three students studying for a master in social work
Inspiring and Educating Professionals

Master of Social Work

Grounded in social work values and ethics, Salisbury University offers an innovative student-centered MSW program that prepares graduates to make an impact in their local and regional communities and at national and international levels. Salisbury University MSW graduates serve as leaders in the implementation of socially just, culturally-responsive, equitable, evidence-based, and theory-informed interventions.

What Can I Do With a Master of Social Work?

Graduates will have the skills necessary for lifelong learning and adaptation to new practice contexts. They will be prepared to work in a variety of settings in primary roles that include direct practitioners, consultants and supervisors, working in fields such as:

  • Social justice
  • Policy practice
  • Clinical mental health
  • Community organizing
  • Government organizations
  • Non-profit organizations
  • Public education system

Why Choose a Master of Social Work at Salisbury University?

The M.S.W. program at SU offers students the opportunity to earn their degree in a student-centered, supportive atmosphere. When you apply to the program at SU, you will find:

  • Multiple options to complete your degree. SU offers one of the most affordable online M.S.W. options in Maryland. We also have options at four convenient regional locations across Maryland. Courses in the regional locations are “hybrid,” meaning they use the latest technology to combine conventional face-to-face presentations with fully interactive live video and online instruction from SU’s faculty. The M.S.W. program is designed with the working student in mind by offering evening and summer courses, so you can complete your degree on your own schedule.
  • A nationally recognized program. The M.S.W. program at SU is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education. In addition, the program’s online option is also accredited.
  • Advanced direct practice education. SU’s advanced direct practice specialization is defined as advanced practice primarily with individuals, groups, families and organizations. Advanced direct practice is based on the systems and strengths perspectives, along with theory. These foundations focus on preparing practitioners to enhance social functioning and interactions of individuals, families, and groups by involving them in accomplishing goals, developing resources and preventing or alleviating distress.
  • Field education. Students select field education placements to meet their professional goals. Current placements include a variety of settings such as community mental health agencies, child welfare agencies, county health departments and area schools.

M.S.W. Program Specializations

Students have the choice of two specializations:

Meet Maura – M.S. in Social Work Student

Meet Maura – M.S.W. Student

Learn how Maura is honing her skills as a social worker and giving back to her community.

Master of Social Work Program Requirements

For details on program policies as well as the program requirements, visit the University's catalog:

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Jake Day

Master of Social Work, Social Change and Leadership Specialization

Hear why Maryland Secretary of Housing and Community Development Jacob Day feels Salisbury University’s Master of Social Work – Social Change and Leadership Specialization is a great tool to help prepare leaders and advocates who understand how to engage in communities and foster opportunity.  Prepare yourself to be a practitioner of change making at SU. 

Interview with Dr. Lee Staples

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Dr. Lee Staples, the author of Roots to Power, which is one of our SCL course textbooks, is an emeritus professor at Boston University School of Social Work, as well as a renowned community organizer and scholar. In this interview, he shares his insights from community practice, highlights what makes the macro specialization track unique, and discusses various career paths.

Campuses Across Maryland and Online

Salisbury University has five locations throughout Maryland to earn your degree! We offer our M.S.W. Program at our main campus in Salisbury and at our four satellite sites in Maryland. Our campus locations are designed in a hybrid format so students are only on campus one-two evenings per week with classes beginning at 5 p.m. Salisbury University also offers a completely Online M.S.W. Program option.

Master of Social Work Faculty with Real-World Experience

The social work faculty is dedicated to excellence in teaching and maintaining a strong focus on student learning.

Rooted in social justice, the profession of social work strives to create a world in which we all can thrive. The School of Social Work seeks motivated graduate students, who have a passion for helping others and are ready to enhance their skills to work with individuals, families, groups, and communities.
Dr. Jennifer R. Jewell Director for the School of Social Work

Learn More About Our Master of Social Work Program