Master of Social Work (M.S.W.)
Focused on clinical practice. Built for working adults.
At Walla Walla University, our Master of Social Work (M.S.W.) program prepares compassionate, skilled professionals for clinical practice in a variety of settings—from mental health and medical care to addiction treatment and trauma recovery. Whether you choose to study online or attend in person at our College Place or Billings campuses, you'll benefit from a flexible schedule, supportive faculty, and dedicated practicum placement services. With a 98% on-time graduation rate and a values-driven mission, our program is designed to fit your life and fuel your calling to serve others.
Choose the track that fits your background
No matter your background, there’s a clear path to your M.S.W.—choose the track that’s right for you.
- Regular standing: For students with a bachelor's degree in a field other than social work.
- Complete the program in 6 quarters (21 months).
- Includes foundational coursework plus advanced clinical training.
- Advanced standing: For students with a recent B.S.W. from a CSWE-accredited program.
- Complete the program in 4 quarters (12 months).
- Bypass introductory content and begin with advanced practice courses.
To see admissions requirements for each track, visit our Admissions and Deadlines page.
Program highlights
Flexible for working adults
- Choose online evening classes or in-person classes on Mondays.
- Keep your job while advancing your career.
Clinically focused, professional aligned
- Accredited program with a clinical specialization.
- Practicum placement support from dedicated coordinators.
- Strong outcomes, including a 98% on-time graduation rate.
Rooted in mission, led by experts
- Learn from supportive faculty who are active practitioners and mentors.
- Study at a Christian, nonprofit university with nearly 40 years of experience in social work education.
- Join a values-driven community committed to compassion, service, and excellence.
Apply by August 30, 2025 for fall 2025 start.
Study where and how it works for you
Whether you prefer the structure of in-person learning or the flexibility of studying from home, you can complete your M.S.W. your way. All three learning options offer the same high-quality curriculum and instruction, supportive faculty, and practicum placement services.
- College Place, Washington
- In-person classes one day per week (Mondays) on the main Walla Walla University campus.
- Build community and connect with faculty in a traditional university setting.
- Billings, Montana
- In-person classes one day per week (Mondays) on our Billings campus.
- Montana-based faculty with deep community roots and a focus on serving rural and frontier populations across Montana.
- Online program
- A mixture of asynchronous theory classes and live interactive practice classes in the evenings.
- Study from anywhere with a reliable internet connection. Enjoy flexibility and full practicum placement support close to home.
All students—regardless of location—receive personalized support, the same clinical curriculum, and the full Walla Walla University M.S.W. experience.
Affordable. Accessible. Worth It.
We’re committed to helping you invest in your future without overwhelming your present. Financial aid, scholarships, and grants are available to help make your M.S.W. affordable—no matter which learning option you choose.
- M.S.W. graduates earn $30,000 more per year on average than B.S.W. graduates
- Ask us about Walla Walla University scholarships, federal aid, and other funding opportunities
- Our team will walk you through your options and help you build a personalized financial plan
- Many students qualify for tuition assistance through their employers or external agencies
Visit our affordability and financial aid page to learn more and get started.
A simple, supportive admissions process
Applying to the M.S.W. program at Walla Walla University is straightforward—and we're here to help every step of the way. Whether you plan to study online, in College Place, or in Billings, you’ll use the same easy application process. Our admissions team will guide you through each step and help ensure everything is in place.
To apply, you’ll need:
- A completed online application and application fee.
- Official transcripts from your previous college or university.
- Three references.
- A statement of purpose and a brief social issue analysis.
- A background check initiated by the university as part of your application.
To view the full admissions criteria for each track and delivery option, visit our admissions and deadlines page.
Curriculum overview
Walla Walla University's M.S.W. curriculum is designed to prepare you for real-world clinical practice through a balance of coursework and hands-on experience. Depending on your track, you’ll complete either 73 (regular standing) or 45 (advanced standing) credits, including up to 900 hours of supervised practicum in your local community.
You’ll build advanced skills in assessment, intervention, and culturally responsive care—preparing you to serve individuals, families, and communities with confidence and compassion.
Want to see the full course list and plan? Check out these resources:
Questions?
Jeremy A. Springer, D.S.W., M.S.W., LICSW
M.S.W. Program Director
Assistant Professor of Social Work and Sociology
(509) 527-2359
jeremy.springer@wallawalla.edu