If you work for or aspire to work for a social service agency, a community health or education setting, or an advocacy organization and are committed to effecting change in the social conditions and well-being of diverse groups of children and families, this human rights and justice-based social work graduate program can help you achieve your professional goals.

Wheelock's approach is family-centered, community-based, and grounded in partnerships with community providers. You will be prepared to practice with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities through direct practice, policy, and research.

Program Overview

Wheelock's Master of Social Work (MSW) program is a 60-credit course of study. Students study in five core areas: human behavior and the social environment; social work practice; social policy; social research; and field practicum experiences. We offer several full- and part-time programs to fit your learning needs.  (See the full list of program options.)

Wheelock's MSW curriculum is based on human rights and social justice. This prepares graduates to practice strengths-based social work, taking into account the dynamics of oppression and discrimination, and the importance of cultural differences and how to leverage them to help individuals and communities grow creatively and safely.

Students in the MSW program first prepare for generalist practice with individuals, families, small groups, organizations, and communities. Later in the program, the curriculum is organized around a singular concentration in justice-based social work with children and families. Students work in partnership with a faculty advisor to select a focus of study within this concentration. Student work focuses on children and families within their own communities, especially those individuals who are most at risk for not being able to participate fully in society's resources, services, and supports.

MSW Advanced Standing Gateway

Students who have completed an accredited BSW program within the last five years can apply to Wheelock's 36-credit MSW Advanced Standing Gateway, which waives them out of their Foundation Year MSW requirements and allows them to complete their MSW degree in an accelerated timeframe.

All incoming Advanced Standing students must successfully complete the MSW Advanced Standing Gateway prior to beginning the 30-credit advanced curriculum. This 6-credit summer course is designed to immerse these graduates in Wheelock's justice-based philosophy and the curricular themes that are foundational to our courses and field work. It builds on the students' knowledge, skills, and values through a two-month intensive course and field-based experience. Students complete 100 hours in their field placement, as well as take part in courses two to three evenings a week during the summer.

Learn more about the MSW Advanced Standing Gateway.

Field Placement Guidelines/Requirements

Students will work closely with the Social Work Field office to design two placements to meet their learning goals. Potential placement sites include:

• Department of Children and Families
• You, Inc.
• Friends of the Children
• Boston Area Rape Crisis Center
• Boston Medical Center

Licensure

Upon completion of the MSW degree, students are eligible to sit for the intermediate licensing exam in Massachusetts, the Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW).