The Master of Social Work (MSW) program at Rutgers University School of Social Work is one of the best social work graduate programs in the nation, as ranked by U.S. News & World Report. Our outstanding faculty are comprised of nationally-recognized researchers who work alongside leaders in clinical social work and non-profit and public administration. Students choose a specialization in Clinical Social Work or Management and Policy as well as numerous options for certificate programs, areas of emphases and global study. Our MSW program offers some of the most robust practicum opportunities in the nation, with student placement in approximately 1,000 practicum learning agencies throughout the state of New Jersey and nation-wide.
We offer the MSW program in multiple formats.
Many of our programs offer an advanced standing option for students who have earned a baccalaureate degree in social work from an undergraduate social work program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).
During their first year of study, MSW students take the direct practice immersion sequence, a series of two courses that lays the foundation upon which their entire social work education will be built. The sequence is grounded in social justice-oriented direct practice with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. Learn more about the sequence and how it is preparing the next generation of social work professionals through hands-on and reflective learning opportunities. This immersion sequence is only available in our traditional on-campus program. We are working to incorporate into our other MSW programs.
We strive to offer Master of Social Work (MSW) degree programs that are flexible, accessible, and affordable. Browse the programs listed below to choose the format that best suits your lifestyle and goals. Advanced standing MSW options are available to eligible students in the Traditional, 100% Online, and Intensive Weekend programs
The traditional, on-campus program is the largest MSW program at the School. Offered on all three campuses (New Brunswick, Camden, and Newark), students choose from a schedule of daytime and evening classes and an incredible array of practicums available throughout New Jersey and neighboring states. This program is also available as an advanced standing option.
The most affordable online option for New Jersey residents, the MSW blended online program offers significant flexibility, as well as the benefits of a live classroom experience to acquire advanced practice skills and competencies.
The 100% online MSW program in clinical social work offers close interactions between students and faculty and is designed for self-directed students who seek the flexibility and convenience of online learning. This program is also available as an advanced standing option.
The Intensive Weekend (IW) program is the only MSW program at Rutgers and in the State of New Jersey specifically designed for employed students with an experiential background in the human services and related fields. This program is also available as an advanced standing option.
In an effort to offer as many opportunities as possible, Rutgers School of Social Work offers graduate dual degrees. Please note that students must apply to the MSW on-campus program to take part in the options below.
Professional Credit Courses (PCC) are non-degree, graduate-level courses offered through Rutgers School of Social Work.
We offer an Advanced Standing MSW option through our Traditional, 100% Online, and Intensive Weekend Programs and is designed for students who have earned a baccalaureate degree in social work from an undergraduate social work program accredited, in the U.S. or Canada, by the Council on Social Work Education. The Advanced Standing MSW is a 39 credit program and can be completed in one to two years as a full-time or part-time student.
IIDEA is infused throughout the entire curriculum in each of the School of Social Work's programs. Learn more about RUSSW's commitment to inclusion, intersectionality, diversity, equity and advancement.
Beyond offering our MSW program in multiple formats including full- and part-time on-campus, 100% online, blended online and in-person learning, and intensive weekend options, students also have the opportunity to further customize their studies to best suit their areas of interest and future career plans.
A specialization focuses on advanced methods of social work practice by size and type of client system and are designed to develop greater depth in knowledge and skills building upon the generalist foundation required for all MSW students. Both specializations require two (2) advanced practice methods course and a minimum of six (6) credits of advanced practicum learning instruction.
Rutgers School of Social Work offers five embedded MSW certificate programs. Upon admission to the MSW program, new students are encouraged to contact the certificate program of their choice to begin the application process.
Designated Emphasis Programs are noted on student transcripts and requires students to select electives from emphasis-specific offerings and complete their practicum learning studies at an agency completing similar work.
The School of Social Work has several study abroad programs that offer students an incredible opportunity to examine social welfare policy and social work practice in other countries, as well as a deeper understanding of another culture. MSW students have the opportunity to further their studies in Romania, China, and other offered locations.
The Social Work Policy Network remains committed to sharing key news updates, policy changes, action opportunities, events & more - with content particularly focused on social justice, equity, and systemic change.
Dual J.D. and M.S.W. graduate is developing her path for bringing legal and social services to those in need.
The IIDEA Committee, comprised of faculty, students, and staff, is hitting its stride and meeting many of its goals as it approaches five years of advocacy and action.