Our single concentration in clinical social work provides students with the full range of skills needed for direct clinical practice in human service organizations.
Our master's in social work program (MSW degree) follows a trauma-informed, clinical model that promotes a social justice lens. You will learn alongside active practitioners to gain insider knowledge and experience for careers in:
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. Under direct supervision, you will prepare for advanced practice in social work in a variety of settings.
The Center for Social Work Education is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).
View the academic catalog for curriculum and coursework requirements for the MSW degree on-campus and online programs:
Which Format is Best for You: Online or In Person More About Our Online MSW
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.
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.
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.
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.
The mission of Widener’s master of social work program is to prepare culturally competent social workers who:
The department also strives to use self-reflection and critical thinking in creating purposeful interventions informed by theory and evidence through:
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.
All determinations are accurate as of August 25, 2021 and are reviewed annually.
To apply to the campus-based MSW program:
To apply to our online MSW, please visit our online MSW application page.
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.
Our trauma-informed model prepares you for a career as a highly competent social work clinician.
Widener offers both an MSW and graduate certificate curriculum that'll prepare you to intervene effectively using a trauma-informed lens with clients and to advocate for universal human rights. Upon graduation, you will be able to demonstrate care and compassion for clients from diverse cultural, social, and economic backgrounds and hold an unwavering belief in client strengths and client empowerment.
In your field placement settings, you'll have the opportunity to 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.
Immerse yourself in the Widener community as an intern with Social Work Counseling Services (SWCS).
Our Center for Social Work Education faculty are practicing clinicians who are committed to providing mentorship, feedback, and support to you in the classroom and field placement settings.
"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."
"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."
Widener's Social Work Master's (MSW) program celebrates its 30th anniversary.
In this podcast interview, Dr. Julie E. Wollman reflects on her service as president of Widener University since 2016.
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.
Upon graduation, you will be prepared to enter the workforce as a clinical social worker and agent of social change. Uniquely located between three states, Widener's community relationships can connect you to agencies, schools, and hospitals in the tri-state area and beyond.
Hear from our students about their experience in the MSW degree program.
Widener has stood up to its reviews -- it’s an exceptional school. The educational experience is priceless.
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