Education at the University of Maryland School of Social Work (UMSSW) reflects a commitment to developing changemakers who contribute meaningfully to society. Academic programs, research opportunities, practicum placements, and alumni networks together build a foundation that empowers students to create long-term impact. Focusing on access, collaboration, engagement, and strategy ensures that social work remains a profession that responds to evolving social challenges.
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Master of Social Work (MSW) Program
- The MSW program at UMSSW offers hybrid learning at the Baltimore and Shady Grove campuses.
- A new online MSW program allows flexibility for working professionals and students beyond Maryland.
- The curriculum focuses on clinical practice, community action, policy advocacy, and leadership skills.
- Students benefit from faculty mentorship and two field placement sites that provide real-world experience.
MSW Admissions Details
- Rolling admissions with priority deadlines for scholarships.
- Applicants must demonstrate commitment to social justice, leadership, and community engagement.
- Both full-time and part-time enrollment options are available.
- Information sessions and virtual orientations help prospective learners explore program offerings.
MSW Program Highlights
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Options | Hybrid (Baltimore, Shady Grove), Online |
| Duration | 2 years (full-time), 3-4 years (part-time) |
| Field Placements | Two sites with supervised practicum education |
| Areas of Study | Clinical practice, Policy advocacy, Community action, Leadership training |
| Admissions | Application, transcripts, statement of purpose, references, interview |
| Start Dates | Fall and Spring intakes |
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Social Work
- PhD program prepares scholars to become leaders in interdisciplinary research and teaching.
- Focus areas include social justice, policy reform, and innovative research methodologies.
- Graduates pursue roles as educators, policy analysts, and research leaders.
PhD Admissions Requirements
- Master’s degree in social work or related field.
- Research proposal aligned with UMSSW faculty expertise.
- Strong academic background and professional experience in social work.
PhD Program Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Duration | 4–6 years |
| Primary Focus | Research, scholarship, teaching |
| Admissions Criteria | Master’s degree, proposal, GRE (optional), interview |
| Career Paths | University faculty, Policy research, Social work leadership |
| Research Opportunities | Interdisciplinary projects with faculty and community partners |
Doctor of Social Work (DSW) Program
- UMSSW is launching a new DSW program designed for experienced professionals.
- The program emphasizes advanced practice, leadership development, and innovation.
- Structured as a three-year doctorate with a mix of coursework, applied projects, and capstone work.
DSW Program Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 3 years |
| Target Audience | Experienced social work practitioners |
| Focus Areas | Advanced practice, Applied research, Leadership strategies |
| Program Launch | Coming soon |
| Career Outcomes | Agency directors, Policy advisors, Advanced clinical practitioners |
Practicum Education
- Practicum education is core to the curriculum.
- Students experience two different placements to broaden exposure.
- Field education provides skills in case management, advocacy, research, and community engagement.
Practicum Key Aspects
- Learning under supervision from licensed professionals.
- Opportunities in hospitals, schools, community organizations, and policy centers.
- Integration of academic learning with field realities.
Alumni Voices
- Alumni play a major role in shaping the school’s reputation.
- Testimonies reflect the life-changing impact of the programs.
Examples of Alumni Reflections
- Kimberly Street described her journey as “life-altering,” emphasizing how she found a community of changemakers.
- Heather Chapman and Jody Olsen continue to inspire through leadership roles in social work.
Campus Growth and Infrastructure
- A new SSW building is under construction, reflecting UMSSW’s growth.
- Modern facilities will enhance research, student collaboration, and classroom experiences.
- Live construction updates and opportunities to support the project are available to the public.
Community Engagement
- UMSSW actively participates in Baltimore neighborhoods through outreach events.
- Example: Back-to-School Bash provided essential school supplies to families in Madison Park and Upton.
- Collaboration with organizations such as Bethel AME Church strengthens community trust.
Upcoming Events
UMSSW organizes regular events to engage prospective students, current learners, and researchers.
Event Schedule
| Date | Event | Mode | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sep 4 | MSW Information Session | Virtual | Program overview for prospective MSW students |
| Sep 8 | SGA Student Body Meeting | Hybrid | Open meeting for student governance and leadership |
| Sep 9 | Research Community Meeting (RCM) | Virtual | Monthly research networking and updates for faculty/students |
Commitment to ACES (Access, Collaboration, Engagement, Strategy)
- Access ensures education remains open to diverse communities.
- Collaboration builds partnerships across academic, clinical, and community settings.
- Engagement emphasizes active participation in community transformation.
- Strategy ensures long-term planning for research, student success, and professional leadership.
ACES in Action
| Principle | Implementation at UMSSW |
|---|---|
| Access | Scholarships, online programs, flexible admissions |
| Collaboration | Partnerships with hospitals, NGOs, and policy centers |
| Engagement | Practicum placements, community outreach projects |
| Strategy | Research centers, new building project, program innovation |
Last Words
Education at the University of Maryland School of Social Work equips students with tools to lead change in diverse communities. With a range of programs including MSW, PhD, and the upcoming DSW, along with practicum experiences and strong alumni networks, the school cultivates leaders who transform society. Commitment to ACES ensures that UMSSW continues to balance academic excellence with community responsibility.
