Advance Your Career with a Master of Social Work
Make an impact. Empower communities. Transform lives.
Continuously accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) since 1999, our Master of Social Work (MSW) program prepares students for advanced professional practice and meaningful careers serving individuals, families, and communities.
Choose from three program options designed to fit your academic background, career goals, and schedule:
Advanced Standing Program (MSW-ASP)
Earn your MSW in just 11 months through an intensive program beginning in the summer at our Downtown Los Angeles (DTLA) campus. Designed for students who have earned a BASW from a CSWE-accredited institution within the last five years.
Traditional Two-Year Program
Complete your MSW full-time at the main campus, beginning in the fall. Build a strong foundation in social work while developing the knowledge and skills needed for advanced professional practice.
Traditional Three-Year Program
Complete your MSW in three years at the main campus, beginning in the fall. This option allows you to balance graduate coursework and practicum education.
Find the MSW Path That Fits Your Future
Take the next step toward expanding your skills, advancing your career, and making a meaningful difference in the communities you serve.
Advantages of Attending Cal State LA
- Excellent education at an affordable price.
- Ranked in the top 3 Schools of Social Work in Southern California
- Ranked # 60 among top social work schools nationwide by 2024 US News and World Report
- The Washington Monthly magazine 2022 College Guide and Rankings listed Cal State LA at number three in the “Best Master’s Universities” category.
- Individual attention to students by faculty and staff.
MSW Degree Roadmaps by Program Options
The MSW 2027 application is online and is included in the university online application in Quadrant 4 (Q4). There is no longer a separate application for the MSW program.
To apply to both Cal State LA and the MSW program, you will submit one online application through Cal State Apply | CSU. Be sure to complete and submit the 2027-2028 CSU Post-baccalaureate and Graduate Admission application by the published application deadline.
Quadrant 4 (Q4) Application Requirements
In Quadrant 4 of the university application, you will need to upload the following documents:
- Personal statement
- Resume
- Unofficial transcripts from all colleges and universities attended.
- Names and email addresses of your references
- Each reference will receive a link from Admissions to complete the required reference form.
- References must complete and submit the form directly to Admissions by the published application deadline.
- At this time, a separate letter of recommendation cannot be attached to the reference form.
Once the University receives a complete reference form, the applicant will be notified by email that the reference form has been submitted.
Additional Links and Requirements
- Admission Requirements
- ASP General Information
- 2-Year & 3-Year MSW General Information
- Information Meetings
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Sample Resume
Click here to RSVP to attend one of our information meetings.
MSW Admissions Coordinator
Michelle Lightburn
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (323) 343-4684
Administrative Support Assistant II
June Humphrey
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (323) 343-4684