Columbia University

What you'll study

The MSW curriculum combines foundation coursework, specialised concentration studies and supervised field practicum. Core subjects address human behaviour and the social environment, social welfare policy, social work research and methods, ethics, and diversity, equity and inclusion.

• Foundation year – integrated courses in clinical assessment and treatment, group and family practice, community organisation, policy practice and social work research, plus an introductory practicum placement.
• Concentration/specialisation – students choose a focus that may include clinical practice, organisational leadership and social enterprise administration, community and policy practice, or research methods. Coursework in the concentration deepens practice skills, policy analysis and programme development relevant to the chosen track.
• Advanced Standing – eligible students with a qualifying BSW may complete the degree in a shortened Advanced Standing pathway that builds on prior undergraduate practice learning while emphasising advanced clinical and leadership competencies.
• Field education – multiple semesters of practicum placements across health, school, child welfare, mental health, criminal justice and community organisations, supervised by experienced field instructors and integrated with practicum seminar coursework.
• Electives and cross‑disciplinary options – electives allow study in trauma‑informed practice, substance use, global social work, organisational change, programme evaluation and practicum specialisations; students may also pursue approved cross‑registration with other Columbia schools or joint degree programmes.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. Admission is competitive and considers academic records, relevant work or volunteer experience, a personal statement describing professional goals and commitment to social justice, letters of recommendation, and a résumé or CV. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests unless exempt.

• Those with a CSWE‑accredited BSW who meet the programme's criteria may be eligible for Advanced Standing and a shortened course of study.
• Some applicants submit GRE scores where required or recommended; the programme provides guidance on current testing policies.
• Applicants with significant professional or community experience in social services, health care, education or related fields are encouraged to highlight practicum, employment and leadership roles in their application materials.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a broad range of careers in clinical practice, policy and administration, research and community organising. Common roles include clinical social worker, mental health practitioner, hospital or healthcare social worker, school social worker, child and family practitioner, community programme director, policy analyst and social service agency leader.

• Many graduates pursue licensure as clinical social workers, which requires completion of an MSW and post‑graduate supervised clinical hours according to state regulations.
• Other career pathways include management and leadership positions in non‑profit organisations, roles in government or international agencies, and doctoral study or research careers.
• The programme's practicum placements and New York City field network provide extensive opportunities for hands‑on experience across settings and populations.

Why study at Columbia University

Columbia's School of Social Work is located in New York City, offering unparalleled access to diverse practicum sites, public agencies and nonprofit organisations. The faculty includes scholars and practitioners active in clinical work, policy advocacy and research, and the school hosts research centres and initiatives that address urban poverty, mental health, social justice and global social welfare.

• Strong field placement infrastructure across healthcare, education, child welfare and community organisations provides real‑world training and professional connections.
• Opportunities for interdisciplinary learning and joint degrees allow students to combine social work with public health, public policy, law or international affairs for broader career flexibility.
• An active alumni network and location in a major global city support job placement, internships and collaborations with leading service providers and policy institutions.