MSW Brochure

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PARTNERING for CHANGE

CHOOSE PATH RUTGERS

MASTER

OF

SOCIAL

WORK

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At Rutgers School of Social Work, our mission is to develop and disseminate knowledge through social work research, education, and training that promotes justice and strengthens individual, family, and community well-being. Deeply grounded in inclusion, intersectionality, diversity, equity, and advancement, our School presents a force for good within the community and the world at large. But our work goes far beyond that.

The School is a dynamic institution that supports students in becoming leaders who serve society in clinical, policy, management, community, corporate, and academic settings. Ranked with the best MSW program in New Jersey and in the top twenty programs throughout the country, Rutgers School of Social Work’s flexible and affordable programs are led by pioneering faculty and accomplished practitioners.

We also offer MSW specializations and certificates that prepare and empower graduates of our program to support the needs of the communities in which they live and work. From addictions to aging, the School assesses its community needs and creates spaces to respond to them in culturally informed and collaborative ways. In addition, our institute and centers engage in the kind of integrated research and practice work that serves and grows our profession.

I invite you to explore our offerings and think about how you, too, can make a positive difference in the world. I hope that our mission of education, research, and service will become your calling.

In Community,

George Leibowitz, Ph.D. DEAN AND DISTINGUISHED PROFESSOR SCHOOL OF SOCIAL WORK RUTGERS UNIVERSITY

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Affordable Committed Diversity Recognized Justice

Research Career Dedicated Student Support Specialized Community-based MSW / RUTGERS SCHOOL OF SOCIAL WORK

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TOP20PROGRAMS

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O U R F A C U LT Y Our faculty members are a dynamic community of over 200 leaders —tenured professors advancing the field of social work through original, published research, professors of teaching and professional practice, and lecturers actively working in local communities and bringing those experiences into the classroom.

OUR STUDENTS Our student body is ethnically, economically, and geographically diverse. Many of our students are recent college graduates, while others are looking to change careers or enhance their social work education.

O U R PA R T N E R S H I P S To ensure that we have the greatest possible community impact, we maintain partnerships with more than 900 public agencies, local nonprofit organizations, foundations, and socially active corporations.

OUR INSTITUTE AND CENTERS n Institute for Families n Center for Gambling Studies n Center for Research on Ending Violence n Center for Prevention Sciences n Hub for Aging Collaboration n

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TRADITIONAL / BLENDED ONLINE / 100% ONLINE / INTENSIVE WEEKEND

MSWPROGRAMS

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T RA D I T I ONA L , ON - C AM P U S M SW Offered in Camden, Newark, and New Brunswick, the traditional MSW program allows students to complete the degree on campus in two to four years. Students with an earned Bachelor of Social Work degree from an accredited institution may qualify for advanced standing and can complete the program in one year. Some evening, online, and synchronous remote courses are also available for traditional students.

The full range of the School’s offerings is available at each campus, including specializations in clinical social work or management and policy as well as five certificate programs. Students may also take advantage of the large selection of courses and create an area of emphasis including international social work, social policy, and children, youth and families, to name a few.

B L E ND E D ON L I N E M SW The Blended Online MSW program offers students the convenience of asynchronous online learning, combined with a traditional classroom setting. In this part-time, three-year program, students have the option to complete coursework online and on campus. Several courses have in-person requirements. Students in the Blended Online program may choose the clinical social work or management and policy specialization and may also choose one of four MSW certificate programs.

Students in the Blended Online program begin practicum learning in the third semester, completing 10 hours per week for three semesters. The specialized placement begins in the third year and includes 12.5 hours/week for three semesters.

10 0 % O N L I N E M S W The 100% Online MSW program is designed for self-directed learners who seek the flexibility of online learning. With regularly scheduled assignments and due dates, students and faculty interact closely via threaded discussions and other web-based technologies in a robust learning environment. Online students choose either a two year, full-time curriculum or three year part-time curriculum. Students with an accredited undergraduate social work degree can complete the advanced standing 100% Online MSW. Practicum learning begins in the first semester for advanced standing students, in the second semester for two year students, and in the third semeseter for three year students. Prior to the in-person practicum, 100% Online students participate in a practicum lab seminar that prepares them to respond to real clients and determine the best interventions. 100% Online students select either a clinical or management and policy specialization and may also choose to apply to the Promoting Child and Adolescent Well-Being certificate (ChAP), the certificate on Interpersonal Violence and Trauma (C-IVT), the certificate in Aging and Health (A&H), or the Latina/o/x Initiatives for Service, Training, and Assessment (LISTA) certificate.

