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Social Work (M.S.W.)

Social Work is a profession that makes a difference in the lives of others. If you are interested in positive social change, Grand View’s Master of Social Work program will help you achieve your goals.

The Master of Social Work (MSW) program prepares students for professional practice with diverse people and systems, with an emphasis on competent, ethical services. Students will develop the skills they need to take an active role in addressing social problems and challenging social, economic, and environmental injustice.

We offer three distinct degree specialties — Administration and Leadership, Clinical Social Work and School Social Work to accommodate the personal and professional interests of our students.

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What to Expect

Grand View’s MSW program will prepare you to carry out inclusive practice with diverse and vulnerable groups in a variety of professional settings. Coursework reflects the requirements of the Council on Social Work Education and ensures you are prepared with the knowledge, skills, and values of the profession. In coursework you will be actively engaged in and out of the classroom and apply your learning to practice and leadership activities.

Coursework and field experiences may be completed in an accelerated (3-term) schedule, regular schedule, and part-time or full time. The type of schedule you choose depends on the undergraduate degree you have completed and how quickly you want to complete the program. Students enrolled in the Grand View MSW program are eligible to sit for the Licensed Master Social Work (LMSW) exam in the term in which they graduate.

Student Testimonial

Joe Wernau

“I have had nothing but positive experiences in my time at Grand View and I can’t imagine a better academic program set of instructors. While I am excited to be over half way done with my MSW program, I know I will miss Grand View when I finish.

I plan to pursue a career in macro social work, through policy, program development/coordination, or as an outreach coordinator. The graduate degree will open a lot more doors to me on my career path.”

Why Grand View?

  • Grand View is located in Iowa’s largest metro area, offering more access to clinicals, learning experiences and jobs.
  • Experienced faculty committed to your academic and career success.
  • Intensive advising from full-time faculty to support student growth and career development.
  • A rigorous academic program and preparation that will prepare you for a rewarding career as a social worker.
  • Students may transfer in up to 12 credits of graduate level coursework.
  • Students who have completed a bachelor’s degree may take up to 12 credits in the MSW program as non-degree seeking students without being accepted.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can graduates say they have completed an accredited program?

A: Not yet, although once we receive initial accreditation, it is retroactive for all GVU MSW graduates.

Q: What are the implications on the student for the GVU program not yet being accredited?

A: The implications of not graduating from an accredited program depend on what the student wants to do next. Most employers do not ask about accreditation status of the program, as they tend to be most concerned with the student having completed the coursework for an MSW and, where needed for the type of work the graduate expects to do, passed the master's level (LMSW) licensure exam.