People become social workers for many reasons, but ultimately their goal is to make the world a better place for people in need. The Master of Social Work at the University of Missouri–St. Louis is a two-year full-time or up to six-year part-time program that prepares graduates for professional social work practice with individuals, families, groups, organizations and communities.In the first half of graduate study, students take courses that provide a common base of knowledge across all practice settings and populations. Upon completion of 30 foundation credit hours, students proceed to one of two areas of concentration:Family Practice, which prepares students to work primarily with individuals and families in settings such as child welfare agencies, family service agencies, mental health clinics, schools, healthcare organizations, family violence service agencies, substance abuse prevention and treatment programs, or correctional organizations.Leadership and Social Change, which provides students with the knowledge and practical training to assume leadership and management positions in a wide variety of local, state and national public, private and nonprofit organizations.You will gain the knowledge, skills and ethical framework to work in a variety of settings including schools, hospitals, government, private practice, non-profit and community organizations. Additonally, you will be well-qualified to advance your current career, or pursue new opportunities making a positive impact on the lives of others.Field education is an integral part of UMSL’s MSW curriculum, and provides valuable experience with the functions, responsibilities and challenges of real-world social workers in our communities. Students may choose from 400 plus practicum locations in and around the St. Louis area, allowing for a broad range of training opportunities. Field sites outside of the St. Louis metropolitan area may be approved upon request.Learn from highly qualified educators and researchers who hold terminal degrees from some of the world’s most prestigious academic institutions.
