How many credits do full-time online students take each semester?

Full-time online students enroll in 14-16 credits each semester for 3 semesters to complete the 45-credit degree program. In some semesters, this includes credits for field placement hours.

Full-time students will complete their field credits over 2 or 3 semesters depending on their curriculum schedule.

How many credits do part-time online students take each semester?

Part-time online students enroll in 5-7 credits each semester for 7 semesters to complete the 45-credit degree program. In some semesters, this includes credits for field placement hours.

Part-time students will typically complete their field credits in their last 3 or 4 semesters of the part time program depending on their curriculum schedule.

How many days per week are online students in field placement?

Students who enter the Online MSW Program through the Social Work Essentials/MasterTrack Certificate, U-M Sociology and Social Work or UM Dearborn Human Services and Social Work programs will complete 16 hours of field placement (2 days/week) for four semesters.

Advanced Standing eligible students in the full time online program will complete 24 hours field placement (3 days/week) for two semesters. Advanced standing students in the part time online program will complete 16 hours of field placement (2 days/week) for three semesters.

How many Online MSW students will be in a cohort every semester?

We anticipate approximately 60 Online MSW students per semester.

If I am working as a social worker, would I still need to complete 912 internship hours (684 hrs. for advanced standing students)?

Yes, however, students may be able to complete and employment-based field placement with their current organization. Students must have a different LMSW supervisor for their field hours, MSW level tasks in line with the competencies required for their pathway, and an affiliation agreement must be established with the University of Michigan and the organization.

If I complete the MasterTrack or Social Work Essentials certificate program can I apply to the Online MSW degree program?

You may apply for the Online Master of Social Work (MSW) program before, during, or after starting or completing the MasterTrack or Social Work Essentials Certificate program. Some students may want to have confirmation that they are fully admitted to the MSW program before purchasing the MasterTrack or Social Work Essentials courses. Review the posted deadlines for the Online MSW Program and apply as early as possible.

Is the Online MSW program offered through the School of Social Work or the Rackham Graduate School at U-M?

The Online and On-Campus MSW programs are offered through the School of Social Work, which is separate from the Rackham Graduate School.

Is there a difference between the Online and On-campus MSW Programs?

Yes, the online MSW program will only be offered as part-time for those interested in our Interpersonal Practice in Integrated Health, Mental Health, and Substance Abuse pathway. Students can complete our on-campus MSW program either full-time or part-time. Our evening part time program is also limited to the Interpersonal Practice in Integrated Health, Mental Health, and Substance Abuse pathway.

What is the cost of the Online MSW program?

Students in the Online MSW Program will have 45 credits remaining for the MSW degree, which is equivalent to 3 semesters of full time tuition cost. Tuition costs vary based upon whether a student is a Michigan resident or non-resident. Tuition estimates can be found here. If a student enters through the MasterTrack or Social Work Essentials MSW Program they will have additional cost for the certificate.