Social Work, MSW

The mission of the MSW degree program at Westfield State University is to prepare advanced-level social work practitioners who have specialized knowledge for clinical practice that is based on a firm generalist foundation. 

The program places emphasis and value on the development of students who will practice in their areas of competence, maintain ethical standards, and demonstrate leadership within their community as collaborative practitioners who are committed to addressing social, racial, and economic injustice. 

The clinical training program is built on a strong generalist foundation and is grounded in biological, psychological, and social theoretical paradigms that will promote a spirit of inquiry and critical analysis for developing theories for social work practice. Students will gain competencies in developing and applying practice modalities that are rooted in various forms of evidence. 

As graduates complete their advanced training, they will develop a commitment to life-long learning through self-reflection, meeting changing social needs, critically evaluating and integrating emerging practice proficiencies, increasing their levels of cultural competence, and engaging in ongoing skill development to meet the demands of advanced roles and responsibilities. 

The program at Westfield is committed to providing leadership throughout the practice community in evaluating and analyzing existing and emerging areas of knowledge to advance social service delivery, social policies, and direct practice with the vulnerable, disenfranchised, and marginalized populations that are served by social workers. 

The vision of the Westfield State University’s Master of Social Work program is to make higher education affordable and available to diverse populations.  This includes those who have been historically marginalized such as first-generation college students, racially/ethnically diverse communities, LGBTQIA+ communities, as well as other groups. Our MSW program strives to dismantle structural access barriers to education, and we are committed to offering in-person hybrid educational options as well as fully online program options through flexible completion programs of study from 1-4 years. Our clinical focus is designed to meet the needs of today’s workforce in Massachusetts and surrounding New England regions. 

Goal # 1: The program prepares graduates who will have mastered the knowledge, values, and skills of the social work professional generalist practice core.

Goal #2: The program prepares graduates who will have advanced knowledge, values, and skills for clinical social work practice.

The accomplishment of these goals will be demonstrated by the achievement of the following competencies:

• Competency 1: Demonstrate ethical and professional behavior
• Competency 2: Engage diversity and difference in practice
• Competency 3: Advance human rights and social, economic, and environmental justice 
• Competency 4: Engage in practice-informed research and research-informed practice
• Competency 5: Engage in policy practice
• Competency 6: Engage with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
• Competency 7: Assess individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
• Competency 8: Intervene with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
• Competency 9: Evaluate practice with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities

Starting with a comprehensive general overview, our program seamlessly evolves into an advanced curriculum that places a strong emphasis on developing clinical knowledge, instilling core values, and honing essential skills. Get ready to witness your understanding of social work as you progress through a curriculum designed to shape compassionate and skilled clinical practitioners.

Westfield State University’s MSW Program is tailored to your unique journey. If you hold a BSW or B.A. in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited institution, our Advanced Standing Program awaits you. Our focused 37-credit curriculum is designed for go-getters like yourself, offering the flexibility to complete it in one exciting year full-time or over two years part-time.

For those without an undergraduate degree in social work, our Traditional Program is here to shape your expertise. Immerse yourself in a comprehensive 66-credit program, offered over two enriching years full-time, or adapt it to your schedule over three or four years part-time. Your journey to a Master's in Social Work is personalized, flexible, and full of opportunities for growth and success!

View Program Completion Plans

Students attend classes in person on the Westfield campus on Monday and Thursday evenings, along with coursework online (Hybrid model). Approximately 20% of the program curriculum is completely asynchronous online. The required field internships are completed in person within a 60-mile radius of Westfield.

Classes are held between 5:15 p.m. and 9 p.m. or are online (but please note that daytime availability may be needed to complete practicum placements).

Students attend classes on Zoom on Monday and Thursday evenings, along with asynchronous coursework (Hybrid model). Approximately 20% of the program curriculum is completely asynchronous online. For the 2023-2024 academic year, Advanced full-time and full-time traditional programs of study internships are to be completed in Massachusetts. All 2024-2025 academic year internships can be completed in Massachusetts and within a 50-mile radius from Massachusetts in the following states: Vermont, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Connecticut, and New York. Starting in the 2025-2026 academic year, all internships can be completed in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont, Rhode Island, Connecticut, and New York. 

Classes are held between 5:15 p.m. and 9 p.m. or are online (but please note that daytime availability may be needed to complete practicum placements).

Westfield State University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) and our master’s in social work program, including the online learning option, is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).

The MSW degree program will accept applications for both the on-campus and online programs.

Both program options will accept applications for the Traditional 66-credit program including the full-time (2-year), accelerated part-time (3-year) and part-time (4-year) options and the Advanced Standing 37-credit program including the full-time (1-year) and part-time (2-year) options.

