Master of Social Work (MSW)

  • Competency-based education
  • 500 – 900 hours of field experience
  • Traditional or Advanced Standing tracks

Fairleigh Dickinson University is ranked #14 in Best Value Schools in the north by U.S. News & World Report’s Best Colleges 2024.

Overview | Curriculum | Faculty | Admissions | State Licensure | Fieldwork Requirements

Overview

Fairleigh Dickinson University’s Master of Social Work online program prepares you to make a positive impact on social and economic justice, human rights and quality of life for diverse populations. In this program, you will develop valuable skills to promote physical, psychological and social well-being for clients in various settings and regions of practice.

The online MSW curriculum combines didactic and practical learning through coursework delivered in an online format. It provides a competency-based education, preparing you to work as an advanced social work practitioner capable of leading developmental efforts in both public and private social service arenas. This program is designed for a variety of students to include: traditional students, working professionals and adult learners.

Fairleigh Dickinson University’s MSW Program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).

FDU’s Master of Social Work online program includes extensive field practicum experience. You will have the opportunity to apply the theory, skills and approaches learned in the course work to real-world situations. Placement opportunities include those in hospitals and other healthcare settings, schools, criminal justice settings, grassroots organizations, mental health services and more. You will work closely with a dedicated field coordinator to identify placements for your field experience hours.

In Accordance With CSWE, Our Online MSW Program Prepares You To:

  • Demonstrate ethical and professional behavior.
  • Engage diversity and difference in practice.
  • Advance human rights and social, economic and environmental justice.
  • Engage in practice-informed research and research-informed practice.
  • Engage in policy practice.
  • Engage with individuals, families, groups, organizations and communities.
  • Assess individuals, families, groups, organizations and communities.
  • Intervene with individuals, families, groups, organizations and communities.
  • Evaluate practice with individuals, families, groups, organizations and communities.

Program Outcomes

Open the PDF to view program outcomes for FDU’s Master of Social Work online program.

Farleigh Dickinson University's first MSW graduating class 2023

Farleigh Dickinson University’s first MSW graduating class 2023.

Program’s Mission Statement

The mission of Fairleigh Dickinson University’s Master of Social Work (FDU’s MSW) program is focused on producing competent professionals to serve diverse clients and systems while promoting social and economic justice and enhancing human rights for oppressed and vulnerable populations in various geographical locations. FDU’s MSW program strives to enhance the overall well-being and quality of life for all individuals and communities through the application of evidence-based practices and scientific inquiry. The education and training provided will reflect the purpose and values of the social work profession.

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Upcoming Events

Fall Information Session: To learn more about the online Master of Social Work program, attend our upcoming Fall Information Session hosted by program director, Dr. Zakia Clay, and other program faculty. The information session will include a program overview and Q&A session with faculty for all interested, including applicants, families, and advisors:

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Courses and Requirements

The Master of Social Work online program provides a comprehensive learning experience that combines social work theory with practical application. The online MSW degree features two program options, advanced standing and traditional. These tracks allow you to choose the course of study that best aligns with your previous educational experience. If you have previously earned a BSW, you may qualify for Advanced Standing and complete 30 hours of concentration courses and 500 hours of fields experience The traditional program is ideal for students who have not previously studied social work, featuring 900 hours of field experience and a total of 60 credit hours.

 

Student Testimonial

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Faculty

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Admission Requirements

Those applying for admission into the online MSW program will be required to complete the following items:

  • A graduate application
  • Official transcripts
  • Up-to-date curriculum vitae or resume
  • Personal statement
    • When formulating your personal statement, please use the prompts listed below as paragraph headings:
      1. Your reasons for selecting the FDU Masters of Social Work program and your thoughts on how the program’s mission statement addresses your short and long-term career goals.
      2. Successes and/or challenges you’ve experienced in your pursuit of higher education and motivating factors that led you to where you are today.
      3. Your plan for managing the demands of graduate study with the required field practicum and personal obligations.

Traditional Track

In order to be eligible for admission into the traditional program, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor’s degree inclusive of coursework from the liberal arts; and
  • A minimum overall GPA of 2.75.

Advanced Standing Track

In order to be eligible for admission into the advanced standing program, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor’s degree in social work, accredited by the Council on Social Work Education; and
  • A minimum overall GPA of 3.0.

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Why FDU?

Personalized Learning

Through its small intimate classes and superb faculty, FDU offers students a hands-on approach to learning that caters to individual needs.

A Global Community

Our multi-disciplinary programs reach and connect students across the world.

Academic Excellence

Through our commitment to providing rigorous programs, students at FDU are poised to become the next generation of leaders.

Benefits of Learning Online

Pursuing an online degree means the chance to further your career.

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Career Outcomes

Career and salary information via the Bureau of Labor Statistics.