Welcome to the Salem State University School of Social Work!
We are proud to offer a bachelor’s degree in social work (BSW) and a master’s degree in social work (MSW). The BSW and MSW programs are accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).
At the Salem State School of Social Work, we are committed to preparing professional social workers who are leaders and practitioners for social change. Our students are grounded in the values and the ethics of the profession of social work, which include social and economic justice, inclusion, diversity and cultural humility. In addition to their classwork and practicum placements, students in our program are creating change through starting initiatives within the school and in our communities, forming and participating in student led groups and training opportunities, and sharing in the governance of our school.
We provide our students with the skills, knowledge and opportunities to gain meaningful employment in a variety of social work and social justice settings. Graduates from both our BSW and MSW programs go on to work in areas like healthcare, behavioral health, child welfare, substance abuse, schools, supporting military as well as many others. As social workers, we provide services to individuals, families, and communities through an empowerment model as we work to create change and improve lives.
Our BSW curriculum is focused on creating a strong foundation for undergraduate generalist practice, and our MSW curriculum prepares our graduate students for careers with a focus on integrated health and behavioral health practice settings. Faculty members are dedicated to social work education and bring impressive skills and experience to the classroom. Among other areas, they have worked in direct practice, supervision, research, policy analysis, advocacy, program management and grant writing.
Practicum placements, social work’s signature pedagogy, are part of both our programs where students can practice what they have learned in the classroom in community settings. Our field education staff go above and beyond to develop practicum placements and to support BSW and MSW students.
Our community is diverse with students, faculty and staff coming together to share their knowledge, skills and lived experiences. We are engaging in challenging conversations, practicing leadership skills, and developing research and scholarship together. We are excited to share our passion for social work with you and to hear about your interests and experiences. Please contact undergraduate admissions or graduate admissions if you would like to learn more. Let us know if you would like to attend an open house or visit a class or speak with students, alumni and instructors. Now, more than ever, we need outstanding social workers, and we appreciate your interest in joining us in a career in social work.
We look forward to getting to know you!
Beth Massaro, Ed.D., LCSW
Associate Dean