Social Work Education

The School of Social Work is committed to turning today’s students into tomorrow’s leaders. Underscoring this objective is a rigorous curriculum that empowers students to be active and responsible learners. Courses are led by faculty who value evidence-based practice and the importance of self-reflection. The School of Social Work promotes a supportive academic environment. Students, with faculty and staff assistance, design a plan of study that best suits their academic and professional goals and provides a thorough and enriching educational experience.

Masters of Social Work Program

The MSW program is designed to educate social workers for advanced practice. Graduates are prepared to provide leadership in the development of socially- and economically-just policies that strengthen individuals, families, groups, organizations and communities.

With full-time, distance education and advanced standing options, the School offers a variety of ways for you to obtain your MSW degree. Concentration options include direct practice, management and community practice and a self-directed concentration.

MSW degree requirements include:

• 62 credit hours
• Up to 1,100 hours in field practice

The School also offers Dual Degree programs coordinated jointly with UNC’s School of Public Health, School of Law, Department of Public Administration, and Duke University’s Divinity School.

Doctoral Program

Building on our nationally recognized master’s program in social work,the Ph.D. program prepares graduates to be leaders in their profession by conducting research on innovative social interventions and sharing their work through writing and teaching. Our graduates are well prepared to assume leadership roles at the state, national and international level. Since the program’s inception in 1994, more than 60 graduates have received doctoral degrees and are now helping to shape the field of social work through faculty appointments, post-doctoral research and within government agencies, nonprofits and foundations.

Graduates hold faculty appointments nationwide at top academic institutions, including the University of Alabama, Columbia University, Indiana University, University of Kentucky, University of Michigan, Florida State University, University of Denver, Washington University, Virginia Commonwealth University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Ph.D. requirements include:

• 45 credit hours
  
• Two-year residency

Additionally, the School offers certificate and licensure training opportunities as well as a study abroad program.