Social Work

The Master of Social Work (MSW) Program prepares advanced generalist social workers with a common base of social work knowledge, values and skills that equip the graduate for leadership positions that promote human rights and social and economic justice. The advanced generalist focus enables graduates to apply their abilities within service systems of various sizes and types. Practice courses stress application of advanced skills in a variety of systems using assessment, planning, intervention and evaluation relevant to diverse individuals, families, groups and communities. Field education provides opportunities for students to integrate theory with practice and experientially apply knowledge, values and skills in appropriate settings.

TCU’s Department of Social Work does not discriminate on the basis of age, gender, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, handicap, veteran status, political beliefs or sexual orientation.

Mission

The mission of the TCU Master of Social Work Program is "to prepare ethical and competent advanced social work practitioners who promote human rights and economic and social justice with diverse clients in the global community." This mission reflects and flows from the University mission.

Program of Study

The MSW curriculum is based on educational standards developed by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). The MSW curriculum includes foundation content (the first year) and advanced practice content (second year).

The MSW requires 60 credit hours (48 hours coursework, 12 hours internships). Full-time MSW students take 15 hours each semester and complete their degree in two years. Both BSW graduates and those with undergraduate degrees in other disciplines are eligible for seeking admission to the MSW. Students who already have the BSW are known as Advanced Standing students and can complete the MSW with one year of full-time study (30 hours). Students with baccalaureate degrees in other disciplines will require two years of full-time study (60 hours). The MSW at TCU is also open to part-time students, who can complete the degree in four years in the traditional program and two years in the Advanced Standing program.

Advanced Standing

Advanced Standing is awarded only to graduates holding degrees from baccalaureate social work programs accredited by CSWE, those recognized through its International Social Work Degree Recognition and Evaluation Service, or those covered under a memorandum of understanding with international social work accreditors. Students meeting the requirements for Advanced Standing will receive credit for the foundation content of the MSW curriculum and be allowed to enter the concentration content of the MSW Program.

Gatekeeping

The social work profession has the legal and ethical responsibility to protect both society and the profession by assessing students’ readiness to work with clients. The faculty team discusses students’ professional development and readiness to interact with clients. This gatekeeping responsibility is outlined and enforced through the Code of Ethics of the National Association of Social Workers and addressed in the TCU Program Handbook.





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