Program Options

The Master of Social Work program at the University of Northern Iowa has multiple programs to fit your needs.

  • Foundation Program:  For individuals whose undergraduate degree is not in social work.
  • Advanced Standing:  For individuals who have a social work degree from a CSWE accredited undergraduate program. (Due to accreditation requirements, we are unable to make exceptions to this admissions requirement.)

    Program Delivery Options:

  • In-person:  
    • We offer our Advanced Standing program as a full-time (one calendar year from June-May) program.  
    • Students may also complete the in-person program part-time by working with the MSW Program Director to develop a schedule that meets your needs.
  • Online:
    • We offer our Advanced Standing program as a full-time (one calendar year from June-May) program.
    • Students may also complete the online program part-time by working with the MSW Program Director to develop a schedule that meets your needs.
  • Hybrid:
    • We offer our Foundation program as a full-time (five semesters: fall, spring, summer, fall, spring) program.
    • Classes alternate weekly between in-person and online.
    • Students may also complete the hybrid program part-time by working with the MSW Program Director to develop a schedule that meets your needs.

The trauma-informed specialization prepares students to effectively address the multi-faceted effects of trauma on individuals, families, organizations, and communities. Students take a full spectrum of coursework with an emphasis on trauma-informed practice to enhance strength and resiliency while identifying and challenging racial, social, and economic injustice in all its forms.