Master of Social Work

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 2 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Closing soon January 2027

Course Overview

The Master of Social Work at Southern Illinois University is designed for aspiring professionals committed to advancing social justice and supporting vulnerable populations. You will develop advanced skills in generalist practice, human behavior, and social policy, preparing you to address complex societal challenges. This postgraduate program offers a rigorous academic framework grounded in ethical practice, critical thinking, and evidence-based interventions, equipping you to become an effective leader and advocate in the field of social work.

This Master of Social Work program is delivered on campus full-time over two years, integrating foundational and advanced coursework with essential field practicum experiences. You will engage in hands-on learning through supervised placements, applying theoretical knowledge to real-world settings within your chosen specialization, such as Health/Mental Health or Children, Youth and Families. You will graduate with the expertise and practical skills necessary to pursue licensure and impactful careers in diverse social work roles.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

The Master of Social Work program provides a comprehensive foundation in social work principles and practice. Students will explore human behavior, generalist practice, ethnic diversity, and social work research. The curriculum includes advanced coursework in specialized areas such as health/mental health or children, youth, and families, alongside practical experience through practicum seminars and placements.

1 Fall (15 Credit Hours)

Human Behavior and the Social Environment
Generalist Practice
Families, Groups and Organizations in Social Work
Foundation Seminar I
Foundation Practicum I
Elective

2 Spring (15 Credit Hours)

Ethnic Diversity in Social Work
Social Work Research
Social Work Policy Practice
Foundation Seminar II
Foundation Practicum II
Elective

3 Semester I – Fall (8 Credit Hours)

Human Behavior and the Social Environment in Social Work
Generalist Practice
Elective

4 Semester II – Spring (8 Credit Hours)

Ethnic Diversity in Social Work
Social Work Policy Practice
Elective

5 Semester III – Fall (7 Credit Hours)

Families, Groups & Organizations in Social Work
Foundation Practicum Seminar I
Foundation Practicum I

6 Semester IV – Spring (7 Credit Hours)

Social Work Research
Foundation Practicum Seminar II
Foundation Practicum I

7 SUMMER ADVANCED STANDING (9 Credit Hours)

Perspectives on Human Behavior for Social Work Practice
Advanced Social Work Research
Advanced Social Work Policy Practice

8 Health/Mental Health — Fall (15 Credit Hours)

Psychosocial Disorders
Advanced Practicum Seminar I
Advanced Practicum I
Advanced Social Work Practice I: H/MH
Advanced Policy Analysis and Practice: H/MH

9 Health/Mental Health — Spring (15 Credit Hours)

Program Evaluation for Social Work
Advanced Practicum Seminar II
Advanced Practicum II
Advanced Social Work Practice II: H/MH
Elective

10 Children, Youth and Families — Fall (15 Credit Hours)

Psychosocial Disorders
Advanced Practicum Seminar I
Advanced Practicum I
Advanced Social Work Practice I: CY&F
Advanced Policy Analysis and Practice: CY&F

11 Children, Youth and Families — Spring (15 Credit Hours)

Program Evaluation for Social Work
Advanced Practicum Seminar II
Advanced Practicum II
Advanced Social Work Practice II: CY&F
Elective

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 28,170.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 28,170.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 56,340.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,950.00 - USD 2,250.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,000.00 - USD 4,560.00
Transport USD 600.00 - USD 1,200.00
Utilities & Bills USD 960.00 - USD 1,800.00
Estimated Total USD 4,560.00 - USD 7,560.00

Living cost estimates are based on Carbondale campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

53%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Curriculum & Instructional DesignEdTech & E-LearningEducation Policy & AdministrationEducational Support ServicesHealthcare Administration & ManagementHome Health & Long‑Term CareMedical Research & Clinical TrialsMental Health & CounselingNursing & Allied HealthVocational & Technical Training

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Chicago Public Schools

Southern Illinois University, Carbondale

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

Why Study Master of Social Work at Southern Illinois University

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Very Fast Application response time

Southern Illinois University typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 days, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at Southern Illinois University in United States

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Master of Social Work at Southern Illinois University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. On-campus work does not require a separate permit, while off-campus work may need university approval after the first year.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet English test requirements, you can choose from the Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE tests. Minimum scores vary by test, such as an overall Duolingo score of 115 or a TOEFL overall score of 80.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue roles as social workers, mental health counselors, school social workers, and community service managers.

What will I actually study in this course?

This program focuses on advancing social justice and equipping students with skills in human behavior and social policy. It includes essential field practicum experiences that allow you to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Master of Social Work program at Southern Illinois University has intake months in January and August. You can apply during these periods to start your journey in social work.
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