Fort Hays State University

How this program compares

Benchmark this program against our national recognition pages and use the key guides below to evaluate ROI, admissions difficulty, and outcomes.

Admission Snapshot

Typical admitted student: Admission requires a CSWE-accredited BSW degree (typically within the last 5-7 years) with a minimum 3.0 GPA, prerequisite coursework in statistics and social sciences, and field experience verification. A resume, writing sample or statement of purpose, and 2-3 letters of recommendation are standard.

About This Program

Fort Hays State's online MSW focuses on clinical social work practice. Fully online asynchronous with no mandatory weekly sessions. Flexible structure suits working professionals. Short in-person residency (~4 days) near program end. Regular (66 credits) and advanced standing (36 credits) tracks. Emphasis on independent practice and psychotherapy.

Career Outcomes

Graduates are equipped with clinical training and licensure requirements for LCSW, prepared for independent clinical practice roles.

• 1. Clinical Social Worker
• 2. Medical Social Worker
• 3. School Social Worker
• 4. Social Work Supervisor

What You'll Learn

• Advanced clinical assessment and intervention with diverse populations
• Trauma-competent practice and crisis intervention strategies
• Advocacy, policy analysis, and social justice leadership
• Ethical decision-making and cultural competence in social work

Curriculum Highlights

Regular (66 credits): Foundation year (30 credits), Clinical specialization (36 credits); Advanced standing (36 credits): Clinical focus; 1200 hours field practicum (4 placements); Two 2.5-day campus intensives for advanced practicum; Asynchronous coursework

Top Employers

Common employers include hospitals, school districts, nonprofit agencies, mental health clinics, and government social services departments.

Admissions

Admission requires a CSWE-accredited BSW degree (typically within the last 5-7 years) with a minimum 3.0 GPA, prerequisite coursework in statistics and social sciences, and field experience verification. A resume, writing sample or statement of purpose, and 2-3 letters of recommendation are standard.

Application Materials

• Statement of Purpose: Required
• Letters of Recommendation: 2–3
• Resume: Required
• Transcripts: Official transcripts required

Academic Requirements

• Degree Required: BSW from CSWE-accredited program
• GRE/GMAT: Not Required
• TOEFL/IELTS: Required for international students (TOEFL 80+ / IELTS 6.5+)