Master of Science
in Social Work

Yes, the on-campus MSSW is fully accredited by the Council of Social Work Education (CSWE) and the online MSSW is pending CSWE approval.

Students interested in our on-campus option can apply for a fall start. Students interested in online option can apply for a fall, spring or summer start.

ACU offers two-degree plans (Standard and Advanced Standing) depending on your previous experience, bachelor’s degree earned and other items. Students with any undergraduate major can apply for the Standard program. Only students with a previously earned B.S. in Social Work from an accredited university can apply for the Advanced Standing degree plan.

We are an Advanced Generalist program with concentrations in Nonprofit Management or Integrated Health and Behavioral Health. As a result, graduates are equipped to enter the field to work with all clients, populations, and social problems.

Yes, the Certificate in Social Service Administration can be earned within the on-campus MSSW, without adding additional hours to your degree plan.

Yes, in cooperation with the Graduate School of Theology, the MSSW has developed a path whereby students can pursue the Master of Arts in Christian Ministry concurrently with the MSSW.

Full-time students complete the Standard MSSW (60 credit hours) in 2 years 4 months. The Advanced Standing MSSW (33 hours) is completed in 1 year 4 months.

Students in the Standard degree plan will complete a total of two field placements while in the program. The first field placement requires 400 hours, and the second field placement requires 500 hours. Advanced standing students will complete one 500-hour field placement during the academic year.

Yes, it is possible to transfer graduate credit with the program director’s approval. However, transfer credits are not guaranteed.

Yes, all of our graduates are equipped with the skills and eligibility requirements to pursue clinical licensure after graduation. Our research courses also provide an excellent foundation for future PhD plans

Yes. Practicum and course schedules can vary each semester, so students should seek employment that provides flexibility.

The program is broken down into two options: online and on-campus. For those who are interested in starting their program online, students will be required to submit their application and will be considered on a rolling basis. Within either application portal, you can send recommendation requests, upload documents, and check your admission status.

All online applications will be accepted on a rolling basis.

The minimum GPA is a 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. If your undergraduate GPA is below a 3.0, the GRE or MAT entrance exam may be required or you may receive a probationary admission. Please speak with the Admissions Advisor for more information.

Yes, the $50 application fee can be paid within your application portal.

For cost information, please visit the Online MS in Social Work page and review the “Degree Details” section.

Yes! Learn more about scholarship and fellowship opportunities.

For the Standard degree plan, you must submit three letters of recommendation, two of which must represent people who can speak to the student’s academic and/or professional behavior abilities, including but not limited to a faculty member, program director, internship supervisor, etc. For the Advanced Standing degree plan, you must Submit three letters of recommendation, two of which must represent people who can speak to the student’s abilities as an emerging social worker. Of the two academic references, at least one must be a program director, practicum director or practicum instructor/supervisor.

Please include academic or professional references only.

You must write a personal statement addressing your motivation for graduate studies and entering the social work profession, and reflections on the program’s four themes of human rights and justice, cultural and spiritual humility, holistic practice and empowerment. Most statements are three-four pages (double-spaced). Statements under three pages will not be accepted.

With a rolling-admissions process, you will be notified of your admission decision usually within two weeks of submitting your completed application materials.

Our 100% online degree programs are designed for busy working adults just like you – intentionally structured to allow you to balance work, life and other commitments. ACU Online students take new courses every 7 weeks, though some courses are only available once a year. As a student of ACU Online, you are part of a vibrant, virtual, inclusive community.

The program is broken down into two options: online and on-campus. For those who are interested in attending the program at our on-campus location in Abilene, Texas, students will be required to submit their application to be considered for fall entry.

The priority review deadline for the on-campus option is February 16th (for scholarships, GA positions and field practicum sites). The standard review deadline is May 1st (the deadline may be extended if space is available).

The minimum GPA is a 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. If your undergraduate GPA is below a 3.0, the GRE or MAT entrance exam may be required or you may receive a probationary admission. Please speak with the Admissions Advisor for more information

Yes, the $65 application fee can be paid within your application portal.

For cost information, please visit the MS in Social Work – Advanced Standing page and review the “Degree Details” section.

Yes! Learn more about scholarship and GA opportunities.

For the on-campus Advanced Standing degree plan, you must Submit three letters of recommendation, two of which must represent people who can speak to the student’s abilities as an emerging social worker. Of the two academic references, at least one must be a program director, practicum director or practicum instructor/supervisor.

Please include academic or professional references only.

You must write a personal statement addressing your motivation for graduate studies and entering the social work profession, and reflections on the program’s four themes of human rights and justice, cultural and spiritual humility, holistic practice and empowerment. Most statements are three-four pages (double-spaced). Statements under three pages will not be accepted.

With a rolling-admissions process, you will be notified of your admission decision usually within two weeks of submitting your completed application materials.

Yes, students can enroll part-time in Advanced-Standing MSSW degree plans. This is a popular option for those with several commitments outside of their graduate studies.

Yes! Please contact the Office of Graduate Programs (gradinfo@acu.edu or 325-674-6911) to learn more about upcoming Open Houses and/or to schedule a campus visit.

Abilene is a great place to live, work and play. For more information on what Abilene and ACU can offer you, visit our website.