Admissions

The Howard University School of Social Work prepares students to transform systems of oppression and strengthen culturally diverse communities through social work. We challenge our graduates to become architects of liberation at local, national and international levels.

We seek applicants who embody our founding pillars of excellence in truth and service. In addition to strong academic credentials, you should be able to demonstrate a commitment to social justice and the field of social work.

Eligibility Requirements

Howard MSW Online offers Traditional and Advanced Standing tracks, both of which can be completed on a full-time or part-time basis. The full-time pace is a full-time commitment. If you plan to work while you study, we strongly encourage a part-time pace.

The Traditional MSW (60 credits) is designed for students who hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university, with a minimum of 60 credits in the liberal arts. A 3.0 cumulative GPA in undergraduate coursework is preferred but not required. This track can be completed full-time in approximately 1.5 years (16 months, 4 terms) or part-time in as few as 3 years (36 months, 9 terms).

The Advanced Standing MSW (45 credits) is designed for students who hold a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from a CSWE-accredited institution. The BSW must have been awarded within four years of your first term start date. Candidates must have earned a 3.0 cumulative GPA in all social work foundation and undergraduate coursework. This track can be completed full-time in as little as one year (12 months, 3 terms) or part-time in as few as 2 years (24 months, 6 terms).

DEGREE TIMELINES

Advanced Standing Track

ScheduleTime to Complete
Full-time
1 year (3 terms)
Part-time
2 years (6 terms)

Traditional Track

ScheduleTime to Complete
Full-time
1.5 years (4 terms)
Part-time
3 years (9 terms)

Start Dates

January

May

September

Upcoming Deadlines

September 2024

TrackEarly Priority DeadlinePriority DeadlineFinal DeadlineTerm Start Date
Traditional MSW
May 22, 2024
June 19, 2024
July 17, 2024
September 2024
Advanced Standing MSW

May 22, 2024
June 19, 2024
July 17, 2024
September 2024

Application Fee Waivers

The standard application fee is $100, but McNair scholars may qualify for an application fee waiver. You must contact an admissions counselor to confirm your fee waiver before applying.

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