INTENSIVE WEEKEND MSW The Intensive Weekend (IW) program is specifically designed for those working in human services and seeking an MSW while remaining employed. Students join a cohort of similarly employed individuals and remain with this group throughout their studies forming a supportive community. Classes are conveniently held one weekend a month at four locations throughout the state. Coursework is supplemented with asynchronous readings, activities, and assignments in between the monthly in-person classes.

Students may choose a clinical or management and policy specialization which prepares them for leadership in their respective fields. The IW program is completed in just under three years (eight semesters) or for advanced standing students, just under two years (five semesters). Many IW students complete their practicum at their current place of employment with tasks that are distinct from their typical work responsibilities. Eligible IW applicants must have at least one year of experience in human services or a related field and must currently be employed in a human services capacity. Unsure if you're a good fit for the IW program? Email us at intensiveweekend@ssw.rutgers.edu.

SUCCESS STORY Cristina Vargas (née Melgarejo), SSW ‘19 “Rutgers' Intensive Weekend MSW Program allowed me to pursue my graduate degree while maintaining a full-time job and personal responsibilities. I could not have done it any other way. I had a good experience and made friends along the way!”

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Master of Social Work/Master of Arts in Criminal Justice (MSW/MA in CJ) The combined MSW/MA in CJ program offers students the opportunity to develop expertise in criminal justice policy and research with the study of clinical practice and human services. Led through a partnership between Rutgers School of Social Work and Rutgers School of Criminal Justice, the social work curriculum emphasizes the systems and perspectives of populations and individuals, while coursework in criminal justice prepares students to think critically about the issues of crime and social control. Specific topic areas include police-community relations, incarceration, violence prevention, and juvenile justice. Overall, program graduates are prepared to advance social justice within criminal legal systems and inspire interdisciplinary innovation in the profession.

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Master of Social Work/Master of Public Policy (MSW/MPP) The combined MSW/MPP program offers students the opportunity to develop advanced policy practice skills with a focus on social justice and social welfare policy. The curriculum compliments the MSW program’s specialization in management and policy, enhances knowledge and practice skills, and expands career opportunities for students. In keeping with social work’s historical and growing emphasis on public policy concerns, this degree program addresses the School’s mission to promote social and economic justice and strengthen individual, family, and community well-being. The dual degree is a three-year program with a total of 81 credits; 45 credits are taken in the School of Social Work and 36 credits are taken through the Edward J. Bloustein School for Planning and Public Policy.

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Master of Social Work/Master of Public Health (MSW/MPH) Together, Rutgers School of Social Work and School of Public Health have created the MSW/MPH dual degree program that draws upon core principles of both fields: to understand and improve human and societal well-being. Students will learn to work across systems to reach individuals, groups, communities, and populations through evidence-based practice and multi-level interventions. Through coursework topics in human behavior and the social environment, urban planning, clinical social work and epidemiology, students will be equipped to work in a variety of settings including government agencies, nonprofits, or private healthcare organizations that seek to advance public and social/mental health.

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Juris Doctor/Master of Social Work (JD/MSW) The School of Social Work, in collaboration with Rutgers School of Law in Camden and Newark, offers an accelerated dual-degree program in law and social work through which a student can obtain JD and MSW degrees in four years, rather than the typical five years. This program is appropriate for social work students who desire a legal foundation that will enhance their ability to function within the contemporary social service and social policy environments, and for law students who anticipate careers in the social service and social policy sectors. Students may choose to begin their studies in either the School of Social Work or the Law School. The fourth year combines coursework from both Schools.

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Master of Social Work/Master of Divinity (MSW/MDIV) The School of Social Work and Princeton Theological Seminary offer an accelerated program in social work and ministry leading to a MSW/MDiv degree. This four-year dual degree program is designed to prepare students for various positions in ministry and human service in which clinical social work and management skills are essential.

Students begin their studies at the Princeton Theological Seminary, apply to the MSW program, and then complete their last two years at Rutgers School of Social Work.

