social work grad school application essays

10 MSW Personal Statement Examples (with Commentary)

Get inspired by some of the best MSW personal statement examples below.

These personal statement examples are inspired by actual essays from students with whom we’ve collaborated, essays that contributed to their successful admissions. For confidentiality, key details have been altered.

If you’re looking for Personal Statement Help, Get Started Here !

Table of Contents

Example 1: NYU MSW Personal Statement Sample

Prompt: ‘why i want to be a social worker’ essay.

At the tender age of five, as my family faced the challenges of immigrating to the United States, I quickly became attuned to the complexities surrounding us. This early brush with adversity sparked my quest for understanding, especially in the realm of adolescent experiences. Growing up in a household where my mother tirelessly cared for us, while my father remained emotionally distant, I learned to seek solace in introspection and daydreaming. These experiences laid the foundation for my deep empathy towards others and a commitment to understanding them beyond surface-level perceptions.

My ability to empathize with others, particularly adolescents, has been a guiding force in my life. Working with XXXX as a counselor, I revisited my own teenage years, recognizing the crucial need for guidance during this transformative phase. This realization has fueled my determination to specialize in counseling and therapy for adolescents, a path I am eager to pursue through NYU’s Master of Social Work program. I am convinced that effective counseling during adolescence is pivotal in shaping capable, responsible adults.

My internship at XXXX Health was a turning point. Observing clinical behavioral health therapists and working alongside a psychiatrist specializing in post-incarceration life, I gained profound insights into the long-lasting impact of disrupted adolescent experiences. Hearing the narratives of former inmates underscored the importance of early intervention in defining one’s identity. This experience intensified my desire to work with young individuals struggling to find their place in the world.

Choosing NYU Silver was a natural decision. The school’s esteemed faculty, particularly Dr. Kirk Jae James, resonates with my journey as an immigrant. Dr. James’ dedication to overcoming his challenging past and disproving stereotypes is not just inspiring; it mirrors the resilience and determination I strive to embody. His work with those affected by mass incarceration aligns closely with my aspiration to be a clinical therapist who can bring change to young lives.

New York City, the vibrant and diverse backdrop of NYU Silver, also greatly appeals to me. The city’s rich history of nurturing notable figures like Andy Warhol, Roy Halston, and Jean Basquiat speaks to its capacity to foster self-discovery and belonging. I am excited to immerse myself in this melting pot of cultures and ideas, which will undoubtedly enrich my learning and practice in clinical therapy.

My personal history, particularly my father’s struggle with his traumatic childhood, has taught me that resilience and determination are key to overcoming adversity. His journey, though fraught with challenges, has instilled in me the belief that embracing the unknown and being steadfast in one’s goals can lead to remarkable achievements. Carrying this lesson with me, I step into NYU Silver poised to embark on a journey towards becoming an influential clinical therapist for adolescents.

My path to NYU Silver is more than an academic pursuit; it is a commitment to my dream of guiding adolescents through their most vulnerable years. By combining my personal experiences with the comprehensive training at NYU Silver, I am ready to make a meaningful impact in the field of clinical therapy, helping young individuals navigate their formative years with understanding and resilience.

Commentary:

Personal and Cultural Background : Effectively connects early experiences as an immigrant to developing empathy, crucial for social work.
Professional Aspirations : Clearly links past experiences with seniors and an internship to a focused interest in clinical therapy for adolescents.
Academic Motivation : Draws a parallel between personal experiences and the inspiration found in NYU Silver’s faculty and New York City’s diversity.
Resilience and Determination : Reflects on lessons learned from family, particularly the father, instilling a belief in achieving ambitious goals.
Career Vision : Articulates a strong desire to impact adolescent lives, demonstrating an understanding of the field’s challenges and opportunities.

Verdict: The personal statement is heartfelt and well-structured, showing a clear link between the candidate’s background, their professional drive, and their chosen academic path. The reflection on personal and family resilience adds depth, positioning the candidate as a motivated individual ready to leverage their experiences for meaningful social work.

Example 2: Columbia MSW Personal Statement Sample

Part 1: Reflecting upon your decision and motivation to pursue the MSW, describe how attending CSSW will enable you to meet your goals as a social worker. What are your immediate and long-term social work goals?
Part 2: Describe a social problem of significance to you. Please discuss it in regard to societal contributions to the origin of the problem, experiences that have contributed to your identification and understanding of the problem, and possible ways of addressing the problem.
Part 3: Choose two attributes and provide examples as to how you exemplify these traits. Choose one attribute you would like to improve. How will attending the MSW program at CSSW help you in doing so?

1. Motivation and Goals for Pursuing MSW:

From a young age, I have been acutely aware of the disparities and injustices in my community. Growing up in a low-income neighborhood in Chicago, I witnessed firsthand the detrimental effects of poverty, limited access to quality education, and the cycle of violence. These early observations fueled my passion for social work, specifically my desire to develop community-based programs aimed at youth empowerment and education. My immediate goal is to work in a non-profit organization focused on urban youth development, while my long-term ambition is to establish a foundation dedicated to providing educational resources and mentorship programs for at-risk youth.

Attending the Columbia School of Social Work (CSSW) will provide me with the critical skills, knowledge, and network necessary to achieve these goals. CSSW’s commitment to social justice, its comprehensive curriculum, and the opportunity to learn from esteemed faculty and diverse peers will equip me with a nuanced understanding of social issues and effective intervention strategies.

2. A Significant Social Problem:

The social problem that resonates most with me is the school-to-prison pipeline, an issue rampant in many urban communities, including my own. This problem arises from a combination of societal factors such as underfunded public schools, zero-tolerance policies, and systemic racial discrimination. My understanding of this issue deepened through volunteering at a local youth center, where I encountered numerous teens who had been expelled from school and were at risk of entering the juvenile justice system.

Addressing this problem requires a multi-faceted approach, starting with policy reform to prioritize education and rehabilitation over punishment. Community-based intervention programs focusing on mentorship, counseling, and educational support can play a vital role in diverting at-risk youth from the criminal justice system. At CSSW, I hope to explore these interventions in-depth and develop effective strategies to dismantle the school-to-prison pipeline.

3. Personal Attributes and Areas for Improvement:

Empathy : My empathy has been a guiding force in my social work journey. A poignant example was when I volunteered at a local youth center. There, I met a teenager named Marcus who had been expelled from school. By actively listening and engaging with him, I learned about his challenges at home and his struggles with learning disabilities. Understanding his situation, I worked with the youth center staff to develop a personalized educational plan and connect him with a mentor. This experience deepened my ability to empathize with individuals from diverse backgrounds, recognizing the unique challenges they face.

Resilience : My resilience was particularly tested when I spearheaded a community project to revitalize a rundown public park. The project faced numerous setbacks, including funding shortages and bureaucratic hurdles. Despite these challenges, I mobilized the community, organized fundraising events, and negotiated with local officials. The successful completion of the park not only provided a safe space for children but also reinforced my ability to persist in the face of adversity, a crucial trait for a social worker.

Area for Improvement – Policy Advocacy : My experience in grassroots initiatives has been rewarding, but it also highlighted the limitations of addressing social issues without policy change. For instance, while volunteering at the youth center, I realized that individual interventions, though beneficial, could not alone prevent the systemic issue of school expulsions leading to juvenile detentions. This recognition has fueled my desire to improve my skills in policy advocacy, an area where I see great growth potential. CSSW’s program, with its emphasis on policy practice, will be instrumental in helping me acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to advocate effectively for systemic changes.

Conclusion:

Attending Columbia School of Social Work will be a pivotal step in my journey to becoming an impactful social worker. I am eager to engage with the CSSW community, learn from diverse experiences, and contribute my perspective towards creating meaningful change. I am committed to using the knowledge and skills gained from CSSW to fight for social justice and empower the youth in communities like mine.

Clarity of Motivation : The essay effectively communicates the candidate’s personal experiences and observations of disparities in their community as key motivators for pursuing social work.
Goal-Oriented : Clearly outlines immediate and long-term goals, demonstrating a focused vision for a career in social work.
Understanding of a Social Issue : The candidate’s insight into the school-to-prison pipeline, informed by volunteer experiences, indicates a deep understanding of this complex social problem.
Attributes and Self-Improvement : Demonstrates empathy and resilience through specific examples. Identifies policy advocacy as an area for improvement and connects this to CSSW’s curriculum.
Personal and Professional Growth : The candidate’s experiences, challenges faced, and the growth they seek align well with the offerings of the CSSW program.

Verdict: The candidate’s personal statement is compelling and well-crafted. It showcases a strong personal connection to the field, a clear understanding of relevant social issues, and a desire for professional growth that aligns with the CSSW program.

Example 3: UC Berkeley MSW Statement of Purpose Sample

Please address each of the following in your statement:

Describe your aptitude, motivation and preparation for graduate study in the field of social welfare; your future career goals in the profession of social work; and achievements that demonstrate your professional promise and leadership potential as a social worker.
Describe your academic and professional areas of interest in social work, including your chosen area(s) of specialization.
Demonstrate your understanding of contemporary issues and challenges in the professional practice of social work by posing a question or identifying a relevant problem/current issue you would like to explore, and how you might address it from the perspective of a masters’-level social worker.

My journey into the world of social work began with a deeply personal experience – caring for my youngest daughter who faced developmental and language delays. This challenge opened my eyes to the struggles of parents with special needs children and sparked my commitment to helping vulnerable groups. I founded a non-profit organization to support children in rural Russian orphanages, which expanded my drive to assist not only children but also adults suffering from trauma and PTSD. This path has led me to pursue the Master of Social Welfare program at Berkeley, where I aim to deepen my knowledge and skills for effective global impact.

My background is richly diverse. As a mother of four bilingual, multicultural children, I developed a keen interest in early bilingualism. For my thesis at XXXX State Linguistic University, I explored bilingual language development in infants and toddlers, focusing on methods used by parents raising bilingual children. This research, recommended for publication as a guide for multilingual families, heightened my awareness of the challenges immigrant families face globally. It solidified my resolve to find research-based solutions to social issues, a commitment I bring to Berkeley’s rigorous program.

Professionally, I thrived as a XXXX Director for XXXX in Russia, where I honed leadership skills by building a team of passionate educators. A notable achievement was our collaboration with XXXX Department, providing educational programs to young patients. This experience was transformative, broadening my perspective on social change and reinforcing my desire to make a meaningful difference.

As a certified life and leadership coach, I focused on assisting Russian-speaking immigrants and refugee women, many confronting dire challenges like domestic abuse and PTSD. These encounters underscored the need for specialized social welfare skills, steering me towards a Master’s in Social Work. My goal is to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, specializing in trauma and PTSD, and to contribute on an international scale, possibly with organizations like Doctors Without Borders.

Recognizing the critical role of language in social work, I have been learning Spanish and French to better connect with diverse patient populations. My linguistic background enhances my ability to engage effectively in multicultural settings. To gain practical experience, I completed a 90-hour training at Crisis Support Services of XXXX and began volunteering on their crisis line. This hands-on involvement, particularly during these challenging times, has further motivated me toward my LCSW goal.

