Master of Social Work
UND's MSW curriculum prepares students to practice competently in a variety of settings and across practice levels.
Program Options
The MSW program at UND offers students two tracks, Generalist & Advanced Generalist.
REQUIREMENTS & APPLICATION INFORMATION
Generalist Program
This program is for those with a degree in a discipline other than social work OR those who have graduated from a non-Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredited institution.
| Program Information | Online Program |
|---|---|
| Application period: | Open in January/Due June 15* |
| Start date, if accepted | Spring |
| Application information |
|
| Delivery | Year round, includes Summer semesters |
| Part-Time Option |
9-10 semesters (60 credits)
|
| Delivery Style | Synchronous online classes (camera and mics required) |
| Class dates |
Offered on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday evenings (some exceptions may apply with field placement and electives). Registration is first come/first served. Class time availability cannot be guaranteed.
|
| Field Placement |
Two field placements
|
*Priority deadlines help you stay on track for completing important steps in the admission process. If you miss the priority deadline, you still may apply.
Advanced Generalist Program
This program is for those with a bachelor's degree in Social Work from a Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredited program.
|
Program Information |
On-Campus Program |
Online Program |
|---|---|---|
| Application Period | Open in August/Due January 15* | Open in May/Due October 15* |
| Start date, if accepted | Fall | Summer |
| Semesters to Complete Program |
Full Time
|
Part Time
Full Time (beginning Summer 2026)
|
| Delivery Style | In-person classes at UND | Synchronous online classes (camera and mics required) |
| Class dates |
Classes are full days on Thursday and Friday in person on campus. A part-time option is possible by scheduling either Thursday or Friday alternating each year available. |
Classes are offered on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday evenings. Classes at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. CST. Registration is first come/first served. Class time availability cannot be guaranteed. |
*Priority deadlines help you stay on track for completing important steps in the admission
process.
If you miss the priority deadline, you still may apply.
What Our Graduates have to Say
"UND’s MSW program offered so many leadership opportunities that I never expected as a non-traditional, distance student. Of course, there were classroom presentations and group projects; however, there were also thesis competitions, opportunities to serve as student representatives on department committees, and international educational experiences. I flexed so many leadership muscles, and those were incredible experiences for me... Both my policy and clinical interests were fostered and encouraged at UND, and I valued not being pushed to pick one over the other." - Kevin, Social Worker
"Applying for my master's was something I thought I would never do... I was raising two kids, and working full time. I now have the ability to make changes and see the difference." - Ashley, Behavioral Health Counselor
"The professors at UND truly prioritize their students’ well-being and success. There were times, after a long day of work, when the thought of logging into class for the evening felt overwhelming. However, the professors have a unique ability to make online learning not only informative but also enjoyable, engaging, and even fun. Their support and dedication to creating an interactive learning environment helped make the experience feel more manageable and meaningful, even on the toughest days." - Carly, Social Service Professional
Program News
Program Director
- isaac.karikari@UND.edu
- 701.777.4869
-
Gillette Hall Room 307
Grand Forks ND 58202-7135
MSW Mission Statement and Goals
The University of North Dakota’s Master of Social Work Program provides quality, accessible, and affordable graduate education to prepare ethical, advanced-generalist, social work professionals to serve as transformative leaders in their communities in North Dakota, the region, and beyond.
We prepare advanced generalist social work practitioners who:
- Have a strong identification with the social work profession, be committed to its highest ethical ideals, and embrace the role of change agent.
- Continually strive to increase their cultural competence and understand and respect human diversity.
- Understand the forms and mechanisms of oppression and discrimination and advocate for social and economic justice.
- Synthesize and effectively apply a broad range of advanced knowledge and skills across practice levels that prepares them to assume leadership roles and work in multi-disciplinary and inter-disciplinary professional capacity.
- Have a passion for critical inquiry and a commitment to lifelong learning.