SD

Master's in Social Work (MSW)
Online

University of South Dakota | University of South Dakota MSW

  • Vermillion
About This Program

USD’s fully online MSW program with generalist focus is CSWE-accredited since 1974. The program provides flexible full-time or part-time tracks requiring 36-60 credits and includes 1,000 hours of field education. The program emphasizes clinical licensure preparation and therapeutic practice with an 84% national exam pass rate.

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What You'll Learn

  • Conduct clinical assessments and develop treatment plans for diverse populations

  • Apply trauma-informed and culturally responsive interventions
  • Analyze social policies and advocate for systemic change
  • Evaluate practice effectiveness through research methods

For detailed, official program information including specific curriculum, faculty, research opportunities, and application requirements:
Visit Official Program Website
Typical Curriculum Structure
The University of South Dakota MSW is a graduate professional degree in social work, typically 2 years full-time (or 1 year advanced standing for BSW holders), focusing on advanced clinical practice, policy advocacy, and field placements.
Typical Course Topics
1. Clinical Social Work Practice 2. Social Policy and Advocacy 3. Human Behavior in the Social Environment 4. Trauma-Informed Care and Interventions 5. Social Work Research Methods 6. Advanced Field Practicum Seminar
Program Specializations:
Clinical/Therapeutic
Advanced Generalist
View the exact, up-to-date curriculum on the official program website
Typical Admissions Requirements
Requires a Bachelor's degree (BSW from a CSWE-accredited program preferred for advanced standing), minimum 3.0 GPA, transcripts, resume, personal statement, and 2-3 letters of recommendation from field supervisors or academics; GRE is typically not required.
Academic Requirements (Typical)

• Degree Required: Bachelor’s degree
• GRE/GMAT: Not Required
• TOEFL/IELTS: Required for international students (TOEFL 80+ / IELTS 6.5+)

Application Materials (Typical)

• Statement of Purpose: Required
• Letters of Recommendation: 2–3
• Resume: Required
• Transcripts: Official transcripts required

Application Timeline

Most programs have rolling admissions or deadlines in early winter for fall admission. Check the official program website for exact dates.

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Career Opportunities in AI

Graduates are well-positioned for clinical licensure and therapeutic practice roles, with strong preparation for LCSW examination.

Estimated Industry Salary
Clinical Social Worker: $55,000
Total compensation (entry to mid-level)
AI Job Growth
0.09%
Projected 2024-2034 (BLS)
Common Career Paths:
1. Clinical Social Worker 2. Medical Social Worker 3. School Social Worker 4. Social Work Case Manager
Top AI Employers (Industry-Wide):
Common employers include hospitals, school districts, nonprofit agencies, mental health clinics, and government social services departments.
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Program Details
Duration
  • 3.0 Year
Tuition
$ 15,000
Format
Online
Specializations
Clinical/Therapeutic
Advanced Generalist
Official Resources
Program Website
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