Master’s in Social Work
MSW Program At-a-Glance
Course Format: Hybrid (in-person and online classes) and fully online
Program Duration: Part-time: 4 years, Full-time: 2 years, Advanced Standing: 1 year
Credits: 60 credits
Tuition: $900 per credit
Program Overview
The 60 credit curriculum of the MSW program aligns closely with the accreditation standards established by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).Our program provides students with the essential knowledge and skills, as well as advanced specialized courses designed to deepen their expertise in key areas of practice. Coursework includes:
- Social Problems and Programs: Understanding the historical, political, and economic contexts shaping social welfare policies and practices.
- Social Policy Analysis: Developing critical analytical skills to evalsuate social policies and advocate for effective changes.
- Human Behavior and Social Environments: Examining theoretical frameworks for understanding individual and community behaviors within diverse social contexts.
- Theory and Practice I, II, and III: Progressive development of essential social work practice skills, from foundational engagement techniques to advanced clinical interventions.
- Field Education with Integrated Seminars: Structured internships complemented by reflective seminars to integrate academic knowledge with practical experience.
- Research Methods in Social Work: Training in qualitative and quantitative research methodologies essential for evidence-based practice.
- Specialized courses in Mental Health and Psychopathology, Substance Abuse Theory, School Social Work: Focused coursework to equip students with the advanced skills necessary to practice effectively in these specialized areas.
Practicum education is the cornerstone of the MSW program at Saint Peter’s University. Students will engage in experiential learning through supervised field internships across diverse settings such as healthcare facilities, schools, social service agencies, and community organizations. These placements will be strategically aligned with the students’ areas of specialization, ensuring that your field experiences are both relevant and impactful.
Advanced Standing MSW
If you earned a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), you are eligible for advanced standing. This plan of study waives your first year of courses, entering the second year of the MSW program. Allowing you to earn your MSW in 1 year.Why Study Social Work at Saint Peter’s University?
Saint Peter’s University, with its rich Jesuit tradition, emphasizes a holistic educational approach known as cura personalis, or care for the whole person, and social justice. The MSW program aligns with these values by training students, not only in academic and professional skills, but also in ethical decision-making, cultural competency and advocacy for justice. Graduates should be able to respond effectively to individual and societal challenges, prioritizing service to marginalized communities and promoting overall human dignity and well-being.
How Does an MSW Prepare Students for the Future?
Graduates of the MSW program at Saint Peter’s University will emerge as leaders capable of influencing policy, transforming communities and enhancing individual and collective well-being. Guided by the Jesuit principle of “men and women for others,” they will be uniquely positioned to address mental health, child welfare and substance abuse as part of the workforce dedicated to service and justice — values that are at the heart of Saint Peter’s mission.
Graduates could pursue such careers paths as:
- Clinical Social Worker: provide therapy and mental health support to individuals, families, and groups in various settings like private practices, hospitals, and mental health clinics.
- Child Welfare Specialist: advocate for at-risk children and families, working in areas like child protective services and foster care.
- Community Programs Manager: oversee the planning, development, and implementation of social service programs.
- Public Policy Analyst: analyze and evalsuate social welfare policies and programs.
- Academic Advisor/Professor: work in educational settings, providing guidance and support to students.
Program Director
Dr. Megan Callahan Sherman, Ph.D., MSW, LCSW
MSW Program Director
Professor, Caulfield School of Education
Director of the Center for Child and Human Development
Dr. Sherman graduated from Fordham University, Graduate School of Social Service. She earned a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Social Work. Dr. Sherman holds the following licences and certifications: New Jersey Licensed Clinical Social Worker, New Jersey Department of Education Certified Supervisor, New Jersey Department of Education Certified School Social Worker, Certified Clinical Social Work Supervisor. Dr. Sherman has over 22 years of experience in Education, Higher Education teaching and research, Supervision and Administration, and Social Work.