The Master of Social Work program (MSW) through the West Component has been accredited since 2002 and has an advanced generalist focus, emphasizing cultural proficiency within the emerging fields of practice that characterize the dynamic, growing areas of Arizona. The standard program has 60 credits and is completed in two years, with agency-based field placements in both years. Many students complete the program on a part-time basis, and the 37-credit Advanced Standing program is available for qualified students who have completed a BSW within the past six years. Students acquire the knowledge and skills to work effectively with individuals, families, groups, organizations and communities. MSW students get more in-depth learning experiences in terms of therapeutic interventions, administrative and organizational skills, and policy analysis and practice. Compared to BSWs, MSWs will have greater autonomy and leadership in their practice.

If you wish to improve the social, emotional, and economic lives of people through individual and societal change, an MSW can help you achieve your career goals. Students develop skills as Advanced Generalist practitioners who are able to intervene effectively with individuals, families, organizations and communities. You will also develop expertise in working with a particular under-served segment of the population, such as ethnic minorities of the Southwest, people with disabilities, or other groups of interest.

The MSW program offers several degree options:

• Full time/2yrs - 60 credit hours
• Part-time/3yrs - 60 credit hour
• Advanced standing program - 37 credit hours for qualified applicants with a BSW degree
            • Part-time 5 semesters
            • Fulltime 3 semesters
• Child welfare training program (Title 4e) - Tuition waivers/stipends for Child Protective Service workers who will agree to continue their employment after completion of their MSW degree.

The ASU's West campus Social Work program is designed to meet the needs of traditional and nontraditional students with flexible class scheduling, a variety of internships, and close mentoring relationships with faculty. Our student-centered program has small classes and a strong practice oriented approach to social work. ASU West graduates are able to find meaningful employment in a variety of settings.

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Alumni Profile

Elizabeth Kottoor
'99 B.S.W., '02 M.S.W
Director of Operations and Co-owner
Sunshine Residential Homes, Inc.

As a child in India, Elizabeth Kottoor studied with Mother Teresa, whose first school was housed at Kottoor's family home.