Dual degree programs are available to students in the Full-time Traditional, on-campus MSW program. For more information visit MSWdualdegrees.rutgers.edu.

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MSW/MA IN CJ MSW/MPP MSW/MPH JD/MSW MSW/MDIV

DUALDEGREES SUCCESS STORY Basma Qazi, MSW ‘24 “Being able to do a dual-degree program to get both my MSW and JD at Rutgers School of Social Work and Rutgers Law School gives me greater avenues to pursue all my passions and have a broader perspective that will be vital to any career. Doing two programs simultaneously is challenging, but the education and vital training opportunities I've received as well as the incredibly supportive people I met through both schools made this journey more than a worthwhile experience.”

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PRACTICUM LEARNING

PROFESSIONAL PREPARATION

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Practicum learning opportunities at Rutgers School of Social Work are unique and extensive. In addition to maintaining a large alumni network, we leverage our many community partnerships throughout New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and beyond to best prepare our students.

P R AC T I C UM L E A R N I NG Put your knowledge to work. Practicum learning is vital in preparing students for the important work they will do after graduation. Our practicum faculty and liaisons bring years of experience and professional expertise to student training. Through partnerships with hundreds of local, regional, and national human services agencies and organizations, we offer an unparalleled practicum learning experience. Students complete 900 placement hours in the MSW program, or 500 hours in the advanced standing program.

Students may choose to train in any number of areas or to work with specific populations: n Child welfare n Veterans n Corrections n Behavorial health n Housing insecurity and homelessness n LGBTQ+ health and mental health n Interpersonal violence and sexual violence n Immigrants and refugees n Crisis intervention n Nonprofit marketing n

Strategic planning

n Community organization and development n

Fundraising

SUCCESS STORY Issata Oluwadare, SSW’09 ”The educational experience at Rutgers School of Social Work was transformative for me both personally and professionally.

The insights I gained into my own human experience, the hands-on learning opportunities through practicum learning, and the foundational nonprofit management skills have continued to impact my career and my role as a mother. My MSW degree remains relevant in all aspects of my life, and it is a privilege to have gained access to a world-class education that has positioned me to be a force for good in my community.”

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All students enrolled in the MSW program at Rutgers School of Social Work select an area of specialization for their advanced studies.

Depending on their preferred focus, they choose a specialization in either management and policy (MAP) or clinical social work (CSW).

MANAGEMENT AND POLICY (MAP) The MAP specialization prepares practitioners for leadership roles in management, policy, planning, and allied endeavors in social work and the human services. Macro practice presents an opportunity to craft policies and programs on a broad scale that enhance well-being and social justice for vulnerable populations. MAP students are assigned practicum placements in macro practice and take advanced practice courses in nonprofit management as well as strategic and program planning. They may also choose among electives that include marketing and fundraising, human resource management, budget and finance, supervision, and consultation.

Faculty members in the MAP specialization have significant research and academic accomplishments as well as extensive practice experience at multiple levels managing public and private organizations. The School is a sponsor of the New Jersey Chapter of the National Network of Social Work Managers, a professional association representing social workers engaged in macro practice. MAP graduates are eligible to receive a certificate from the network designating them a Certified Human Services Manager.

Graduates of the MAP specialization serve at a variety of managerial levels in public and private human service organizations.

Their positions range from program coordinator to executive director and commissioner of major departments of state government. MAP graduates also serve in policy development, analysis, and advocacy roles, manage contracts for public and private organizations, serve as leaders within the human resources departments of major corporations, lead corporate fundraising and marketing activities, and develop, manage, and evaluate social welfare programs.

CLINICAL SOCIAL WORK (CSW) In the clinical social work specialization, students receive in-depth, comprehensive instruction in engagement, assessment, intervention, and evaluation to enhance the well-being of individuals, families, and groups. Rutgers School of Social Work broadly defines clinical social work to encompass more than the provision of office-based psychotherapy. At Rutgers, clinical social work is concerned with helping clients change behaviors or resolve emotional problems using a person-inenvironment perspective which also accounts for the discriminatory policies and oppressive conditions on client functioning and well-being. Thus client groups that are not traditionally thought to receive counseling or clinical services (parents mandated to treatment to improve their childrearing skills) actually work closely with clinical social workers to improve the functioning of the family unit. Clinical skills are essential to all aspects of social work that involve direct client contact and all situations in which clients seek support, referrals, behavioral change, and emotional relief. These clients include hospice patients, those in the criminal justice system, and others who typically receive case management services.