UC Berkeley’s MSW program, known for its diverse student body and commitment to public service, is the ideal environment for me to grow. Surrounded by peers and faculty who share a dedication to social justice, I am eager to expand my understanding and prepare for a career dedicated to improving the lives of vulnerable individuals, families, and communities.

Personal Experience as Motivation : The statement effectively uses the candidate’s personal experience of caring for a child with developmental delays as a catalyst for their interest in social work.
Global Perspective : Showcases a strong commitment to international social issues through work with Russian orphanages and immigrant communities.
Professional Achievements : Highlights relevant professional experiences, including leadership roles and work with vulnerable populations.
Educational Goals and Alignment : Clearly articulates the desire to specialize in trauma and PTSD, aligning with Berkeley’s MSW program’s strengths.
Multicultural and Linguistic Skills : Demonstrates an understanding of the importance of cultural competence in social work, supported by multilingual abilities.

Verdict: The candidate presents a compelling mix of personal motivation, professional experience, and academic alignment with the MSW program at UC Berkeley. Their diverse background and specific career goals make them an ideal candidate for the program.

Example 4: Cal State Fullerton MSW Personal Statement Sample

The quality of the writing in the personal statement will be evaluated, as will the applicant’s ability to thoroughly address the questions outlined below:

Describe how your personal background and life experiences have influenced your decision to pursue a graduate education in social work. Please include any challenges or hardships you may have overcome on your journey.
What are your expectations of graduate education at Cal State Fullerton in terms of your own development? Indicate any problems or limitations that should be taken into account in planning your graduate program.
Specify your career objectives as a professional social worker as you now conceive them. Indicate the fields of practice in which you are interested.
Describe your experiences with diverse populations and groups, and how those experiences have contributed to your interest in social work. Which population (defined by culture, ethnicity, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, psychological and/or physical functioning) would you like to serve and why?

While managing an in-school feeding program, I watched a 7-year-old boy take a modest meal at school, and save half for his siblings at home. Another girl expressed joy for the school meals she relied on. These encounters, and others like them, deeply impacted me, highlighting the critical issue of child hunger and food insecurity. My resolve to expand our school feeding program was fueled by these experiences, successfully growing it from 7 to 1,053 schools over five years.

After graduating, I joined the Philippine XXXXX in 2001, managing the Business and Peace Program in the XXXXX Region. Here, I worked with XXXXXX, identifying young Muslims for internships that fostered leadership and peace.

In 2008, I transitioned to the XXXXX Foundation, developing community programs and managing the in-school feeding program, which fed 40,000 children at its peak. These experiences solidified my commitment to child welfare and my belief in the power of social work.

Managing the feeding program, I faced ethical challenges, like discovering fund misappropriation by a local agency officer. I addressed this by establishing direct communication with schools and conducting random checks, ensuring program integrity.

Then in 2013, I took a break to focus on family and moved to XXXXX. Motherhood enriched my perspective, making me more empathetic, resilient, and dedicated to child welfare. Now ready to re-enter the social work field, I seek an MSW degree to update my skills and knowledge.

Post-MSW, I aim to influence policies and contribute to community-based solutions in the Philippines, aspiring to work with large non-profits and eventually with international agencies like UNICEF.

The COVID-19 pandemic has heightened child poverty in the Philippines, underscoring the urgency of my mission. At CSU Fullerton, I plan to study social work theories, understand child welfare systems, and apply these learnings to the Philippine context.

With a Master of Social Work degree, I am poised to join the effort to advance children’s welfare, equipped to make a significant difference in their lives. The Filipino children cannot wait. They need all the help they can get. And with a Master of Social Work degree from CSU Fullerton, the battle will have been half-won.

Personal Narrative as Motivation : The statement effectively uses the applicant’s personal experiences with poverty, domestic violence, and addiction to illustrate a deep-rooted motivation for pursuing social work.
Community Involvement and Professional Experience : Highlights significant community engagement and professional achievements, demonstrating a commitment to social justice and positive change.
Challenges and Ethical Considerations : Discusses challenges faced during professional work, showing problem-solving skills and ethical awareness.
Academic and Career Goals : Clearly articulates how an MSW will enrich the applicant’s knowledge and skills, aiming to influence policies and create community-based solutions.
Personal Growth and Family Perspective : Reflects on the lessons learned from being a stay-at-home mother, tying this to a renewed enthusiasm for child welfare work.

Verdict: The statement presents a well-rounded candidate with a compelling personal connection to social work, reinforced by active community involvement, ethical professional practice, and clear career goals. The applicant’s experiences and aspirations align well with the MSW program at CSU Fullerton- making them a strong candidate.

Example 5: Cal State Long Beach MSW Personal Statement Sample

How did you become interested in social work? What motivated you to choose social work as a profession?

My passion for social work and advocacy for equality is rooted in a fundamental belief: no voice should be silenced in the pursuit of a just society. Throughout my life, I’ve witnessed how advocates for equality are often marginalized, their concerns unheard. This fuels my commitment to actively work towards a just world, where standing up for justice is a right for all.

As a child of Mexican immigrants, I experienced the harsh realities of a low-income household. This upbringing ingrained in me deep empathy and an intimate understanding of the struggles faced by underprivileged communities. My parents’ relentless hard work and sacrifices, despite economic hardships, have been a constant source of inspiration. They taught me resilience, compassion, and the importance of community support.

My professional journey in social work began at XXXX Community Development Corporation, where I took a lead role in organizing a landmark meeting with elected officials. We successfully voiced community concerns, addressing critical issues like infrastructure and public safety. This experience honed my skills in advocacy and highlighted the power of active listening and engagement.

Furthering my commitment, I volunteered at XXXX Volunteers in Medicine, assisting in providing healthcare to those unable to afford it. Here, I learned the critical role of accessible healthcare and the importance of educating communities about healthy living. These experiences have solidified my resolve to pursue a career in social work, focusing on advocating for essential services and support for underprivileged communities.

My aspiration to become a licensed clinical social worker, specializing in children’s mental health, aligns perfectly with the academic rigor and diverse environment offered by the Master of Social Work program at CSULB. As an undergraduate at CSULB, I was captivated by the program’s depth and the diverse perspectives it embraced. The experiences shared with students from varied backgrounds deepened my understanding of the multifaceted challenges in our society.

I am fully committed to investing my time and resources in the coursework and fieldwork placements at CSULB. The opportunity to study in a stimulating environment, surrounded by professionals who share my passion, will provide a solid foundation for my career. I bring with me a wealth of practical insights from working with low-income communities, the homeless, the elderly, and drug users. These experiences, I believe, will contribute significantly to our class discussions and align perfectly with CSULB’s mission of supporting vulnerable and oppressed populations.

My journey in social work is a commitment to those who struggle to be heard. At CSULB, I aim to further my skills, knowledge, and understanding, preparing myself to be a force for change and a voice for the voiceless. My goal is to ensure that every child, family, and community I work with gets the opportunity to thrive, just as I strive to make a meaningful impact in the field of social work.

Strong Personal Connection : The statement effectively connects the candidate’s personal background as a child of Mexican immigrants to her empathy and understanding of underprivileged communities.
Professional Experience : Highlights relevant work in community development and healthcare, which demonstrates practical skills in advocacy and community engagement.
Academic and Career Goals : Clearly articulates the ambition to specialize in children’s mental health, aligning with CSULB’s program.
Commitment to Social Work Values : Demonstrates a deep commitment to social justice, aligned with the mission of CSULB’s social work program.

Verdict: The personal statement is comprehensive and well-constructed, effectively demonstrating the candidate’s passion, relevant experience, and alignment with CSULB’s Master of Social Work program. The candidate’s background and professional aspirations make them a strong fit for the program.

Example 6: San Jose State University MSW Personal Statement Sample

In the heart of a small migrant community, where the sting of social inequities was a daily reality, my path toward a career in social work began to take shape. My childhood, marked by the challenges of racial discrimination and economic struggle, instilled in me not only resilience but a deep understanding of the complex social fabric that shapes communities. It was these formative experiences, coupled with my time volunteering at a local shelter, that solidified my dedication to advocating for social justice.

Professionally, my experiences have been closely aligned with the values at the core of social work. Serving as a community organizer, I worked alongside local leaders to tackle critical issues like housing affordability and healthcare accessibility, gaining valuable insights into the world of policy advocacy. Another pivotal role was as a counselor for at-risk youth, where I developed a keen understanding of the challenges faced by young people from diverse backgrounds. This role was instrumental in refining my skills in empathy and communication.

Looking ahead, my immediate goal is to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a focus on trauma and PTSD. In the long run, I aspire to establish a non-profit dedicated to providing mental health services to marginalized communities. These ambitions are rooted in a deep-seated commitment to effecting lasting change for those society often overlooks.

San Jose State University’s MSW program, renowned for its emphasis on culturally competent practice, particularly with Latinx and other minority groups, aligns perfectly with both my personal and professional values. The program’s exceptional faculty and comprehensive curriculum stand out as ideal for nurturing my academic and professional growth.

In conclusion, I am confident that my time at San Jose State University will not only refine my existing skills but also expand my perspectives, equipping me to become an effective, empathetic social worker. I am eager to embrace the tools and knowledge that the program offers, to champion social justice and make a tangible difference in the lives of those most in need.

This MSW personal statement sample effectively showcases the candidate’s journey and motivation towards a career in social work. It does well in several key aspects:

Personal Experience : The statement begins with a compelling narrative about the candidate’s upbringing in a diverse, challenging environment, effectively linking personal background to their interest in social work.
Professional Alignment : The candidate skillfully ties their professional experiences, like community organizing and counseling, to the core values of social work- to demonstrate a clear understanding and commitment to the field.
Future Goals & Alignment with the Program : The statement outlines specific short-term and long-term professional goals, aligning them with the strengths of San Jose State University’s MSW program. This demonstrates the candidate’s purposeful choice of program and their understanding of how it will support their career objectives.
Flow and Clarity : The essay is well-structured, with each paragraph transitioning smoothly into the next, maintaining a clear and engaging narrative throughout.

Verdict: The statement presents a well-rounded, sincere, and focused candidate with a clear vision for their future in social work. It makes a strong case for their admission.

Example 7: Wayne State University MSW Personal Statement Sample

Your statement must address the following items:

The National Association of Social Workers set forth important guiding principles to address social workers’ ethical responsibility to clients, colleagues, employers and employing organizations, the social work profession, and society.
Describe how these ethical standards would shape your professional social work practice. How would you reconcile any conflicts between your personal values and the requirements of the profession?
Describe why you believe you are a good fit with the mission of the Wayne State University School of Social Work, particularly its urban mission.
Social workers are committed to social justice. Please describe your thoughts on a particular social and economic justice issue and how you intend to use your professional social work degree to address these issues.

As an African American with Native American roots, I have firsthand experience with the challenges faced by underserved communities. This background has deeply influenced my desire to pursue social work, driven by a belief in compassion, commitment, and competence. I aim to amplify my impact in this field by enhancing my skills, and I believe the MSW program at Wayne State University is the ideal setting for this growth.

