Master of Science in Social Work FAQs
As you prepare your application for the ACU Master of Science in Social Work program, you may have questions very similar to those of other applicants. Below are answers to a list of commonly asked questions.
Admissions:
How do I apply to the ACU MS in Social Work?
Begin the application process. Within the application portal you can send recommendation requests, upload documents, and check your admission status.
Does ACU offer both Standard and Advanced Standing programs? What are the differences between these two programs?
Yes, ACU offers both Standard and Advanced Standing programs. Students with any undergraduate major can apply for the Standard, two-year program. Only students with a BSW from an accredited university can apply for the one-year Advanced Standing program.
When is the application deadline?
The priority review deadline is February 16th (for scholarships, GA positions, and field practicum sites). The standard review deadline is May 1st (the deadline may be extended if space is available).
Is there an application fee?
Yes, the $50 application fee can be paid within your application portal.
What is the minimum GPA required to apply?
The minimum GPA is a 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. If your undergraduate GPA is below a 3.0, the GRE or MAT entrance exam is required. Please speak with the Advising and Recruiting Specialist for more information about GRE requirements.
What types of recommendation letters is the department looking for?
Please include professional references only. We would like to see at least one recommendation from a previous professor. Other professional references could include a job supervisor or field placement supervisor.
When will I be notified of my admission decision?
With a rolling-admissions process, you will be notified of your admission decision usually within two weeks of submitting your completed application materials.
Program:
Is the program accredited?
Yes, the ACU MSSW is accredited by the Council of Social Work Education (CSWE).
How many entry terms are offered per year?
Students can apply for a fall, spring or summer start. Only Advanced Standing applicants may start in a Summer term.
Do students choose a specific track or concentration?
We are an Advanced Generalist program with an Evidence-based Practice emphasis. As a result, graduates are equipped to enter the field to work with all clients, populations, and social problems.
Do you offer a certificate program?
Yes, the Certificate in Social Service Administration can be earned within the MSSW, without adding additional hours to your degree plan. Learn More!
Are there any dual/joint degree opportunities with other programs?
Yes, in cooperation with the Graduate School of Theology, the MSSW has developed a path whereby students can pursue the Master of Arts in Christian Ministry concurrently with the MSSW.
What are the lengths of the two MSSW programs?
Full-time students complete the Standard MSSW (64 credit hours) in two years. The Advanced Standing MSSW (38 hours) is completed in one year.
What is the average classroom size?
To create an environment for effective student learning, our class sizes do not exceed a max of 23 students. Most classes have between 11-15 students.
Are some courses offered online or remotely?
Following a 6-hour summer seminar, Advanced Standing students move directly into the 38-hour year of study which can be completed entirely through remote learning. Two-year students can complete their second year of the program (last 32 hours) remotely as well.
Can I enroll part-time?
Yes, students can enroll part-time in both the Standard and Advanced-Standing MSSW programs. This is a popular option for those with several commitments outside of their graduate studies.
If I am a current graduate student, can I transfer graduate credits from another university?
Yes, it is possible to transfer graduate credit with graduate faculty approval.
Does this program prepare students who are also interested in a LCSW or PhD?
Yes, all of our graduates are equipped with the skills and eligibility requirements to pursue licensure after graduation. Our thesis requirement provides an excellent foundation for future PhD plans.
Are thesis or research opportunities available?
With a unique evidence-based practice program emphasis, our faculty and students have many opportunities to pursue research opportunities and present at national and international conferences! All social work graduate students will complete a thesis connected to their final field placement with the support and mentorship of several faculty members.
What types of field experiences are offered?
Learn more about ACU MSSW Field Education and Practicum!
How many fieldwork placements and field hours must I complete in order to graduate?
Students in the two-year program will complete a total of two field placements while in the program. The first field placement requires 400 hours throughout the academic year, and the second field placement requires 500 hours. Advanced standing students will complete one 500-hour field placement during the academic year.
What is the cost of the program?
The cost of tuition is $1,194 per credit hour.
Are scholarships or graduate assistantships offered?
Yes! about scholarship and GA opportunities.
Can I attend an open house or schedule a campus visit?
Yes! Please contact the Office of Graduate Programs (gradinfo@acu.edu or 325-674-6911) to learn more about upcoming Open Houses and/or to schedule a campus visit.
What is Abilene like?
about Abilene, TX!