Advance Your Career in Social Work
Your path forward in practice, research or policy
Inclement Weather: February 25, 2026
All classes starting prior to 11 a.m. will be remote. Classes after 11 a.m. will be in person. Non-essential staff should work remote until 11 a.m. then report to campus as scheduled.
Sacred Heart University’s MS and Ph.D. in social work programs prepare professionals for advanced practice and scholarship through rigorous training, faculty-mentored research and flexible learning options for working adults.
Whether your goals lie in clinical practice or leadership in research, education or policy, SHU offers a clearly defined pathway for professional growth and impact.
Master of Social Work (MSW)
Gain real-world experience, develop leadership skills and learn in flexible formats designed to fit your life. Sacred Heart University’s MSW prepares you for impactful generalist and specialized roles in clinical and community settings.
Program options designed for working professionals
- Full time, on campus—Complete your MSW in as little as two years with weekday, on-campus classes
- Part time, hybrid—Balance work and life with Saturday classes and online coursework and finish in three years
- Advanced standing—Build off your bachelor’s in social work and earn an MSW in one year through an accelerated, on-campus format
- 100% online option—Designed for flexibility, our fully online Ph.D. in social work program supports part-time and advanced-standing students
Ph.D. in Social Work
Designed for future scholars, educators and research leaders, Sacred Heart University’s Ph.D. in social work centers on faculty-mentored, interdisciplinary research that tackles today’s most complex social challenges.
Work closely with experienced faculty on research spanning public health, nursing education and the health sciences—while building the teaching and scholarly expertise needed for leadership in higher education and beyond.
Program Highlights
- Hybrid learning format—Combine online coursework with limited on-campus sessions to support work-life balance
- Part-time structure—Progress at a pace designed for working scholars and practitioners
- Faculty-mentored research—Tailor your research and dissertation to your professional and academic goals
- Global and anti-racist perspective—Engage in interdisciplinary and international social justice and equity research
Ready to take the next step? Our admissions team is here to help you.
Cristen Meehl
Master of Social Work
203-416-3031
meehlc@sacredheart.edu
Keith Hassell
Ph.D. in Social Work
203-365-4731
hassellk@sacredheart.edu