My life in Detroit has exposed me to the myriad challenges of urban environments, from food deserts to unsafe public spaces and high crime rates. The city’s struggle with deindustrialization has led to job losses, property abandonment, and heightened poverty, which I believe positions me uniquely for Wayne’s urban mission. Understanding these issues firsthand, I feel equipped to contribute meaningfully to solutions.

In my current role with a youth assistance program, I work to prevent youths from entering the juvenile system and help rehabilitate those already involved. Our sessions include group counseling, academic enrichment, and life skills training, aimed at early intervention to improve life quality and academic performance.

My practice as a social worker is grounded in the ethical standards set forth by the National Association of Social Workers. I prioritize service above self-interest, as evidenced by my role as a Direct Care Worker for my sister with Autism Spectrum Disorder. I am committed to social justice and understand the importance of dignity and respect for every individual, regardless of their background. My experience with Wayne State University’s XXXXXX program has further reinforced the value of human relationships in social work.

I recognize the potential conflicts between personal values and professional responsibilities. In such cases, I intend to adhere to the profession’s ethical standards, ensuring that my personal beliefs do not hinder my ability to serve clients effectively.

The Wayne State University School of Social Work’s urban mission resonates with my experiences and aspirations. My understanding of Detroit’s unique challenges aligns with the school’s focus on urban social work. I am particularly interested in addressing issues of poverty and economic disparity, leveraging my post-masters degree to initiate impactful programs like fundraisers for low-income students and collaborations with local food banks.

I am aware of the challenges in understanding certain aspects of social work, such as the dynamics of gang involvement. To address this, I plan to engage in continuous learning about various community issues to enhance my ability to serve diverse populations effectively.

My journey has not been without its challenges. While I have been actively involved in addressing the needs of victims of gang violence, I recognize a gap in my understanding of gang culture. To bridge this gap, I am committed to learning more about gang dynamics, history, and the socioeconomic factors that influence gang membership. This knowledge will be crucial in my work with at-risk youth, allowing me to provide more targeted and effective interventions.

Balancing the demands of graduate studies with work, family, and financial responsibilities will be challenging, but my experience in the Wayne State University XXXXX program has equipped me with valuable skills in time management and prioritization. I am prepared to fully commit to the MSW program, confident that it will transform me into an impactful social work professional aligned with Wayne State’s mission.

Alignment with University’s Mission : The statement effectively aligns the student’s personal and professional experiences with Wayne State University’s urban mission.
Ethical Awareness : Demonstrates a clear understanding of social work ethics and a commitment to upholding these standards in practice.
Conflict Resolution : Thoughtfully addresses potential conflicts between personal values and professional responsibilities, indicating maturity and professional readiness.
Commitment to Social Justice : Shows a strong dedication to social justice, particularly in addressing economic disparities and poverty.
Continuous Learning : Emphasizes a willingness to learn and grow, especially in areas like understanding gang dynamics, which is crucial for effective social work.
Personal Experiences : Successfully uses personal experiences to illustrate a deep understanding of the challenges faced by underserved communities.
Realistic Approach : Acknowledges and prepares for the challenges of balancing graduate studies with other life responsibilities.

Verdict: The applicant shows a strong alignment with the program’s focus, demonstrates ethical awareness, and possesses a clear commitment to social justice and continuous learning. The statement shows maturity and readiness for the challenges of graduate study in social work.

Example 8: University of Pittsburg MSW Personal Statement Sample

Please describe in your personal statement the following:

Influences in your life that led you to select social work as a profession
Why you are applying to the University of Pittsburg School of Social Work
How an MSW will help you achieve your career goals
Your special skills and abilities, your strengths as well as your limitations
How your abilities will contribute to your development as a professional social worker
Discuss a contemporary issue that is of concern to you

Printed on my grandfather’s funeral brochure was an old Irish proverb: “Death leaves a heartache no one can heal; love leaves a memory no one can steal.” This sentiment has resonated with me deeply, as I have experienced significant loss in my life, from cancer to accidents and suicide. These experiences have not only shaped my understanding of grief but also steered me towards a career in social work, specifically in gerontology and hospice care.

During my final quarter at XXXXXXX State College, I met a hospice social worker whose impact on families dealing with end-of-life situations was profound. Her approach to helping families accept, celebrate life, and find peace in farewells deeply inspired me. It was then that I realized the power of social work in providing comfort and dignity in life’s final stages.

I am applying to the University of Pittsburgh School of Social Work because of its strong gerontology program and its commitment to addressing contemporary issues like the impact of COVID-19 on the aging population. The pandemic has starkly highlighted the disparities in our healthcare system, especially concerning end-of-life care. I aim to contribute to this field by developing solutions to these emerging challenges, ensuring dignity and comfort for all in their final moments, regardless of their racial or socioeconomic status.

My work experience in childcare and hospitality has equipped me with patience, empathy, and a strong work ethic, qualities essential for a career in social work. Additionally, my volunteer work with XXXXXXX and the XXXXXXX has given me valuable experience in community service. However, I recognize my tendency to be overly trusting as a limitation. In the field of social work, discernment is crucial, and I am actively working on balancing empathy with professional objectivity.

At the University of Pittsburgh, I am particularly interested in courses like Grief and Loss: Interventions, Implications, and Understanding, and Direct Practice with Older Adults. These courses, coupled with field education in aging, hospice, or hospital settings, will be instrumental in achieving my career goals.

My commitment to serving the Pittsburgh community stems from my deep-rooted connection to the city. Witnessing the impact of the university’s alumni in the field has further motivated me to pursue my MSW here. I am fully aware of the challenges that lie ahead in the field of social work, but I am confident that the guidance and training offered by the University of Pittsburgh will equip me to tackle these challenges effectively.

My personal experiences with loss, combined with my professional aspirations and commitment to social justice, make me a suitable candidate for the MSW program. I am eager to contribute my skills, work ethic, and unique perspectives to the University of Pittsburgh School of Social Work and to grow into a compassionate and effective social worker.

Connection of Personal Experience to Career Choice : Effectively links personal encounters with loss to a passion for social work, particularly in gerontology and hospice care.
Alignment with Program’s Strengths : Clearly identifies why the University of Pittsburgh’s program, with its focus on gerontology, is a strong fit for the candidate’s career goals.
Discussion of Contemporary Issues : Addresses the impact of COVID-19 on the aging population, showing awareness of current challenges in social work.
Self-awareness and Growth : Acknowledges personal limitations, like being overly trusting, and the intention to work on balancing empathy with professional objectivity.
Relevant Skills and Experience : Highlights experiences in childcare, hospitality, and volunteer work, which showcase skills valuable in social work.

Verdict: The statement demonstrates a clear connection between personal experiences and professional aspirations. It aligns effectively with the program’s focus, displays awareness of current social issues, and shows a commitment to personal growth- making the candidate a strong fit for the University of Pittsburgh’s MSW program.

Example 9: Case Western Reserve University MSW Personal Statement Sample

Discuss significant factors influencing your decision to pursue a Master of Science in Social Administration (MSSA).

Your essay should include information regarding your interest in the social work profession, your intended concentration/specialization, and career goals.
Please reflect on how any past school, community, volunteer, professional work, and leadership experiences will contribute to your success as a graduate student.
Describe how you see yourself contributing to the vibrancy of our student body and school community.
Describe any strengths or limitations that might influence you being successful in your field placement.
Finally, please include why the Mandel School is a good fit for your educational goals.

My decision to pursue a Master of Science in Social Administration (MSSA) at the Mandel School is deeply rooted in personal and professional experiences that have highlighted the profound impact of social work. My journey began with observing the complexities of mental health within my family, which instilled in me a passion for understanding and advocating for mental health care.

Growing up, I watched a beloved family member struggle with mental health challenges. Witnessing their battle and the ripple effect it had on our family stirred in me a resolve to support others facing similar trials. This resolve only deepened with the birth of my daughter, Eve, when I encountered my postpartum mood disorders. Through receiving treatment and support, I was empowered to overcome these challenges, which further fueled my aspiration to assist women grappling with similar issues.

In my professional role as a Health Coach and Personal Trainer, I’ve had the privilege of supporting clients like John and Anna, whose mental well-being was intertwined with their physical health goals. These experiences have honed my ability to listen empathetically and devise holistic approaches to wellness that I believe will be invaluable in my social work practice.

My immediate career goal is to establish a private practice focused on women’s mental health, particularly addressing postpartum mood disorders. I am inspired to create a space where women can seek help without stigma or silence. In the long term, I aspire to influence mental health policy, advocating for accessible care and support systems that recognize and address the silent struggles many women face.

The Mandel School’s commitment to academic excellence and its vibrant student body resonate with my educational and professional ethos. The school’s innovative approach to social work education, particularly in mental health, makes it an exceptional fit for my aspirations. My compassion, coupled with my professional experience and personal journey through mental health challenges, will contribute to the rich tapestry of the Mandel School community.

Ultimately, I envision my time at the Mandel School as a transformative experience that will not only deepen my understanding of social work but also equip me with the skills to make significant contributions to the field. With a community that fosters diversity of thought and experience, I am confident that my educational journey here will prepare me for a fulfilling and impactful career in social work.

Personal Connection : The statement effectively establishes a personal connection to social work through the candidate’s family experiences with mental health.
Professional Relevance : It highlights relevant work experience that translates well into social work competencies, particularly in understanding clients’ holistic needs.
Clear Career Objectives : The candidate articulates well-defined short-term and long-term goals that align with their personal experiences and professional aspirations.
School Alignment : There is a strong emphasis on how the Mandel School’s ethos resonates with the candidate’s goals, suggesting a thoughtful choice in their application.
Contribution to Community : The statement outlines how the candidate’s unique experiences and compassion will add value to the student body and fieldwork.

Verdict: The candidate’s personal statement is compelling, demonstrating a strong, authentic motivation for pursuing an MSSA and a clear vision for how the Mandel School will help fulfill their career objectives.

Example 10: University of Pittsburg MSW Personal Statement Sample

Influences in your life that led you to select social work as a profession.
Why you are applying to Pitt’s School of Social Work.
How an MSW will help you achieve your career goals.
How your abilities will contribute to your development as a professional social worker.
discuss a contemporary issue that is of concern to you.

At just seven years old, I witnessed the harsh realities of poverty, domestic violence, and addiction within my family. These experiences instilled in me a passion for social work, especially after seeing how social workers supported our family through my parents’ mental health and addiction challenges. This inspired me to pursue a career in this field to use my background and skills gained from an MSW program to assist individuals and families in their recovery processes.

Growing up, our family was caught up in a custody battle, leading my siblings and me to frequently navigate foster care and courtrooms. My parents’ struggle with addiction was alleviated by the support of social workers and case managers, who provided housing, food assistance, service coordination, and counseling. Tragically, both my parents eventually succumbed to drug overdoses. Though painful, these experiences further reinforced my commitment to social work and helping others facing similar struggles.

In recent years, I have been actively involved in social justice activism. My roles as a community organizer and development director for XXXXX Summer Camp, a non-profit empowering girls and non-binary youth through music and mentorship, highlighted the need for improved mental and behavioral health services. Volunteering as a delivery driver and food packager with XXXXX Aid during the COVID-19 pandemic underscored the importance of community support for those in need.

