Social workers are the driving force of change.
They embody passionate leadership, seamlessly blending their presence both on the frontline and behind the scenes to champion the well-being of others. From schools to hospitals, and within the heart of non-profits, they tirelessly work to uplift individuals, families, and communities facing social hurdles.
At the forefront of this movement are leaders armed with advanced degrees, like the Master of Social Work, shaping the landscape of large and small organizations alike. Their advocacy knows no bounds as they stand as beacons for marginalized and vulnerable populations. In governmental and legislative spheres, they navigate the complexities of policy, collaborating with decision-makers to combat societal injustices such as poverty, inequality, substance abuse, and mental health challenges.
For those driven by innovation, social entrepreneurship is their domain. Whether establishing private clinical practices or leading emerging organizations as CEOs, their entrepreneurial spirit fuels transformative initiatives that pave the way for a brighter and more just future.
The USF MSW program prioritizes advanced scholarly study and hands-on field experience to equip students with the skills needed for impactful careers in social work. Grounded in a comprehensive grasp of social work practice, the program provides tailored instruction for both clinical and macro practice. Students receive specialized training for clinical interventions with individuals, families, and small groups, alongside opportunities to engage in macro-level initiatives aimed at policy, leadership, community, organization, and systemic change.
Through an intensive field practicum, students apply classroom theory to real-world scenarios, benefiting from USF's extensive network of over 350 community partnerships and 1,000 field instructors. Guided by a placement coordinator, students gain invaluable experience working alongside seasoned professionals, leaving the program with practical skills and a robust professional network.
The versatile MSW serves as a catalyst for career advancement across diverse sectors, attracting students from various academic backgrounds seeking to broaden their career opportunities and achieve specific goals. For instance, individuals with psychology degrees benefit from its holistic approach to addressing mental health within societal contexts. Similarly, professionals in criminal justice utilize the MSW to advocate for systemic reforms and support affected individuals.
Additionally, educators transition into roles addressing students' socio-emotional needs and fostering inclusive learning environments. Furthermore , graduates with backgrounds in sociology find the MSW instrumental in understanding and addressing complex social issues, leveraging their knowledge to advocate for marginalized communities and promote social change.
Affordable Tuition
The USF Online MSW program offers one of the most cost-effective tuition rates in the nation. At just $550 per credit for both in-state and out-of-state students, our program ensures high-quality education is accessible to everyone. Join us to advance your career in social work without the burden of excessive tuition costs.
MULTIPLE PATHWAYS TO THE USF ONLINE MSW
Today’s learners value flexibility to match their learning styles, schedules, and career aspirations. That's why USF offers multiple pathways to earn the MSW, accommodating various levels of prior social work knowledge and offering flexible delivery modes: online, face-to-face and both with the option to study either full-time or part-time.
Regardless of the chosen pathway, each option maintains the same curriculum and admission standards, ensuring consistency in education quality. The difference lies in the mode of delivery and the time required for completion. Both pathways provide comprehensive training and practical experience necessary for successful social work practice, educating seasoned professionals as well as those new to the field.
Led by esteemed faculty, USF’ courses integrate real-world insights and field placements, enabling students to apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios. Plus, with the flexibility to study remotely, you can pursue your MSW without disrupting your current commitments. Learn more about the multiple pathways to your MSW at USF.
Preparing Graduates for Professional Practice
The USF MSW program provides specialized training for clinical and macro practice in various community settings, focusing on individual, family, group, community and organization interventions. Students learn a range of practice methodologies to address diverse client needs, guided by a commitment to social work ethics and values. With a strong emphasis on real-world application and social justice, graduates are equipped to drive meaningful societal change.
Additionally, USF MSW graduates consistently demonstrate higher-than-average pass rates on licensing exams to become Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSW), further attesting to the program's efficacy in preparing students for successful professional careers.
Job Outlook
USF's MSW graduates are highly qualified for positions in a variety of settings, including the treatment of individuals, families, and groups and as CEO’s of nonprofit organizations. Most report increases in salary and job opportunities, and some graduates even open an independent practice. There are varied roles in public, private, and non-profit organizations. USF alumni also excel as leaders of organizations, policymakers shaping social welfare agendas, community organizers driving grassroots initiatives, grant writers securing funding for critical programs, and in other highly compensated positions across sectors.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a nine percent expected growth for social work jobs nationally between 2021 and 2031.
Nationally Accredited and Recognized
The USF Online MSW program is nationally accredited by the Council on Social Work Education and one of the top ranked programs in the country . In 2023, USF became the first public university in Florida in nearly 40 years to be invited to join the Association of American Universities, a group of the leading 3% of universities in the United States and Canada.
