Social Action, Responsive Engagement, Advocacy
Northeastern Illinois University and the Department of Social Work believe in listening to their students, the community and their needs. With the great success of our Bachelor of Arts in Social Work, we have expanded the Department's focus and added the Master of Social Work (MSW).
The MSW program began in Fall 2016. In February 2019, we received full accreditation from the Council of Social Work Education (CSWE). If you are interested in applying for the Fall 2021 semester for the Full Program and for Summer 2021 for Advanced Standing, please review the program's requirements and curriculum below (click on "View MSW Program") and how you can apply for the 2021 semesters or beyond.
MSW Application Deadlines
The MSW program has the following application deadlines for Fall 2021:
- Advanced Standing : April 1, 2021
- Full Program: April 15, 2021
Master of Social Work Program Overview
The Master of Social Work is designed to prepare advanced social work practitioners who can serve vulnerable populations and contribute to their functioning and well-being. The full program is 60 credit hours total and is equally split between two curricula:
The foundation - designed for those with a bachelor's degree but who do not hold the baccalaureate degree in social work completed within the last five years. The curriculum consists of 30 credit hours and prepares one for generalist practice with individuals, families, communities and organizations.
The advanced - built upon the foundation curriculum and prepares students for direct or indirect practice categorized concentrations.
Concentrations
Within each concentration are specializations; currently, there is one specialization for each concentration. As the MSW program grows, specializations will expand.
Concentration/Specializations
- Practice with Children, Youth, and Families
- Leadership and Change
Accreditation
Northeastern Illinois University's MSW program has achieved full accreditation by the Council on Social Work Education’s Commission on Accreditation. Accreditation for a new Master of Social Work program by the Council on Social Work Education’s Commission on Accreditation means receiving initial four-year accreditation.
Students who entered the program and graduated prior to initial accreditation in or before the academic year in which they begin their program of study will be retroactively recognized as having graduated from a CSWE-accredited program. Students are eligible for social work licensure all 50 states.
Northeastern and Program Benefits
- Classes are offered during the late afternoon and evening hours to accommodate working professionals.
- The MSW program accepts students through a cohort each fall semester. The program may be completed in four part-time years or two full-time years.
- Affordable tuition
- Faculty work closely with students in small classroom settings to get personalized attention.
Contact Us
If you have further questions, contact Interim MSW program director and advisor Dr. Judith Rocha at j-rocha5@neiu.edu, or office manager Cody Budd at csbudd@neiu.edu.