University of South Florida School of Social Work

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Founded in 1956 and renowned for its research, the University of South Florida maintains campuses in Sarasota-Manatee, Tampa Bay, and St. Petersburg. Placing emphasis on promoting human rights, justice, and sustainable wellbeing, USF School of Social Work began in 1976. The USF social work department now offers a specialized advanced standing online master’s program and a concurrent master’s (MSW/MPH) program within the School of Public Health.

The University of South Florida is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). The University of South Florida School of Social Work’s programs are accredited by the Council of Social Work Education (CSWE).

Featured Programs in Social Work

Social Work Program Overview

Known for its innovative research in evidence-based practices, the University of South Florida social work department boasts a higher-than-average pass rate for students taking clinical board certification exams. The popular bachelor of social work (BSW) program teaches intervention methods and applications with clients, preparing students for entry-level generalist practice.

The USF social work master’s programs fill a regional need for skilled clinical social workers, and all students complete a lengthy and intensive field practicum. Field placement possibilities include highly ranked hospital systems and one of the nation’s largest hospice organizations. Applicants should expect competitive admission processes for both undergraduate and graduate programs.

Online Social Work Programs

For online students, USF offers one advanced standing MSW program with availability in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. The program comprises 60 credits with no on-campus requirements, and students may enroll full- or part-time. Distance learners engage in synchronous class sessions held on weekday evenings.

Applicants must meet the same rigorous standards, including a 3.0 minimum GPA, for both online and on-campus master’s programs. Field placement coordinators work with online students to obtain a local field placement within the student’s interest area. Full-time students typically complete the program in three semesters, while part-time students usually take five semesters.

On-Campus Social Work Programs

USF offers bachelor’s, master’s, and Ph.D. programs on campus, including a dual degree option that enables students to earn master’s degrees in both social work and public health.On-campus master’s students may attend one of two campuses, with advanced standing options. The Sarasota-Manatee campus offers a part-time MSW program only, while the Tampa campus offers part- or full-time options. The online and on-campus master’s programs are identical, including concurrent fieldwork placements and a capstone. Students complete all coursework in cohorts.

University of South Florida Online Social Work Degree Programs

Online Master’s in Social Work

Program Overview

  • Department: School of Social Work
  • Program Name: Advanced Standing Master of Social Work

Delivery

  • Format: Online
  • Instruction Style: Synchronous

Program Requirements

  • Prerequisites: BSW from a CSWE-accredited program within the previous 5 years
  • Credit Requirements: 60 credits
  • Field Education Requirements: 900 hours (12-20 hours/week)

Program Length

  • Program Options: Full- or part-time
  • Program Length: 3 semesters full-time; 5 semesters part-time
  • Program Start Dates: Summer

Admission Requirements

  • Application Deadline: February 15
  • GPA: 3.0 minimum
  • Work Experience: 1 year preferred
Read more information about Social Work Degrees and Careers in Florida