How Hard is it to Get Into a MSW Program Without a BSW?
Psychology.org is committed to delivering content that is objective and actionable. To that end, we have built a network of industry professionals across higher education to review our content and ensure we are providing the most helpful information to our readers.
Drawing on their firsthand industry expertise, our Integrity Network members serve as an additional step in our editing process, helping us confirm our content is accurate and up to date. These contributors:
- Suggest changes to inaccurate or misleading information.
- Provide specific, corrective feedback.
- Identify critical information that writers may have missed.
Integrity Network members typically work full time in their industry profession and review content for Psychology.org as a side project. All Integrity Network members are paid members of the Red Ventures Education Integrity Network.
Master’s in social work (MSW) programs can be competitive, but you can apply with a bachelor’s degree in a non-social work field. This guide looks at the common requirements for an MSW and how to enhance your application.
Common MSW Prerequisites and Application Requirements
Aspiring social workers can enroll in an MSW without a bachelor of social work (BSW). Many online and on-campus programs accept a variety of majors in the humanities and sciences. Getting into a traditional MSW typically requires the following:
Bachelor’s degree: Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Many master’s programs do not require a specific undergraduate major.- GPA: A minimum 2.5-3.0 GPA
- Prerequisite coursework: Some institutions may require a foundation in the liberal arts or specific coursework such as English composition, psychology, sociology, and/or statistics.
- Resume: A resume outlining work experience, especially if relevant to social work, is often part of your MSW application packet.
- Letters of recommendation: Two letters of recommendation from employers or academic institutions are usually required.
Although you don’t need a BSW to apply to an MSW program, it can be beneficial. Social work schools may offer advanced standing MSW programs designed for those with a BSW accredited by the Council on Social Work Education. These accelerated, 32-39 credit programs focus on advanced social work practice and can be completed in as little as 11-12 months. Applicants generally need a minimum 3.0 GPA for admission.
Ideal Undergraduate Majors for MSW Applicants
If you want to pursue an MSW without a BSW, consider choosing a related undergraduate major, such as psychology, sociology, biology, or criminal justice.
- Psychology programs teach the fundamentals of the human mind and behavior. This provides a good foundation to work with clients facing mental health and other challenges.
- Sociology majors have a strong understanding of social groups and the problems they face within communities and systems.
- A biology major helps social workers understand the biological influences on mental health and behaviors they may clinically treat, such as substance use disorders.
- Social workers often interact with law enforcement and the criminal justice system, such as in cases of domestic violence and child abuse. A criminal justice degree teaches the inner workings of these systems.
Enhancing Your MSW Application
How can you stand out once you’re ready to apply to MSW programs?
Highlight relevant work or volunteer experience and your commitment to the field and social justice issues. Mentioning activities such as volunteering in the community and participating in research projects can also demonstrate your commitment to helping others.
If you don’t have a bachelor’s in a complementary major, consider that MSW programs generally value coursework in the liberal arts, humanities, and behavioral or social sciences. Some admissions teams may also want to see college-level natural sciences or mathematics coursework.
Frequently Asked Questions About MSW Program Admission
Traditional MSW programs typically take two years to complete, cover fundamental and advanced social work practice, and do not require a social work background for admission. Advanced standing programs take approximately one year to complete, focus on advanced practice, and require applicants to hold a BSW from a CSWE-accredited institution.
