Master of Social Work
About the Program
RU | Master’s | Hybrid – The program is designed primarily for people working full-time in the human services arena. Classes are offered on Saturday. The Roanoke program is referred to as standard, part-time MSW curriculum. The program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education and is reviewed and monitored by a Professional Advisory Council of 50-plus professional social workers.
Career Paths
- Child, Family and School Social Workers
- Social Work Administrators
- Social Work Researchers
- Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers
- Medical Social Workers
- LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) with additional training and supervision
Courses & Requirements
61 credit hours | Course Checklist
The program’s focus is community-based family practice, allowing students to acquire a blend of direct family practice skills coupled with an understanding and appreciation of human diversity. Because we are located in rural Appalachia, we offer coursework and internships focused on rural practice. However, for the student who wants practice experience that will lead to work in a city environment, we offer a selection of field placements in Roanoke–a midsize city about 45 miles from Radford. Field placement is an integral part of the curriculum.
Cost & Financial Aid
Learn more about Financial Aid opportunities at Radford University.
Radford University FAFSA code is 003732.
Student Support
We know the path to higher education can be daunting, which is why we’re here to help.
As a student of the Roanoke Higher Education Center, you will have access to:
- Library collections and services
- Computer lab with printer/copier
- Student lounge with high-speed wireless Internet
- Cafe serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Free parking with a student parking pass
As a student of Radford University, you will have access to:
- On-site meetings with RU Faculty Advisor/Program Coordinator, Dr. Egan Green
- Textbooks ordered online and shipped to Roanoke students at no cost
- Radford University Computer Lab On-site
- Center for Accessibility Services
- McConnell Library Services for Extended Campus Students
- On-site service staff
How to Apply
Prospective students must submit two (2) applications. Complete the Application for Graduate Admissions online AND the MSW Program Application. Submit them both online to the College of Graduate Studies and Research.
Please review application materials thoroughly as there is an essay requirement and other admissions criteria. There is a preferred deadline for admissions of March 1. It is recommend that you check with the MSW Coordinator for absolute deadline if seeking application to Roanoke part-time program.
The School of Social Work established the following minimum criteria as required of all applicants seeking admission into the Master of Social Work program.
A baccalaureate degree earned at an accredited institution.
- A minimum overall GPA of 2.75 (undergraduate degree).
- Evidence of a liberal arts background to include at least 15 credit hours in social sciences, 9 hours of humanities, and 3 hours of biology content and 1 hour of lab.
- Course credit is notgiven for life experience or previous work experience.
- Previous experience in the field of human services as an employee, student, and/or volunteer is strongly recommended.
- Evidence of interest, ability, motivation, and potential for professional social work practice on an advanced level as demonstrated by three letters of recommendation and a personal essay.
- Have a GPA of 3.0 in the last 60 hours of upper division coursework.