SSW FAQ

No, a thesis is not required in the MSW program. There are two research/evaluation courses required (522 & 683) that prepare students to design and implement research projects, and most assignments for these courses will be research papers, but a formal thesis is not required. Students may set up an independent study course to receive credit for completing an optional formal thesis.

Because students choose a practice method concentration, a practice area, and fieldwork that best fits with their career ambitions, students may choose to focus more on theoretical and research coursework or on practice coursework. Many practice courses are offered in Interpersonal Practice, Community Organization, Management of Human Services and Social Welfare Policy and Evaluation. Many students in the MSW program focus primarily on developing skills for social work practice on the clinical or macro levels of intervention. Our faculty and curriculum emphasize evidenced-based practices, meaning that our students will not only be able to utilize the best practices, but also design and research them.

No, proficiency exams are not offered. However, if you have extensive prior coursework in relevant areas you may qualify for an exemption.

Exemptions from foundation courses will be granted when students have extensive prior comparable courses (minimum of two), covering essentially all of the content of a foundation course in either an undergraduate or graduate program, completed within the last six years PRIOR to enrollment in the MSW program with a grade of "B" or better. Prior work experience is NOT a basis for exemptions. An exemption does not reduce the total number of hours required for graduation. Exemptions provide an opportunity to take additional electives.

Incoming MSW students are informed by the School of Social Work when they can submit an Exemption Request Form to be evaluated for possible exemptions from foundation courses.

About half of the MSW course sections have 25 - 30 students and about half have fewer than 25 students. Occasionally, but infrequently, sections are combined into a larger sections (approximately 40-50 students) to provide students with a more rich academic experience.

The School offers some classes in the evening and some mini courses may be schedules on weekends. Students must be able to complete coursework and fieldwork during the day during the week to complete the MSW program at Michigan.

No, the Council on Social Work Education does not allow accredited MSW programs to provide credit for work experience. However, experience does make it more likely that an applicant will be admitted and some scholarship aid is provided based on extensive experience..

Approximately 415 new students are enrolled each fall term. Total size of the MSW program is about 700 in the fall term, 500 in the winter term and 350 in the spring/summer term.

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Yes, the MSW program has been accredited by the CSWE since 1922.