Advanced Standing Admission Standards

MSW Program Admission Standards

Students who meet the application criteria and show strong potential to succeed in advanced social work practice by demonstrating interest, commitment, interpersonal skills, relevant experiences, and academic ability are considered for admission into the UWSP MSW Program. Applicants are encouraged to have a strong record of relevant social service experience via internships, employment, and volunteer experiences. Applicants should demonstrate a commitment to the values of the social work profession, as evidenced by their personal statement, service/employment record, and letters of recommendation. Meeting the minimum criteria does not guarantee acceptance into the MSW Program.

Advanced Standing Standards

Students accepted into the program with advanced standing bypass the first year (foundation, generalist) and begin their MSW work with the advanced year. In keeping with CSWE standards, this policy is in place to ensure that students from CSWE-accredited baccalaureate social work programs do not repeat generalist content at the master’s level that has been achieved at the baccalaureate level. 

Degree Requirement

Applicants must have a CSWE-accredited baccalaureate social work degree, a CASWE-accredited baccalaureate social work degree, or an internationally earned ISWDRES-evaluated degree comparable to a baccalaureate in social work, earned within the last 7 years.  If a student has earned a baccalaureate social work degree from a CSWE-accredited program more than 7 years from the start of the MSW Program and wishes to be considered for advanced standing, they should consult with the MSW Program Director.  The MSW Program Director may request information/documentation pertaining to the applicant’s baccalaureate social work degree, social work employment experience, and any certifications/licenses held.  The MSW Program Director will make determinations on advanced standing in such instances on a case-by-case basis. 

Grade Point Average

Applicants must have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale.  Applicants whose last degree earned GPAs are less than this standard will be considered on an individual basis and are encouraged to provide additional information related to the context of their GPA in the application. Such applicants may also wish to enhance their academic records by 1) taking the GRE and submitting minimum scores for Quantitative Reasoning of 150 and Verbal Reasoning of 153 and/or 2) completing 6-9 credits of post-undergraduate bachelor’s or master’s coursework, with grades of B+ or higher.

English language proficiency

Non-native English speakers must demonstrate English language proficiency.