University of South Dakota

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: Requires a Bachelor's degree (BSW from a CSWE-accredited program preferred for advanced standing), minimum 3.0 GPA, transcripts, resume, personal statement, and 2-3 letters of recommendation from field supervisors or academics; GRE is typically not required.

About This Program

USD's fully online MSW program with generalist focus is CSWE-accredited since 1974. The program provides flexible full-time or part-time tracks requiring 36-60 credits and includes 1,000 hours of field education. The program emphasizes clinical licensure preparation and therapeutic practice with an 84% national exam pass rate.

Career Outcomes

Graduates are well-positioned for clinical licensure and therapeutic practice roles, with strong preparation for LCSW examination.

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

What You'll Learn

• Conduct clinical assessments and develop treatment plans for diverse populations
• Apply trauma-informed and culturally responsive interventions
• Analyze social policies and advocate for systemic change
• Evaluate practice effectiveness through research methods

Curriculum Highlights

Foundation year: generalist courses in practice, policy, human behavior, research (30 credits); Specialization year: advanced clinical courses, field practicum (30 credits); Electives in specialized areas like school social work or military social work

Top Employers

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

Admissions

Requires a Bachelor's degree (BSW from a CSWE-accredited program preferred for advanced standing), minimum 3.0 GPA, transcripts, resume, personal statement, and 2-3 letters of recommendation from field supervisors or academics; GRE is typically not required.

Application Materials

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

Academic Requirements

• Degree Required: Bachelor's degree
• GRE/GMAT: Not Required
• TOEFL/IELTS: Required for international students (TOEFL 80+ / IELTS 6.5+)