Master’s in Social Work Degree Programs in Pennsylvania

If you’re interested in helping people in need, you may want to know more about the accredited social work degree programs in Pennsylvania. When you choose to commit yourself to a graduate program in the field of social services, you can potentially make an impact on the lives of people who might otherwise get left behind by the community. The career of a social worker can be highly rewarding and meaningful, especially with the skills and certifications provided by a graduate program in the state of Pennsylvania. The programs on this list are some of the best choices available in the region.

Bryn Mawr College

Graduate School of Social Work and Social Research

At Bryn Mawr College in Pennsylvania, the Graduate School of Social Work and Social Research is one of the most sought-after institutions of higher learning in the region. Students in this school receive careful preparation for the challenges of working with families, children, and individuals in need while striving to make communities more hospitable towards the vulnerable and disadvantaged. The college offers a stimulating curriculum that pushes students to achieve the best results they’re capable of while honing their critical thinking and interpersonal skills.

Master of Social Service

A master’s degree in social service equips students with the tools and knowledge they need to make a difference in their communities and help to remove the barriers faced by at-risk members of these neighborhoods. Graduate students will receive an in-depth training in the ethics of social work and leadership as well as the importance of social and economic justice. The degree requires 18 semester hours to complete and includes three elective courses and four semester hours of field work. Both full-time and part-time degree plans are available to accommodate the personal and family lives of students. Under the part-time plan, students are required to take at least two courses per semester. Overall, the program lasts three to four semesters, depending on the number of courses a student takes per semester.

Accreditations

  • Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
  • Educational Policy and Accreditation Standard (EPAS)

Contact

101 North Merion Ave

Bryn Mawr, PA 19010-2899

(610) 526-5000

info@brynmawr.edu

https://www.brynmawr.edu/socialwork/

California University of Pennsylvania

Social Work

The California University of Pennsylvania is a premier institution of higher learning that offers a Master of Social Work degree program for professionals looking to hone their knowledge and skills while increasing their employment opportunities and helping their communities. The college is known for preparing students for challenging careers in social service by providing valuable training in the fields of sociology and social sciences. Students at the California University of Pennsylvania graduate with a sense of dedication and purpose and an ability to take pride in the accomplishments of their studies.

Master of Social Work

With a master’s degree in social work, students will be prepared to contribute to their communities by helping disadvantaged families and at-risk individuals cope with the challenges of life. Graduates of this program will acquire leadership and critical thinking skills related to ethical decision making and organizational planning for community events. Coursework for this program is administered in a rural small-town setting and focuses on providing assistance to disadvantaged individuals living in rural areas. The program requires a combination of in-class semester hours and off-campus field work. The bulk of the program consists of requisite coursework, and several classes are reserved for graduate-level elective credits. The coursework and experience gained from this graduate program offer students the tools and expertise they need to become leaders in their communities and help others find the necessary support and assistance.

Accreditations

  • American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU)
  • American Association of Colleges of Teacher Education (AACTE)
  • Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

Contact

250 University Ave.

California, PA 15419

(724) 938-4000

gradschool@calu.edu

https://www.calu.edu/academics/graduate/masters/social-work/index.aspx

Edinboro University of Pennsylvania

School of Graduate Studies and Research

At Edinboro University in Pennsylvania, the School of Graduate Studies and Research offers students the opportunity to gain critical thinking and leadership skills relevant to advanced careers in the social sciences, humanities, or other areas of study. Graduates will leave their degree programs with valuable insights and perspective pertaining to the interaction between academic research and community activism. A graduate degree from this institution carries with it a sense of accomplishment and dedication to bringing about a more just and equitable society with an emphasis on ethical leadership and social improvement.

Master of Social Work

The Master of Social Work degree from Edinboro University gives students a powerful set of skills to use in their activism and community service while preparing them for leadership positions in social services organizations. The program consists of a curriculum of core requirements that take up the bulk of the semester hours. The final semester of the program offers students a chance to choose a relevant set of elective courses while gaining off-campus experience through approved internship programs. After completing this master’s degree, students will have the knowledge and insight to lead a social service organization to the completion of any set of goals. Graduates will be qualified to develop ethical objectives for social services teams and deploy them in local communities while guiding team members in their efforts to reduce inequality and the barriers to social inclusion for disadvantaged families and individuals.

Accreditations

  • Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)

Contact

219 Meadville Street

Edinboro, Pennsylvania 16444

(888) 846-2676

admissions@edinboro.edu

http://www.edinboro.edu/academics/schools-and-departments/graduate-studies/

Kutztown University

Social Work

At Kutztown University, the college of Social Work is a specialized facility that instills students with a foundation of knowledge and understanding in the important fields of sociology and social services. Students receive a complete educational experience that involves academic enrichment and extracurricular activities. On-campus resources give students the tools and services they need to fully develop their intellectual expertise and create achievable goals for their educations and careers. With a faculty of experts in their respective fields, the university is able to offer high-quality guidance and instruction in all areas of study.

