Division of Social Work

 

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WELCOME TO THE MASTER OF SOCIAL WORK PROGRAM 

The Division of Social Work offers two graduate programs of study, both culminating in an MSW degree with a concentration in advanced generalist social work practice. The curriculum for both the Standard Program and the Advanced Standing Program is carefully sequenced to provide students the necessary information to proceed to the next level of coursework. Students must successfully complete all required coursework at one level before being allowed to move to the more advanced level of coursework. We also offer full-time and part-time options for each program of study. The full-time program is based in Laramie and the part-time program is based in Casper.

Our classes consist of both in-person intensive weekends and weekly courses delivered using distance technology.

Detailed curriculums for each program are below:

Capstone Projects

All MSW students must successfully complete a capstone project in the advanced year as part of their course of study. This can include a Thesis (also called Plan A) or a Portfolio project.

The Thesis is a 2‐credit per semester project that involves the creation of original and independent research. The Portfolio is a 1‐credit per semester course that involves the intentional collection of student learning that documents one’s growth as a professional social worker.

  • Portfolio: The portfolio option requires that students choose a chair and one other committee member from inside the Division. The portfolio option also includes a 2-hour class that meets 3-5 times each semester (depending on your program) with a final presentation in the spring. This is the path that most MSW students take.
  • Thesis:The thesis option requires the formation of a thesis committee consisting of three committee members, two in the division (one chair) and one tenured faculty member outside DOSW from the larger university; a proposal defense; an IRB proposal/submission/approval; and a final defense in the spring. There is no class time associated with the thesis. Be mindful that a thesis is very time-consuming; it is not unusual for thesis students to take additional time beyond their anticipated coursework to complete their studies. Several forms must be completed, signed, and submitted to DOSW and the Registrar’s Office as part of the Thesis. Forms can be found at Office of the Registrar.

MSW Student Handbook

The MSW Student Handbook is an essential resource for all Master of Social Work students. It provides details on program policies, academic requirements, and practical information to support your journey through the MSW program. This handbook is your guide to success, offering information about course planning, field placements, and student services.

MSW Student Handbook 2025 Edition

Intensive Weekends

Intensive weekend classes are a key component of the program and are scheduled periodically throughout each semester. Attendance at these intensive weekend classes is mandatory for all students in both the full-time and part-time programs and requires in-person participation.

Upcoming Intensive Weekends

Student Resources and Other Forms