Explore fundamental concepts of social work and social justice with the #1 School of Social Work. The Social Work Essentials certificate (SWEC) provides three options for you to explore and study social work. You can earn the Social Work Essentials certificate only or combined with the MSW program. Learn about your options below.
Note: The Social Work Essentials Certificate is valid for two years. Students planning to pursue the Social Work Essentials MSW must have completed their certificate within two years of beginning the MSW program.
Choose the Path That Fits Your Goals
Option 1: Earn a social work certificate online
The Social Work Essentials certificate provides you with advanced critical analysis, problem solving and research skills in preparation for various types of social work.
Option 2: Start online — finish your degree on campus
- Complete the Social Work Essentials certificate online and finish your MSW in Ann Arbor
- Students who finish the Social Work Essentials certificate and are admitted to the program will complete an MSW degree in three (full time) or seven (part time) semesters on campus
- Completion of the certificate reduces your credit hours from 60 to 45, saving you time and money
- Students can choose between eight curricular pathways covering the breadth of the social work profession.
Option 3: Earn your MSW online
- The online curricular pathways are Interpersonal Practice in Integrated Health, Mental Health, & Substance Abuse, which prepares you to become a licensed clinical social worker, and Children, Youth, and Families (formerly Welfare of Children & Families), which prepares you to support children, adolescents, and adults.
- The online program is a 45-credit program