The clinical social work specialization correlates with the School’s mission of enhancing individual and family well-being.

SUCCESS STORY Agny Valle, SSW ‘24 “Rutgers School of Social Work has been instrumental in shaping my career and personal development. The rigorous and flexible programs provided me with a comprehensive education, while the supportive community helped me connect with invaluable resources and mentors. As someone born and raised in New Brunswick, being part of this college town felt like an extension of my family. The school’s commitment to practical learning through internships equipped me with the skills and knowledge to secure my dream job as a social worker in New York City.“

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MANAGEMENT AND POLICY / CLINICAL SOCIAL WORK

SPECIALIZATIONS

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MSW CERTIFICATE PROGRAMS

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Rutgers School of Social Work offers five embedded MSW certificate programs. While certificate programs are not a requirement in the MSW program, they offer a number of benefits for students including specialized coursework and practicum learning, faculty mentoring, and the opportunity to apply for additional scholarship or fellowship funding.

ADDICTION COUNSELOR TRAINING (ACT) C E R T I F I C AT E Multi-credentialed clinicians are in great demand for leadership positions in organizations that treat mental health and addictive disorders in New Jersey and across the country. The ACT certificate program provides an intensive, specialized curriculum for MSW and post-graduate students seeking certification as addiction counselors. In addition to their MSW degree, a student enrolled in the ACT program receives all of the education hours needed to be a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) and certified gambling counselor in New Jersey, the first program of its kind in the country.

Five of the six ACT certificate program courses are embedded in the MSW program; the sixth is an extra elective.

The six educational courses include: n Understanding Addictive Behaviors n Case Management in Addictions Practice n Clinical Social Work: Addictive Behaviors I n Clinical Social Work: Addictive Behaviors II n Professional Development and Responsibility in Addictions Practice n Gambling Counseling and Other Special Topics This certificate program provides a minimum of 450 LCADC experience hours gained through practicum placement or employment at a Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services approved agency. Students admitted to the program will also receive mentorship and preparation for the licensing exams.

The certificate is available to students enrolled in the Traditional MSW program. Learn more about the ACT certificate by visiting ACT.rutgers.edu.

A G I N G A N D H E A LT H C E R T I F I C AT E The Aging and Health certificate offers students the opportunity to learn more about social work practice with older adults and with adults living with acute and/or chronic health experiences, both areas of practice that are in high need of more social workers. Topics covered in the program include policies that impact older adults and adults living with illness, strengths and losses that these groups experience, elder abuse and neglect, ageism, hospital social work, end of life, caregiving, social work in other care settings, direct clinical practice methods, and more.

Students in both the clinical social work or management and policy (MAP) specialization are encouraged to consider the Aging and Health certificate to further specialize their learning in the MSW program. The four Aging and Health course requirements vary based on the MSW program format and specialization selected.

Requirements for Students in the Traditional and Blended Online MSW Programs: n Advanced Contemporary Policy: Health n Social Work with Loss Across the Lifespan n Aging Services: A Critical Perspective (for students in MAP) n Clinical Social Work: Health or Clinical Social Work: Aging (for students in clinical social work) Choice of One Elective from the Following Course List n Clinical Social Work: Health n Clinical Social Work: Aging n Integrated Behavioral Health and Primary Care n Sexual and Gender Diversity in Social Work n Chronic Illness & Disability n Violence & Abuse in Adulthood n Aging Services: A Critical Perspective n Spirituality and Social Work

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Requirements For Students in the 100% Online MSW Program: n Chronic Illness and Disabilities n Aging Services: A Critical Perspective n Loss Across the Lifespan (Elective) n Advanced Contemporary Policy: Health

Aging and Health certificate students attend at least one interprofessional education event. These events include the opportunity to network with students from other graduate programs at Rutgers and feature a case conference simulation to prepare students to work on an interdisciplinary healthcare team together.

Taub Fellowship in Aging Students in the Aging and Health certificate program are eligible to apply to the Taub Fellowship in Aging. Taub Fellows benefit from financial scholarships, personalized faculty mentorship through the Hub for Aging Collaboration, and peer advising. They also receive an enhanced practicum placement that includes a student-directed, practicum-based project to promote leadership development in the practice areas of aging and health in social work.

