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University of Denver Master of Social Work (MSW) online

MSW@Denver prepares the next generation of social workers to advance equity across all communities, including vulnerable populations.

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About the program

  • Top-ranked MSW program: University of Denver’s online MSW is ranked #1 in Colorado and #12 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report.Footnote 1
  • Two program offerings: Learners can earn their degree in as few as 12 months for the Online Advanced-Standing MSW or 21 months for the Online MSW.
  • Flexible field placement options: Online MSW learners can complete field internship hours virtually and through in-person agency settings.

About the University of Denver 

The University of Denver is committed to providing high-quality education and academic research to working professionals and growing scholars, both online and on campus. The Graduate School of Social Work (GSSW) takes a progressive approach to social work education, preparing learners to become champions of social change who can empower populations impacted by oppression.

The online Master of Social Work program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).

Tuition and fees

Tuition and fees are subject to change and may increase each academic year. Tuition does not include student fees, technology platform licensing, or support services. Learners are also responsible for travel and accommodation costs related to any in-person immersions or residentials.

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MSW@Denver curriculum

MSW@Denver offers two online program options. The 81-credit Online MSW program is for learners who hold a bachelor’s degree in a field other than social work. The 54-credit Online Advanced-Standing MSW is for learners who hold a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from any point in time. No matter which program a learner chooses, they will develop a holistic understanding of social work principles by learning to see individuals and systems through the lens of power, privilege, and oppression — and they will graduate prepared to create social change in their communities. Students will have the opportunity to customize their Advanced Social Work Practice by choosing a pathway that matches your interest and career goals. Examples of pathways can include:

  • Mental Health and Trauma: Focus your practice on comprehensive assessment, advanced interventions based on cognitive approaches, and trauma-informed care. With a strong foundation in theory, you’ll develop skills to support informed clinical decision-making that empowers individuals, families, and whole communities.
  • Health, Equity, and Wellness: Focus your practice on integrative approaches to healthcare and to the mind-body connection. You will learn to incorporate problem-solving and evidence-based modalities that consider healthcare trends, interdisciplinary collaboration, and social justice.
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Admissions

University of Denver’s Graduate School of Social Work (GSSW) looks for candidates with diverse backgrounds and educational experiences, and welcomes those with and without related experience to apply. All applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution to be considered for admission. To complete your online application, you will need to submit: 

  • Official transcripts 

  • Résumé 

  • Career goals statement 

  • Application fee


Field internships

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Real-world practice is a critical part of the MSW@Denver curriculum. As a learner, you will have to complete internships during which you will apply concepts and theories to your social work practice. Through these internships, you will gain valuable experience working with clients in professional settings in or near your community. 

MSW@Denver field placement specialists will help connect you to a vast network of over 2,500 internship sites across 48 states and with over 1,200 field supervisors. MSW@Denver learners have completed internships in settings such as:

  • Homeless shelters

  • Drug rehabilitation

  • Hospice/older adult care

  • Domestic violence clinics

  • Protective services (children)

  • Community mental health agencies

Frequently asked questions

Whether you live in downtown Denver, a small town in Colorado, or in another city across the United States, MSW@Denver’s placement team will help you find a field internship to practice the concepts and theories learned in your online classes.

Earning your MSW provides you with countless opportunities to advocate for social change in your community and beyond. As a GSSW graduate, you’ll be prepared to seek social work employment in traditional and nontraditional settings, and to challenge systems of oppression at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels. You can pursue employment in a variety of roles, such as behavioral health clinician, psychiatric social worker, community and economic developer, mental health counselor and evaluator, or policy analyst.

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