The Master of Social Work (M.S.W.) program prepares individuals to provide competent and ethical social work services in diverse communities in South Dakota and the surrounding region. M.S.W. program graduates are able to deliver clinical and therapeutic services, administrative and staff supervision, community development, organizational planning, and social policy analysis and advocating, which will effectively meet the needs of the citizens in the state and region.
USD cannot confirm whether this program or its courses meet licensure or certification requirements in states other than South Dakota. Individuals taking Social Work courses while outside South Dakota should contact their state’s social work licensure or certification board to identify requirements which may differ by state. For assistance, please contact Dr. Kelly Bass. Details regarding South Dakota's certification standards
For students who do not possess a baccalaureate degree from an accredited program in social work, a 60 credit hour traditional, foundation and concentration curriculum will be offered. For students who possess a baccalaureate degree from an accredited program in social work, a 36 credit hour advanced standing concentration curriculum will be offered.
Regular Standing students are individuals who do NOT have a baccalaureate social work degree from a CSWE-accredited program. Regular Standing students begin courses in the fall term and complete 60 credit hours. Click here to view the Regular Standing Track course schedule for the full-time student.
Advanced Standing track students are individuals who hold a baccalaureate degree in Social Work (e.g. BSW/BSSW) from a CSWE-accredited program. Advanced Standing Track students enter the program in the summer term and complete 36 credit hours. Click here to view the Advanced Standing Track course schedule for the full-time student.
Additional information is available on the department’s website, Social Work.
Deadline is December 1 for the following May/August
For more information about the online Master of Social Work, contact USD Online at 605-658-6200 or by e-mail at gradadmissions@usd.edu.