My experience in event coordination, donor relationship building, and electoral campaign work has enabled me to contribute to meaningful change in my community, such as the successful XXXXX Wage initiative in Oregon, which improved the lives of countless workers. Serving on the XXXXX Democratic Committee for Ward Four, I have amplified community voices and supported candidates who advocate for accessible mental and behavioral health services, safe and affordable housing, and environmental protection.

A contemporary issue that concerns me is the effectiveness of harm reduction techniques in treating mental health and dual-diagnosis clients. I aim to explore how these techniques can be integrated into traditional substance abuse treatment models to better meet the mental health needs of individuals like my parents. Additionally, I am interested in how mental health professionals and addiction treatment providers can collaborate to provide comprehensive care for dual-diagnosis clients.

Obtaining an MSW will empower me to become a skilled, compassionate, and trauma-informed clinician. My goal is to contribute to accessible mental and behavioral health services, particularly for trauma survivors, and advocate for inclusive, culturally responsive, and restorative justice practices.

I am empathetic and easily connect with people, and my resilience in adversity will contribute to my development as a professional social worker. These qualities have supported me in helping my sister Cheyan and in my social justice work.

I chose the University of Pittsburgh’s School of Social Work for its highly-ranked program and specialization in mental health. This program aligns with my goal of employing harm reduction strategies for dual-diagnosis clients. Additionally, its proximity to my family will enable me to support them while pursuing my education.

I am eager to return to the University of Pittsburgh and embark on this transformative journey to become a professional social worker. The MSW program will enable me to make a significant difference in the lives of those who need compassionate and trauma-informed care. I am confident that this program will honor my family’s legacy and empower me to create positive change for countless individuals and families in need.

Personal Experience as a Motivation : The applicant compellingly uses their personal history of overcoming poverty, domestic violence, and addiction to demonstrate a deep-rooted motivation for pursuing social work.
Community Involvement : The statement highlights significant community engagement and activism, showcasing a commitment to social justice and change.
Professional Development : Details about event coordination, campaign involvement, and leadership roles show the applicant’s ability to effect change and work collaboratively.
Academic and Career Goals : The applicant clearly articulates their interest in harm reduction techniques and their intent to enhance their skills through the MSW program.
Personal Qualities : Empathy and resilience are emphasized as strengths that will aid in their development as a social worker.

Verdict: The statement presents a well-rounded candidate with a powerful personal connection to social work, backed by active community involvement and clear professional goals. Their commitment to addressing complex social issues, coupled with their personal strengths, shines throughout the statement.

Before you go…

You should be inspired enough to craft your authentic MSW personal statement. But you still need experienced eyes to deeply review it for flow, tone, logical structure, and clarity! See how I can help you below…

I will proofread, polish, edit any personal statement, college application essay or sop.

Social Work Personal Statement Guide (w/Examples)

Top 8 Cheapest Online MSW Programs

Best Online MSW Programs in California

How to Write an Effective Personal Statement for Grad School

Written by Michelle, Founder of MSW Helper

Schools of social work are looking for your ability to think critically and contribute to the social work field. This is more important than your grades and experience. I know this because I’ve seen people with high grades and a ton of experience get rejected from the program because they weren’t able to articulate their critical thinking skills (and I’ve seen it go the other way too, where applicants with low grades and little experience get accepted because of their strong personal statement).

So, let’s talk about how you can write an effective personal statement for your grad school application.

Michelle is the Founder of MSW Helper, where she helps Master of Social Work Applicants write top notch personal statements for grad school. Michelle understands how stressful applying to the MSW can be, and strives to help applicants feel confident about their applications.

Check out her website to learn more: https://www.mswhelper.com/

What schools of social work are looking for

In my experience, most schools of social work ask about these key areas:

Your experiences that motivated you to become a social worker, including personal, professional, academic, and other experiences
A discussion of a social problem and how social workers can work towards solving it
Your goals as a social worker

In addition, schools of social work typically assess your personal statement for the following:

Evidence of critical and analytical thinking skills
Potential contribution to the field of social work
Your ability to communicate clearly and succinctly

This is how you can demonstrate all of the following key areas seamlessly.

Contribution to the field

Let’s look at a personal statement of a past MSW applicant:

Applicant name: Sally ● Experiences : Sally works at a women’s shelter and talks about what she learned there. ● Social Justice Issue : Sally decides to talk about an issue within child welfare. ● Goal : Sally mentions that she wants to get an MSW so that she can qualify for a job at the hospital.

There are a few issues with Sally’s personal statement.

First, there is no cohesion between her experience, social justice issue, and goals, which makes it hard for the reader to understand why she wants to pursue an MSW and how she’ll be an asset to the field.

Second, Sally is talking about how an MSW will be beneficial for her, which comes off as a bit self-serving. When writing a personal statement, it’s important to talk about how pursuing an MSW will allow her to help others.

With this in mind, let’s see an example of how Sally could improve her personal statement:

Applicant: Sally ● Experiences : Sally works at a women’s shelter and talks about what she learned there. ● Social Justice Issue : Sally discusses an insight from her time at the women’s shelter, and backs it up with research that proves that her observation is part of a larger social problem. ● Goal : This issue that Sally noticed at the women’s shelter inspired her to get her MSW so that she can address that issue and support her clients in a different capacity and advocate for women’s rights at the macro level.

Better, right?

In this version of her personal statement, Sally demonstrates a high level of critical thinking by talking about her insights and backing them up with research, and she demonstrates her potential contribution to the field by discussing how a Master of Social Work will allow her to serve others in a greater capacity.

If you’re planning to write a personal statement, a great place to start is to think about insights and problems you’ve observed from your work, volunteer, placement, and personal experiences, and use those insights to develop your social justice problem.

Evidence of critical and analytical thinking

In addition to demonstrating your potential to contribute to the field, there are some tangible ways you can demonstrate your critical thinking skills.

First, make sure you understand what social work actually is.

This might sound obvious, but there are a surprising number of applicants who have a pretty limited understanding of what social work entails. I don’t blame them. The media often portrays a specific image of what social workers look like (usually involving child welfare, case workers, or therapists).

However, social work is so much more than that. Social workers work at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels of society, and can work in many areas at each of these levels.

Also, many applicants pursue social work out of a desire to help others, but it’s not good enough to say that in your personal statement. There are a lot of other jobs you can do that would allow you to help others. Think about how social workers are different from other helping professions (such as nurses, psychologists, police officers, teachers, lawyers, etc.). Why do you want to be a social worker and not another helping profession?

Understanding what social work is will help you provide a stronger and more thorough answer to the question of “why” you want to become a social worker.

Finally, connect your insights to the bigger picture by integrating research into your personal statement .

It’s one thing to talk about the issues you’ve noticed from your experiences, and it’s another to connect your insight to the bigger picture with the help of research.

Let’s look at Sally again.

Sally’s role at the women’s shelter is to help her clients who experienced domestic violence find housing. Sally noticed that many of her previously housed clients got evicted and ended up back at the shelter.

Sally also did some research and found studies to suggest that women who experience domestic violence have an overall higher rate of housing instability due to barriers such as income loss and lack of social support.

This knowledge motivated Sally to pursue a Master of Social Work so that she can move into a policy role to advocate for income and social support for women who experience domestic violence.

Connecting experience to research will demonstrate a high level of critical thinking.

Ability to communicate clearly and succinctly

When it comes to writing your personal statement, it’s not only what you say, but also how you say it. Admissions committees are typically assessing your personal statement for your writing ability.

Make it easy to read : Admissions committees read literally hundreds of personal statements each application season, so it’s likely that whoever reads your personal statement is going to quickly skim through your personal statement to find your answers. With that in mind, it’s important to make your personal statement as skimmable and easy to read as possible.

You can do this by adding headings that match each question or prompt so that the reader can easily see that you did answer each prompt.

You should also be concise and get rid of filler words and sentences that don’t directly answer the prompts.

Finally, you should always try to include an introduction and a conclusion in your personal statement where you summarize your experience, social justice problem, and goals. This will allow the reader to get your whole story in a few sentences, and leave them with a strong impression at the beginning and end of your personal statement.

Treat your personal statement like an academic writing sample: Many applicants don’t realize that the personal statement is a sample of your academic writing and research skills. One way to stand out is to treat your personal statement like a school paper. I often advise applicants to use full APA formatting when writing their personal statement, as this will make your personal statement look more professional and will stand out from the crowd.

Creating Your Own MSW Personal Statement

When writing a personal statement for your MSW, it’s important to demonstrate your potential contribution to the field, critical thinking skills, and strong writing ability. If you follow these tips, you’ll be on your way to writing an effective personal statement that stands out.

Search the Top Programs in Social Work

Specialty msw programs.

Advanced Standing MSW

100% Online MSW

MSW with No GRE for Entry

MSW with No BSW Required for Entry

Full Time Online MSW

Hybrid MSW (Online & Campus)

Campus Based MSW (by State)

Captivating conversations with social work professionals. Gain insights into your own social work education and career journey in this new series hosted by Anna Shull, LMSW.

Your Social Work Graduate School Application: 14 Tips to Help You Get an Acceptance Letter

Application Accepted

By: Robin R. Wingo, MSW, LISW

Applying for graduate school is a big step! Whether you are just graduating with your bachelor’s in social work or you have been out for a few years, preparing that application takes time, energy, and careful consideration. Your grades are only one indicator of readiness for graduate study. It is highly likely that you will be asked to write a professional statement or essay along with completing a standardized application form. Although some admissions committees conduct personal admissions interviews, your first representation will be in writing, and your readiness will be evaluated on how you present yourself, your experiences, and your professional aspirations.

Every graduate school’s application process is different. Some are fully online and others use hardcopy, but they are all looking for the same thing—students who can clearly and thoughtfully make a case for how they are the best fit for acceptance into that particular graduate program.

As that applicant, you want to be successful, but making the most of the application process is a relatively unexamined process. Each program will provide forms and directions as part of the application, but little direction is provided regarding what works to meet the expectations. The following are some key thoughts for putting your best application forward.

1. Don’t just download applications!

Each graduate program is looking for students who match its educational mission and goals. Go to the Web site of each program that interests you, and review! Decide whether you are a good fit for that particular program. Applying only to programs that are located close by may not be a successful strategy if you can’t make a good case for fit. Take opportunities in the application to write about why you are a good fit.

2. Read the application carefully, and follow directions!

That sounds like a no-brainer, but often in the haste to complete an application, key information will be missed or ignored. Use a highlighter to target items that use the words “must,” “demonstrate,” “provide examples,” or “identify.” Read the instructions for the professional statement or essay carefully and make note of the expectations!

3. Attend a pre-admissions meeting or ask to meet with a faculty member to talk about the program and your fit.

Go prepared! Read the Web site and the application and prepare questions. Make sure you introduce yourself.

4. Give yourself ample time to think, write, revise, edit, get feedback from an impartial reviewer, revise, edit, and submit!

