The School's view of Pathways is based on the idea that rapidly changing policies, emerging evidence-based practices, and dramatic changes in service delivery patterns and structures require a graduate to be well-grounded in the methodologies of change as well as the contexts of practice. The curriculum builds on a generalist essential curriculum and provides students the choice of eight specialized pathways.
Specialized pathways focus on theories and interventions related to practice with individuals, families, groups, organizations, communities, and/or society. Pathways also provide an opportunity to apply this knowledge, focusing on selected contexts and domains of practice, with particular attention given to specific policies, procedures, and practices. Each pathway serves to broaden and deepen foundation knowledge and skills, and enhance the specialized skills needed for students to know the how and why of their interventions.
Students complete twelve credit hours in their specialized pathway and have the option to choose a second pathway. Students that choose a second pathway will use twelve elective credits to complete coursework for their second specialized pathway. More information on secondary pathways can be found here.
Students in the online MSW program and on-campus part-time/evening MSW program must select the Interpersonal Practice in Integrated Health, Mental Health, and Substance Abuse pathway and cannot select a second pathway.
Beginning Fall 2024, students in the online MSW program may select the Interpersonal Practice in Integrated Health, Mental Health, and Substance Abuse pathway or Welfare of Children & Families pathway and cannot select a second pathway.
University of Michigan
School of Social Work
1080 South University Avenue
Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1106