Master of Social Work
Welcome to the Master of Social Work (MSW) Program FAQ page for the College of Public Service at the University of Houston–Downtown. This page provides clear and straightforward answers to common questions from prospective and current students regarding admissions, program structure, field education, licensing pathways, and student resources.
The UHD MSW program prepares graduate students for advanced professional practice in a wide range of social work settings, with an emphasis on ethical practice, community engagement, and effective service delivery. Whether you are exploring graduate study in social work or seeking details about the application process, this page serves as a central source of information.
MSW Information Sessions
Virtual Information Session Dates
- Thursday, January 22 | 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Mission and Vision
MSW - Mission: The Master of Social Work Program at UHD commits to the development of nurturing, compassionate, and skilled social work professionals dedicated to advancing the human condition through solidarity, collaboration, and intellectual curiosity.
MSW - Vision: To cultivate a community of compassionate leaders who advance healing, justice, and well-being through transformative social work practice at all levels.
MSW - Frequently Asked Questions
Information & Answers
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What is the focus of the UHD Master of Social Work program?
At UHD, MSW students learn how to show up powerfully in today’s complex world, drawing from cutting-edge research and real-world expertise. Our program brings together trauma-informed practice, equity-centered perspectives, and meaningful community partnership to prepare graduates to lead with confidence — whether in clinical practice, community settings, or large-scale systems change.
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Is the UHD MSW program accredited?
The UHD MSW Program is currently in pre-candidacy for accreditation with the Council on Social Work Education’s (CSWE) Board of Accreditation (BOA). Once the program achieves initial accreditation, their degrees will be retroactively recognized as graduating from a CSWE-accredited MSW program.
The accreditation process typically spans three years, and UHD is strongly positioned and deeply committed to completing each stage successfully. While final accreditation cannot be guaranteed, the program has the structures, faculty expertise, and institutional support needed to move confidently through the process.
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How long will it take to complete the program?
Applicants with any bachelor’s degree from a program accredited by one of the six U.S. regional accrediting organizations may apply to the traditional MSW track (2 years, full-time/ 4 years, part-time). We plan to begin accepting applications for the traditional track in 2027.
Applicants with a BSW degree may qualify for Advanced Standing, allowing for a faster program completion (12 months full-time/24 months part-time). In January 2026 we will begin accepting applications for the part-time advanced standing track for students who will begin courses in the fall of 2026. We plan to begin accepting applications for the advanced standing full-time in 2027.
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Do I need a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) to apply?No. Applicants with any bachelor’s degree from a program accredited by one of the six U.S. regional accrediting organizations may apply to the traditional 60-hour MSW track.
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Is it an online program?Yes, the UHD MSW program is an online program. All non-field practicum courses are delivered synchronously (via Zoom) or asynchronously. Field practicum hours may be online or in person depending on the requirements of the field agency.
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How is the part-time advanced standing course schedule structured?
Synchronous courses are hybrid (half face-to-face via Zoom and half independent work) and are completed in 8-week terms with the exception of the field courses which are completed across long semesters. Although the majority of courses will be offered synchronously, asynchronous courses may also be offered. Asynchronous courses are fully online and completed in 8-week terms independently with access to the instructor when needed.
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How many credit hours are required for the MSW degree?The traditional MSW program has a 60-credit hour requirement and 14 of the 60 credit hours are associated with the field practicum. The advanced standing MSW program has a 30-credit hour requirement and nine of the 30 credit hours are associated with the field practicum.
MSW - Frequently Asked Questions
Cont'd
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What are the admission requirements?
UHD online graduate admissions application; official transcripts (all schools attended); minimum 2.75 undergraduate GPA (minimum 3.0 GPA for advanced standing); personal statement; answer four essay prompts; current resume; two letters of recommendation (one academic & one professional).
To be considered for advanced standing, individuals with a BSW degree, are required to submit their final BSW field practicum evaluation in addition to the requirements listed above. -
What if my official transcript is not available when I am ready to apply?If you have not yet graduated from an undergraduate program or recently graduated and your full official transcript is not yet available, please submit your most recent unofficial transcript and/or comprehensive grade report for the committed to review initially. Then, please provide your official transcripts (from all institutions) as soon as possible as they are required for admission to the MSW program.
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Are GRE scores required?No, the GRE is not required for admission.
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Are scholarships available?The College of Public Service has scholarships available for new graduate students during their first year in the program.
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What are the tuition and fee costs?
See the current UHD Graduate Programs information Fall 2025 - Summer 2026 Graduate Programs (NON-MBA) | University of Houston-Downtown Note: the rates are subject to change. (See link below)
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Will there be study abroad opportunities?Yes, MSW students can be approved to participate in any social work study abroad program that is planned during their time in the program. Both BSW and MSW students would travel together with different course requirements.
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Will I need to complete field/internship hours?Yes. Students in the traditional program will complete 900 or more field practicum hours and advanced standing students will complete 500 or more field practicum hours.
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When can I apply?
Applications for the fall 2026 cohort (part-time advanced standing applicants only) will be accepted between January 1st and March 31st of 2026. Individuals are encouraged to apply as early as possible as there are limited spots available.
Applications for the traditional (60-credit hour), part-time and full-time program and the advanced standing full-time program will be accepted in 2027.
