Does U of M offer proficiency exams for Foundation Courses?
No, proficiency exams are not offered. However, if you have extensive prior coursework in relevant areas you may qualify for an exemption.
Is the MSW program more research or clinically oriented?
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
Do I have to write a thesis to graduate from the MSW program?
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.
Are international or out-of-state field placements possible?
Yes, international or out-of-state field placements are possible, but require some extra planning. The School offers special programs such as the Global Activities Scholars Program, Jewish Communal Leadership Program, National Community Scholars Program, and Masters International Volunteer Program which all include field placement experience outside of Michigan. If you are interested in such placements you should apply to these programs early and contact the Office of Global Activities: (734) 936-1964 or [email protected].
What does the internship process entail, and how many are available?
Over 500 internship sites, termed field placements, are available. Students are required to submit a goal statement, resume, and a list of top placement choices to the Office of Field Education (OFE). Students are assigned a field educator with whom they will work closely with to set up a field placement. MSW students are required to complete 900 clock hours (672 hours for Advanced Standing students) of fieldwork related to their practice area and practice method concentrations. Please visit the OFE's website for additional information.
Does the University of Michigan have a bachelor of social work program?
The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor does not; however, the University of Michigan Flint offers a BSW program. Undergraduate students enrolled at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor may enroll in MSW courses in their junior and senior years with the permission of the instructor.
The University offers an LSA-approved minor for undergraduate students interested in community action and social change. Please view our website for information on the CASC Undergraduate Minor.
Does the University of Michigan offer a dual degree program?
Yes, official dual degree programs offered include:
- MSW/JD (Law School)
- MSW/MPH (School of Public Health, Health Behavior/Education)
- MSW/MPP (School of Public Policy)
- MSW/MBA (School of Business Administration)
- MSW/MUP (College of Architecture and Urban Planning)
- MSW/MSI (School of Information)
Students also may set up specialized student initiated dual degree programs. Student initiated dual degree programs have been set up by MSW students with natural resources, architecture, southeast Asian studies, education etc., in the past several years. Separate application materials are
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
What is the difference between the 16 and 20 month programs? How do I decide which one to choose?
Both tracks or curriculum schedules are four semesters in length; however 16-month students attend courses and complete fieldwork over four consecutive terms, including the spring/summer term, whereas 20-month students have the spring/summer term off between their first fall/winter terms and second fall/winter terms.
| 16 Month Track | 20 Month Track |
|---|---|
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Will I have an advisor? How are they assigned?
Yes, you will be assigned a faculty advisor whom you will meet at Fall Orientation. Students are paired with faculty advisors based on their practice method concentration; practice area is also taken into consideration. Your faculty advisor will assist you in making any changes in your curriculum, curriculum schedule or field placements; your advisor can also provide career guidance and support as you prepare to graduate. You will also have the opportunity to work with an Academic Planning Coordinator over the summer prior to registering for courses.