Master of Social Work
Advance your impact and career with Kentucky State University’s Master of Social Work (MSW), designed for working professionals, recent graduates, and those seeking to lead change in their communities. Complete a rigorous, evidence-based curriculum—delivered fully online—with the flexibility to fit your life and schedule. Expert faculty guide you through hands-on field placements, and advanced practice courses.
The KSU MSW program meets the urgent demand for culturally competent social workers who are committed to equity, healthcare access, and community empowerment. The program is open to students from all academic backgrounds and offers an accelerated Advanced Standing option for those with a recent BSW.
The program provides students with two distinct tracks for advanced social work practice:
| Traditional MSW Pathway – Credit Hours: 60 | Advanced Standing MSW Pathway – Credit Hours: 30 |
|---|---|
| For students from any undergraduate major. Includes advanced coursework and extensive field practicum in clinical, advocacy, and community-based settings. | For applicants with a recent CSWE-accredited BSW degree. Complete your MSW in as little as one year full-time. |
Accreditation Status Notice - MSW Program
The Master of Social Work (MSW) Program at the institution is currently in the process of seeking accreditation through the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).
Accreditation is a multi-step process that requires review and approval by the accrediting body. The program is actively working toward meeting all required standards, and updates regarding accreditation status and program progression will be shared as they become available.
Admissions Process & Contact Information
Submit an application to apply for enrollment.
Admissions Email – onlineadmissions@kysu.edu
MSW Program Application Requirements
Once you are admitted to Kentucky State University, please note that the School of Social Work has its own separate application process for the Master of Social Work (MSW) Program. You will be provided with the MSW application directly from the School of Social Work.
Below, you will find important details and requirements that are part of the MSW application process to help you prepare:
1. Personal Statement (500–700 words)
Your statement should address the following prompts:
- Why are you interested in pursuing a career in social work?
- Why have you chosen the specific track (Clinical or Social Justice) and what motivates your choice?
- Describe your interest or experience related to Medical Social Work or mental health.
- How do you plan to contribute to the social work profession, especially in underserved or marginalized communities?
2. Two Letters of Recommendation
At least one letter must come from a professor or a professional in the field of social work or a related field.
GPA Below the Required Minimum? Submit a GPA Appeal
The minimum GPA for Advanced Standing applicants is 3.0. If your GPA is below this requirement, you may still apply by submitting a GPA Appeal as a separate document with your application.
Your GPA Appeal should include:
- Explanation of GPA Deficiency
What circumstances affected your academic performance?
(e.g., personal challenges, medical issues, family obligations) - Steps Taken to Improve Academic Performance
Describe any measures you have taken since the time of your academic challenges to improve your performance. This may include retaking courses, additional training, or other relevant educational experiences. - Why You Are Prepared to Succeed in the MSW Program
Provide reasons why you are confident that you will be successful in the program despite past academic difficulties.
Practicum Manual & Program Oversight
Welcome to the Kentucky State University (KSU) School of Social Work Master of Social Work (MSW) Program. The Practicum Education Manual serves as a comprehensive guide and resource for students, practicum instructors, agency directors, supervisors, and faculty. It outlines the goals, objectives, policies, and procedures that shape the practicum component of the MSW curriculum. Once a student’s practicum placement is confirmed, the MSW Practicum Education Manual is provided to outline expectations, policies, and procedures for a successful practicum experience. Agency directors and supervisors also receive the manual at that time to ensure a shared understanding of roles, responsibilities, and performance expectations throughout the placement.
The manual is reviewed and updated regularly to reflect curriculum changes, accreditation requirements, program policies, and feedback from students, agency partners, and faculty. These ongoing revisions ensure that the manual remains accurate, relevant, and practical. Kentucky State University is a public, comprehensive, historically Black land-grant institution. The School of Social Work is committed to honoring and advancing the rich contributions of the African American experience to social work education and practice, while preparing students for ethical, competent, and culturally responsive professional service.
Prerequisites Before Beginning Practicum Hours
Students are active participants in the signature pedagogy of social work. Before beginning practicum hours students must:
- Receive formal approval from the School of Social Work for their practicum placement.
- Be enrolled in the practicum and seminar courses (if applicable).
- Have designated faculty supervisor from the KSU School of Social Work assigned to oversee their practicum.
Failure to meet these requirements may result in delays in starting or completing practicum hours.
Student Responsibilities
Once prerequisites are met, student responsibilities include:
- Identifying and securing a practicum placement at least one semester prior to the start of the practicum; the placement site must be approved by the School of Social Work.
- Completing the Practicum Application, detailing educational background, professional experience, practicum interests, and learning objectives.
- Engaging in supervised practice, reflection, and integrative learning activities throughout the placement to develop professional skills and apply classroom theory to real-world social work practice.
Placement and Supervision
Placement and supervision are central to the practicum's signature pedagogy:
- The School of Social Work oversees practicum placement approvals and ensures that sites provide a supportive, structured learning environment consistent with CSWE standards.
- Practicum instructors at the agency must hold a CSWE-accredited MSW degree and have at least two years of post-degree practice experience.
Students collaborate with their site supervisor to:
- Track practicum hours.
- Complete reflective assignments and integrative learning activities.
- Achieve competency goals.