Master of Social Work
5:1 student-to-faculty ratio
3 pathways: direct, macro, and individualized
$75,069 mean salary per year in Indiana for MSW graduates* *According to ZipRecruiter, 2024 report.
VALUE OF A VALPO GRADUATE DEGREE
Valpo is one of the highest–ranked institutions in the Midwest for academic reputation and value, with manageable options for graduate tuition. Scholarships and early entry options are available for especially qualified students. This program also qualifies for the Back2Beacon Graduate Scholarship. If you are a Valpo undergraduate alumni, you may qualify for a 30% scholarship toward your graduate degree. Visit valpo.edu/aid to learn more.
Make an impact in your community and beyond by driving social change and empowering future generations through social work.
Valparaiso University’s master of social work (MSW) program continues a legacy of excellence within the field that will set you apart as a high quality and distinguished social work professional within mental health settings, schools, the criminal justice field, and beyond. Quality and flexibility are at the core of our curriculum. Our 60-credit MSW program offers multiple pathways to graduation:
• The direct pathway prepares students to work directly with individuals, families, and groups in clinical or community settings.
• The macro pathway equips students for leadership in policy, administration, and advocacy roles rooted in Valpo’s high-touch social work tradition.
• The individualized pathway offers a customizable course of study tailored to each student’s goals, with flexible scheduling and a mix of online and inperson options that support both full-time and part-time learners.
Students can complete the MSW program online or inperson. The only exceptions are summer (inperson) and electives (online). Fall and spring courses are all in the evening to accommodate working professionals. Summer courses are brief, intensive, and inperson to foster strong relationships and maintain Valpo’s student-focused philosophy. All electives are online, and students also have the option to earn the public safety social work certificate for careers in police, fire, and emergency service settings.
Schedule a one-on-one consultation with a graduate admission counselor today! Email us at grad@valpo.edu
Below is a sample full-time curriculum map with a part-time option also offered requiring the same 60 credits listed.
“Pursuing a master of social work at Valpo felt like the ideal next step to deepen my understanding and enhance my impact in the field. My aspiration is to work in mental health and community outreach, and I believe this program is equipping me with the essential skills and knowledge to make a meaningful difference.”
DELANEY SCHELLER ’ 24, ’ 27 MSW
MAJOR: Psychology
GRADUATE PROGRAM: Master of Social Work
*Research methods note: Students must take a statistics class prior to SOCW 666 course, and could take an online statistics class over the summer or during the year to fulfill this requirement.
Shine at Valpo
Take the next step toward your bright future by visiting valpo.edu/msw, or by scanning the QR code.
Valparaiso University admits students of any race, color, national or ethnic origin, age, gender, disability, sexual orientation, or religion. (For a full statement, see valpo.edu .)
Valparaiso University
Valparaiso, IN 46383
web: valpo.edu/grad
email: grad@valpo.edu
ADMISSION CHECKLIST
Valparaiso University graduate application (online)
Certified bachelor’s degree transcript, plus transcripts for all other degrees earned and/ or coursework completed
One letter of recommendation
A reflective essay indicating your anticipated career goals and reasons for undertaking graduate study in the particular program you are applying for at Valpo
Additional application requirements may apply. For more information, visit valpo.edu/grad.