Curriculum

The MSW degree is a total of 60 credits for the full program or 30 credits for Advanced Standing.*

A capstone project is required for graduation and incorporates both the generalist and specialized course work. 

The program requires 1,000 hours of practicum education to be conducted over the course of the program. Sacred Heart University currently has an extensive network of agencies eager to accept graduate-level students. Agencies include those in urban and suburban settings, and public and private not-for- profit organizations such as: schools, hospitals, adult mental health clinics, juvenile justice, adult probation, substance abuse programs, disabilities, adoptions, child protective services, public housing, domestic violence, refugee and re-settlement, adult psychiatric services and children’s mental health.

Advanced Standing students will already have completed approximately half of the practicum education hours in the BSW program and will enter the master’s program at the Specialized Year. The Advanced Standing student will be required to complete a 500-hour practicum.

The program does not give academic credit for life experience or previous work experience. Such experience may not be used for a waiver of the field practica or any other required courses in the Master of Social Work Curriculum.

*Available to those who have graduated with a BSW degree from a CSWE-accredited institution within the last six years.

Full-Time Sample Plans of Study

On-Ground Programs

• Traditional Standing Sample Plan of Study
• Advanced Standing Plan of Study

Online Programs

• Traditional Standing Plan of Study
• Accelerated Plan of Study
• Advanced Standing Plan of Study

Part-Time Programs

Part-Time On-Ground*

The part-time on-ground plan of study will include a combination of classes offered 1-2 days during the week and asynchronous online. Once you are enrolled, you will meet with your academic advisor to complete your full plan of study.

With continuous enrollment in fall, spring, and late spring semesters, students should expect to complete the program in 3-4 years.

*Fall 2026 start only

Part-Time Online

The part-time online plan of study will include 1-2 courses per module (8-week terms). Once you are enrolled, you will meet with your academic advisor to complete your full plan of study.

With continuous enrollment in fall, spring, and late spring semesters, students should expect to complete the program in 3-4 years.

If you are interested in part-time options, reach out to Cristen Meehl, Graduate Admissions Counselor, at meehlc@sacredheart.edu for more information.