The Aging and Health certificate is available to students in their advanced year of the MSW program. Learn more about the Aging and Health certificate by visiting socialwork.rutgers.edu/aginghealth.

C E R T I F I C AT E O N I N T E R P E R S O N A L V I O L E N C E AND TRAUMA (C-IV T) The C-IVT program offers a unique opportunity to Traditional, Blended Online, and 100% Online MSW students. The Rutgers program was the nation’s first certificate on interpersonal violence and trauma for social workers and has become a professional leader graduating more than 800 dedicated students.

The program offers students the opportunity to tailor their advanced year studies on issues of interpersonal violence and trauma to be prepared to enter the field upon graduation. Students receive individualized mentorship in securing a specialized placement in a C-IVT-focused agency. Practicum settings include schools, hospitals, community mental health agencies, human trafficking, domestic violence agencies, sexual violence service providers, and correctional facilities to name a few.

The 12 credits of coursework may be embedded in the MSW degree and include: n Violence and Abuse in Adulthood or Violence and Abuse in Childhood n Advanced Contemporary Policy: Interpersonal Violence Choice of any two electives related to C-IVT. Some courses offered are: n Clinical Social Work: Survivors of Abuse and Trauma n Trauma-Specific Interventions with Children and Youth n Clinical Social Work with Children n Gender, Women and Intersectional Social Justice n Adolescence: Understanding Risk and Resilience n Law and Social Work n Global Social Work and Social Development Students admitted to the C-IVT program are eligible to apply for one of the three Verizon Wireless Hopeline Scholarships.

This $2,000 scholarship supports students committed to working nationwide in the field of interpersonal violence. In addition, selected students are offered the opportunity to work on research projects under the mentorship of faculty at the Center for Research on Ending Violence.

L AT I N A / O / X I N I TIAT I V E S F O R S E R V I C E , T R A I N I N G , A N D A S S E S S M E N T ( L I S TA ) C E R T I F I C AT E As New Jersey and New York City’s Latina/o/x populations continue to grow, so does the need for knowledgeable social workers equipped to serve these vibrant communities. According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2023 estimates, approximately 22.7% of New Jersey’s population and 29% of New York City’s population are Latina/o/x. This presents a unique opportunity for social workers to make a profound impact across a variety of sectors including healthcare, schools, family services, local government, and more.

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Earning a LISTA certificate alongside your MSW degree ensures you are prepared to practice evidence-based, culturally responsive strategies that enhance the lives of Latina/o/x populations in New Jersey and beyond. The LISTA certificate program addresses the critical need for social work practitioners trained in issues and contexts specific to Latina/o/x communities.

Through the LISTA program, you will: n Adapt evidence-based interventions and assessments for social work practice with Latina/o/x populations. n Learn about new models of culturally informed practices. n Gain real-world experience through placements in Latina/o/x-serving agencies. n Develop skills in both micro and macro social work practices.

The LISTA certificate requires four courses that can be integrated into your MSW degree: n Latinos: Culture, Community, and Social Welfare n Social Work Practice with Latinos n Advanced Clinical Practice: Behavioral Health with Latinos (required for students with a clinical specialization) n Choose from an approved list of elective courses.

Whether you are in the Traditional MSW, Blended Online MSW, or 100% Online MSW program, the LISTA certificate is available to you. New Jersey-based bilingual students placed at agencies with a language need may be eligible for generous scholarships and practicum placement stipends to support their studies. Take the next step in your career and make a lasting impact.

Learn more about LISTA by visiting LISTA.rutgers.edu.

PROMOTING CHILD & ADOLE SCE NT WE LL-BE ING ( C H A P ) C E R T I F I C AT E The MSW certificate in Promoting Child & Adolescent Well-Being (ChAP) is for students interested in topics related to children, youth, and families. These include child abuse and neglect, school social work, mental health, gender and sexual diversity, youth with developmental disabilities, juvenile justice, immigrants and refugees, health and medical settings, child and youth-focused social policy, and many more. The ChAP certificate prepares social work students to implement developmentally informed interventions with infants, children, and adolescents across a range of systems. A key objective for certificate students involves developing and enhancing skills that enable them to serve as change agents for children and adolescents in high-risk environments.

