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College of Health and Human Sciences

Social Work Master of Social Work

What is an Advanced Generalist Master of Social Work Degree?

msw students 2018

Put power behind your commitment to social justice with an Advanced Generalist Master of Social Work degree. Our social work graduate students are driven to make a difference in local and global communities while increasing their abilities for leadership roles through CSU’s evidence-based, experiential programs.

As an Advanced Generalist practitioner, you will gain greater skill in assessing, planning, intervening, and evaluating across multiple system levels in order to respond to the evolving needs of individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities.

We have one of the most well-established Master of Social Work programs in the Mountain West. Colorado State University is a public land-grant institution with a strong network of alumni and community connections for field placements.

Our cohort model means you will go through your MSW program with the same group. This model fosters friendships and support networks, creating lasting bonds far beyond graduation day.

View CSU Course Catalog

Browse our Master of Social Work Programs

We offer Full-Time, Advanced Standing, Distance, and Dual-Degree MSW/MPH programs. You can choose the path that best meets your personal and professional goals. If you are in a two-year program, you can also complete a graduate certificate through the Center for Lifelong Learning and Outreach Education while you are in your MSW program.

Full-Time MSW Program

Our full-time MSW is on campus following the traditional academic calendar for two years, starting in mid-August. Applications are accepted October through December.

Advanced Standing MSW Program

Our Advanced Standing students hold a BSW degree. The program lasts one full calendar year, consisting of three semesters, starting in mid-May. Applications are accepted October through December.

Distance MSW Program

Our distance MSW program runs through CSU Online as a three-year part-time program. There is also a two-year part-time Advanced Standing program option. Applications are accepted March through June. The program starts in mid-January.

MSW/MPH Dual-Degree Program

Our MSW/MPH dual-degree program is on-campus full-time following the traditional academic calendar for six semesters, starting in mid-August. There is also a two-year full-time Advanced Standing program option. Applications are accepted October through December.

Gaining Clinical Skills in Field Education

Kristen Dingwall (MSW, ’20) has always been dedicated to helping families in crisis rebuild their lives. Through an internship with SummitStone Health Partners, she was able to practice skills learned in the classroom as well as gain clinical experience beyond campus.

kristin dingwall

Building Community Through Food

FoCo Cafe’s executive director Mallory Garneau (MSW ’17) came to CSU in 2009 from her home in the Highlands Ranch area as an undeclared major, but it was her experience studying abroad that solidified her interest in social work and making real-world change.

FoCo Cafe sign

Changing Careers to Make a Difference

Before his arrival at CSU, Chase Williams (MSW, ’18) was working as a paramedic at a major emergency department in Columbus, Ohio, with plans to go into community paramedicine and then nursing. However, he felt called to make a difference in another way.

chase williams

Resources Useful Links

Asset 106 Paying for Graduate School

There are a number of funding opportunities available for our graduate programs.

Asset 90 Advising and Support

Connect with a Graduate Program Adviser to help answer questions and help you begin your graduate career.

Asset 323 Program Goals and Information

Learn more about the goals and details of our program.

Accreditation Information

A Great Graduate Program

TOP 15% OF PUBLIC UNIVERSITIES 
Best Graduate Schools in Social Work in the U.S.
– U.S. News and World Report, 2020

US News and World Report Social Work 2020 ranking badge

Fueling a Passion for Mental Health and Social Justice

“I was originally drawn to social work because of my passion for both mental health and social justice work. I am being trained to become a therapist in a place that is rooted in social justice and advocacy.”

becca reymann

Spring 2020 MSW Graduate Research Projects

Through the completion of an applied capstone research project, students evaluate a topic relevant to social work practice at the micro, mezzo, or macro level, applying specific knowledge and skills acquired in CSU’s Master of Social Work program.

msw students group 3