Missouri State University

Social Work at Missouri State

Why study social work at Missouri State?

 The mission of the School of Social Work is adapted from and consistent with those of Missouri State’s statewide mission in public affairs. This mission, to meet statewide and regional educational needs in human services, is accomplished through two levels of social work education: the undergraduate or baccalaureate (BSW) and the graduate or master’s (MSW).
 
The BSW degree curriculum prepares students for a beginning-level career in the social work field. The MSW degree curriculum prepares students for advanced social work practice in an area of focus—family health—with consideration of roles of individuals, families, groups, organizations and communities. 
 
One of the strengths of the program is that faculty and staff are committed to providing quality education for all students. In addition, the learning environment boasts a relatively low student-faculty ratio.  Many instructors are licensed social workers, and their expertise represents a broad range of interests.
 
Additionally, the combination of academic classes, coupled with real-world experience in a social-service setting, provides Missouri State students with exceptional preparation for employment or graduate school.

Student Testimonial

  • Benjamin Atwell
  • MSW 2002

“The Family Health Perspective of the master’s program is a holistic view of the person-in-environment. It is a marvelous approach on which to thoroughly assess any client’s situation and investigate possible interventions. My time in the program helped me feel prepared for whatever followed, which turned out to be working in a medical rehabilitation hospital. First, I was a case manager representing patients on a multidisciplinary team. Later, I became a program manager of one of the inpatient rehabilitation units. My training in social work at Missouri State helped me gain significant insight while working with patients and families, as well as with coworkers.”