MSW PROGRAM OPTIONS
West Chester University offers several program options in West Chester and Center City Philadelphia. Students can pursue their degree full-time or part-time, with options to complete the degree in two years, three years, or four years.
Students who earned a BSW degree within the last seven years should apply for the advanced standing, significantly reducing the number of required credits. Advanced standing is available at both locations and the program can be completed in one or two years.
COMPLETION OPTIONS
Regular Entry
Students who do not have a BSW degree qualify for regular entry.
- Fall start only
- West Chester and Philadelphia locations
- 60-credit program
- Online options (including synchronous, asynchronous, hybrid, and hyflex) available for some courses, depending upon instructors' chosen delivery methods and available seats.
Two-Year Completion Option
Students in the two-year program take fifteen credits per semester comprised of four courses and field placement. Summer and winter course offerings allow students to lighten the credit load for Fall and Spring semester, if desired.
Regular Standing 2-Year Sample Course Plan
Three-Year Completion Option
Students in the three-year program take 9-12 credits per semester. The first year of study includes courses only. Field placement begins in the fall of year two. Summer and winter course offerings allow students to lighten the credit load for Fall and Spring semester, if desired.
Regular Standing 3-Year Sample Course Plan
Four-Year Completion Option
The four-year program allows students to slow the pace of the program to 6-9 credits per semester and provides flexibility in determining when the Field Practicum best fits their schedules. The first year of study for all students in the 4-year program includes courses only. Field placement may begin in year two or three, depending on the student’s needs. Summer and winter course offerings allow students to lighten the credit load for Fall and Spring semester, if desired.
Regular Standing 4-Year Sample Course Plans
Advanced Standing Entry
Students who have a BSW degree qualify for advanced standing entry.
- Summer start only (classes begin at the end of May)
- West Chester and Philadelphia locations
- 36-credit program
- One-year and two-year completion options