Social Work: Foundation (MSW)
Prepares you for advanced generalist practice with individuals, families and groups who have experienced a wide array of traumatic experiences.
This track is designed for students who do not have a social work undergraduate degree from a Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredited program.
- Delivered entirely online
- Next cohort begins January 2023
- Apply by September 1, 2022, for full consideration
Features
Entirely Online | 60 Credits | 3.5 Years
- Learn an integrated approach to treating acute and complex forms of psychological trauma, including various cognitive and body-centered psychotherapies and approaches
- Extensive opportunities to practice and refine techniques while under supervision
- The TIC Concentration is cutting-edge and the MSW program is the only program in Iowa that offers this specialty
- Dedicated faculty who have strong relations with human service professionals and agencies
- Department of Social Work has 153 partnerships in 40 Iowa communities that provide quality internships
Here to Help
As an Online & Distance Education student, you’ll have a dedicated Enrollment Contact and Program Coordinator to assist you with registering for classes, navigating the course sequence and billing process, preparing for graduation and much more.
 | Matthew Vasquez Program Coordinator Associate Professor, Social Work |
 | Janelle Finke Enrollment Contact 319-273-7740 |
Our graduates are prepared to:
- Excel in positions in substance abuse agencies, mental health facilities, domestic violence shelters, schools, hospitals and prisons
- Provide cutting-edge trauma-specific therapy to a wide range of client systems
- Take on leadership positions in the field
- Pass the Licensed Master of Social Work (LMSW) exam at a rate higher than the national average
Delivered Entirely Online
This program incorporates the same high standards and course workload expectations as the on-campus MSW program, but features the convenience of course delivery without the necessity of commuting to campus. Courses are offered online using Blackboard, an online learning management system and Zoom. Most courses will also meet Tuesday and/or Thursday evenings from 6 to 9 p.m. (CST) via interactive video conferencing.
Students will also complete a practicum/internship: Our agency partners request that you are available on weekdays between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. You will need to complete approximately 12-13 hours per week over two semesters. If you are already employed in the human service field, it may be possible to complete your internship at your current place of employment if your internship duties and supervisor are different than your employment duties and supervisor.
Individualized Support Services
Throughout every step of your program, you'll have a dedicated team of support staff ready to assist you. You'll also have access to UNI services such as:
- Personalized academic advising
- Support from Financial Aid, Career Services and Rod Library staff
- Academic support and tutoring opportunities from the Learning Center
- Access to student accessibility services and staff
- Technical support assistance
Next Steps
Express Interest
Complete our online information request form. We'll send program updates, important information and application deadlines directly to your inbox!
Apply Now
To be admitted, students must have:
- an applicant statement responding to questions within the application for admission
- three completed recommendation forms
Along with the application, students should have their official transcripts sent directly to the Office of Admissions. View additional admissions requirements.
Contact Us
Our team of support staff is available to help you throughout your UNI journey.
If you have any questions, contact us at 319-273-7206 or online@uni.edu for assistance!
Delivery of this program is contingent on a sufficient number of students being accepted into the program.
Licensing and Accreditation Information
The Master of Social Work programs are accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). Accreditation verifies that the MSW degree meets the high standards considered essential to providing a high quality social work education, and ensures that every student graduating from a social work program in the U.S. possesses the same requisite skills and knowledge.
The MSW programs satisfy the licensure requirements in Iowa. Requirements may vary by state. For licensing requirements specific to your state, visit ASWB.
Licensing exam information can be found at www.aswb.org/.