Social Work Programs
The Wayne State University School of Social Work - Detroit's Social Work School - prepares students to work in urban environments. Detroit and southeast Michigan have a distinct history and set of challenges and opportunities that offer lessons and insights for social work practice in agencies and organizations in diverse urban environments. The urban context provides rich and compelling experiences that aid in developing professional competence and prepare students to uphold the core values of the social work profession.
Bachelor of Social Work
The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree program prepares undergraduate students for ethical, competent, entry-level, generalist professional social work practice with diverse, poor, vulnerable and oppressed individuals, families, groups and communities.
Master of Social Work
The Master of Social Work (MSW) degree program prepares world-class practitioners committed to achieving social and economic justice, assisting vulnerable or oppressed individuals, and to improving the lives of individuals, families, groups and communities.
- On-campus MSW program (IP and ICP-L concentrations)
- Online MSW program (IP concentration only)
- Dual-title and Joint MSW degrees in Infant Mental Health or Public Health
- Holistic Defense course series
- Accelerated MSW Program options to save time and money: Senior Rule and SW-CLAS AGRADE
Doctoral Program
The Social Work Doctoral Program (PhD) prepares successful scholars, educators and leaders to engage in research on contemporary urban issues for the advancement of social work practice and social welfare policy.
- PhD in Social Work
- Dual-title and Interdisciplinary PhD in Social Work and Gerontology, Infant Mental Health or Anthropology
Dual-Title and Joint-Degrees
The Wayne State University School of Social Work offer both dual-title and joint degrees at the masters and doctoral program levels. These programs build on the natural overlap between social work and our allied professions, provide students with the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of multiple fields of study and gain the necessary skills to operate in the growing interprofessional enviroment.
Certificates
Multidisciplinary programs designed to provide graduate students, individual practitioners and professionals with an integrated learning experience to enhance their career opportunities and options.
- Certificate in Alcohol and Drug Use Studies (CADUS, WSU School of Social Work, graduate level)
- Disabilities Certificate (Developmental Disabilities Institute, graduate level)
- Gerontology Certificate (WSU School of Social Work, graduate level)
- Research and Evaluation Certificate (WSU School of Social Work, doctoral level)
Social Work in Schools
Temporary approval by the State Department of Education is required for employment as a school social worker. The School of Social Work can recommend temporary approval to the State Department of Education on behalf of MSW graduates with the submission of the SSW-310 paperwork.
Peers to Higher Education
Peers to Higher Education offers Peers the opportunity to advance their career in an urban environment with degree paths and specialized wrap-around support services to meet their needs.
Non-Degree Programs
This program provides an opportunity for students who have a bachelor's degree to register for graduate level social work courses without being formally admitted into the social work program.
Non-Degree Social Work (NDSW) status is suitable for prospective students who want to:
- Explore the social work degree or solidify interest in the profession
- Increase knowledge and improve professional skills
- Strengthen their application for formal admission into the MSW program.
