Social Work: Advanced Standing Program
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Admissions Contact
Sean Mangan |
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Curriculum and Delivery
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Start Dates and Duration
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Fieldwork Practicum Requirements
One internship, either Weekday or Weekend Program – 500 hours, 18 hours per week for 14 weeks for two semesters. |
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Upcoming Events
Tips and Pointers for Applying to Graduate School Social Work Virtual Information Session Social Work In-Person Information Session Social Work Virtual Information Session |
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The Master of Social Work: Advanced Standing Program at Springfield College prepares social workers for professional practice. Students graduate well-equipped to work at the individual, family, group, organization, and community levels with evidence-based and knowledge-guided practice.
The advanced standing program is for highly qualified graduates of Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) programs. The BSW program must be accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) and the BSW must have been successfully completed within five years of enrollment in the Springfield College Master of Social Work program. The content and quality of the weekday and weekend programs are the same. This program also requires one field practicum and two field seminars. The field practicum takes place during weekday business hours.
Candidates who are accepted to this program have courses from the foundational phase of the standard MSW program waived because of evidence of mastery of their first-year competencies in their CSWE-accredited BSW programs. While 60 credits are required for the standard program, 32 credits are required for completion of the advanced standing sequence. Per CSWE standards and policies, the MSW degree earned in the advanced standing program is equivalent to the MSW degree earned in the standard program.
Mission:
Through the teaching of social work knowledge and practice, the Masters in Social Work program at Springfield College prepares individuals to meet universal human needs in order to engender mutually beneficial interaction between individuals and societal systems at all levels, based on principles of economic and social justice, dignity, and human rights.
What job can I get with a degree in Social Work?
A Master of Social Work (MSW) degree isn't just a degree—it's your passport to making a real difference while building a rewarding, dynamic career. Whether you're passionate about community transformation or individual support, your MSW opens doors to incredible professional opportunities across multiple sectors.
Data is from the 2024 Occupational Outlook Handbook from the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Social workers who are licensed to diagnose and treat mental, behavioral, and emotional disorders are called clinical social workers (CSW), licensed clinical social workers (LCSW), or have a similar title; specific titles vary by state. They provide individual, group, family, and couples therapy; work with clients to develop strategies to change behavior or cope with difficult situations; and refer clients to other resources or services, such as support groups or other mental health workers. Clinical social workers may develop treatment plans with the client, doctors, and other healthcare workers and may adjust the treatment plan if necessary based on their client’s progress. They may work in a variety of specialties.
Substance abuse counselors and behavioral disorder counselors, also called addiction counselors, work with clients individually and in group sessions. They teach clients how to cope with stress and life’s problems in ways that help them recover. Furthermore, they help clients rebuild professional relationships and, if necessary, reestablish their career. They also help clients improve their personal relationships and find ways to discuss their addiction or other problems with family and friends.
Mental health counselors advise individuals, families, couples, and groups. Some work with specific populations, such as children or older adults. Mental health counselors treat clients who have a variety of conditions, including anxiety, depression, grief, and stress. They also help with emotional health and relationship problems.
Accreditation The Springfield College Master of Social Work program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), the official accrediting body for social work programs in the U.S. This enables graduates to take professional social work licensure examinations in all 50 states. |
How to Apply:
Supplemental Application
In addition to educational credentials, candidates for this program generally have acquired first-hand skill and knowledge related to the social work field through paid experiences. Applicants to this program must complete a supplemental application including additional documentation.
Admission Requirements
- Complete the online application: Once your application form is processed you will receive an email with your application portal login credentials and instructions for submitting supplemental materials as listed below.
Essay: Once your application form is processed you will receive an email with your application portal login credentials. Once you login to your application portal you'll be able to upload your essay.
Your professional statement should describe (1) professional goals and reasons for pursuing an MSW degree in this program; and (2) the education, professional/work experience, and personal characteristics that make the applicant a good candidate for an advanced generalist MSW program.
- Resume: Please include any college activities, out-of-school leadership experiences, work history, and community involvement to support your interest in or qualifications for graduate study.
- Two letters of recommendation: Two letters of recommendation from a faculty member or direct supervisor: Recommenders will receive an email when you submit your application and will be able to upload your letter to your application.
- Transcripts: An official transcript from each college/university you have attended is required. In order to be considered official, transcripts must be received directly from the original source, by email to graduate@springfield.edu or mailed to the college address:
Springfield College
Office of Graduate Admissions
263 Alden Street
Springfield, MA 01109
Application Deadlines
Domestic Students:
- Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis as space is available.
