Social Work - Master of Science

The MSW in Social Work is a 32-credit program for Advanced Standing students (students with an undergraduate social work degree) and a 58-credit program for Traditional students (students without an undergraduate social work degree). The Advanced Standing Program starts in the summer and the Traditional Program starts in the fall semester.

For a comprehensive overview of the program structure and required courses, please refer to the Graduate Catalog. 

State-specific Professional Licensure information for this program can be found on the university's Institutional Research & Planning website.

Minimum Requirements

• Transcript demonstrating Bachelor's degree from a 4-year college or university accredited by a recognized regional accrediting association
• Minimum GPA of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale (you may apply if your GPA is less than 2.75, but you would be placed on probation status if admitted)

• • School Social Work Certificate Program applicants need to have a minimum of a 3.0 GPA and cannot be admitted to the program on a probation status. In order to graduate, these certificate holders are required to have a 3.0 GPA.

• • For advanced-standing students, minimum GPA of 3.0 is required in all core social work courses
• Intro to statistics course: 200-level or higher, with a grade of C or better (this prerequisite may be taken at UWW the summer before the fall your MSW program begins)
• Personal statement and resume
• Background check will be completed prior to your field placement, but is not part of the application process (unless you are pursuing school social work)
• 3 positive references
  • If you graduated in the last 5 years:

• • • At least one academic reference (i.e., reference from an academic instructor);
    • One academic reference or a professional reference (i.e., reference from field internship, volunteering, or work); and,
    • The third reference can be an academic reference, a professional reference, or a personal reference

• • If you graduated more than 5 years ago:
    • One academic reference or a professional reference;
    • One academic reference or a professional reference; and,
    • The Third reference can be an academic reference, a professional reference, or a personal reference
  • Note: A reference from a family member is not allowed

• The GRE test is NOT required.

This program at UW-Whitewater is a superior value at $585.74 USD per credit as a resident and $1,200.20 USD per credit as a non-resident for the 2024-25 academic year. Visit the Tuition and Fees webpage for complete information.

Financial aid

Students completing a degree program may be eligible for financial aid in the form of grants, loans, scholarships, or employment. All of these make up a “Financial Aid Package” and may be offered singly or in various combinations. Since funds are limited, priority for aid is based on financial need and how promptly applications are filed. To find out if you qualify, or if you have other financial aid questions, contact the financial aid staff person assigned to you or try uwwfao@uww.edu or 262-472-1130.

Interested in taking a tour of UW-Whitewater campus? You can visit in person or virtually. Visit our tours website to select your option.

Like to learn more about degree options through UW-Whitewater School of Graduate Studies? There are a few ways you can get the information you need. Visit our information sessions website to select a virtual information session related to the program you are interested in. You can also fill out a request for information to connect with an advisor who can discuss your goals and help guide you to the right program to pursue your dreams.

The Graduate Certificate in Gerontology at UW-Whitewater enhances the skill sets of professionals to meet the ever-changing multidimensional needs of older adults. 

More information on this certificate program can be found on the UWW Online website.

The graduate certificate in Post MSW School Social Work is designed for individuals who have already obtained a Master's in Social Work but are interested in school social work.

More information on this certificate program can be found on the School of Graduate Studies website.

The graduate certificate in School Social Work is designed for individuals who want to support students' social, emotional, developmental, and behavioral needs that may get in the way of learning to improve emotional well-being and academic performance. 

More information on this certificate program can be found on the School of Graduate Studies website.

The graduate certificate in Substance Abuse Counseling will provide an understanding of addiction, evidence-based treatment approaches, and effective counseling techniques to support individuals on their path to recovery.

More information on this certificate program can be found on the School of Graduate Studies website.