Michigan State University

The pros of the Masters of Social Work Program would be knowledge and encouragement of cultural competence and social diversity. Not only does this program ensure that students succeed academically and ethically, I believe that the Masters of Social Work Program emphasizes the importance of social and economic justice and continues to develop and grow in the field of policy and law to ensure the well-being of marginalized individuals and oppressed groups in society. However, I feel that this particular... Read More graduate program may to improve access to technological and social services, as it can easily become unorganized and hard to reach. Furthermore, the unorganized system for field placement may leave students with the unnecessary stress of field placement that may not be at all compatible to their educational pursuits or career goals.

I'm currently pursuing a Master's degree in Social Work at Michigan State University. While I'm excited to be studying at such a prestigious school, the education does come with exclusive costs. The great thing about the program is, it is offered in an online environment as well as virtually once a month at my local campus. This gives me the flexibility I need to complete my masters as well as maintain a balance with my family. The only thing about this program that I feel a little pressure in, is... Read More the debt I will face when I am finished. As tuition increases each year to cover the costs of upgrades and expensive investments that each school participates in, it falls on the student to recoup those costs by raising the tuition.

A pro of my program is that it is only a 10 month program. This makes it easier for student's who want to get a master's degree, but are weary about attending school for another two years. It is a lot of work in a short amount of time, but very rewarding to complete a graduate program in a field you love. One of the cons of the program is having limited options of classes. Since this is a relatively small program, it is understanding that faculty is limited. Since registering for classes, it has... Read More been difficult to find the classes I want, in the semester's that work with my schedule.

The advantages of my graduate program include the ability to take many classes online or at different off campus sites as well as choosing which direction of social work I'd like to pusue (Clinical or Organization and Community Leadership). Many social worker students are not aware there are two types of concentrations for social work and MSU provides the opportunity to learn about both but not in the same capacity. The largest disadvantage of my graduate program is the fact most MSW programs across... Read More board, not just at Michigan State, do not focus as much on the organization and community leadership part of social work as much as the clinical aspects. In fact, the program is the same with a one to two class difference which includes the type of placement one is given for their second placement which focuses more on the concentration a student has chosen.

The MSW program at Michigan State University has provided me with many quality opportunities. The social work office caters to each individual to provide them with a relevant internship that relates to their interests. My internship’s, or field placements, have provided me with immeasurable hands on experiences. Faculty and staff are always willing to help and provide assistance. The only drawback to the program is there scholarships through the department are pretty specific to certain criteria.... Read More Overall it has been a life changing program and it has been influential in my professional development.