Potential Careers
- Clinical social worker or supervisor
- Medical social worker
- Trauma-informed therapist
- Substance abuse social worker
- Children and family services worker
- Adoption specialist
Graduate Program
Master's of Social Work: MSW Degree
Widener offers master's of social work programs in person on our Chester, PA campus as well as 100% online. Graduates from an accredited BSW program may be eligible for our accelerated advanced standing MSW pathway.
At a Glance
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Offered as
Master's (MSW Degree)
Format
On Campus or 100% Online
Credits
- MSW - Regular Track: 57
- Advanced Standing Track: 36
- MSW - School Social Work Specialization: 60
Avg. Time to Completion
1-3 years (full-time 2 years; part-time <4 years)
College/School
Campus Location
- Chester, PA
Explore the MSW Program
Complete Widener’s master of social work part-time or full-time, 100% online or on campus: you have the flexibility to choose an option that best meets your needs. If you already earned a BSW from an accredited program, you may qualify to pursue our accelerated advanced standing MSW program.
Offered by Widener’s Center for Social Work Education, our CSWE-accredited program is taught by active practitioners ready to share insider knowledge and experiences. The curriculum follows a trauma-informed, clinical model that promotes a lens of social justice. Widener's community relationships can connect you to agencies, schools, and hospitals in the tri-state area and beyond.
Under direct supervision, you will prepare for advanced practice in social work in a variety of settings and graduate prepared as a clinical social worker and agent of social change.
Select graduates may receive pro bono clinical supervision as they obtain licensure.
Widener is the only school in the region to offer pro bono clinical supervision to select graduates. Focus on enhancing your expertise without the extra steps and costs associated with securing placement. Because most positions typically don’t compensate for supervision, graduates can incur costs of $6,000-$15,000 while obtaining the required 150 hours for licensure.
Currently open to students in our on-campus advanced standing MSW program who are working to obtain licensure in Pennsylvania, supervision is provided by expert faculty with diverse experiences.
Widener's Center for Social Work Education is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). In our program, you'll apply theory and practical knowledge learned in the classroom in two field placement settings designed to master the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) core competencies.
Master's in Social Work Degree Options & Curriculums
Widener University's MSW degree program is offered both fully online and also in person on our Chester, PA campus located just outside of Philadelphia. Determine whether online or in-person is best for you
The on-campus master's of social work program can be completed part-time or full-time on Widener's Chester, PA campus. The program consists of core courses, advanced concentration courses, field placement, and elective courses—supporting you with a well-rounded foundation of the social work profession with the ability to customize based on your personal interests and professional goals.
View the academic catalog for curriculum and coursework requirements for the on-campus MSW program:
The online master's of social work program can be completed part-time or full-time 100% online granting you the flexibility to learn when and where is most convenient to you. The course catalog mirrors the on-campus program which will support you with a well-rounded foundation of the social work profession with the ability to customize based on your personal interests and professional goals.
View the academic catalog for curriculum and coursework requirements for the online MSW program:
If you have earned an undergraduate degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited program within the last six years, you may be eligible to participate in Widener's Advanced Standing MSW option.
Select graduates in the on-campus advanced standing program may be eligible to receive pro bono clinical supervision as they obtain licensure.
Clinical supervision is a required component of obtaining licensure to practice social work. Securing placement and meeting the required hours for supervision—which can cost $6,000-$15,000, an expense that isn't typically compensated by employers—is a significant barrier to entry for many.
As part of our commitment to supporting students of all backgrounds as they develop into highly skilled professionals, we pair each participant with an experienced faculty mentor who will serve as their supervisor for the mandated 150 hours. This opportunity is available to select graduates seeking licensure in Pennsylvania.
Because this trailblazing program is new—with our first participants joining the fall 2025 cohort—space is extremely limited and priority will be given to early applicants. Contact the director of the Center for Social Work Education for more details about the program.
The advanced standing option can be completed on campus or online within as little as two years. View the academic catalog for curriculum and coursework requirements for the online MSW program:
Widener offers an MSW/PhD dual degree option for students who have a master’s degree in a related field and would like to earn their MSW and PhD degrees simultaneously.
Learn more about the social work PhD program
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 complete unique training in the knowledge, skills, and dispositions necessary to work with individuals and groups around the numerous sensitive issues in human sexuality.