Make sure your spelling, syntax, grammar, and punctuation are correct. Make sure your word choices clearly and accurately depict your thinking and that your ideas are presented in a professional manner. As you no, its easy two half misteaks even win wee are being vary careful too due it rite! (sic)

5. If you aren’t confident about your writing skills, during the application process, you might consider taking a writing class or working with an editor to improve your writing skills.

Graduate students can tell you they do a LOT of writing, and it is a skill you will use in every class.

6. If you are applying in your senior year or are a new graduate, keep in mind that the coursework, volunteer experiences, and field practica you completed have increased your knowledge and skills.

Don’t underestimate their value! Focus on your strengths and what you have to contribute, rather than on whatever deficits you may think you have. Rather than, “I hope to learn...,” think about saying, “I have learned and applied...,” or, “The skills I developed have led me to....” Graduate programs are looking for learners who will contribute to the learning environment. Give them examples of what you have to offer!

7. If you have been out practicing at the bachelor’s level, use your educational and work experience to highlight what you have accomplished, where you are headed professionally, and what you will contribute.

Draw specific examples from your work (without breaching confidentiality) to demonstrate skills, leadership, creativity, ethical practice, and professionalism. Sharing your successes is not bragging!

8. Some programs request that a résumé be submitted along with your application.

Make sure it is up-to-date and formatted in a clear manner. Current students can use the college/university career development center for consultation in creating a résumé. Typically, alumna can use the college/university career center, if convenient, for up to a year. Online sites also exist for templates and suggested formats. Consider dropping off employment or activities that occurred in high school or earlier.

9. Be honest in your application, your résumé, and your professional statement/essay.

Accurately portray your work experience, skills, and knowledge. If asked to identify challenges or deficits, instead of simply stating, “I overschedule” (for example), frame your response with what you are doing to remediate that—“As overscheduling is a challenge, I am careful to schedule time for completing paperwork and meetings using a day planner.”

10. Write your professional statement or essay for a specific program.

Generic letters read that way! Some ideas, phrasing, or perspectives may fit with many programs, but tailor your writing to the mission and admissions criteria of each program. And keep the names straight—nothing is more off-putting than to have one’s institution referred to by a competitor’s name!

11. Do you have specialized experience related to a specific part of the program mission?

Do you have professional expertise that would be augmented by study in an area of the curriculum or with a particular faculty member? Do you have experiences that would enhance the student body? Make sure that it is included in your professional statement or essay.

12. References are always required!

Applications will likely have reference forms or specific points they want covered by a reference. Be clear about what kind of reference you need. There is a difference between someone who watched you grow up and thinks you are fabulous no matter what you do (personal reference) and a professional reference who can speak to the specific qualities that graduate programs are looking for, such as leadership, ethical behavior, and academic readiness. Supervisors (past or present), instructors (past or present), or colleagues who have had sufficient time to know you and your work are all potential references. Talk to the people you ask to be a professional reference and make sure they are willing to address the specific questions the program is asking. Provide them with your résumé as an information source, and remind them of examples of your work. A letter that specifically addresses your application, the criteria, and your readiness for graduate study can make a difference. After you are accepted, thank them for their help.

13. Avoid anything that can make your application and or professional statement or essay difficult to read.

Colorful paper, exotic fonts, and illustrations are not appropriate for this type of writing. A white or linen colored paper, with an easy-to-read font of a reasonable size (Times New Roman, 12 point, for example), printed clearly and cleanly, are good choices.

14. Carefully review what should be mailed or done online, and by whom.

Some programs only accept references online, whereas others require them to be mailed in with the application. An 8½ x 11 envelope for mailing is a better choice than folding multiple pages into a legal size envelope.

Realistically, the graduate school application process is competitive, and you may not get in the first time you apply. Don’t give up! Sometimes graduate programs will offer you feedback—ask! Attend another information session, if available. Talk with a mentor about how to improve your chances. Talk with the admissions person about classes you can take at a graduate level to demonstrate your readiness and improve your GPA. Work and get additional experience. Developing a relationship with a social work program in your area can help you know if it is a good fit. If you have a BSW/BSSW, consider becoming a field instructor for an undergraduate student. Don’t give up! Rework the application and reapply! Many successful social workers did not get into graduate school with their first application!

Robin R. Wingo, MSW, LISW, joined the Department of Social Work at Minnesota State University, Mankato faculty in 2001. She received her MSW from the University of Missouri-Columbia. She annually reviews applications for admissions to the MSW program.

All material published on this website Copyright 1994-2023 White Hat Communications. All rights reserved. Please contact the publisher for permission to reproduce or reprint any materials on this site. Opinions expressed on this site are the opinions of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of the publisher. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Ideas for an MSW Essay for Grad School

When you apply to a Masters in Social Work, or MSW, program at a college or university, you’re faced with the task of presenting yourself in a unique and strong way via an application. The MSW application essay, often referred to as a personal statement, is an opportunity to make your application shine, and by including essential elements of a successful MSW essay, you'll present yourself in the best possible light.

Explore this article

Mission Statement
Development

1 Mission Statement

Cater your MSW essay to the school to which you’re applying. Wherever you're applying, study the institution’s mission statement in order to get at the heart of what the school values and represents. If your own values and goals do not match the school, re-evaluate your choice, as MSW programs look for prospective students that are a proper fit for their unique program. For example, if the MSW graduate program you’re applying to has a deep commitment to social justice, and that is also one of your own fundamental beliefs, design your MSW essay to address that.

2 Development

One of the main objectives of an MSW essay is to reveal to the graduate school how your interest in social work developed. Whether this is highlighting a time when you volunteered at a local soup kitchen or the experience you had in lower income areas building homes for the less fortunate, highlight the moments that brought you to the conclusion that your life should be devoted to social work. Every person’s story regarding this is different, and the more passionate and truthful your explanation is the better.

3 Strengths

An MSW essay offers you a wonderful opportunity to tell the graduate school about your strengths regarding becoming a social worker. Highlight the accomplishments you achieved during your undergraduate education and explain why they are significant to you personally and becoming a social worker in the future. Do not repeat accomplishments that are included in your transcript, such as GPA and the like. The MSW essay is your chance to reveal positive attributes about yourself that aren't included in your transcript.

4 Weaknesses

Detail factors that you believe could restrict you work as a social worker. Whether this is the inherent emotional pain that goes along with becoming a social worker or otherwise, a graduate school application committee is looking for prospective students that are honest about their ambitions, and a way to demonstrate that you are trustworthy is to discuss the obstacles standing in your way of becoming a social worker.

1 The New Social Worker: Graduate School Admissions: Writing an Effective Personal Statement
2 The New Social Worker: Your Social Work Graduate School Application: 14 Tips to Help You Get an Acceptance Letter

About the Author

Jake Shore is an award-winning Brooklyn-based playwright, published short story writer and professor at Wagner College. His short fiction has appeared in many publications including Litro Magazine, one of London's leading literary magazines. Shore earned his MFA in creative writing from Goddard College.

Can You Send the Same College Essay to All the Colleges...

How to Write a Personal Statement for a Master's Degree

How to Write an Essay for the National Honor Society

What Should Be Included in a College Application Letter?

How to Write a Career Essay

How to Sell Yourself in an Essay

How to Write an Essay About Myself When Applying for...

How to Write an Essay for a Graduate Assistantship

How Should I Begin a Statement of Interest?

How to Write an Essay for Paralegal School

How to Write a Conclusion in My Nursing Paper

How to Write a College Application Essay for Fashion...

How to Start Off an Essay on Why I Should Be Accepted...

How to Write a Letter of Intent for Cosmetology School

How to Write a Narrative to Enter Graduate School

How to Write a CV for a Graduate School Application

College Essay Ideas for Writing About a Significant...

Tips on Writing an Undergrad Letter of Purpose or Intent

How to Write a Professional Goals Essay

How to Write an Academic Statement of Objectives

Regardless of how old we are, we never stop learning. Classroom is the educational resource for people of all ages. Whether you’re studying times tables or applying to college, Classroom has the answers.

Accessibility
Terms of Use
Privacy Policy
Copyright Policy
Manage Preferences

Graduate Application Guide for Social Workers

A master of social work (MSW) is designed for professionals who seek upper-level positions in the social work field. Students who plan on applying to a graduate school of social work for an MSW must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited school, and graduate programs often have a GPA, minimum semester hour, and GRE requirement. Some schools also mandate that a certain number of credit hours go to each subject of study, and test of English as a foreign language (TOEFL) students must complete additional testing.

Students who plan on applying to a graduate school of social work for an MSW must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited school

Graduate program applicants should be cognizant of deadlines. Many traditional MSW programs only enroll students annually, in which case missing an admission deadline may have a severe impact. Graduate social work programs typically require three letters of recommendation from their applicants, and some perform applicant interviews as well. Students preparing for an interview should review and be ready to discuss their social work experience.

Featured Programs in Social Work

Social work graduate program prerequisites, do i need a bachelor’s degree in social work to earn a social work graduate degree.

Students with a bachelor’s in a non-social work field should make sure their university is regionally accredited

To qualify for a master’s degree in social work (MSW), students must have a bachelor’s degree . The degree can be in any field, but it must come from an accredited university. Students with a bachelor’s in a non-social work field should make sure their university is regionally accredited. Learners with a bachelor’s degree in social work (BSW) should ensure that their program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education. The CSWE accredits both undergraduate and graduate social work programs that meet the 2008 Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards. CSWE accreditation indicates that the program equips its students with the necessary skills to properly perform their jobs.

In some cases, graduate programs may accept students from non-CSWE-accredited schools, but these students must prove their undergraduate education met CSWE standards, or the standards of their chosen graduate program. Some students whose undergraduate schools were not CSWE accredited might be considered by graduate programs to be deficient in certain subjects. In these cases, graduate programs may still accept students, as long as they agree to complete the coursework in their deficient subjects by a specific date. Students who violate this agreement will be removed from the program. Some schools may not admit students at all until the coursework is complete.

Is Work Experience a Prerequisite to a Social Work Graduate Program?

Students are not necessarily required to have work experience in social work to qualify for a MSW program, but work experience does give students the benefit of understanding the demands of their field. It also gives students the opportunity to make connections between their hands-on work and their coursework. Many graduate schools prefer applicants to have three to five years of work experience, which may also apply to MSW field requirements. This requirement usually demands at least 3,000 fieldwork hours. Students with no work experience should consider volunteering with social work organizations.

Do I Have to Take the GRE to Apply to Social Work School?

Many universities require applicants to meet a minimum standardized test score to qualify for their MSW programs. The most common standardized exam for aspiring graduate students is the GRE, which assesses students’ critical thinking skills, self-directed and corrective thinking patterns, quantitative reasoning abilities, and analytical writing. GRE subject areas include literature, chemistry, biology, math, physics, and psychology. GRE scores range from 200 to 990 on 10-point increments. Students can take the GRE either online or on paper, though paper tests are not offered as often as computer exams are. Students can sign up for paper tests in September, October, and April of each year, while online tests are offered year-round. The general GRE test costs $205, while subject tests cost $150. Prep courses usually add extra expenses, but the GRE website offers some free preparation resources and training packages.