If you would like to have an admission packet emailed to you, or have questions about admission, please call us at 413-572-8461 or email graduate@westfield.ma.edu.

Admission Process & Requirements:

All applicants should follow the process below and meet the described requirements. (Specific additional requirements for Advanced Standing applicants are identified.)

1. Applicants should apply online at connect.westfield.ma.edu/apply/

2. Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. To apply for Advanced Standing, the candidate must have a BSW from a CSWE-accredited program.

3. Applicants must have an undergraduate degree that included a clear liberal arts base and a firm foundation in the social sciences, government, and human biology. (Applicants should identify their social science, government, and human biology courses on the application form. Students who do not meet this requirement may be accepted into the program but will be required to take courses to meet these requirements prior to starting the program.)

4. Applicants need a 2.8 overall undergraduate GPA. For Advanced Standing candidates, the applicant should also have a 3.0 social work GPA. In extraordinary circumstances, both requirements can be waived by the Admission Committee.

5. Applicants need to complete the MSW form, specifying Traditional MSW program or Advanced Standing MSW program and whether they would like to be full-time or part-time.

6. Applicants need to have three letters of reference completed, including one academic reference. Advanced Standing applicants need to have one of their letters of reference from their BSW Program Director (or his/her designee). A letter from their Practicum Placement Supervisor is highly recommended.

7. Applicants need to submit a current resume.

8. Applicants need to complete a professional statement that describes: 

• reason(s) for interest in entering the field of social work;  
• assessment of personal strengths and limitations related to the profession;  
• examination of life experiences and relationship of these experiences to their career choice. Discuss here evidence of your commitment to aiding people who are oppressed and/or members of vulnerable populations (good examples are prior work, civic or volunteer experiences); and  
• assessment of personal values and congruence of these beliefs with the social work profession's value system (we suggest that you review the NASW Code of Ethics prior to writing the professional statement).  

The professional statement will be evaluated regarding the above material and also will be considered a writing sample to evaluate your ability to express yourself in written form. Applicants who believe that they have extraordinary circumstances regarding the GPA requirements must include their rationale for their request to have the GPA requirement waived.

Though human services experience is not required, applicants are strongly encouraged to describe any prior volunteer or work experience in their professional statement and include it on their resume. Professional experience is viewed positively and considered when making decisions regarding admissions and waiving GPA requirements.

The MSW degree program does not require standardized testing (GRE or MAT) for admission to the program.

All application materials must be received by February 1 for your application to be reviewed.

The MSW degree program has an early decision application deadline of December 1 with admission decisions sent out in mid-February.  

The traditional application deadline is February 1 with admission decisions sent out the end of March.

Within 10 days of receiving acceptance notification, students must confirm their intention to enroll in the program, as well as submit a $150 non-refundable deposit. This deposit will be credited to the student’s first semester bill.

All Council on Social Work Education programs measure and report student learning outcomes. A measurement benchmark is set by the social work programs for each competency. An assessment score at or above that benchmark is considered by the program to represent mastery of that particular competency.  

You can learn more about these assessments and our program outcomes on the Assessment of Student Learning Outcomes page.

Westfield State University offers a comprehensive university experience at an affordable cost—with many options for financial aid. Visit our Cost and Aid page to learn more. 

Yes, a limited number of graduate assistantships are available each year for graduate students. These opportunities are competitive and are awarded to students with excellent academic records who are enrolled in a graduate degree program.

This valuable opportunity can enhance your academic journey and provide valuable experience. Don't miss out on the chance to be part of this enriching program!

Learn more about graduate assistantships 

MSW students are matched with a dedicated advisor – your compass through class choices, concentrations, and beyond. Beyond academics, your advisor becomes a mentor, guiding you on further education and career paths. We're not just about classes; we connect you to resources like the Banacos Center and the Reading & Writing Center. Join group advising sessions during registration for added support. At every step, we're here to ensure your success is our priority.

Discover graduate living at Welch Hall Apartments – your gateway to a vibrant community and tailored amenities. Choose from four-person apartments featuring single and premium single rooms, all inclusive of utilities and internet. Make connections by signing up as a group or embark on an individual adventure with like-minded roommates. Revel in the comfort of fully furnished apartments, boasting a well-equipped kitchen with a breakfast bar, cozy bathrooms, and inviting shared living spaces.

Your convenience is our priority – enjoy free laundry facilities on campus and parking at an affordable rate. Immerse yourself in academic pursuits with easy access to the campus library or prioritize your well-being at our fitness centers.

Whether you prefer cooking with your roommates or opting for a meal plan, relish access to an array of campus dining options, including late-night and takeaway choices. Elevate your graduate experience with Welch Hall Apartments – where living meets exceptional comfort and convenience.

For more information contact housing@westfield.ma.edu or 413-572-5402.