Master of Social Work Admissions

Master of Social Work Admissions Requirements

• Completed bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college/university.
• GPA: Cumulative GPA of 3.0 strongly desired.
• English Proficiency: Demonstrated English language proficiency if English is not your first language. Please reach out to admissions for accepted tests and scores. 
• SocialWorkCAS Application: Complete an online application through the SocialWorkCAS (Social Work Centralized Application Service). Your application includes short essay questions, a professional resume/CV, and two letters of recommendation.
• Background Check: If accepted, students will need to successfully pass a background check, drug screen, and/or immunization requirements.
• NO GRE Required! Test scores uploaded to the CSDCAS system will not be considered as part of the admissions criteria.

Transfer Credit

Looking to transfer credits from your current or previous MSW program? Applicants can receive a pre-evaluation by sending unofficial transcripts and course descriptions or syllabi to msw@pacificu.edu. The pre-evaluation will include how many credits for coursework the program can accept pending your submission of an application and other required documents listed below. A degree audit will NOT be included. After the pre-evaluation, if you decide to move forward with the transfer, it will require the following:

• Completed application through SocialWorkCAS
• Letter of Good Standing from the Program Director or Dean
• An evaluation of your practicum from the Director of Practicum Education or whomever is responsible for evaluating students on their performance during practicum. The letter should include how many hours you completed.
• Please note: we can accept up to 32 credits. You must be transferring from a CSWE accredited program. Our program starts once a year in August for the fall semester.

How We Review Applications

The Admissions Committee uses a holistic review process in considering applicants for admission, including factors such as:

• Academic record
• Community service and social work-related experience
• Communication skills
• Ability to work as an effective team member
• Letters of recommendation
• Commitment to the profession

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How to Apply

• Explore the Master of Social Work Program: Curious about whether the MSW program is the right fit for you? Our admissions counselor is here to help. Reach out to schedule a phone call or Zoom meeting to learn more about the program, practicum education, and the admissions process, or to get guidance on submitting a strong application. 
• Apply through the SocialWorkCAS: Submit your application online through the SocialWorkCAS system. Your application will include:
  • Transcripts from all colleges and universities you have attended. Learn how to submit transcripts to the SocialWorkCAS system.
  • Short essay questions
  • A professional resume or curriculum vitae
  • Two letters of recommendation