California State University, Monterey Bay

Programme overview

The MSW at CSUMB is a clinically oriented graduate programme emphasizing culturally competent practice, ethical leadership, evidence-based approaches, and advocacy for social and economic justice. The curriculum has a regional emphasis on issues facing the California Central Coast and was developed in response to local social work leadership needs.

What you'll study

Coursework and learning experiences build professional competencies in clinical and cultural expertise and prepare students to provide culturally responsive services to individuals, families, groups, and communities. Instruction covers:

• Clinical practice skills and culturally competent interventions
• Ethical leadership and professional values of social work
• Evidence-based practice, scientific inquiry, and critical thinking
• Conflict resolution and inclusive community processes
• Interdisciplinary collaboration and program planning
• Use of technology to inform practice, service delivery, and policy development
• Practicum and community-engaged learning with attention to Central Coast community issues

Entry requirements

The programme page does not list specific admissions criteria. Prospective applicants are directed to the admissions staff for individualized guidance and to learn how to apply; contact details provided by the programme include msw@csumb.edu and 831-582-5315.

Career prospects

Graduates work across government, non-profit, private and clinical settings. Employer examples and typical work settings named by the programme include:

• Employers: Abode Services; Aspiranet; Catholic Charities of Monterey County; Community Bridges; Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula; Dominican Hospital; Gonzales Unified School District; Hartnell College; Hospice of Santa Cruz County; Monterey County Behavioral Health; Palo Alto Medical Foundation; Veteran’s Health Administration; and others.
• Work settings: hospitals, clinics, schools, child welfare departments, behavioral and mental health departments, probation and correctional facilities, senior centers, home health agencies, substance abuse and youth programs.
• Roles: case manager, program coordinator, therapist, medical or school social worker, forensic social worker, outreach worker, manager or director, researcher/analyst, educator, consultant, advocate.

Scholarships & funding angle

The programme page references tuition, fees and financial aid resources but does not provide specific scholarship details. Prospective students are advised to consult CSUMB financial aid resources and contact the MSW admissions office for information on funding options.