School of Professional Studies
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
How long has your program been in existence?
The Master of Social Work program was founded in 1966 at George
Williams College, which had a long history of group work and leadership
training for the YMCA. The MSW program emerged from a program in group
work administration to prepare people for human service in voluntary
agencies such as the YMCA, Boys and Girls Clubs, and settlement houses,
which can be traced back to 1890.
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Is the program accredited and what does that mean
for me?
The Master of Social Work Program is accredited by the Council
on Social Work Education (CSWE). The Council on Social Work Education
sets guidelines and policies, which all accredited BSW and MSW programs
must follow in order to attain their status as an accredited school.
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I have a BSW – can that help me with my MSW?
Do I need fewer courses?
Students who have earned a BSW degree from a CSWE accredited
institution and who have demonstrated outstanding scholarship (at least
a “B” grade) in social work courses and excellence in the
field may apply for Advanced Standing for up to 27 semester hours required
for the MSW Program at Aurora University.
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I would like a career change. Can I pursue a MSW
degree?
Yes. You need a liberal arts background; a minimum GPA of 3.0
on a 4.0 scale, three letters of recommendations, personal characteristics
indicative of the capacity for professional practice as shown by personal
maturity, high level of personal integrity, and readiness to identify
with the values and ethical principles of the social work profession.
Volunteer or work experience that demonstrates experience in the field
of social work is also valuable.
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How long will this program take me to complete?
A full-time student can complete the program in two years and
a part-time student can complete the program in three. The full time
program consists of day and evening courses while the part time program
is comprised of evening coursework.
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Why do you ask for a statement of purpose?
This three to five page document describes your motivation and
aspirations for becoming a professional social worker. You should pay
close attention to good writing standards.
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When will I find out if I am accepted into the program?
Once the University receives all of your application materials,
the School of Social Work reviews your file. You will receive a letter
stating their decision within two to three weeks.
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Do I need to complete an Internship?
Yes. This is also called Field Instruction. It provides students
the opportunity to practice and apply social work theory in the field
under the guidance of experienced social work professionals.
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How can I get my Type 73 Certification?
For a Post-MSW Certificate you must have earned a MSW degree
from an approved program. The certification can be earned as part of
your MSW degree or as a Post-MSW Certificate.
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For our MSW students at the George Williams College, campus plans are
underway to offer the equivalent school social work certification program
in Wisconsin.
For more information about the MSW
Program, please contact:
Jeremy
Altschafl, Enrollment Manager, 262-245-8573, jaltscha@aurora.edu.
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