Some schools offer GRE waivers, of which there are two types: fee waivers and test waivers. Fee waivers reduce exam costs for students who meet certain criteria, while test waivers exempt students from taking the GRE altogether. Students with a high GPA may qualify for the test waiver, as might students who already have a master’s degree and some professional experience. Some schools accept five or more years of professional experience in place of the GRE, while others simply don’t see the exam as a good indicator of student performance.

Breakdown of GRE Scores

GRE scores are broken into three categories: verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing. The first two sections are reported on a 130 to 170 scale, based on the number of correctly answered questions. The top 10% of test takers receive at least a 162 on the verbal section, while 50% of score at least 151. The top 10% of test takers score at least a 166 in quantitative reasoning, while the top 50% score at least 153. At schools like Harvard, the average verbal score is around 161, and the average quantitative reasoning score is around 162. The analytical writing section is scored on a 0 to 6 scale, with at least one trained professional reviewing the essay for overall quality. The essay is also submitted to an e-rater, which is a computerized program evaluating writing proficiency.

When GRE scores are available, students get an email prompting them to visit their ETS (Educational Testing Service) account. Students may also request for scores to be mailed, which takes an additional week after online scores become available. Students also have the opportunity at the time of test taking to select four universities to receive their scores, and ETS will automatically send scores to those schools once they become available.

GRE Score Percentiles for 2017–2018
Scaled Score	Verbal Reasoning Percentile Rank	Quantitative Reasoning Percentile Rank
170	99	97
160	85	76
150	47	39
140	11	8

Social Work School Application Requirements

Transcripts.

Universities consider transcripts for graduate applicants because grades demonstrate students’ dedication to learning. Graduate programs also take into account the rigor of students’ undergraduate experiences, which provides insight into how well a student might perform in their graduate program of choice.

Graduate program applicants should contact their undergraduate school and request that official transcripts be sent to their program of choice, which often costs a small fee. Students who attended multiple colleges to complete their undergraduate degrees should contact their admissions offices to request official transcripts from all the universities they attended. You should order transcripts in advance, since they can take up to a week to be sent. Many schools also have an online transcripts option available through their student accounts.

Test Scores

The $205 fee for the GRE includes complimentary score delivery to up to four universities. If students take the exam on the computer, after completing the test, students fill in these designations. Those who take the paper exam will tell the person who registers them where the scores should go. To send scores to additional universities, it costs $27 per school.

Universities often require students to include their resume with their graduate program application. Admission offices use student resumes to accurately evaluate their qualifications. Strong university resumes focus on applicants’ educational experiences, and their exposure to foundational knowledge. Students who have published or co-authored academic or professional work should create a section for this on their resume. They should also include their GPA, the title of their undergraduate thesis, awards, and honors. Schools also encourage students to discuss volunteer work and internships. Resumes are not typically required to be a certain length, since graduate programs want to get to know students in-depth. A two- to three-page resume is ideal. Make sure to include a variety of educational and professional experiences, and remember to be concise and proofread your resume before submitting it.

Essays and Personal Statements

Part of the application process includes a personal statement, which is separate from admission essays. Personal statements provide an overview of applicants by showcasing their relevant skills and experiences. These statements are typically between 500 and 1,000 words. Admission essays are usually shorter than personal statements, averaging up to 500 words in length, but their content should be similar to that of a personal statement.

Admissions officers look for specific information in applicants’ personal statements. They highlight the applicant’s strengths, plus their potential weaknesses in the social work field. These statements should also indicate why the chosen program is important to the applicant’s career and long-term goals. Writers should include rhetoric that conveys why they are a good fit for the program, describing what they’ve learned both through their education and their work outside the classroom. They should also note how their skills from work in other fields would transfer to the social work industry. Schools also like to see that students can think critically and plan for success. Applicants should avoid simply compiling a list of their accomplishments and make sure to exclude irrelevant information. They should also submit their essays well ahead of the deadline.

Letters of Recommendation

Almost every graduate program requires letters of recommendation. Grades and test scores are the most important parts of a graduate program application, but recommendation letters also play a big role. Students should be selective about who writes their letters of recommendation. These writers should be able to discuss students’ performance ability, and ideally have impressive credentials of their own. Good options include professors, prior employers with advanced degrees, and supervisors from volunteer or internship positions.

Students should request letters of recommendation well ahead of the deadline to ensure writers have enough time to compose and submit them. Applicants should follow up on their letter of recommendation submissions, since many schools require letter writers to send their letters directly to the university, without the applicants’ review. Students should also keep in mind that their professors are particularly busy around midterms and finals.

English Proficiency Tests

To assess international students’ English abilities, universities require them to complete the TOEFL exam. Other exams include the International English language testing system and the test of English for international communication, but students do not typically have to take all three exams. Graduate programs will identify which exams are required or acceptable. Categories on these exams include reading, listening, writing, and speaking.

Background Check and Drug Screening

Students applying to graduate programs may have to complete background checks. To practice social work, professionals must have a clean legal history. Coursework may include service hours to allow students to gain experience in the field, and graduate programs also often include capstone courses that require students to spend many hours working under licensed professionals at their place of work. Students are also encouraged to complete internships that are often offered through the school. For this reason, universities need to make sure candidates have clean backgrounds.

How Do You Apply to Social Work Graduate School?

Students should begin their application process by finding programs that meet their professional goals. This allows students to focus on the requirements and avoid wasting time and money. Applicants should take note of application deadlines and create personal deadlines for the GRE and letters of recommendation, since those steps can take a while. Graduate program applications are more complicated than undergraduate applications, because graduate schools do not use a common application, and most have varying requirements. Because of this, graduate applicants may have to invest more time in the admission process. Application costs vary by school. Students who need financial assistance could qualify to receive it from their university, but they should contact the admission office ahead of application due dates to find out.

Rolling Admissions

Many schools follow traditional fall enrollment, but some offer rolling admission. This means students can submit applications at any time of the year. Rolling admission universities review applications as they come in, until the incoming class is filled. This can benefit students who would prefer to have secured placement in one school while they’re considering other options. Schools with rolling admission notify applicants of their admission status within weeks of receiving their application. Rolling applications aren’t binding, and students who apply at the last minute or after traditional deadlines can still start school around the same time as other applicants, and graduate within a reasonable timeframe of their anticipated graduation date. There’s also less competition for rolling admission schools, because the applicant pool is smaller. Ivy League and traditional graduate programs operate on an annual basis, but many state programs and online universities offer rolling admission.

Rounds Admissions

The rounds admission system allows students to apply twice per year in the fall and winter semesters. Not many schools offer a third round, which accepts students late in the year. The first admissions round is for early enrollment. First-round applicants tend to be confident and prepared, with diversified professional and volunteer experiences, and strong letters of recommendation. First-round applications indicate that the school in question is a top choice, and the first round is relatively competitive. The second round takes place mid-year, giving students extra time to prepare. It’s also when most students submit their applications. For universities that have a third admissions round, this round is usually a students’ last chance for application, at which point financial aid is usually gone.

Waiting for Acceptance Letters

Graduate program applications can be complicated and taxing, and often demand lots of time and energy from their applicants. Some applicants apply to graduate programs with an end goal in mind, relentlessly questioning which programs might assist them in building a strong professional network. At the same time, many applicants fear rejection, feeling as if being accepted to their top choice would determine their own self efficacy. Either way, optimism and patience are vital. Response times vary by school, for which reason students should refrain from reaching out to admission offices until after March. Until then, the offices are typically very busy. Once a student receives a response, they should take a deep breath and acknowledge their worth before looking at it. If their application is denied, they may apply again in the next admission round, and in the meantime consult mentors, professors, or counselors to discuss how their application could improve.

Take the next step toward your future in social work.

Explore schools offering programs and courses tailored to your interests, and start your learning journey today.

MSW Statement of Interest & Assistantship
Frequently Asked Questions

Upload an essay into the `Essay/Statement of Interest' section of the online application. Write an autobiographical essay explaining your interest in practicing social work. This essay is intended to give the MSW Admissions Committee a holistic picture of you as a potential MSW student.

We'd like to know about your strengths, your self-awareness, and your perception of areas for personal and professional growth. This essay should be two to four pages, double-spaced, using Times Roman, 12 pt. font.

Describe your experiences, both personal and professional, that influenced your decision to practice social work. In discussing your professional history, please include your work setting(s), the length of time you served, and whether or not this experience(s) was paid or volunteer. Include what your learned about yourself from these personal and/or professional experiences. For advanced standing applicants that hold a BSW only: Please include information regarding your undergraduate field placement in your response to question 1.
Tell us about an experience with adversity, discrimination, and/or oppression either in your personal or professional life and how you handled that experience. If you have not faced these issues in your life, please explain your perception of the role the social work profession plays in working with people who do face such challenges.
Discuss your commitment to social justice, both personally and professionally, and how you see this issue relating to your future practice in social work.
Explain the reasons you have chosen to apply to our social work program.
State your career goals for the next five years, including the population(s) with which you see yourself working.

Assistantship Essay

If you wish to apply for a graduate assistantship, format a one paragraph essay Word document to be uploaded into the `Assistantship Essay' section of the online application, noting that only full-time students may be considered for graduate assistantships. Detail your research and/or instructional experiences, technological aptitude (i.e., ability to use specific programs, web development, etc.), and any special skills that you would bring to your work as a graduate assistant. Include if you would be willing to work with another department if an assistantship in Social Work is unavailable.

Contact the MSW Program

Amy Van de Motter, MSW, LCSW | Interim MSW Coordinator

[email protected]

School of Social Work

School of Social Work >
Admissions >
Application Requirements >

MSW Application Process

Apply Now button image links to application website https://ubgradconnect.buffalo.edu.

Our application process is completely electronic. All documents should be submitted through the application portal.

Watch our application process and timeline video for an overview [3:42]

Application Prerequisites

Traditional msw prerequisites.

Bachelor's degree (or international equivalent) in any discipline from an accredited institution.
6 must be in the social or behavioral sciences (e.g., psychology, sociology, anthropology, political science).
6 must be in the arts or humanities (e.g., history, English, foreign languages, philosophy, ethnic/gender studies).
12 credits may be made up with any combination of the above or with courses from the natural sciences or mathematics.
Minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 preferred .
Human biology undergraduate course (3 credits) must be completed prior to the advanced year MSW curriculum, if not fulfilled at the time of application.

Application Process

All application components ( including recommendations ) must be received by the deadline in order to be considered.

1. Complete the electronic graduate application

Apply to the University at Buffalo School of Social Work using our electronic graduate application system.

Be sure to read the drop-down list of program options thoroughly, since each track has different application questions (traditional, advanced standing, on-campus, online, dual-degree, etc.). If you are unsure of which program you need to select, contact us. If you do not see your program listed, it means that it is not currently open. Check our deadlines page for information about when program applications open and close.

2. Identify three recommenders

On the application form, you will be asked to send electronic recommendation requests to three professional references who are best able to assess your potential for graduate-level academic work and for the profession of social work. This includes:

Classroom instructors
Academic advisors
Current or past employers, supervisors or professional colleagues

Do not use personal friends, relatives, friends of the family or other personal relationship sources. In addition, do not use clients or individuals you provide services to, or therapists or other individuals you receive services from.

