Sacred Heart University

Programme overview

Sacred Heart’s dual degree pathway enables incoming first-year students to progress from undergraduate study into the Master of Social Work without the separate, end-of-degree graduate application process. The curriculum blends a liberal arts foundation with social work coursework and supervised field experiences, and the School of Social Work emphasizes ethical practice, dignity, social and economic justice, and work with vulnerable and diverse populations. Dual degree students are guaranteed admission to the MSW provided they continue to meet program-specific progression criteria as undergraduates.

What you'll study

The program combines undergraduate coursework (either a BSW or a BS in health science, depending on the option chosen) with graduate-level social work studies and field practicum. Two scheduling options are offered:

• 4+1 Bachelor’s–MSW: Four years of undergraduate coursework in social work (BSW), followed by one year of graduate MSW coursework to complete both degrees within five years.
• Accelerated 3+2 Bachelor’s–MSW: Three years to earn a Bachelor of Science in health science, followed by two years of graduate MSW study.

Entry requirements

The dual degree is designed for incoming first-year students who commit to the accelerated pathway. Admission into the MSW portion is guaranteed only if students maintain whatever program-specific academic and progression criteria the School of Social Work requires while they are undergraduates; prospective first-year applicants are directed to Undergraduate Admissions for entry information.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MSW program work across social services, elder care, child welfare, health care, community advocacy and development, human rights efforts, and political campaigns. The curriculum prepares students to engage, assess, intervene, and evaluate practice with individuals, families, groups, communities, organizations, and government systems.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

The dual degree pathway can reduce overall cost compared with pursuing separate undergraduate and graduate programs because it shortens total time in school; students also gain the administrative benefit of a reserved graduate place, which reduces stress and uncertainty late in the undergraduate career. Undergraduate advising and campus resources are available to help students stay on track.