The first and last semesters of the MSW program are taught on the WCU campus in Cullowhee and the second and third semesters are taught on the UNCA campus in Asheville.  For details, please see the sample schedule. 

A Master of Social Work Degree (MSW) prepares graduates for work in a variety of settings, including public agency work, private practice, social service management and administration.

A MSW is required for individuals who want to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). In addition, social workers with a MSW are eligible to obtain certifications from the Academy of Certified Social Workers (ACSW), the Qualified Clinical Social Worker (QCSW), and/or the Diplomat in Clinical Social Work (DCSW). These credentials are especially important for those in clinical practice who depend on health insurance providers to reimburse them for services.

Entry into the MSW Program does not require a bachelor's degree in Social Work, but courses in Psychology, Biology, Economics, and Political Science are strongly recommended. Up to twelve semester hours of graduate credit hours with grades of B or better may be transferred from another accredited MSW program.

Full-time, Part-time and Advanced Standing Options

Western Carolina University offers three options of study-- Full-time, part-time and Advanced Standing. The full-time Master of Social Work Program consists of two years of full-time course and fieldwork, excluding summers. All of the classes are offered in back-to-back blocks to best meet scheduling needs of students. The first and last semesters are offered at WCU in Cullowhee while the intermediate two semesters are offered at the UNCA campus in Asheville.  The department also offers a three or four-year part-time program

A one year Advanced Standing Program is open to a select number of students who have completed a CSWE-accredited Bachelor of Social Work program within the last five years. (see our sample schedule (Word).

In accordance with the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) policies, no credit is given for life or work experience.

Applications are reviewed upon receipt. The deadline for completion of Advanced Standing applications is February 1.  Priority deadline for applications to the the regular full or part-time program is February 1 with a final  application deadline of April 1. Applications received after these date will be reviewed if there is space available.

A link to the MSW student manual can be found HERE.

For more information, contact:

Dr. Pat Morse, Department Head
McKee G03-B
Cullowhee, NC 28723
Phone: 828-227-7112
E-mail to: pmorse@email.wcu.edu