Social Work

Fort Hays State University's MSW program equips graduates with the knowledge and skills to become qualified and effective clinical social workers. The program delves into social work practice with individuals, families, and groups and clinical social work approaches to mental health treatment. Students gain a deep understanding of social welfare policy, research methods, human behavior, and social systems through various courses, including practicum placement experiences. Below are a few of the courses in the Master of Social Work:

SOCW 850: Assessment and Treatment of Mental Disorders I

This course introduces an integrative biopsychosocial model to understand mental and behavioral disorders, with a focus on assessment and diagnosis using the DSM-5 framework. It covers major affective, cognitive, anxiety, and other disorders common in social work practice. Students will explore risk and resilience models and evidence-based treatment interventions, such as pharmacological treatment, stages of change, motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and trauma-based approaches.

SOCW 875: Forensic Social Work Practice

This course introduces forensic social work practice, emphasizing the intersection of social work and legal systems. It covers how legal mandates shape social work practice and equips practitioners with the skills needed for working in legal settings, such as mediation, forensic interviewing, and expert witness testimony.

SOCW 840: Generalist Social Work Field Practicum I

This first of two field practicums in the MSW program provides supervised learning experiences under a licensed social worker in approved agencies. A concurrent practice course helps students integrate classroom learning with fieldwork. An ethno-cultural perspective is emphasized. Students work with the Field Practicum Director to select their practice population, agency, and location. The practicum begins in the fall semester, requiring a minimum of 200 hours.

Discover the full Master of Social Work course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.

A Master of Social Work from Fort Hays State University equips students with the skills and knowledge to make a real difference in the lives of others. Graduates go on to work in a wide range of settings, tackling complex social issues and empowering individuals, families, and communities. Here are six exciting career paths students can pursue with an MSW:

Mental Health Therapist

Graduates can become licensed clinical social workers. They provide individual, group, and family therapy in various settings, such as mental health clinics, hospitals, and private practices. They help clients manage mental health conditions, improve coping skills, and navigate life's challenges.

School Social Worker

School social workers are champions for student success. They collaborate with teachers, families, and administrators to address students' social, emotional, and behavioral needs. They may provide individual counseling, crisis intervention, and support groups, fostering a positive learning environment.

Community Organizer

Graduates passionate about social justice can pursue careers as community organizers. They work alongside community members to identify needs, advocate for change, and develop programs that address systemic issues like poverty, homelessness, and discrimination.

Healthcare Social Worker

Social workers play a crucial role in healthcare by providing psychosocial support to patients and their families. They may help patients cope with chronic illness, navigate healthcare systems, and access necessary resources, ensuring holistic well-being.

Policy Advocate

Social workers focusing on policy practice can work in government agencies or non-profit organizations to influence policy development. They conduct research, analyze data, and advocate for policies that promote human flourishing and address societal issues impacting vulnerable populations.

Fort Hays State University's Master of Social Work program equips graduates with the knowledge and skills to make a real difference in the lives of individuals, families, and communities. Before getting started, let's review the admission requirements:

Building a Strong Foundation

Applicants must demonstrate a solid academic foundation to be eligible for the MSW program at Fort Hays State University. We require a minimum of a 3.0 cumulative overall GPA in the applicant’s bachelor's degree program. This shows commitment to educational excellence, a crucial quality for success in a rigorous social work graduate program.

Showcasing Applicants’ Qualifications

Beyond the GPA, the MSW program seeks a well-rounded picture of a student’s potential as a social worker. This is where the application package plays a crucial role. Applicants must submit three recommendation letters from individuals familiar with their academic and professional backgrounds. These letters offer valuable insights into the applicant’s work ethic, interpersonal skills, and passion for social work.

Sharing Applicants’ Story and Goals

A compelling personal statement is also a key component of the application. In this essay, applicants can share their motivations for pursuing a Master of Social Work. They should discuss their experiences with social services, social justice, or any area that sparked their interest in the social work profession. Additionally, applicants should outline their career goals and explain how an MSW degree will equip them to achieve them.

Highlighting Applicants’ Skills and Experience

Finally, a well-crafted resume will highlight relevant skills and experience. This may include volunteer work, internships, or any previous professional experience related to social work, human services, or social welfare.