The MSW portion of the dual degree can be completed on campus or 100% online. The human sexuality studies MEd or PhD can be completed hybrid—a combination of both online and on-campus coursework.
Learn more about our dual degree in MSW/MEd in Human Sexuality with the option to complete the MSW degree 100% online at your own convenience.
Program Details
- Full-time or part-time; 60 credits
- Completed in-person at our Chester, PA campus
School social workers are experts when it comes to community resources. They establish relationships and collaborate with various agencies, such as mental health services, food programs, and government resources. They work as part of an interdisciplinary team with teachers, administrators, guidance counselors and parents to ensure student success. Many school social workers go the extra mile by visiting families in their homes which not only allows them to assess and provide assistance but also strengthens the relationship between the school and home environments
What to do if you're interested in pursuing the school social work specialization:
- Full-time MSW students: Express your interest in the specialization to the MSW Campus Program Director before your second year.
- Part-time MSW students: Express your interest in the specialization to the MSW Campus Program Director before your third year.
- Advanced standing students: Both full-time and part-time students should advise the Campus Program Director upon admission to the MSW Advanced Standing program.
During your specialization year, you will complete your field placement in a school setting approved by the Director of Field Education. You'll be supervised by an MSW professional who holds a Pennsylvania School Social Work Certification.
After successfully completing the MSW program at Widener University Center for Social Work Education, you'll be eligible to apply for School Social Work Certification from the PA Department of Education. This certification opens up opportunities to work in both elementary and secondary education programs. It's a great way to kickstart your career and make a difference in the lives of students!
Learn more about the school social work specialization
Already graduated with your Widener MSW with a specialization in school social work? Congrats, it's time to apply for your school social work certificate!
Additional MSW Program Information
MSW Program Mission
The mission of Widener’s master of social work program is to prepare culturally competent social workers who:
- Are dedicated to the attainment of social and economic justice for the betterment of poor, vulnerable, and oppressed individuals, families, groups, and communities
- Demonstrate care and compassion for clients from diverse cultural, social, and economic backgrounds
- Hold an unwavering belief in client strengths, client empowerment, and the importance of the helping relationship
The department also strives to use self-reflection and critical thinking in creating purposeful interventions informed by theory and evidence through:
- Creating a supportive and nurturing academic environment that integrates dynamic classroom instruction and scientific inquiry with real-world learning
- Having diverse faculty members whose social work practice, research, and community service experiences inform their teaching and inspire our students
- Having students and faculty engage in community-based research and community partnerships that strengthen disadvantaged individuals, families, organizations, and communities while contributing to the knowledge base of the profession.
MSW Program Outcomes
All Council on Social Work Education programs measure and report student learning outcomes. Students are assessed on their mastery of the competencies that comprise the accreditation standards of the Council on Social Work Education. These competencies are dimensions of social work practice that all social workers are expected to master during their professional training. A measurement benchmark is set by the social work programs for each competency. An assessment score at or above that benchmark is considered by the program to represent mastery of that particular competency.
Take Your MSW Degree Further
As an MSW student, you have the ability to include advanced clinical seminars to your studies to further expand your skills and qualifications.
Supporting People with Neurodiversity
Through this advanced practice option, MSW students undergo training to work with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Students work in an agency three days per week under the supervision of clinical social workers who work with people with developmental disabilities. The field internship is devoted to developing skills for therapeutic services. Faculty members provide a year-long seminar to students doing their internship while completing this advanced practice option.
Practices for Trauma Recovery
This advanced practice option prepares MSW students with the knowledge and skills for work with people who have experienced the effects of trauma. Students receive instruction focused on supports and resources, special training regarding current theory and interventions for trauma victims, and effective strategies for dealing with vicarious traumatization.
Students work in an agency three days per week under the supervision of clinical social workers who work with individuals who have experienced trauma. This field internship is devoted to developing skills for therapeutic services. Faculty members provide a year-long seminar to students doing their internship while completing this advanced practice option.
Students interested in expanding their skills in trauma recovery also have the option to pursue a graduate certificate in practices in trauma recovery.
Gerontology
You will have an opportunity to learn to practice social work with aging populations through an advanced practice year internship. The field education office has field placements that focus on supporting and providing services for the geriatric population. These agencies provide community-based services to address issues related to: mental health, behavioral health, long term care, elder abuse, prisons, immigration services, faith-based services, and family support.
