When you study at the University of Kentucky’s College of Social Work, you join more than 80 years of proven excellence in social work education. Our CSWE-accredited online MSW program prepares graduates to have a positive impact on individuals, families, groups, organizations and communities.

The University of Kentucky’s academically rigorous MSW program includes options for an advanced-standing program (30 credits) and a 60-credit regular standing program to give experienced social workers and passionate newcomers alike the practical skills they need to be effective in the field.

Social change. Social justice. Social work.

As a student, you'll choose to earn career-focused skills through any one of our multiple certificates or select elective courses to complete an Individualized Plan of Study (IPS). Certificate options include Clinical Social Work Practice, Substance Use Disorder, School Social Work, Child Welfare Practice, Military Behavioral Health and others. Completed as part of the MSW, the certificates and IPS allow you to centralize your education and become an expert in your chosen area of focus.

This online MSW is taught by faculty who are dedicated to your success and who provide diverse expertise across multiple areas of social work. This program offers the flexibility of online learning while still fostering strong connections with your instructors and peers. You will graduate with the skills and network to pursue your passion as an advanced-practice social worker.

Program Facts

Duration (Accelerated): 4 semesters
(2 semesters Advanced Standing)

Total credits: 60 credits
(30 credits Advanced Standing)

Format: Online program

Accreditation: CSWE

Outcome: The MSW@UK prepares
social workers to engage and
empower others to create
social change in virtually any setting.

Program Benefits

1. Deliver Exceptional Practice
Gain the insight to demonstrate ethical, professional behavior and judgment and the transferable skills to deliver quality practice with individuals, families, groups, organizations and communities. Graduate ready to effect positive change in your community through advanced social work.

2. Embrace Diversity and Social Justice
Gain an appreciation and passion for how diversity and difference characterize and shape the human experience. Learn how to advance human rights and social, economic and environmental justice at all levels of practice.

3. Develop Practical Skills
Focus on practical coursework that builds the real-world skills for effective work as an analyst, planner, advocate, leader and change agent. Graduate ready to transform social work practice from the individual to the societal level.

Other College of Social Work Programs:

Explore other programs offered by the UK College of Social Work.

Prepare for a Career in Social Work

Both programs are CSWE-accredited and prepare students for effective advanced practice across the micro-macro continuum with diverse populations. Our graduates are prepared for licensure and have consistently done well on the licensure exams.

Graduate ready for real-world practice. UK has the highest pass rate for licensure in the state, and one of the highest in the nation.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs for social workers will grow by 11 percent from 2018 to 20281. The University of Kentucky’s MSW program gives students the adaptable and exceptional skill set to take advantage of opportunities across the many practice areas and settings of this fast-growing, dynamic field.

Learn How

Complete the form to receive more information and speak to an Admissions Counselor.

Dedicated Support for Active Military & Veterans

Since 2009, the University of Kentucky has been recognized by Military Times as a Best for Vets school among public universities in the state. In addition to waiving the application fee for veterans, our military support teams can help you determine eligibility and use the variety of programs available to make your out-of-pocket costs as low as possible. Learn more.

Source:

  1. "Social Workers." Occupational Outlook Handbook. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, April 10, 2020. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/social-workers.htm#tab-1https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/social-workers.htm#tab-1