Social Work and Public Health

MSW/MPH in Social Work and Public Health

The MSW/MPH dual degree program is a 100-credit program of study leading to the award of both the Master of Social Work and the Master of Public Health degrees.  The program is based on the recognition that many social workers are involved in the health delivery system and are interested in taking a broader, population-based look at the system. In addition, new roles are evolving for social workers in the health sector. These include social work in the administration of health delivery systems and participation in the health policy process at local, state, and national levels.

While students may begin their studies at the School of Public Health, it is not recommended. Students may not earn the MPH prior to earning the MSW degree, nor may they satisfy the requirement of SPH SB 721, the core course in Social & Behavioral Sciences, for the Master of Public Health degree until the MSW is completed.

Students do not have to apply to the School of Social Work and School of Public Health simultaneously. Students are admitted to one of the two schools (generally Social Work) and complete that school’s basic coursework. Before the end of the first year, an application is made to the other school (generally Public Health). Students in each school are held to the same admission standards as other students. The program may also be pursued on a part-time basis. Students may earn the MSW prior to completing the MPH degree, as the degrees are not simultaneous degrees. They then continue their studies at the School of Public Health, where they must earn at least 32 credits in residence. Upon completion of all School of Public Health requirements, including core MPH courses, concentration, culminating, and practicum requirements, they are awarded the MPH degree. The School of Social Work is located on the Charles River campus. For more information, visit their website.