When you send the requests, your recommenders will receive an email with a link to complete the brief evaluation form and upload their letter of recommendation for you electronically. You will receive a notification email when a recommendation has been received.

Plan ahead to give your references enough time to submit their recommendations before the deadline.

3. Upload copies of academic transcripts

Copies of transcripts should be uploaded to the application portal. Please note:

You must provide a transcript from each and every previous school attended at the undergraduate and graduate levels.
Transcripts must be from the original school you earned the credits from. Transfer credits listed on another school’s transcript are not sufficient.
You must provide all transcripts regardless of the number of credits earned, how long ago you attended, or whether or not a degree was earned.
Transcripts must include your name, the institution name, all courses taken with semesters, grades received, overall GPA, degree conferral date (if applicable) and transcript key if available (often printed on the back).
Do not upload advising reports or degree evaluations from your student portal.

If you prefer to send official transcripts instead of uploading copies, you may do so. Note that official transcripts will take longer to arrive, so be sure to request them well in advance of the deadline. All transcripts MUST be received in the School of Social Work admissions office by the posted application deadline.

If accepted to the program, you will be required to submit final official transcripts from all schools attended (except from the University at Buffalo) if you have not already.

Official transcripts must be mailed to:

University at Buffalo School of Social Work- Admissions 685 Baldy Hall Buffalo, NY 14260-1050

or sent via secure and official electronic delivery to: [email protected] .

4. Upload your application essay

After you submit your application form , you will be redirected to your status portal, where you will be able to upload your application essay to your application checklist. This is a key component of your application. Your essay should reflect strong technical writing and critical thinking skills. Write a full essay answering ALL questions in the Application Essay Guidelines .

5. Pay the application fee

After you submit your application form, you will be redirected to your status portal, where you can find the secure payment link, allowing you to pay the non-refundable application fee by credit card or e-check.

The Traditional and Advanced Standing On-Campus MSW application fees are $75 each. The Traditional and Advanced Standing Part-Time Online MSW application fees are $100 each.

Email us! [email protected]

To qualify for the in-state tuition rate, admitted students must provide proof of New York State residency. Visit the accepted student information page for details.

If you have a previous felony or criminal conviction, please read our felony disclosure statement before applying.

Accepted applicants living 50 or more miles from the Buffalo, NY, campus will be given priority for seats in the online programs.

Apply to the MSW Program

Why Study Social Work?
About Social Work
Learning Outcomes
Field Education
Child Welfare Training and Advancement Program (CWTAP)
Scholarships
Social Work (BASW)
Social Work (MSW)
Social Work: Advanced Standing (MSW)

Applications Open Oct. 1 each year

The EWU MSW Program welcomes applicants with diverse work and life experiences who have chosen to commit to a social work graduate program. Please check this page regularly for updates on the current application cycle .

Information Sessions: We highly encourage all prospective applicants to register and attend one of our Information Sessions to learn more about the program and the application process.

Application Information: On this page, you’ll find essential information divided into four key sections:

Criteria for MSW Application

Application Document Requirements

Application information.

Frequently Asked Questions
For assistance, contact Chris Babcock at [email protected] .
For program-related questions, contact the Graduate Program Director at [email protected] .
Register and attend one of our Information Sessions.

Already Started Your MSW Application?

Access Your EWU Application

Application Criteria for the MSW

1) meet the degree requirement.

To apply, you must meet both University and School of Social Work requirements.

Standard Program: Successful completion of a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.
Advanced Standing Program: Successful completion of a bachelor’s degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited social work program within seven years of application.

2) Meet the GPA Requirement

Standard Program: Cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher from the undergraduate degree. If below 3.0, upload a letter explaining the causes and preparedness for graduate-level work.
Advanced Standing Program: Cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher from the undergraduate social work degree. No exceptions.

We highly encourage all prospective applicants to register and attend one of our Information Sessions to learn more about the program and the application process.

1) Request Official Transcripts

What transcripts do I need?

An undergraduate transcript confirming a 3.0 GPA.
A master’s transcript if a request for a credit transfer will be made.

How do I request a transcript?

Go to the transcript website for the prior university where you earned your highest degree (bachelor’s or master’s).
Order an electronic, official transcript (If the prior college only has mail as an option, expect them to take 4-6 weeks for them to arrive.)
Have it sent to Eastern Washington University

Transcript Guidelines

2) Identify Three Professional References

Submit your reference’s names and email contacts in the application. The online portal will email your references asking for their recommendation.
Contact your references to ensure timely submission of recommendations.

3) Upload Your Resume

Update and upload your most current resume.

4) Upload Your Essay Responses

Upload your essay responses to the following questions based on the program you are applying to.

All essays are to be included in one document including your name and date.
Each essay should be numbered and have a heading. The headings are already provided for you (the bolded words before the questions).

Standard Program:

Why the MSW (250 words max): Why are you pursuing an MSW, and how have your work, volunteer, and/or educational experiences contributed to your decision?
Core Values (250 words max): The core values for social workers are: service, social justice, dignity and worth of the person, importance of human relationships, integrity, and competence ( NASW Code of Ethics ). Choose two of the core values to describe how these values are important to social work practice.
Diversity (250 words max): Briefly describe one experience you had interacting with someone different from yourself, which impacted your perspective on diversity. Please include your reactions and reflections on lessons learned. These differences may include but are not limited to factors such as age, class, culture, ability, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, immigration status, marital status, political ideology, race, religion/spirituality, and tribal sovereign status.
Social Issue (250 words max): Briefly discuss a social issue important to you. What are some underlying causes and the impacts on individuals, families, and/or communities? How might you participate in bringing about change?

Advanced Standing Program

Social Issue. Provide an individual essay for each question; label your responses as Part 1, Part 2, or Part 3
Part 1 (250 words max): Discuss a social issue important to you. What are some underlying causes and the impacts on individuals, families, and/or communities? How might you participate in bringing about change?
Part 2 (250 words max): Describe a social policy related to the social issue you identified in the previous question and answer the following questions. What are the benefits of this policy? Who benefits from the policy?
Part 3 (250 words max): Illustrate the gaps, barriers, and unintended consequences of the policy. What policy changes would you suggest and why?
Client System (500 words max): Imagine you are a generalist social worker working with a client or client system. Describe the skills and strategies you would use in each of the following phases of practice: engagement, assessment, intervention, and evaluation.
Practicum and/or post-bachelor’s degree work experience .
Part 1 (250 words max) Undergraduate practicum and/or post bachelor’s degree work experience : Describe how your undergraduate placement and/or work experience post-bachelor’s degree in social work may prepare you for advanced practicum.
Part 2 (250 words max) Supervision reflection: How did you utilize supervision during your undergraduate placement and/or work post-bachelor’s degree?
Part 3 (250 words max) Lessons learned : What lessons have you learned from your undergraduate placement and/or post-degree work that you can use in your advanced practicum? Please include areas of growth and/or challenges.

We recommend preparing the following documents before you start your application.

1) Start Your Online Application

Use the EWU online portal to save your materials and complete the application before the deadline. Go here when ready to begin the online application: APPLY
The online application portal will upload numerous documents under the “Graduate Documents Upload” tab. Examples: resume, essay questions.

Application Portal: Apply Here

2) Choose the Correct Program

Choose the correct program inside the application portal that accepts applications.

Social Work Cheney – MSW: Full-time, fully in-person graduate program based in the Cheney and Spokane area. Designed for students residing within 100 miles of Cheney, WA.
Social Work Spokane – MSW: Part-time, hybrid graduate program based in Spokane, WA. Designed for students from Central and Eastern Washington and the panhandle of Idaho.
Social Work Cheney Advanced Standing – MSW: Full-time, fully in-person graduate program based in Cheney and Spokane area for those eligible for advanced standing. Designed for students residing within 100 miles of Cheney, WA.
Social Work Everett Advanced Standing – MSW: Part-time, hybrid graduate program based in Everett, WA. Designed for students from Whatcom, Snohomish, Skagit, and Island counties.

View Application Cycle

3) Submit Your Application for Review

Social work faculty review each application. Only one application per applicant is reviewed.
Incomplete applications at the deadline will not be reviewed unless extenuating circumstances exist.

What Programs are Accepting Applications?

Program application cycle table.

MSW Program (FT=full-time; PT=part-time)	Priority Admission Deadline	Regular Admission Deadline	Next Cohort	Program Length (Years)
Cheney FT	9:00 PM (PT)	9:00 PM (PT)	Fall Quarter 2025	2
Spokane PT			Summer 2025	3
Cheney FT – Advanced Standing		9:00 PM (PT)	Summer 2025	1
Everett PT - Advanced Standing			Summer 2025	1.5
Everett PT	9:00 PM (PT)	9:00 PM (PT)	Summer 2026	3
Spokane PT - Advanced Standing		9:00 PM (PT)	Summer 2026	1.5

Information Sessions

August sessions.

Wednesday, August 14, 2024 at 7 p.m. PT – Register

Wednesday, August 28, 7 PM – 8 p.m. PT – Register

September Session

Wednesday, September 18, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. PT – Register

October Sessions

Oct. 1, 7 PM – 8 p.m. PT – Register HERE

Oct. 16, 7 PM – 8 p.m. PT – Register HERE

Oct. 29, 7 PM – 8 p.m. PT – Register HERE

November Session

November 13, 7 PM – 8 PM Pacific Register HERE

December Sessions

December 3, 7 PM – 8 PM Pacific Register HERE

December 18, 7 PM – 8 PM Pacific Register HERE

Join our MSW Graduate Program Director via Zoom to learn about the MSW Program and the 2024-25 Application Cycle. We encourage all potential applicants to attend before applying.

Can’t attend? Contact Dr. Deb Svoboda at [email protected] to schedule an appointment.

Application Frequently Asked Questions

What type of degree is required for the msw program at ewu.

• It depends on the program option you are applying for. • For the Standard MSW Program, there are no requirements for the type of undergraduate degree earned. The university or college has to be an accredited higher education institution. • For the Advanced Standing MSW Program, there is a requirement for a very specific type of undergraduate degree earned. There are no exceptions to this requirement. A bachelor’s social work degree had to be earned in the past seven years from a social work program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) or the Canadian social work accreditor (CASWE). For an international undergraduate social work degree review, visit the CSWE resource at https://www.cswe.org/accreditation/scopeandservices/international-degree-review/

What is the Grade Point Average (GPA) Requirement for the MSW Program?

• For the Standard MSW Program: cumulative GPA of 3.0 is preferred. If your cumulative GPA is below 3.0, upload a statement explaining the lower GPA and your readiness for graduate-level work currently. • For the Advanced Standing MSW Program: cumulative GPA 3.0 or higher, no exceptions.

Is the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) required?

• No. The GRE is not required for any of the MSW Programs.

What is the difference between a “Priority Admission Deadline” and a “Regular Admission Deadline”?

• A “priority” deadline is the date of the first pool of applicants to be reviewed. That pool of applicants receives notification of application decisions first. The priority pool of applicants sets the standard for admission for that application cycle. • A “regular” deadline is the final date for acceptance of your application. Extensions to the deadline are posted on this site.

