University of Chicago

What you'll study

The MSW curriculum balances theoretical foundations, direct practice skills, policy analysis and research methods, organised across core courses and applied learning. Core topics typically include human development and behaviour in the social environment, social welfare history and policy, social work practice with individuals, families and groups, clinical assessment and interventions, and quantitative and qualitative research methods.

Students complete sustained field practicums with community agencies, healthcare providers, schools and courts in the Chicago region, enabling supervised application of classroom learning to real-world settings. The programme offers pathways to specialise in areas such as clinical practice and mental health, child and family welfare, community organising and social policy, health and integrated care, and trauma-informed practice. Electives and practicum choices allow students to tailor the degree toward direct clinical licensing preparation, community-based practice, or policy and programme development.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Academic transcripts and a personal statement outlining professional goals and reasons for pursuing social work are required. Typical supporting materials include a current résumé or CV and two to three letters of recommendation addressing academic potential and/or professional readiness for graduate social work study.

Relevant paid or volunteer experience with social service organisations, community groups, healthcare settings or advocacy work strengthens an application. The school considers applicants’ demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity and social justice, and to working with underserved populations. Applicants with an undergraduate Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from an accredited programme may be eligible for advanced standing; criteria for advanced standing include prior coursework and grade standards aligned with accreditation guidelines.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue a wide range of careers across direct practice, policy, research and administration. Common roles held by alumni include clinical social worker in mental health or medical settings, child welfare specialist, school social worker, community organiser, case manager, programme director for non‑profit organisations, and policy analyst in government or advocacy organisations.

With the MSW and the required post‑degree supervised experience, graduates are positioned to pursue clinical licensure and private practice where relevant. The programme’s emphasis on evidence-based practice and research also equips graduates for roles in programme evaluation, implementation science and interdisciplinary teams in healthcare and public systems.

Why study at University of Chicago

The Crown Family School combines a rigorous, research-driven approach with a strong commitment to urban practice. Students benefit from access to faculty who are active scholars and practitioners, close partnerships with hospitals, schools, non-profits and municipal agencies across Chicago, and a robust network of practicum placements that expose students to diverse populations and complex service systems.

Interdisciplinary collaboration is a core advantage: students can draw on resources and elective opportunities across the University’s social science, public policy and health programmes, enhancing training in policy analysis, quantitative methods and integrated care. Career services and alumni networks support practicum placements and job transitions, placing graduates into roles across clinical practice, planning, administration and policy.