Master of Social Work

The Master of Social Work degree from Kutztown University is the perfect stepping stone on the way to a fulfilling career in social services. The program includes a core course load of prerequisites designed to prepare students for ethical decision making responsibilities in organizations dedicated to social empowerment of vulnerable members of local communities. With a master’s degree in social work from Kutztown University, graduates will be qualified to lead any social services organization toward the goal of reducing social and economic inequality and providing essential resources to under-served communities. The program gives students the opportunity to create a flexible schedule centered around a core set of required courses as well as a semester of electives. Before graduation, students will get the chance to complete the field work required for their major.

Accreditations

  • Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
  • Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation(CAEP)

Contact

15200 Kutztown Road

Kutztown, PA 19530

(610) 683-4000

webmaster@kutztown.edu

https://www.kutztown.edu/socialwork

Marywood University

School of Social Work

The School of Social Work at Marywood University is one of the most well-known graduate schools in the state of Pennsylvania and a great choice for prospective students of social services and research. Respected for its commitment to economic and social justice in under-served communities, the college puts a focus on critical thinking and ethical leadership. Students who attend this university receive the instruction and guidance they need to become vital members of their communities and reduce the socioeconomic inequality that can create major challenges for individuals and families.

Master of Social Work

Students who complete the coursework in the Master of Social Work program at Marywood University will gain the critical skills necessary to cultivate rewarding careers in the fields of social work and community outreach. The program consists of a core curriculum of sociology and leadership coursework as well as a semester of elective credits and off-campus field work. The degree prepares students to perform a leadership role in a social services organization that provides resources and critical assistance to disadvantaged and at-risk communities. The faculty and staff at the college have the expertise to guide graduate students through the rigors of a master’s program without putting unnecessary stress on students or discouraging them from participating in educational activities. Meetings and events on and off campus are designed to prepare students for careers in social services.

Accreditations

  • Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
  • Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation(CAEP)

Contact

2300 Adams Avenue

Scranton, PA 18509

(570) 348-6211

GoGrad@marywood.edu

http://www.marywood.edu/ssw/index.html

Millersville University of Pennsylvania and Shippensburg University Collaborative

The School of Social Work

The Millersville and Shippensburg universities have collaborated to offer a graduate education to students at the School of Social Work in Pennsylvania. Programs offered at this college include an in-depth study of social conditions that can have an impact on local communities dealing with the effects of socioeconomic inequality and the marginalization of disadvantaged families and individuals. The facilities available to students are designed to ensure that everyone has access to the resources and information they need to excel in their coursework. With a dedicated team of faculty and staff, Millersville and Shippensburg universities have provided all the necessary support and assistance for students.

Master of Social Work

A master’s degree in social work from this collaborative union between two prestigious universities gives students the insights and understanding needed to pursue a meaningful career in the field of social service. The coursework of this program is highly challenging and stimulating, and students will learn how to make ethical decisions for an organization dedicated to social service. The master’s degree in social work is a highly sought-after certification for social services professionals seeking the tools and expertise to move forward in their careers. Students will have the option to sign up for elective courses and internships at any point in the degree program. A special focus is put on acquiring the leadership and planning skills needed to excel in the world of social services organization. Graduates will be qualified to provide high-level support to public and private social services companies in their communities.

Accreditations

  • American Council on Education (ACE)

Contact

P.O. Box 1002

Millersville, PA 17551-0302

(717) 871-4636

mupresident@millersville.edu

https://www.millersville.edu/socialwork/

Temple University

College of Public Health

The College of Public Health at Temple University is a top destination of graduate students seeking training in the fields of public health and social services. This college offers students all the support and resources required for a comprehensive education in the field of their interest. The convenient, beautiful, high-quality facilities of the university create an ideal learning environment for anyone interested in the social and public health sciences. Receiving a degree from this institution is a major step toward establishing yourself in a career as a public service professional with expertise in your field.

Master of Social Work

The Master of Social Work degree from Temple University prepares students for a rewarding career in a high-demand industry. Graduates of this program will take with them the valuable qualities of dedication, perseverance, critical thinking, and ethical leadership. The coursework of this program is highly focused on social services theory and practice. The training is designed to provide students with the skills needed to enter into the world of social work as an effective organizer and planner. With a master’s degree from this college, graduates will be able to fill the role of director or manager of a social services organization while delivering aid and support to surrounding communities in need of assistance. The knowledge and insight gained from this degree program is valuable for anyone seeking a boost for their resumes and careers.

Accreditations

  • Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
  • Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA)

Contact

Garden Level, Sullivan Hall

1330 W. Polett Walk

Philadelphia, PA 19122

(215) 204-8873

jodi.levine@temple.edu

https://cph.temple.edu/

University of Pennsylvania

School of Social Policy

At the School of Social Policy, students of the University of Pennsylvania have the opportunity to improve their knowledge and understanding of public policy and its effects on local communities. With a wealth of resources and educational tools to draw from, students can rest assured that their experience on campus will be enriching, rewarding, and productive for as long as they attend the University of Pennsylvania. A highly experienced and knowledgeable faculty can offer students the assistance and guidance they need to become effective professionals in their chosen fields of expertise.