Widener's practices in trauma recovery graduate certificate will provide you with an opportunity to delve deeper into trauma informed theory and practice across a variety of settings. Through this specific training, you'll learn to be a positive force and support for the individuals and communities that need them most.
If you've completed your MSW degree or a master's degree in a related discipline, you may be interested in continuing your education by completing a PhD in social work at Widener. Through the program, you'll develop as an academic leader and sharpen your skills and expertise in research, teaching, and application of theory, in addition to cultivating leadership qualities and interpersonal skills to further your career
Outlook & Outcomes for MSW Graduates
Why Study Social Work at Widener?
Experience a Client-First, Trauma-Informed Social Work Education
At Widener, you'll embrace a specialized client-first, trauma-informed education that will prepare you with the skills needed to provide care and compassion for clients from diverse cultural, social, and economic backgrounds and hold an unwavering belief in client strengths and client empowerment
You'll graduate as a trauma-informed social work professional prepared to effectively intervene using a trauma-informed lens and advocate for universal human rights. You'll be equipped with the understanding that trauma is often the preceding cause of mental health challenges, substance abuse, illness, inability to maintain employment, and other social-emotional issues as well as the skills to apply your knowledge to help individuals, families, and communities.
Learn Beyond the Classroom
Both online and on-campus students will complete a field education requirement where you'll apply classroom learning with agency-based social work practice opportunities. This learning takes place under the direction and supervision of a trained field instructor who is employed by the agency and skilled in working with students.
In addition to your field education, Widener University operates Social Work Counseling Services (SWCS), which provides quality counseling services and resources to the local community through its three clinics—Community Outreach, Resources, and Engagement (CORE), Clinical Services for Vulnerable Adults (CSVA), and Widener Community Connections.
Here, Widener students can participate in internship experiences offering real-world generalist or clinical social worker experience in an agency setting.
Benefit from Pro Bono Clinical Supervision
As a national leader in inclusive supervision, Widener is the only school in our region to offer clinical supervision at no cost to select graduates of our on-campus advanced standing program. Participants will be supervised by an experienced, supportive faculty member.
Securing placement and meeting the required hours for licensure—which can cost $6,000-$15,000, an expense that isn't typically compensated by employers—is a barrier to entry for many. That’s why we’re committed to lifting it, supporting students of all backgrounds as they develop into highly skilled professionals.
Strengthen & Expand Your Professional Network
Our Center for Social Work Education faculty whom work as practicing clinicians will be committed to your personal success and provide mentorship, feedback, and support to you during your studies and even after graduation.
In addition to fostering relationships with faculty mentors, you'll have opportunities to build relationships with driven classmates and accomplished alumni by attending events, joining discussions, and participating in various clubs and organizations, including the National Association of Black Social Workers (NABSW), Phi Alpha ΦΑ - National Social Work Honor Society, and more.
Student Stories
Master of Social Work Program Highlights
Our Faculty
"My approach to teaching is best described as embracing an existentialist and social reconstructivist perspective, emphasizing respect for what each student brings to the classroom and students’ responsibility for their own learning. In my teaching at Widener, these methods have resulted in positive outcomes as measured by student course evaluations and verbal feedback."
"I strive to create an engaging, dynamic, and responsive learning environment. By encouraging self-reflection and co-created learning spaces, I aim for students to finish the course with confidence in the material, a sense of leadership in their own learning, and an understanding of the link between their work and social justice."
One of the most impactful quotes I have ever heard is "The race is not given to the swift but to those who endure". My job as a social work educator is to help students recognize and use their life experiences to acquire the professional knowledge and skills to become world-class social workers.
Recent News
MSW Celebrates 30 years of Leadership and Academic Excellence
Widener's Social Work Master's (MSW) program celebrates its 30th anniversary.
An Interview with Dr. Julie E. Wollman, Widener University’s 10th President
In this podcast interview, Dr. Julie E. Wollman reflects on her service as president of Widener University since 2016.
Meet the 2022 Graduates Nominated to Give Student Messages for This Year’s Commencement
Meet Gavin Poole and Kripaya Varghese, the undergraduate and graduate students nominated by their peers to deliver video messages to their fellow graduates ahead of the 2022 commencement celebrations.
