Keuka College

What you'll study

The MSW curriculum combines foundation-level social work knowledge with advanced practice skills. Core topics typically include human behaviour in the social environment, social welfare policy and services, research methods for social work, ethics and professional practice, and clinical assessment and intervention. Students study practice methods across the lifespan, with attention to diversity, cultural competence, trauma-informed care and evidence-based interventions.

Field education is a central element of the programme, with supervised practicum placements in social service agencies, hospitals, schools, community organisations or behavioural health settings. Coursework and practicum are integrated so students apply theory to practice throughout the programme.

Electives and advanced seminars allow specialisation in areas such as clinical practice, mental health, children and families, substance use, gerontology, community practice or organisational leadership. A research or capstone project is frequently required to demonstrate applied skills in assessment, intervention and programme evaluation.

Entry requirements

• Completed bachelor's degree from an accredited institution (in any discipline); applicants with non-social work backgrounds may be required to complete foundational coursework.
• Official academic transcripts demonstrating satisfactory undergraduate performance.
• A personal statement or statement of purpose outlining career goals, relevant experience and reasons for pursuing social work.
• Letters of recommendation (typically two or three) from academic or professional referees.
• An up-to-date CV or résumé documenting employment, volunteer experience and relevant practicum or fieldwork.
• Some programmes request background checks, immunisation records or evidence of liability insurance prior to practicum placements.
• Standardised test requirements (such as the GRE) are sometimes optional or waived; applicants should check current admissions guidance for the programme.

Career prospects

Graduates with an MSW pursue diverse career paths in clinical practice, community services, healthcare, schools, child welfare, substance misuse services, corrections, policy and non-profit leadership. The degree also provides the educational foundation required for state licensure as a clinical social worker (licensure requirements vary by jurisdiction and usually include supervised post‑graduate hours and an exam).

Typical roles include clinical social worker, case manager, school social worker, medical social worker, behavioural health clinician, programme manager and policy analyst. Employers range from hospitals and community mental health centres to schools, child welfare agencies, non-profits and government departments.

Why study at Keuka College

• Small, personalised learning environment: Keuka College is known for smaller class sizes and close faculty interaction, which supports mentoring and applied learning.
• Experiential field placements: The programme emphasises practicum experience with community partners, enabling students to build clinical skills and professional networks in real-world settings.
• Integrated curriculum: Coursework is designed to combine theory, research and practicum so graduates are practice-ready and prepared for advanced professional roles.
• Community engagement: Keuka’s regional connections provide opportunities to work across a range of agencies and population groups in the Finger Lakes area and beyond.
• Preparation for licensure and advancement: The MSW curriculum equips graduates to meet requirements for advanced practice and to pursue state licensure pathways and leadership positions.