability and are subject to change.

bOCL = Organization and Community Leadership (NOTE: The OCL practice course format is subject to change based upon availability and needs of the student cohort. As such, East Lansing and Statewide Blended students may take the OCL practice courses in one of the following formats: in-person on the East Lansing campus, synchronous online, or asynchronous online with monthly Saturday synchronous Zoom sessions.)

 

Note: OCL courses may be offered in-person, synchronous online, or asynchronous with Saturday Zoom sessions.

Supporting Materials:

      • Transcripts
      • Contact information for 3 recommenders (professional or academic references only)
      • Academic Statement (required)
      • Resume
      • Other documents as needed (affidavit of support, court documents, etc.)

Application Instructions:

We recommend downloading the full application instructions to ensure you submit a strong application.

Apply online via the Slate Applicant Portal.

      • Official transcripts required for final processing
      • 3 recommendation letters: at least one from practicum or field office for Advanced Standing applicants. No personal references.
      • Academic/Applicant Statement is required. Personal Statement is optional.

Other Program Notices:

      • Out-of-state students applying to Statewide Blended must live within 50 miles of the Michigan border
      • International applicants: review International Admissions Requirements
      • Application Fee: $65 ($75 for international applicants)

TIPS from the Department:

      • Apply to the correct program option. Mistakes may delay or void your application.
      • Express interest in certificate or scholar programs (separate application after admission)
      • If GPA < 3.0, explain circumstances and preparedness for graduate study

After Submitting Your Application:

    • Log into the Slate portal regularly to check your status and respond to messages
    • Once admitted, you have 2 weeks to accept or decline. Delays may impact your preferred modality.

Prospective Students