Admissions & Aid
Our admissions and financial aid teams are here to support you every step of the way. Have a question? Ask away!
Admissions Information
Regular MSW program
- An earned baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university
- An undergraduate cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 point scale. Applicants with GPAs below 3.0 may be admitted on a provisional basis. They must achieve a GPA of 3.0 or better in their first semester of course work (minimum of 6 credits) to be admitted into the program.
- The personal qualities and values that are needed for social work practice with oppressed and disadvantaged populations. These include the ability to form professional helping relationships with clients from diverse backgrounds and value systems, the ability to respect human dignity and be nonjudgmental, concern over social justice and the empowering of oppressed individuals and groups, and a commitment to helping others.
Advanced Standing MSW Program
- A baccalaureate degree from a Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)–accredited social work program earned within 6 years from the date of matriculation
- An overall GPA of 3.0 or better, and a GPA of 3.3 in the social work major. Applicants with GPAs below 3.0 may be admitted on a provisional basis. Students admitted provisionally must achieve a GPA of 3.0 or better in their first semester of course work (minimum of 6 credits) to continue in the program.
- A letter of recommendation from the BSW field instructor or field director
- The personal qualities and values that are needed for social work practice with oppressed and disadvantaged populations. These include the ability to form professional helping relationships with clients from diverse backgrounds and value systems, the ability to respect human dignity and be nonjudgmental, concern over social justice and the empowering of oppressed individuals and groups, and a commitment to helping others.
Application Requirements
- Complete online application
- Pay $35 application fee
- Two letters of recommendation
- Advanced Standing requires at least one letter of recommendation from the BSW field instructor or field director and at least one from another academic source (e.g., professor, advisor)
- All undergraduate transcripts
- Personal statement
- Current resume
- Interview is required for all campus applicants and online advanced standing applicants
Application Deadlines
- Advanced Standing summer start - March 25
- MSW full-time summer or fall start term - May 1
- MSW part-time fall start term - July 1
Interview Requirements
If you are selected to interview for the program, we will contact you to arrange an appointment. Campus interviews are generally held on Tuesdays at 5:00 p.m. and Fridays at 11:00 a.m. Special accommodations for phone interviews can be made if needed.
All application and deadline information for our online MSW, can be found on our online MSW application page.
Financial Aid
Paths to Savings
85% of Full-Time Grad Students Receive Aid
Simply apply to Widener and complete the financial aid process to be automatically considered for scholarships and grants. Because Widener is a private institution, we are able to offer financial assistance that brings our education within reach for individuals who might otherwise not be able to afford it. You might be surprised at how much we are able to offer in assistance.
Applying For Financial Aid as a Graduate Student
In order to receive your part of the financial aid pie, all you have to do is submit your FAFSA. "FAFSA" stands for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid and helps identify whether you are eligible for aid awarded by Widener, the government, and other sources.
Graduate Assistantships
Widener offers a limited number of graduate assistantships to enrolled students. GAs receive tuition assistance for their work. Once you're a student, contact your program director for more information.
Employer Discounts & Tuition Reimbursement
Widener University also partners with many local organizations and corporations to offer discounted tuition and other incentives to their employees. Don't see your company on the list? Ask them to become a partner. In addition, employers often offer educational reimbursement benefits. We encourage you to explore these opportunities and will be glad to provide any necessary documentation.
20% Discount for Widener Alumni
(some restrictions apply)
If you graduated with a degree from Widener, you may qualify for a 20% tuition discount. The first step to see what you qualify for is to submit your application. Widener offers students many paths to savings, and while we don't offer "double discounts", we'll make sure you'll get the biggest financial benefit you're eligible for. Only students who have completed an associate's, bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degree are eligible. Students who have pursued a 4+1, 4+2, or 3+3 pathway, graduate assistantship, Widener-funded scholarship, or other tuition discount may not be eligible if the financial discount granted surpasses 20%.
Program Cost
Center for Social Work Education
-
Bruce Hall
- 610-499-1153
- socialwork@widener.edu
Kat LeConey
Assistant Director of Admissions & Enrollment
-
Hyatt Hall, Office #320
- (610) 499-1388
- ksleconey@widener.edu
Jennifer Cullen
Director of Center for Social Work Education
-
Bruce Hall
Room 113 - (610) 499-1283
- jacullen@widener.edu