ChAP certificate students take four courses and a specialized placement focused on child and youth settings. All ChAP students take Advanced Contemporary Policy: Children and Youth; students also select either Developmental Perspectives on Child Well-Being or Adolescence: Understanding Risk and Resilience. ChAP students also select an advanced practice course related to children, youth, and families and one elective course focused on infants and toddlers, children, adolescents, and transition-age youth. The specialized placement is focused on at least one of the following youth populations: infants, toddlers, pre-school, middle childhood, pre-adolescents, adolescents, or emerging adults/transition to adulthood.

All ChAP students participate in Emerging Professional Interest Cluster (EPIC) groups during the academic year. These groups foster networking and a sense of professional identity among ChAP students. The ChAP certificate is a community for students interested in improving children’s well-being. ChAP students receive specialized attention in selecting practicum placements, planning courses, and professional development. The certificate is available to students enrolled in the Traditional, Advanced Standing, Online, and Blended MSW programs. For more information, email childcertificate@ssw.rutgers.edu

ARE AS OF E MPHASIS In addition to the specialization and certificate opportunities, MSW students may wish to develop an area of emphasis, which focuses on a student-identified and student-driven topic or population. Students work closely with their advisor to identify relevant courses and a practicum placement that will count toward the MSW academic requirements.

With permission from the School of Social Work, coursework may also be taken at another Rutgers graduate or professional school. With the breadth of programs available at the university, the opportunity to study a unique area of emphasis is virtually limitless.

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ROMANIA / MEXICO / INDIA / PUERTO RICO / TAIWAN

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ROMANIA This practicum learning experience provides students the opportunity to learn firsthand about the profession of social work and social services within Romanian and European contexts. Students with a clinical or management and policy specialization earn practicum learning credit and can fulfill specialized placement requirements for certificate programs and areas of emphasis.

MEXICO The three-credit elective course provides students with historical and current information on vulnerable populations and social services in the Yucatan as well as the education and practice of social work. The program itinerary incorporates visits to sites of cultural and ecological relevance to introduce students to Yucatan’s unique cultural and biological landscape.

INDIA The three-credit elective course for MSW students emphasizes knowledge and skill-building in community engagement and healthcare service delivery specific to grassroots social work practice in India. Based in Kolkata, students work with a collaborative of sex workers located in Sonagachi, one of Asia’s largest red-light districts. Through this organization, students visit different programs and services for sex workers and their children, including a bank established and run by sex workers.

PUERTO RICO This elective is a full semester three-credit remote synchronous/asynchronous course about Puerto Rico with a 10-day embedded immersion learning experience in the country over spring break. Through this course, MSW students learn about the population and the impact of colonialism and natural disasters on Puerto Rico’s residents. Students also learn current information about social work education and practice models in Puerto Rico and the role of social workers within various systems, particularly the nonprofit sector. The program incorporates activity-based learning with local social work students, visits to nonprofit organizations and cultural institutions, and reflection meetings to facilitate understanding of the culture, the social work profession, and sociopolitical factors on the island that affect the population.

TA I WA N Both meditation and social work play a role in promoting physical and mental well-being. This three-credit elective course is designed to introduce students to the development of meditation and social work in Taiwan, unveiling the intricate links between these two domains. Students have a chance to participate in meditation practice and explore the connection between meditation and social work practice.

Find more information about study abroad opportunities as part of the MSW program at global.rutgers.edu.

SUCCESS STORY Monica Olivera, BASW, MSW ‘23 “The LISTA MSW Certificate’s study abroad program in Puerto Rico allowed me to immerse myself in a different environment while gaining a new perspective on social work. It guided me to step out of my comfort zone, expand my understanding of concepts taught in academic courses, and build everlasting connections with individuals in the field. This exposure was enriching both on a personal and professional level.”

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Ranked by U.S. News & World Report among the best social work graduate programs in the nation, Rutgers School of Social Work’s MSW program prepares graduates to use their counseling skills to work with individuals and communities and to effect change as administrative leaders and policy makers at all levels. Apply today.

ADMISSIONS Applicants to the School of Social Work MSW program must have completed a bachelor’s degree from an accredited undergraduate institution with a competitive GPA. Strong applicants for the MSW demonstrate a commitment to helping and social justice. The GRE is not required for admission.

