Explore the Master of Social Work program at Penn State University. This program is offered in USA and provides an excellent learning opportunity in Masters studies.

The Master of Social Work (MSW) program at Penn State World Campus prepares students for a career as clinical social workers, equipping them with the necessary values, knowledge, and skills to address the diverse needs of society. The program offers two specializations: Children and Families, and Mental Health and Substance Use. Students will complete a total of 60 credits, including 36 credits of required courses and 12 credits of field education practicum. The curriculum emphasizes cultural competence and practical skills in engaging, evaluating, and intervening with individuals, families, and groups. The program is designed to be flexible, allowing students to complete most courses online while also requiring in-person field education. Students can choose to study full-time or part-time, making it accessible for those balancing work and personal commitments. Graduates will be well-prepared for various roles in social work, including clinical practice and leadership positions in social services.

Required Courses

• MSW 510 Research Methods in Clinical Social Work Practice
• MSW 560 Applied Research in Clinical Social Work Practice
• MSW 811 Foundations in Clinical Social Work Practice 1
• MSW 812 Foundation in Clinical Social Work Practice 2
• MSW 813 Human Development in the Social Environment
• MSW 814 Social Welfare Policy
• MSW 815 Clinical Social Work Practice Across the Lifespan 1
• MSW 816 Clinical Social Work Practice Across the Lifespan 2
• MSW 819 Diverse Populations in Clinical Social Work Practice
• MSW 850 Diagnosis and Assessment in Clinical Social Work Practice
• MSW 855 Essential Skills for Clinical Social Work Practice
• MSW 865 Clinical Social Work Practice in Urban and Rural Settings

Elective Courses

• MSW 870 Clinical Social Work Practice with Children and Families 1
• MSW 871 Clinical Social Work Practice with Children and Families 2
• MSW 875 Policy Issues with Children and Families
• MSW 876 Trauma and Treatment with Children and Families
• MSW 880 Clinical Social Work Practice in Mental Health and Substance Use 1
• MSW 881 Clinical Social Work Practice in Mental Health and Substance Use 2
• MSW 885 Policy Issues in Mental Health and Substance Use
• MSW 886 Trauma and Treatment in Mental Health and Substance Use