How to Choose MSW Programs to Apply to
There are many Master of Social Work programs, which means many options exist when applying to pursue this degree. However, MSW applications are expensive and extensive, so reviewing the various programs and applying them to those that work best for you is important. Here are a few questions to ask yourself when evaluating programs:
What type of MSW program do you need to apply to?
Advanced Standing vs. Regular Track
This is the first consideration when applying to MSW programs because there are two key types of MSW programs:
You will apply to 1-year, advanced-standing MSW programs if you have a BSW.
You will apply to 2-year, regular-track MSW programs if you have a different degree.
Find accredited MSW programs
While many schools offer 2-year MSW programs, this consideration may eliminate some from your list because not all schools do, as some just offer advanced-standing programs.
It is also highly recommended that you make sure any MSW programs you apply to are accredited. It is essential to attend an accredited MSW program if you want to pursue licensure or registration as a social worker.
Provincial, state, or national websites such as the Council on Social Work Education and the Canadian Association of Social Work Education will have lists of accredited programs in your area.
Are you willing to move for a MSW program?
Location is an essential factor to consider before applying to schools.
In my case, I had a school with an MSW program in my hometown, but I wanted to move away for graduate school. However, I knew I wanted to stay in my home province and live in a bigger city, which helped me narrow down the various options.
It is helpful to reflect on whether you are willing to move, how far you are willing to move, the cost of living in the cities you are applying to, and the opportunities available in these cities.
What is your learning style?
MSW programs may be entirely in-person or online, depending on which you apply to.
Online programs, such as Wilfrid Laurier University’s part-time program, can be helpful for applicants who are unable to move to a different city or have busy schedules, but they require self-motivation and discipline.
In-person programs may benefit those who enjoy discussion, learn best with others, or want a strong cohort bond. When pursuing an online program, it will also be important to understand if the program is asynchronous, synchronous with live lectures, or a blend of both.
What social work approach or theory are you most interested in?
Some schools may follow a specific approach to social work or have a unique focus.
For example, I attend Carleton University, which utilizes a structural approach to social work.
Some other programs may have a strong clinical or practice focus, while others may be more suited to those interested in pursuing policy work.
Coming from a school with a specific approach, I can say that this approach is ingrained in all aspects of the school and courses, so you will want to ensure it is an approach or focus you are aligned with. If you are strongly interested in clinical social work, that program may be great for you, but it may be less beneficial to someone interested in a career in policy. That is not to say that someone interested in policy cannot apply to these programs, but it is a factor to consider.
What opportunities are you looking for in a MSW program?
If you want to pursue a Ph.D. or a career in research or academics, you may consider applying to programs with a thesis option. If you want to be a counsellor, opportunities for practice, simulation, and feedback, such as those at the University of Toronto, may be intriguing and beneficial. Each school has something to offer and likely provides opportunities beyond coursework, but an awareness of unique opportunities you connect with can help rank programs of interest.
Courses and specializations
Most MSW programs list their courses on their website. Review these before applying to the program to ensure some courses connect with your long-term goals and what you want to learn during your degree.
For example, if you want to work with children and youth, you may review the available courses to see which programs offer courses related to that population. Programs may also offer specializations, so reviewing these options to see if there is a specialization that interests you may clarify whether that is the right school for you.
Do you have the degree requirements needed to apply?
As mentioned, applicants should be able to access a list of required and elective courses on each program’s website. The website should also provide information about the degree requirements, or the courses required to graduate. This is helpful knowledge to have, in general, but it will also help you understand the unique composition of each program.
Some schools may require a major paper as part of their requirements, allow students to do independent study courses, or offer a thesis option instead of a practicum. While these opportunities may be less impactful on where to apply than location or format, they are still valuable to consider, especially when narrowing down your list.
So, what factors are most important to consider when choosing an MSW program?
While many MSW programs are available, not every program will suit your unique needs. The criteria listed above are all program attributes to consider, but some may be more important to you than others.
For example, if you are 100% certain you cannot move out of your area, that will be your most important factor in evaluating programs. In contrast, someone who does want to move may decide that the school’s focus or specializations take priority.
Reviewing program websites and attending information sessions before applying will help narrow the choices and ensure that the programs you apply to will be ones you are able and excited to attend.
However, it is crucial to recognize that no matter what program you choose, you will be graduating with a Master of Social Work degree, which will open so many doors for you.