Who should I consider asking to be a reference for my application?

• Ask people who will complete the recommendation request in a timely manner. It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure all application materials are submitted by deadline. • Ask your references in advance of submitting their name and email with your application. Ask them to watch for an email from the EWU graduate application system asking for them to upload their letter of recommendation and to answer brief questions. • Include one reference from a former or current professor/instructor. If out of school for over 5 years, it may be difficult to obtain an academic reference. Add another professional reference. • Include one reference who can speak to your performance in your undergraduate social work practicum (for advanced standing applicants). • Include one or two professional references such as a supervisor from a job or a volunteer position. • Do not submit character or personal references, such as friends, family, a counselor/client, or faith leaders/parishioners (unless these people were your supervisor at a job).

I have gaps in my employment record on my resume, will that be a problem?

• Not necessarily. Gaps in your employment record are not a major concern as long as the work documented in your resume corresponds with your essay responses.

Can I be awarded graduate credit for my life and/or work experience?

• No. Previous life or work experience cannot be substituted for course credit, with no exceptions. This is a CSWE social work educational standard.

I am a DACA or undocumented student. What are the EWU aid resources available to me?

• Aid and application assistance for applicants who are undocumented visit this EWU site: Aid for Undocumented Students

I am an international applicant. What specific application items do I need to consider?

• Transcript: In addition to an official transcript, it is the responsibility of the applicant to choose a transcript review company and pay for that transcript review. For more information, visit the Graduate Program Office site here: “In addition to a transcript from outside the United States, an official course-by-course evaluation is required. A credential evaluation service must be recognized by the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES). The credential evaluation service must also provide a chronological list of course work. A list of credential evaluation services can be found at www.naces.org • Applicant & Student Support: The EWU Global Student Services office can provide support to navigate the application process. Contact the Global Student Services staff through this site ewu.edu/global • Documentation: International students will need to have appropriate documentation to participate in social work practicum placement during their MSW Program. • English Proficiency: EWU requires an English proficiency score for all international students. Visit this EWU site to learn more: ewu.edu/apply/international-graduate/

What is the format for the Social Work Essay Questions?

Format: Type all essay questions into one document for upload into your application. Label the document with your name and place a heading for each essay.
Length: Adhere to the word count for each question. Provide detailed answers without being wordy.
Citations: Full citations are not expected, but references can be mentioned.

How important are my responses to the Social Work Essay Questions?

• Extremely. Your responses to the essay questions provide the social work faculty reviewing your application insights into your thinking, your values, writing skills, what’s important to you, and the direction your would like to take a social work career. • A strong essay is carefully developed, addresses each question with examples, adheres to the format, and displays good writing skills (clarity, grammar, spelling). • Revise and proofread (or have someone else proofread) your essays prior to submission. • Applicants are responsible for making sure their application materials are submitted in a timely manner and by the deadline.

How much is graduate tuition and fees at EWU?

Visit the EWU site on costs for graduate education: Graduate Tuition & Aid

How do students finance their graduate education?

Complete the FAFSA or WASFA for eligibility determination for scholarships and federal student loans. If your program begins in the summer, complete the FAFSA or WASFA for the prior academic year and the new academic year that begins in the fall quarter. Go to Financial Aid to complete your FAFSA or WASFA and to learn more.
Make an appointment with a Financial Advisor at the EWU Financial Aid office:
Visit the Student Financial Services website to apply for a payment plan on your tuition and fee expenses.
Visit the Graduate Tuition & Fees page for options on Scholarships , Tuition Waivers, Graduate Service Appointments . Note: The EWU General Scholarship application is due by February 1 each year. Complete that general scholarship application when you complete the MSW application.
Veterans and family members of veterans contact the EWU Veterans Resource Center to ask about potential benefit eligibility for graduate education.
Applicants who are former Foster Youth contact the EWU Passport Program for support and resources.
Visit the School of Social Work Scholarships information webpage
Applicants interested in serving the child welfare system, visit the information webpage for the Child Welfare Training and Advancement Program (CWTAP) . CWTAP is a conditional scholarship program that funds the graduate tuition of students who will commit to working for the WA Department of Children, Youth, and Families for two years post-MSW.
Finally, students make financial/bartering arrangements with family and friends for their assistance and support of their graduate education.

IMAGES

Social WORK Admission Essay
personal statement for graduate school for social work
Make your writing better with these social work statement of purpose
Social Work Essays For Graduate School
📌 Social Work Scholarship Application Letter
Introduction to social work

VIDEO

Writing a Winning Graduate School Statement (workshop)
Applying to Grad school in the USA? Watch this NOW!!!
Day in the Life of a BUSSW Student in the Cape Cod MSW Program
cute bal krishna drawing #subscribe #drawing #viral #video little krishna drawing step by step #art
How to Write a Grad School Statement of Purpose
Supervision Role Play for Social Work Grad school

COMMENTS

PDF Personal Statement Master's in Social Work (MS
social work. This motivates me to evaluate new andexisting intervention strategies in order to ide. ld welfare through the identification of effectiveintervent. ons across home, school, and alterna. in mental health will allow me the opportunity to. develop the skills necessary to achieve this goal.
10 MSW Personal Statement Examples (with Commentary)
Get inspired by the best MSW personal statement examples. These samples are inspired by actual essays that contributed to the students' successful admissions.
Master of Social Work Personal Statement Example
Many Master of Social Work applicants struggle to write their MSW personal statement. In this article we will be reviewing best practices and a social work personal statement example template you can use for your MSW application.
Guide to Crafting a Perfect Social Work Personal Statement
Key Components of a Personal Statement This essay is usually part of the packet of information that you're required to submit to an admissions department. Your social work personal statement typically includes the following information: Your Past Experiences: Have you already volunteered or worked in social work fields?
Graduate School Admissions: Writing an Effective Personal Statement
During this period, the application procedures were completely revamped, and UNE was subsequently acknowledged in 1995 by the Council on Social Work Education in its Site Visit Report for reaffirmation of accreditation as having developed an admissions process that is "one of the more elaborate, perhaps, in social work education," and for using ...
Essays
Essays. Application Requirement: The Garland School of Social Work application includes four short-answer essay prompts. The four essays focus on the following topics: Application Advice: Essays are a significant piece of the application to the MSW program at Baylor. This is how we get to know you as a future student and social work professional.
How to write a Master of Social Work (MSW) Personal ...
Over the past few years helping MSW applicants apply to their Master of Social Work, and here are my top tips for getting started with writing a personal statement.
PDF This writing sample is a vital component of your application. It will
This writing sample is a vital component of your application. It will be used to evaluate your writing skills as well as your ability to conceptualize and articulate your understanding of social work. This essay will provide the admissions committee with a clear picture of who you are, why you have chosen to enter the social work profession and what motivates you to apply to Widener University ...
Application Essay Guidelines
Tell us why you are pursuing the profession of social work at this time, and why the UB School of Social Work's MSW degree program is a good match for you. What personal skills and knowledge, and/or professional and academic experiences have prepared you for a graduate level social work degree program?
How to Write an Effective Personal Statement for Grad School
How to Write an Effective Personal Statement for Grad School When it comes to applying for your Master of Social Work (MSW), the personal statement is the most important - and often the most daunting - part of the application process.
MSW Personal Statement Tips & Examples
MSW personal statement examples and tips. With that in mind, here are our tips for composing a winning MSW statement of purpose for graduate social work admissions: Articulate your inspiration for, and interest in social work: What life experiences, including jobs or volunteer positions, have inspired you?
PDF MSW Application essay questions
ESSAY I: The School of Social Work is dedicated to providing excellent graduate education for people committed to creating social change with individuals, families and communities. Discuss in detail a social problem of interest and describe how you might address that issue as a master's level social worker. You should support your discussion with empirical evidence, using citations as ...
PDF Essay/Personal Statement Social Work
Why you have chosen to enter the social work profession. Your ability to value the perspectives of diverse populations. How your academic, professional, personal, and volunteer experiences have prepared you for graduate studies in social work. Your motivation to apply to the MSW Program.
Social Worker Personal Statement
Social Worker Personal Statement | A Winning Example. Sharing is caring! In the realm of social work, where individuals dedicate their lives to making a real difference in people's lives, the journey often begins with personal experiences that ignite a passion for change. As a prospective social work student, I recognised that my own life ...
PDF Microsoft Word
A traditional autobiography may be hundreds of pages and can cover dozens of mundane interactions in minute detail. A graduate school autobiographical essay, however, should be much shorter and to the point, highlighting achievements and life events that are relevant to your studies or display an important aspect of your character.1.
Your Social Work Graduate School Application: 14 Tips to Help You Get
Applying for graduate school is a big step! Whether you are just graduating with your bachelor's in social work or you have been out for a few years, preparing that application takes time, energy, and careful consideration. Your grades are only one indicator of readiness for graduate study. It is highly likely that you will be asked to write a professional statement or essay along with ...
How to Write a Grad School Application Essay
A great graduate school application essay can help a student stand out from other applicants. Learn more about writing a compelling grad school essay.
Ideas for an MSW Essay for Grad School
When you apply to a Masters in Social Work, or MSW, program at a college or university, you're faced with the task of presenting yourself in a unique and strong way via an application. The MSW application essay, often referred to as a personal statement, is an opportunity to make your application shine, and ...
Graduate Application Guide for Social Workers
Graduate Application Guide for Social Workers. A master of social work (MSW) is designed for professionals who seek upper-level positions in the social work field. Students who plan on applying to a graduate school of social work for an MSW must have a bachelor's degree from an accredited school, and graduate programs often have a GPA ...
MSW Statement of Interest & Assistantship
Upload an essay into the `Essay/Statement of Interest' section of the online application. Write an autobiographical essay explaining your interest in practicing social work. This essay is intended to give the MSW Admissions Committee a holistic picture of you as a potential MSW student.
Social Work (Four Corners Program)
Essays and Statements Essay Instructions. Your Career Goals Statement is an essential part of your application. Your rationale for entering the social work profession, your self-awareness, creativity, critical thinking and writing skills are major factors committee members consider when reviewing your application.
MSW Application Process
Application Process. All application components (including recommendations) must be received by the deadline in order to be considered. 1. Complete the electronic graduate application. Apply to the University at Buffalo School of Social Work using our electronic.
MSW Application Process & Deadlines
All application materials for the School of Social Work should be sent to the Rutgers University Office of Graduate and Professional Admissions. Students applying for readmission should review the reapplication process guidelines below.
Apply
Applications Open Oct. 1 each year The EWU MSW Program welcomes applicants with diverse work and life experiences who have chosen to commit to a social work graduate program. Please check this page regularly for updates on the current application cycle.
Graduate programs
International Students • Master of Social Work (MSW) Degree with GPA of 3.5 or higher • Minimum of three (3) years of post-MSW experience • Three (3) letters of recommendation • Personal Statement & Capstone Proposal • DSW Application • Current Resume/CV • A current social work license, license eligibility, or registration as a social work intern or its equivalent (in social work ...