Virginia Commonwealth University

What you'll study

The MSW curriculum combines foundation coursework in social welfare policy, human behaviour and social research with advanced practice courses that focus on assessment, intervention and programme development. Students learn direct practice with individuals, families and groups as well as community-level practice, program management and advocacy.

• Foundation modules: social work practice with individuals and families, human behaviour in the social environment, social welfare policy and research methods.
• Advanced practice modules: clinical assessment and intervention, trauma-informed practice, advanced clinical methods, community organisation and leadership, programme evaluation and advanced social policy.
• Field education: supervised practicum placements in diverse settings such as hospitals, schools, community agencies, child welfare and mental health services in the Richmond metropolitan area and beyond.
• Electives and specialised seminars: courses addressing topics such as substance use, gerontology, child and family services, integrated care, and culturally responsive practice.
• Program structure: options typically include a two-year full-time programme and part-time pathways; an Advanced Standing pathway is available for applicants with an accredited BSW to complete the degree in an accelerated timeframe.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution and provide academic transcripts, a personal statement outlining professional goals and reasons for pursuing an MSW, and a current résumé. Two or more professional or academic references are normally required.

• Relevant paid or volunteer experience in human services is strongly recommended and may strengthen an application.
• Applicants seeking Advanced Standing must have a BSW from an accredited programme and meet documented course and GPA prerequisites specific to the Advanced Standing review.
• Additional requirements may include interview, background check and documentation of immunisations for field placement; specific test requirements (for example the GRE) vary and should be confirmed with the School of Social Work.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MSW programme go on to work across clinical, community and organisational settings. The degree prepares students for roles that require advanced assessment, therapy and case management skills as well as leadership in programme design, policy advocacy and administration.

• Clinical social worker in mental health clinics, hospitals, community mental health centres and private practice (pathways to licensure vary by state).
• Child welfare and family services practitioner, working with foster care, adoption and family preservation agencies.
• School social worker, working with children, families and educational teams.
• Medical social worker in hospitals and integrated care teams.
• Policy analyst, programme evaluator or administrator in non-profit organisations, government agencies and community health organisations.

Why study at Virginia Commonwealth University

VCU’s School of Social Work is located in Richmond, providing extensive field placement opportunities with health systems, community organisations and public agencies. Students benefit from close ties to VCU Health and other local partners, which support practical training across clinical and community practice settings.

• Strong emphasis on applied learning through supervised practicum placements that reflect the diversity of urban social work practice.
• Faculty with active clinical, research and community engagement portfolios who mentor students in evidence-informed practice and policy work.
• Access to interdisciplinary resources across VCU, including collaboration opportunities with health, public policy and education programmes.
• Preparation for professional licensure and leadership roles, with curriculum designed to develop clinical competence, cultural humility and systems-level thinking.