Master of Social Work

The graduate program for social work is a core pillar of the University of Pennsylvania’s curriculum. It enables students to learn about innovative techniques and strategies for delivering social services to disadvantaged communities. The graduate program consists of a carefully curated selection of course requirements as well as a wide range of options for elective credits. Students have the opportunity to set their own schedules and customize their coursework for an educational experience that perfectly matches their needs and preferences. The master’s degree in social work is a prestigious certification for public service professionals looking for a way to advance their careers with additional training and expertise. Completing this program takes two to three semesters and can be accomplished on a full-time or part-time basis. The internships and off-campus field work provide students with valuable experience as organizers and leaders in their communities.

Accreditations

  • Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

Contact

3451 Walnut Street

Philadelphia, PA 19104

(215) 898-5000

provost@upenn.edu

https://www.sp2.upenn.edu/

University of Pittsburgh

School of Social Work

At the University of Pittsburgh, students of the School of Social Work gain valuable experience and insight into the vital humanitarian field of social services. The campus provides the ideal setting for an immersive educational experience for students of the social services disciplines. All the tools and resources needed to excel in any degree program are available at the convenience of students enrolled at the college. The student body, faculty, and staff form a tight-knit community where support and encouragement are provided by the administrators and counselors.

Master of Social Work

A master’s degree in social work from the University of Pittsburgh is a highly sought-after certification that gives graduate students the training and expertise they need to make an impact in their communities. The coursework in this program provides a stimulating challenge for students who want to hone their organizational leadership skills while deepening their understanding of social work and public service. The master’s program prepares students to enter the world of social work as a director or administrator and put their theories and plans into action to improve the lives of disadvantaged members of local communities. The degree requirements have been designed by experts in the field of social services to exceed the standards of the accrediting body and deliver the academic insights and critical thinking skills expected of a master’s degree holder.

Accreditations

  • Council on Social Work Education, Commission on Accreditation (CSWE/COA)

Contact

2117 Cathedral of Learning

4200 Fifth Avenue

Pittsburgh, PA 15260

(412) 624-6304

ledavis@pitt.edu

http://www.socialwork.pitt.edu/

West Chester University

College of Education and Social Work

West Chester University offers a dynamic higher learning experience to students of the College of Education and Social Work. The campus is a beautiful environment designed to make students feel comfortable and welcome as they receive a first-rate education in the humanities and social sciences. The faculty and staff provide assistance and resources for students who want to take full advantage of the learning experience while they’re on campus. The facilities offer students support and comfort as they work toward the goal of completing their coursework.

Master of Social Work

The Master of Social Work program at West Chester University gives students an opportunity to hone their social services expertise while gaining important insights about the needs of their communities. With an engaging and innovative curriculum designed to encourage students to develop their critical thinking skills, the master’s program stands out as a confidence-building challenge and a uniquely valuable experience. The coursework is broken down into digestible sections so that students can focus on one set of related ideas at a time while improving their leadership skills and acquiring the real-world experience needed to be effective professionals in their field. Graduates will be able to effectively lead social services organizations in the effort of empowering members of local communities.

Accreditations

  • Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
  • Council of Social Work Education (CSWE)

Contact

700 South High Street

West Chester, PA 19383

(610) 436-1000

LBernotsky@wcupa.edu

https://www.wcupa.edu/education-socialwork/

Widener University

Center for Social Work Education

At Widener University, the Center of Social Work Education provides a comprehensive educational experience for students interested in contributing to their communities by helping families and at-risk individuals find the resources they need to be safe and secure. The college offers students all the help and guidance needed to be successful in whatever program they choose. The campus of Widener University provides a beautiful backdrop for the unforgettable experience of receiving a first-rate education from an accredited institution.

MSW Master of Social Work

The Master of Social Work degree is a graduate-level certificate that includes two to three semesters of core curriculum requirements and about one semester of elective credits and off-campus internships. Students of this program will graduate with important leadership and work experience as well as critical planning and organizational skills. The classroom hours are designed to be stimulating and rewarding while also helping students become acclimated to life as a full-time or part-time graduate student. Faculty and staff are available to offer support and guidance for current and prospective students. The courses of the master’s of social work program cover graduate-level material that prepares students for careers in social services administration and management.

Accreditations

  • Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools (MSA)

Contact

One University Pl

Chester, PA 19013

(610) 499-1153

social.work@widener.edu

http://www.widener.edu/academics/schools/shsp/social_work/default.aspx

Related Resource: Top 10 Affordable Masters in Social Work 2018

When it comes to getting an education in social services, the proper graduate program can make a big difference. It’s important to enroll at a college that can give you the educational experience you’re looking for. These accredited social work degree programs in Pennsylvania offer all the tools and preparation you need to succeed in a fulfilling career as a social worker.