MSW Pathways at SHU
Choose Your MSW Path at Sacred Heart University
Prepare for a career rooted in purpose, service, and growth. At Sacred Heart University, the Master of Social Work gives you flexible paths to build advanced skills, explore your interests, and move toward the kind of work you want to do in communities, schools, health care settings, private practice, and human service organizations. Whether you want the flexibility of online learning or prefer an on-campus experience, SHU offers multiple ways to earn your degree, along with specialized areas of study designed to prepare you for the work you want to do.
Online MSW
You’ll find flexibility without losing focus. SHU’s Online MSW is designed for students who want a schedule that works with their lives while still moving forward in a clear, structured program.
Upcoming start terms for the online program include fall 2026 (August), spring 2027 (January), late spring 2027 (March), or fall 2027 (August). Courses follow an 8-week module-based format, and you can study full-time or part-time based on your goals and availability.
In the online pathway, you can customize your path and choose from a variety of electives or you can choose one of these concentrations:
- School Social Work
- Mental Health and Addiction
This option is a strong fit if you want a flexible learning experience and a focused path toward the populations and practice areas that matter most to you.
On-Campus MSW
You’ll learn in person, build community, and choose a path that matches your professional goals. SHU’s on-campus MSW options are available for students who want the energy of the classroom and direct connection with faculty and peers.
Upcoming start terms for the on-campus program are fall 2026 (August) or fall 2027 (August), and you can study full-time or part-time in either entry term.
Fall 2026
Students who start in fall 2026 will take semester-based courses and choose from these tracks:
- Direct Clinical Practice
- Direct Community Practice
Fall 2027
Students who start in fall 2027 will take 8-week module-based courses and choose from these specializations:
- School Social Work
- Mental Health and Addiction
Whichever on-campus option you choose, you’ll build practical knowledge, strengthen your professional skills, and prepare for social work practice with confidence and purpose.