Cost & earnings at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota What students borrow here, and what they go on to earn
Social Work graduates earn a median $44,960 Across 363 US programmes, two years after finishing
See the degree grade →The Master of Social Work (MSW) at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota prepares students for professional social work practice across clinical, community and organisational settings. It suits people seeking advanced practice skills, a focus on social justice and hands‑on field experience leading toward state licensure and leadership roles in human services.
The MSW curriculum combines foundation knowledge in social work practice with advanced coursework and practicum experience. Core subject areas include human behaviour in the social environment, social welfare policy and services, research methods for social work, diversity and cultural competence, and ethics. In the advanced sequence students study clinical assessment and diagnosis, evidence‑based therapeutic interventions, trauma‑informed care, group work, family interventions, and programme evaluation.
The programme is offered with flexible delivery options to accommodate working professionals, including on‑campus and blended/online course formats, and may include an advanced‑standing pathway for students with a qualifying Bachelor of Social Work (BSW).
Applicants should hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. Competitive applicants typically demonstrate previous volunteer, employment or volunteer experience in human services or related fields, and submit a personal statement outlining professional goals and commitment to social work values. Required application materials usually include academic transcripts, references (academic and/or professional), a current résumé or CV, and a personal statement. International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements.
Applicants with a qualifying BSW may be eligible for advanced standing, which reduces the time in the foundational sequence. Final admission may be subject to background checks, health clearance or additional agency requirements for practicum placement.
Graduates of the MSW typically move into clinical, community, policy or leadership roles across public and private sectors. Common positions include clinical social worker, mental health therapist, child and family social worker, medical or healthcare social worker, school social worker, child welfare practitioner, case manager, and programme director for community organisations. Many graduates pursue licensure (for example, licensure to practise clinical social work) and work as independent practitioners or within multidisciplinary teams.
Career progression can include advanced clinical practice, supervisory and administrative roles, policy and advocacy positions, or doctoral study and academic careers. Employers range from hospitals, community mental health centres and child welfare agencies to schools, corrections, veterans’ services and non‑profit organisations.
Saint Mary’s combines liberal arts and professional training with an emphasis on social justice, ethical practice and community engagement. The MSW programme emphasises experiential learning through practicum partnerships across the region, small cohort sizes for personalised instruction, and faculty with professional practice experience.
Students benefit from a dedicated field education office that arranges supervised placements and supports professional development, as well as flexible delivery options to balance study with work. The programme prepares graduates for practical, ethically informed practice and for meeting the educational requirements that support state licensure; prospective students should consult the university and their state board for specific licensure pathways.
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