Master of Social Work
Advance your impact and career with Kentucky State University’s Master of Social Work (MSW), designed for working professionals, recent graduates, and those seeking to lead change in their communities. Complete a rigorous, evidence-based curriculum—delivered fully online—with the flexibility to fit your life and schedule. Expert faculty guide you through hands-on field placements, advanced practice courses, and two track options focused on Clinical Social Work or Social Justice.
Whether you’re pursuing clinical licensure or aiming for leadership roles in advocacy, policy, or administration, this MSW program provides the advanced skills and credentials to thrive in diverse professional settings.
The KSU MSW program meets the urgent demand for culturally competent social workers who are committed to equity, healthcare access, and community empowerment. The program is open to students from all academic backgrounds and offers an accelerated Advanced Standing option for those with a recent BSW.
The program is approved by the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education and provides students with two distinct tracks for advanced social work practice:
| Traditional MSW Pathway – Credit Hours: 60 | Advanced Standing MSW Pathway – Credit Hours: 30 |
|---|---|
| For students from any undergraduate major. Includes advanced coursework and extensive field practicum in clinical, advocacy, and community-based settings. | For applicants with a recent CSWE-accredited BSW degree. Complete your MSW in as little as one year full-time. |
Kentucky Licensure & Certifications
This program fulfills the educational requirements for the Certified Social Worker (CSW) and Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) credentials in Kentucky. Additional supervised experience and exams are required post-graduation for clinical licensure.
Specialized field placements through the CW PREP (Child Welfare Preparation) initiative are available to MSW students who are participating in the program and who also took part in the CWPrep program during their BSW studies, with interests in child protective services, foster care, and family advocacy.
The MSW is stackable with advanced certifications, certificates, or micro-credentials, including the Trauma-Informed Response Certificate, the Graduate Certificate in Interdisciplinary Intelligence Studies, and the CW SUSTAIN program for eligible students who previously participated in the Public Child Welfare Certification (offered through the CWPrep program).
CW SUSTAIN is a unique opportunity for current child welfare employees to advance and sustain their professional growth. The program provides full tuition, financial assistance, and academic support to help participants earn their graduate degree.
Admissions Process & Contact Information
Submit an application to apply for enrollment.
Admissions Email – onlineadmissions@kysu.edu
Admissions Direct Phone- 1-888-597-0037
MSW ProgRam Application Requirements
Once you are admitted to Kentucky State University, please note that the School of Social Work has its own separate application process for the Master of Social Work (MSW) Program. You will be provided with the MSW application directly from the School of Social Work.
Below, you will find important details and requirements that are part of the MSW application process to help you prepare:
1. Personal Statement (500–700 words)
Your statement should address the following prompts:
- Why are you interested in pursuing a career in social work?
- Why have you chosen the specific track (Clinical or Social Justice) and what motivates your choice?
- Describe your interest or experience related to Medical Social Work or mental health.
- How do you plan to contribute to the social work profession, especially in underserved or marginalized communities?
2. Two Letters of Recommendation
At least one letter must come from a professor or a professional in the field of social work or a related field.
GPA Below the Required Minimum? Submit a GPA Appeal
The minimum GPA for Advanced Standing applicants is 3.0. If your GPA is below this requirement, you may still apply by submitting a GPA Appeal as a separate document with your application.
Your GPA Appeal should include:
- Explanation of GPA Deficiency
What circumstances affected your academic performance?
(e.g., personal challenges, medical issues, family obligations) - Steps Taken to Improve Academic Performance
Describe any measures you have taken since the time of your academic challenges to improve your performance. This may include retaking courses, additional training, or other relevant educational experiences. - Why You Are Prepared to Succeed in the MSW Program
Provide reasons why you are confident that you will be successful in the program despite past academic difficulties.
Contact Us
Kaelen Brunson
Administrative Assistant
CW PREP Site Support Coordinator
School of Social Work
College of Arts & Sciences
Email: kaelen.brunson@kysu.edu
Phone: (502) 597-6442
Dr. Marilyn Sails
Director, Master of Social Work (MSW) Program
MSW Online Coordinator
School of Social Work
College of Arts & Sciences
Email:Marilyn.sails@kysu.edu