Dual Degree

Social Work (MSW) & Human Sexuality Studies (MEd or PhD)

With a master of social work (MSW) and either a master of education (MEd) or doctor of philosophy (PhD) in human sexuality studies, you will gain the knowledge and skills needed to become a leader.

Program Overview

In our dual degree social work and human sexuality studies graduate programs, you will take the inside track to a future as an educator, clinician, therapist, and sexuality professional. There are two dual degree programs: a master of education and master of social work (MEd/MSW) and a doctor of philosophy and master of social work (PhD/MSW). In both programs, students can follow either the sex education or sex therapy tracks. 

In addition to working collaboratively with community educators, teachers, therapists, clinicians, and writers, you will also be trained in social justice education, research methodologies, curriculum development, clinical research, teaching strategies, assessment and intervention, and culturally appropriate program design.

You'll gain hands-on practice experience in either educational or clinical settings, depending on your program track. Field experience is accompanied by a practicum course through which you will receive supervision from a faculty member. Field placements are located where you live, and students who live more than two hours away from campus can attend their practicum class through video conferencing.

Through a practicum placement and accompanying supervision, you will develop the skills and aptitudes to excel in the field of human sexuality. In the PhD program, a rigorous research-oriented program will prepare you to conduct and disseminate research, and to connect that research to practice.

Program Options

View the academic catalog for curriculum and coursework requirements:

Pursue a powerful yet flexible dual degree to fit your busy schedule. You’ll complete your MSW 100% online while completing your MEd in Human Sexuality Studies through a blend of online and campus-based courses offered in our unique weekend format.

More About Our Dual MSW/MEd Program

Please refer to the MSW program page for state licensure information. 

Admissions Information

You may submit one online application and set of supporting documents following the admissions criteria for your CHSS degree program for both the Center for Human Sexuality Studies and the Center for Social Work Education. On the online application, choose the interdisciplinary program option for your “primary program” under your “area of study.” For your autobiographical and professional and personal goals statements, please follow the prompts found on page 4 of the online application.

Please visit the master's of social work program page for more information about requirements specific to social work.

You may submit one online application and set of supporting documents following the admissions criteria for your CHSS degree program for both the Center for Human Sexuality Studies and the Center for Social Work Education. On the online application, choose the interdisciplinary program option for your “primary program” under your “area of study.” For your autobiographical and professional and personal goals statements, please follow the prompts found on page 4 of the online application.

Please visit the master's of social work program page for more information about requirements specific to social work.

The deadline to apply to the MEd/MSW dual degree program is March 25.

Program Highlights

With dual social work and human sexuality studies graduate degrees from Widener, you will develop the skills and expertise to excel as a sexuality educator and social worker.

Flexibility & Efficiency

Most human sexuality courses are scheduled on weekends and evenings with working adults in mind. Because of this format, students commute from around the Philadelphia area (and beyond) and are able to keep their current jobs.

Note: This does not apply to MSW courses, which can be taken on campus or online. Learn more about the flexibility of our dual MSW/MEd program.

Exceptional Training

Thanks to our highly trained faculty and staff who use current educational philosophies and methodologies, you will receive an education that emphasizes affective learning and cutting-edge strategies.

Certification through AASECT

If you are interested in becoming certified by the American Association and Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists, our curriculum puts you on the right track to meeting the requirements for certification.

Clubs & Organizations

Human Sexuality Studies and Social Work majors have the opportunity to join various clubs and organizations across and outside of campus to expand their network, including Gamma Eta Rho – A National Honor Society in Human Sexuality, Human Sexuality Education Student Organization, Phi Alpha ΦΑ - National Social Work Honor Society, and many more.

Faculty

Student Stories

Tatyannah King poses for a photo, which is inserted in a blue graphic with yellow lines and arrows

"I think that knowledge about sex education and human sexuality genuinely saves lives, so you shouldn’t try to hide it from people."

Tatyannah King

Class of 2023

Take the Next Steps

Apply

Visit our online application system to complete your app and share supplemental materials. There is a $35 application fee to apply to Widener.