Terrie Minner, Advisor
There is no Masters of Social Work/MSW program at the University of Oregon. Although the University of Oregon does not offer a master of social work degree, students can prepare here to be competitive applicants. The only MSW program in Oregon is at Portland State University, 800-735-2900. Go to the Council on Social Work Education at http://www.cswe.org/ for information on other accredited programs.
Graduate programs in social work usually require a bachelor’s degree, but not a specific major or particular course work for admission. The best preparation begins with broad exposure to the social and behavioral sciences, courses in humanities, the arts, and the sciences, and an understanding of the behavior of individuals, groups, and social institutions. Majors in anthropology, education, family studies, human development, political science, psychology, sociology, and social work may be useful in providing the foundation for graduate study. Courses in a second language, oral and written communication, management, ethnic studies, and computer science are also valuable. A human biology course may be required, although it can sometimes be taken after beginning a graduate program.
Graduate programs in social work are competitive and require a strong academic record. Students also need to have letters of references that verify the students’ fit with the profession. An extensive personal essay is important for application to many programs.
Most programs expect applicants to show relevant volunteer or paid experience in social work. This experience can also help prospective social workers understand the profession and decide whether it is appropriate for them. Volunteer and internship opportunities may be offered through the student’s major department; students should also check with local volunteer agencies and the UO Career Center’s website. Professional social workers not only provide direct services to clients in a wide variety of settings, but also become administrators, supervisors, and consultants, so students can consider work in these areas as well.
The Office of Academic Advising houses a catalog library of graduate programs in social work and provides advising about admission requirements, programs of study, and career opportunities. While the application process generally begins very early in the senior year, students are encouraged to begin the process toward the end of the junior year. Students are urged to attend a workshop sponsored by the Office of Academic Advising and/or the Center for Academic Learning Services/ALS. For further information, schedule an appointment with the preparatory adviser before the middle of the junior year.
Information about workshops is available on the OAA and ALS websites.
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