Western Kentucky University Online MSW Program

Western Kentucky University (WKU) offers a MSW with an Advanced Standing option. Students must have a BSW within the last seven years as well as a 3.0 GPA from a CSWE-accredited program. In addition, students should have a liberal arts background.

WKU’s program focuses many areas – small cities, towns, and very rural communities. The primary focus is the rural areas that make up most of Kentucky. The rigor of WKU’s program provides students with the skill set necessary to work effectively in these areas. Students may work with advocacy groups, schools, churches, mental health hospitals, and community organizations in the rural setting.

Students in the program complete coursework in the following areas:

  • Understanding social work practice in diverse rural areas.
  • Understanding the needs of workforce agencies working in rural communities.
  • Understanding the complex needs of rural communities, including research, training, and continuing education.
  • Preparing to assist rural areas by empowering the rural communities.
  • Exhibiting the skills necessary to implement social welfare policies, practices, and services.

Advanced Standing Track

WKU’s program is 33 hours of coursework and can be completed full-time (one year), part-time (two years), and online (two years). The part-time web classes take place on Tuesdays from 5:30-7:30 CST. When applying for the programs, two separate applications must be completed – one to the Department of Social Work; and the second to WKU’s graduate school.

The one-year Advanced Standing Program is offered every year at Bowling Green; the part-time option is offered every year at Bowling Green and online every other year.

Western Kentucky University Online MSW Program: Overview

Department: Department of Social Work

Degree Types: Advanced Standing

Concentrations: Advanced Generalist Practice

Program Structure: Online (no campus visits required)

Program Information

Program Overview

Program Requirements

  • Number of Credits Required: 33 credits needed to graduate

Program Length

  • Program Length: Program can be completed in as few as 12 months, Part-time Advanced Standing cohort offered each fall

Admission Requirements

  • GPA: Students must have a 3.0 GPA based on their last 60 hours of undergraduate and/or graduate credit hours.
  • GRE Information: Not required