The new program offers access and affordability to meet the growing demand for social workers nationwide
Social workers are in demand in Connecticut and across the country due to a rising need for clinical practice providers in mental health, substance misuse, and child and adolescent well-being.
To ensure access and affordability to more individuals who have a passion for helping others and promoting social justice for individuals, families, and communities, UConn School of Social Work (SSW) has launched a new Online MSW program.
The program is fully online and part-time to accommodate the schedules of busy students as well as individuals working in social service and related fields who want to advance their careers. It also offers a competitive tuition rate for out-of-state students who want a UConn degree without having to move or commute long distances.
"Our new Online MSW will provide the same rigorous education and training as the on-campus program for students who want to attend our top-ranked social work graduate program," says Dean and Professor Laura Curran. The UConn SSW is ranked in the top 12% of graduate social work programs nationally by U.S. News and World Report, making it the number one option in Connecticut.
Employment of social workers was projected to grow 7% from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The new Online MSW program, which will start in Fall 2024, is accepting applications now.
Designed to provide comprehensive education and training, UConn's Online MSW combines theoretical knowledge with extensive hands-on experience through field internships with the School's more than 250 agency and community partners.
Students will be taught and mentored by nationally recognized faculty experts who generate impactful research and scholarship in increasingly critical areas, such as aging, child and adolescent well-being, immigrant and refugee rights, health and behavioral health, and LGBTQ+ youth and families.
"The Online MSW curriculum mirrors the high-quality teaching and field experiences of our on-campus program, with the flexibility that part-time students need to complete their degrees," says Associate Dean for Academic Affairs Scott Harding.
With a deep commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and anti-racism, UConn's MSW program prepares graduates to address complex social issues and advocate for positive systemic change for marginalized communities.
Alumni leave the program with a wide range of career options available to them, including as mental health counselors, medical social workers, school social workers, geriatric social workers, and as addiction and substance use counselors, among others.
"The launch of the new online MSW program reflects UConn's commitment to provide accessible, high-quality education to a diverse population with different needs. The flexibility afforded by an online modality will greatly benefit students and is made possible by the innovative leadership and faculty of the School of Social Work," says Anne D'Alleva, Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs.
