Become a Social Worker

Daemen University’s Master’s in Social Work will mold you into an exceptional practitioner who advocates for the well-being of individuals, families, communities, and more. Our program provides a collaborative learning environment, where you’ll explore contemporary issues faced by a variety of people through research and critical examination of social work practices. As you develop your professional identity, you’ll learn strategies designed to support diverse populations, ensure equity, inclusion, and justice, and impact social change.

On-campus format: Students in the two-year program spend year one developing generalist social work practice skills while completing a one-year, 450 hour generalist internship under the direction of a licensed social work professional. Year two is the advanced clinical year. Students in the Advanced Standing Program complete only the advanced clinical year.

Online Format: Whether enrolled in the full program or the Advanced Standing Program, students will take two online courses at a time in eight-week segments. While the majority of the classwork will be done independently, there will be some live, one-on-one engagements where students and faculty meet together. Students also gain practical experience by applying their skills under the direction of a licensed social work professional at field placement sites within their community (about 18-20 hours per week).

Here is a sampling of the courses you’ll take:

• Applied Research and Data Analysis
• Social Welfare History, Policy, and Services
• Human Behavior in Social Environment
• Psychopathology
• Clinical Practice with Children
• Licensure Preparation

After completing this program, you’ll be prepared to:

• take the Association of Social Work Boards licensure examinations.
• pursue clinical social work practice in a variety of settings, including schools, non-profit organizations, community centers, hospitals and clinics, nursing facilities, private practice, and more.
• demonstrate ethical and professional behavior.
• advocate for human rights and social, economic, and environmental justice.
• connect with individuals, families, groups, and community organizations.

When you’re ready to submit your application, here’s what you’ll need to provide:

• Completed application form

• Official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended indicating the award of an undergraduate degree
• Three letters of recommendation: two from an academic source and one from a volunteer experience, internship, or employer
• Resume
• Personal statement (3-4 pages)
• No GMAT required