University of Hawaii at Manoa

What you'll study

The MSW curriculum at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa combines advanced theory, research methods and substantial field practicum to prepare students for direct practice and macro-level work. Core study areas include human behaviour in the social environment, advanced social work practice methods, social welfare policy and services, research methods for evidence-based practice, and ethics and professional issues.

• Clinical practice: assessment, diagnosis, culturally informed therapeutic interventions, group work and trauma-informed care.
• Community and policy practice: community organising, program development, policy analysis and advocacy to address systemic inequalities.
• Research and evaluation: quantitative and qualitative methods applied to service evaluation, outcome measurement and practice-based research.
• Field practicum: substantial supervised placements in settings such as hospitals, schools, community agencies, child welfare and mental health services. Placements emphasise culturally competent practice with Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander communities as well as with immigrant and multi-ethnic populations.
• Electives and special topics: courses addressing substance use, gerontology, child and family services, school social work, social work with Indigenous peoples, and advanced clinical interventions.

The programme offers options for full-time and part-time study and typically includes an advanced standing pathway for applicants who hold a qualifying Bachelor of Social Work from an accredited programme.

Entry requirements

Applicants should have a recognised bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Typical admission requirements include:

• Evidence of satisfactory undergraduate academic performance (programme considers overall GPA and the strength of the applicant’s academic record).
• A personal statement outlining professional goals, commitment to social justice and experience working with diverse communities.
• Curriculum vitae or résumé detailing relevant work, volunteer and community experience.
• References, usually two or three academic or professional referees who can speak to the applicant’s suitability for graduate social work study.
• If applicable, official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
• International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through an approved test or equivalent documentation where required.

There may be prerequisites or recommended preparatory coursework in statistics or social sciences. Applicants with a qualifying BSW from an accredited programme may be eligible for an advanced standing option that reduces practicum requirements; details depend on accreditation and the timing of the prior degree. Competitive applicants commonly have relevant paid or volunteer experience in human services, community work or related fields.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MSW programme pursue a wide range of professional roles across the public, non-profit and private sectors. Common career paths include:

• Clinical social worker providing therapy and case management in mental health clinics, hospitals, private practice and community mental health centres.
• Child welfare and family services practitioner working in protection, family support and early intervention programmes.
• School social worker addressing student wellbeing, attendance and family engagement within educational settings.
• Healthcare social worker in hospitals, long-term care, hospice and community health programmes supporting patients and families.
• Community organiser, programme developer or policy analyst working for non-governmental organisations, tribal agencies or government departments.
• Administrator or manager of social service programmes, grant-funded initiatives and community-based organisations.

Graduates who wish to practise clinically should verify licensure requirements in the jurisdiction where they intend to work; the MSW provides the academic preparation for clinical licensure but supervised post-degree practice hours and exam requirements vary by state and territory.

Why study at University of Hawaii at Manoa

The Myron B. Thompson School of Social Work at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa is regionally embedded and known for its focus on Indigenous, Pacific and Asian American communities, making the programme particularly strong for students interested in culturally grounded practice. Faculty engage in applied research and community partnerships across Hawaiʻi and the Pacific, providing rich opportunities for practicum placements and collaborative projects.

• Location and community connections: strong field networks with local health systems, schools, Native Hawaiian organisations and social service agencies across the islands.
• Cultural competence and Indigenous perspectives: curriculum and placements emphasise culturally responsive practice, indigenous knowledge and social justice approaches suited to Pacific contexts.
• Practical training: substantial supervised practicum experiences and small cohort sizes that support mentorship and professional development.
• Research and career support: faculty mentorship, practicum coordination and alumni networks that help graduates transition into practice, leadership and policy roles.

These features make the MSW at UH Mānoa a strong choice for students committed to working with diverse island and Pacific populations or seeking a programme with a clear emphasis on culturally informed social work practice.