Eastern Michigan University

What you'll study

The MSW curriculum builds a foundation in social work theory, research, policy and ethics, and progresses to advanced practice skills through coursework and supervised field placements. Core topics cover human behaviour and the social environment, social welfare policy and services, research methods for social work, clinical assessment and intervention, diversity and cultural competence, and practicum/seminar experience.

• Foundation courses: introduction to social work practice, human development across the lifespan, and social welfare history and policy.
• Advanced practice courses: clinical practice with individuals and families, group intervention, community and organisational practice, and advanced assessment techniques.
• Research and policy: social work research methods, program evaluation and policy analysis supporting evidence-based practice.
• Field education: supervised practicum placements in community agencies, schools, healthcare or government settings that provide direct client experience and professional supervision.
• Electives and specialised seminars: may include topics such as trauma-informed practice, substance misuse, child welfare, gerontology, or mental health interventions.

Entry requirements

Applicants will normally need a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. Candidates holding a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from a CSWE-accredited programme may be eligible for an advanced standing option, which recognises prior social work coursework and shortens the time in the programme.

• Academic record demonstrating readiness for graduate study; competitive applicants typically present strong grades in undergraduate coursework.
• Required supporting materials usually include a personal statement or statement of purpose, curriculum vitae or résumé, and academic references; some applicants may also submit professional references.
• Because students undertake practicum in community settings, admission and matriculation may be subject to background checks, immunisation requirements, and submission of additional documentation as required by partnering agencies.
• International applicants must meet university standards for English language proficiency and credential evaluation.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MSW programme enter a wide range of roles in the public, private and non-profit sectors. Typical career paths include clinical social worker, school social worker, child welfare caseworker, healthcare social worker, mental health clinician, community organiser, policy analyst and programme manager.

The MSW also prepares students for licensure where applicable; many graduates pursue the supervised practice hours required to become licensed clinical social workers (LCSW) or equivalent state-level credentials, enabling independent clinical practice.

Why study at Eastern Michigan University

Eastern Michigan University's MSW programme combines classroom learning with substantial field education across a diverse network of placement partners in the region. The School of Social Work emphasises practice that is informed by research and responsive to community needs, with faculty who conduct community-engaged scholarship and bring applied experience into teaching.

• Accredited social work training with opportunities for advanced practice and field placements in schools, health systems and community agencies.
• Small cohort sizes that support close faculty mentorship, collaboration and individualised practicum arrangements.
• Flexible scheduling options to accommodate working students, along with academic and career support services available through the university.
• Connections across the Detroit and Metro-Detroit region that provide diverse practicum experiences and pathways into regional social service employers.