Case Western Reserve University

What you'll study

The MSW curriculum combines foundational social work theory with applied practice skills, research methods and practicum experiences. Full-time students typically complete a two-year sequence that covers human behaviour and the social environment, clinical assessment and intervention, social welfare policy, programme evaluation, and ethics in social work practice. Students who hold an accredited BSW may be eligible for an advanced-standing option that shortens time to degree by recognising prior coursework.

Core modules commonly include:

• Foundation Practice Skills: engagement, assessment, intervention and documentation across the lifespan.
• Clinical Practice: evidence-based psychotherapy approaches, trauma-informed care, substance use treatment and family systems work.
• Policy and Advocacy: analysis of social welfare systems, advocacy strategies and programme development.
• Research and Evaluation: quantitative and qualitative methods, outcome measurement and programme evaluation.
• Field Education: supervised practicum placements in community agencies, healthcare settings, schools or government organisations.

Students may also choose electives or specialisms in areas such as mental health, child and family services, geriatrics, public health, trauma and resilience, or organisational leadership. Interdisciplinary options and dual-degree pathways are available to combine social work with public health, law, management or other professional fields.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution with a competitive academic record. Admissions typically consider the applicant's prior coursework, personal statement, letters of recommendation, and relevant paid or volunteer experience in human services. Candidates for advanced standing should hold a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from a CSWE-accredited programme to receive credit for foundation coursework.

Additional requirements may include a résumé/CV and an interview. Some applicants may be asked to submit transcripts demonstrating specific prerequisite coursework (for example, statistics or human development), but exact prerequisites and whether standardised tests are required vary; applicants should consult the programme for current application guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MSW programme work across clinical, community and organisational settings. Typical career paths include licensed clinical social worker (providing therapy in hospitals, mental health clinics and private practice), school social worker, medical or hospital social worker, child welfare and family services practitioner, community organiser, policy analyst, programme manager, and roles in nonprofit leadership.

The programme’s field education component and local agency partnerships help graduates build practical experience and professional networks for licensure and employment. Many alumni pursue clinical licensure, leadership positions in human services, research roles, or further interdisciplinary study.

Why study at Case Western Reserve University

Case Western Reserve’s MSW is delivered by the Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences and benefits from the university’s strong clinical and interdisciplinary connections in Cleveland. Students can complete field placements in a wide range of settings through partnerships with hospitals, community organisations and government agencies, gaining exposure to urban and specialised practice environments.

Interprofessional collaboration is a hallmark of the university: MSW students can engage with faculty and students from medicine, public health, law and management, supporting integrated approaches to health, policy and social services. Faculty typically include scholars and experienced practitioners who combine research with applied practice, and the programme emphasises evidence-informed practice, social justice and leadership development.

Prospective students should review the Mandel School’s programme pages for the most current details on specialisms, practicum arrangements and application instructions.