Master of Social Work Curriculum

Pacific’s MSW program offers an advanced practice degree based on the purpose of the social work profession—to promote human and community wellbeing. Motivated by a belief in social and economic justice, the prevention of conditions that limit human rights, the elimination of poverty, and the enhancement of the quality of life for all persons, we embrace a person-in-environment construct, a global perspective, a recognition of the generative value of human diversity and inclusion, and knowledge based on scientific inquiry.

The professor to student ratio at Pacific allows for individualized instruction and mentoring from professors, and our geographic location provides opportunities to explore social work practice in both rural and urban settings.

The MSW program at Pacific is grounded in the social work professions’ values and ethical principles of service, social justice, the dignity and worth of the person, the importance of human relationships, integrity, competence, human rights, and scientific inquiry. We seek to produce culturally aware, trauma informed, highly trained, advanced social work practitioners who have special preparation to work with marginalized populations at all levels of service provision. Our curriculum highlights student’s preparation on the topics of Latino and other oppressed populations, diversity, anti- oppressive health and well-being focus. Additionally, we endeavor to enhance the ability of community agencies to expand their services to marginalized groups within the community.

During both the foundation and concentration years of the program, students serve their field education practicums under the supervision of an MSW field instructor and the administration of the MSW field director.

Students who have completed a BSW degree within five years prior to beginning the MSW program may apply for Advanced Standing status and, if accepted, waive the entire (first) Foundation Year of the curriculum. After taking SocWk 600, they begin the program in Year 2 (the Concentration Year). Only students possessing a BSW degree from a CSWE accredited program may be admitted to advanced standing status. SocWk 600 is required for “Advanced Standing” students who have not been enrolled in a BSW program a year or longer prior to the fall of their Concentration Year in the MSW program.

Degree requirements and courses are listed in the online academic catalog.