M S W A P P L I C AT I O N R E Q U I R E M E N T S n Official transcripts from all institutions attended. n A thoughtful personal statement that addresses specified program questions. n Two letters of recommendation from professional and academic sources. *Intensive Weekend applicants

must include one letter from their current supervisor. **The MSW/MPP requires three letters of recommendation. n A current resume. n Undergraduate practicum evaluation (required only for advanced standing applicants).

Regardless of the campus where you wish to study, all application materials should be sent to the Office of Graduate and Professional Admissions in New Brunswick. For more details about applying, please visit the Office of Graduate and Professional Admissions website at gradstudy.rutgers.edu or contact admissions@ssw.rutgers.edu.

MSW PROFESSIONAL CREDIT COURSES Professional credit courses at the School of Social Work allow prospective students to get a taste of the MSW curriculum prior to beginning the degree. While not a pre-requisite or guarantee of admission, these courses can help enhance a candidate’s application and prepare them for the rigor of the MSW program.

Courses for students who plan to apply for the MSW program include: n Human Behavior and the Social Environment n Social Welfare Policy and Services n Methods of Social Work Research n Diversity and Oppression n Clinical Assessment and Diagnosis

Professional credit courses are offered online in the spring, summer, and fall semesters. If accepted to the MSW degree program, up to 18 professional credits may be applied to your degree. Additional information about applying for professional credit courses can be found at sswpcc.rutgers.edu.

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ADMISSIONS / PROFESSIONAL CREDIT COURSES

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2025-2026 TUITION

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Below is a summary of tuition charges per semester for the 2025-2026 academic year. This chart does not include mandatory fees, which vary by program and number of credits taken. Tuition and fees are subject to change.

Current rates and Rutgers tuition calculator can be found at studentabc.rutgers.edu.

NJ RESIDENT

OUT-OF-S TAT E RESIDENT

Traditional Per Credit: $880 Full Time (12 or more credits): $10,560

Traditional Per Credit: $1,511 Full Time (12 or more credits): $18,132

Traditional Advanced Standing Per Credit: $880 Full Time (12 or more credits): $10,560

Traditional Advanced Standing Per Credit: $1,511 Full Time (12 or more credits): $18,132

Intensive Weekend Per Credit: $880

Intensive Weekend Per Credit: $1,511

Intensive Weekend Advanced Standing Per Credit: $880

Intensive Weekend Advanced Standing Per Credit: $1,511

Blended Online Per Credit: $880

Blended Online Per Credit: $1,511

100% Online Per Credit: $1,099 ** Depending on the program, mandatory fees per semester range from approximately $500 to $1,520

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At Rutgers, you receive a world-class university education without the big-ticket price tag. Most students, however, still need advice about how to finance their education. From financial aid to scholarships to graduate assistantships, we are here to help. Contact us at admissions@ssw.rutgers.edu

S C H O L A R S H I P S A N D A S S I S TA N T S H I P S Rutgers School of Social Work awards over $400,000 in annual funding to current students.

Newly-admitted students are automatically considered for Excellence Scholarships based on the academic achievement and personal and professional qualities presented in their application. The total amount awarded for Excellence Scholarships can range from $6,000 to $10,000 for the MSW program. Most other scholarships awarded by the School range from $2,000 to $2,500.

Research assistantships and graduate assistantships are also offered through the School. These positions average six hours of work each week and are available in a variety of settings, including research centers, and academic program support. Once admitted to the School, you will be contacted about positions available to you.

F I NA N C I A L A I D A large percentage of Rutgers students receive financial aid, including grants, loans, and employment. No matter which campus you choose for your studies, the New Brunswick One Stop Services Office will be your resource for all loan or aid-related questions.

New Brunswick One Stop Student Services Center 848-445-4636 (INFO) Rutgers Federal School Code: 002629 Public service employees may also qualify for loan forgiveness programs. For more information about these programs, visit www.studentaid.gov.

SUCCESS STORY Janet LeMonnier, MSW ’18 “I saw my return to school as a gift, so I immersed myself in learning opportunities. I am old enough to appreciate that no job is perfect, but I also know that if I can combine my interest with new skills, I have a better shot at job satisfaction. I believe I found the right fit to sustain me for a long time.”

