Specialization Consolidation
The MSW program currently offers four specializations: Families & Children (F&C), Clinical Mental Health (CMH), Health, Disability & Aging (HDA), and Community Practice (CP). F&C, CMH, and HDA all prepare students for director practice and can lead to clinical licensure but have overlapping content and uneven enrollment. To streamline the curriculum and improve course balance, these three were merged into one specialization: Advanced Direct Practice with Individuals, Families, and Groups (ADP). The macro-focused CP was retained and renamed Advanced Macro Practice with Communities and Systems (AMP). We believe this will create few siloes, expand student choice in selecting classes, and help students select tracks based on future career goals.

Credit Standardization
Courses previously ranged from 1–3 credits, creating inconsistencies in faculty workload and student planning. Many foundational courses were 2 credits, which limited instructional depth. Starting Fall 2026, all courses are being standardized to 3 credits, allowing for more comprehensive content delivery and alignment with CSWE standards. This change slightly adjusted total program credits: Advanced Standing moves from 34 to 33 credits, and the Full Program from 53 to 54 credits.

Online Program Development
In response to student demand and national trends, the MSW program is launching an online option. Data shows a growing number of MSW graduates, especially in Minnesota, are completing degrees online. This reflects a shift toward serving nontraditional students—those who are older, employed, caregivers, first-generation, commuting, differently abled, or veterans. Nearly 30% of accredited MSW programs now offer online formats, with higher enrollment among women of color and African American students.

Offering flexible modalities is both a strategic and ethical move, aligning with social work’s mission to promote equity and access. Expanding online options supports diverse learners and strengthens the program’s long-term viability.

NOTE: These changes will only impact students admitted after these changes are approved. Current students completing foundation courses this academic year (2025-26) will not notice the changes.

Social Work M.S.W.

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