What are the main differences between the MSIL and MSW?
MA | MSW | |
|---|---|---|
Program Length & Credits | 30 credits 2 semester | 60 credits (45 credits for advanced standing or other accelerated options) 4 semesters (3 semesters for advanced standing or other accelerated options) |
Credential & Professional License | MA Degree is not eligible for social work licensure | MSW Degree is eligible for social work licensure |
Is there Field Placement? | No, students engage in a year-long social impact project but it is not a field placement | Yes, students complete a 900 hour field placement |
Access to faculty and resources of U-M and School of Social Work | Yes | Yes |
What can I expect in terms of different approaches to learning?
The MSIL is designed to be an interactive, project-based program that engages students in building skills and experiences in social impact leadership. Class size will be small, allowing for personal attention and customizing the MSIL coursework to meet student interests. Through the program, students will network with industry leaders, gain hands-on experiences, and work closely with cohorts of students. MSIL students will also have the opportunity to utilize the experiences and resources of the School of Social Work and the University of Michigan.
Can I pursue a dual degree with another master’s program at U-M?
As an MA in Social Impact Leadership student, you can use your electives to take courses in other graduate programs at the University of Michigan, including the Ross School of Business, the Ford School of Public Policy, the School of Environment and Sustainability, and the School of Information, among others. While there are no official dual degree options between the MSIL and other programs yet, this is something that could be built if students have a particular interest.
I saw there was an MSW Management & Leadership pathway. How does this differ?
Students in the MSIL will have a more intentional focus in social impact. Students in the MSW program, in one of the macro pathways, such as Management and Leadership, will have exposure to social impact content as part of their broader MSW degree. Students in the MSW will have the coursework and field placements necessary to obtain a license to practice social work.
Can I get a Dual Degree MSW/MSIL?
In some cases, you can and you can complete your MSW and MSIL in 5 semesters. If you are interested in a Dual Degree with the MSW, you must reach out to discuss your options for how to complete both. As a key caveat, not all MSW tracks are currently eligible for the Dual Degree with the MSIL.
Can I take classes in the MSW program during the MSIL?
Yes, you will be able to take classes in the MSW program as electives in the MSIL program.
How many credit hours will I take every semester?
Our students typically complete about 14 – 17 credit hours per semester. Full time students average 15 credit hours per semester. The number of credit hours students enroll in varies depending on which track you have chosen.
Typical Advanced Standing Schedule:
| Fall Term Year 1 | Winter Term Year 1 | Spring/Summer Term Year 1 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Credit Hours of Courses | 12 | 12 | 9 |
| Credit Hours of Fieldwork | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Total Credit Hours | 16 | 16 | 13 |
Typical 16 Month Schedule:
| Fall Term Year 1 | Winter Term Year 1 | Spring / Summer Term | Fall Term Year 2 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit Hours of Courses | 15 | 12 | 6 | 12 |
| Credit Hours of Fieldwork | 0 | 3 | 8 | 4 |
| Total Credit Hours | 15 | 15 | 14 | 16 |
Typical 20 Month Schedule:
| Fall Term Year 1 | Winter Term Year 1 | Fall Term Year 2 | Winter Term Year 2 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit Hours of Courses | 12 | 12 | 12 | 9 |
| Credit Hours of Fieldwork | 3 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Total Credit Hours | 15 | 16 | 16 | 13 |