M.S.W. Program - Portland Option

Learn about Social Work!

The Master of Social Work (M.S.W.) degree program is designed to prepare graduates for entry into advanced professional practice in Social Work. This program is the only graduate-level Social Work program in Oregon accredited by the National Council on Social Work Education.

There are two major options -- the "Portland Option" and the "Distance Option". In the Portland Option, classes are provided on the PSU campus; whereas in the Distance Option, classes are provided elsewhere in the state. The two options have significant differences, and the Distance Option is covered in its own section of the website.

The M.S.W. Program - Portland Option is a 78 credit program with all classes offered in a three-quarter system, in Fall, Winter, and Spring terms. Following a foundation of courses in Diversity and Social Justice, Social Welfare Policy and Services, Human Behavior in the Social Environment, Social Work Research, and Generalist Social Work Practice, students select an advanced practice concentration. The program offers concentrations in direct human services, community-based practice, or social service administration and leadership. To support their choice of concentration, students take elective courses in their areas of interest, such as mental health; children, youth, and families; older adults; health care; and school social work. The curriculum combines concurrent on-campus coursework and field education in a range of human service organizations. It is designed to prepare students to work effectively with our increasingly diverse communities.

There are a number of options for completing the program as well as opportunities for dual degrees. See Study Options for details.

We invite you to explore the links at upper left under "M.S.W. Program - Portland" to learn more.