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DESIGN YOUR MASTER OF

TRADITIONAL, ON-CAMPUS MSW LOCATION Offered on all three campuses: Newark, Camden and New Brunswick

PRIORITY APPLICATION DEADLINE

CERTIFICATES, SPECIAL PROGRAMS

PROGRAM-DEFINING FEATURES

Addiction Counselor Training, Aging and Health, Child and Adolescent Well-Being, Interpersonal Violence and Trauma, Latina/o/x Initiatives for Service, Training and Assessment certificates; Global programs

Students are assigned academic advisors for support. Students have university-sized resources within a small-school setting.

Fall: February 15

HOW ARE CLASSES OFFERED? PROGRAM DURATION Two-year, three-year, and fouryear options; advanced standing, one-and two-year options

Students may take 6-15 credits per semester. Some online and hybrid course options are available, as well as winter and summer courses. All program requirements must be completed within four years.

PRACTICUM LEARNING Generalist placement begins in the first semester with 15 hours per week.

Specialized practicum placement also requires 15 hours per week. Students enrolled in the part-time three- or fouryear program begin the generalist placement in their second year.

BLENDED ONLINE MSW LOCATION Offered on all three campuses: Newark, Camden and New Brunswick

PRIORITY APPLICATION DEADLINE

CERTIFICATES, SPECIAL PROGRAMS

PROGRAM-DEFINING FEATURES

Aging and Health, Child and Adolescent Well-Being, Interpersonal Violence and Trauma, Latina/o/x Initiatives for Service, Training and Assessment certificates; Global programs

This is an ideal option for students who are interested in online learning but also want an on-campus experience.

Fall: February 15

PROGRAM DURATION Three years (fall, spring, and sumer)

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PRACTICUM LEARNING Generalist placement begins in the third semester and includes 10 hours per week for three semesters. Specialized placement begins in the second year and includes 12.5 hours per week three semesters.

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F SOCIAL WORK DEGREE PROGRAM

100% ONLINE LOCATION Online

APPLICATION DEADLINE Spring: October 1 Summer: February 15 Fall: May 1

CERTIFICATES, SPECIAL PROGRAMS Interpersonal Violence and Trauma, Aging and Health, Promoting Child and Adolescent Well-Being, Latina/o/x Initiatives for Service, Training and Assessment certificates; Global programs

HOW ARE CLASSES OFFERED? PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS Two-year (FT) or three-year (PT) options offered spring, summer and fall. Four semester Advanced Standing option (fall only).

Students take two to four courses each semester. Classes are asynchronous with regularly scheduled assignments and due dates. Students and faculty interact in a robust technological learning environment.

PROGRAM-DEFINING FEATURES Students are provided with an academic advisor and student support coach. Students move through the program as a cohort, developing a community of online peers.

Online orientation is provided.

PRACTICUM LEARNING Generalist placement begins in the second semester (2-yr students) or third semester (3-yr students) and includes 10 hours/week. The specialized placement begins in the second year and includes 12.5 hours/week (3-yr students) or 16.75 hours/week (2-yr students). Advanced Standing students complete 12.5 hours per week in semesters one through three.

INTENSIVE WEEKEND LOCATION Offered off-campus in Bordentown, Jersey City, Mays Landing, and New Brunswick

CERTIFICATES, SPECIAL PROGRAMS

PROGRAM-DEFINING FEATURES

Global programs

Students take courses as a cohort and typically form a close supportive group. Cohort members learn from each other’s experience as they apply course content to their work and practicum settings. Regular academic and practicum advisor support is provided in-person, virtually, and via email and phone as needed. New students are provided with a multi-year calendar so they can plan for full attendance. Students provide input around cohort course selection.

HOW ARE CLASSES OFFERED? PRIORITY APPLICATION DEADLINE Fall: February 15

PROGRAM DURATION Just under three years (eight semesters); the Advanced Standing program is just under two years (five semesters).

Students take two courses each semester (fall, spring, and summer) and attend one full weekend of in-person class each month. Students also participate in synchronous and asynchronous online activities to support learning.

PRACTICUM LEARNING Practicum learning begins in the first semester and continues for the duration of the degree program. Students devote 8 hours/week.

Placements may be at the students place of employment or, if not feasible, the program will assist in securing a placement. Students may complete their placement in a single setting as long as it offers progressively challenging opportunities for growth.

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us OFFICE OF ADMISSIONS socialwork.rutgers.edu n 848-932-7520

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