Social Work
The Social Work program at Minnesota State University, Mankato, offers a nurturing and challenging environment for students committed to ethical and professional practice that enhances human well-being and supports social, economic, and environmental justice for all. Our accredited BSSW and MSW programs provide students with comprehensive training that includes hands-on experiences, preparing graduates to improve lives and foster change in their communities.
Careers in Social Work
- School Social Worker
- Case Manager
- Child Welfare Specialist
- Probation and Parole
- Behavioral Health Social Worker
- County Health Services
Potential Salary
Median Salary $58,380
Social Work Degrees at MSU
Social Work, Bachelor of Science Social Work
Start your career in social work here! The Bachelor's in Social Work Program (BSSW) prepares ethical and competent generalist social work professionals who are committed to enhancing human well-being and supporting social, economic, and environmental justice for all.
Social Welfare, Minor
The Social Welfare minor is a five-course, 19-credit program that allows you to dive deeper and learn more about the issues that are important to you. This program complements majors like corrections, psychology, gender and women studies, and many healthcare majors well.
Social Work, Master of Social Work
The Master of Social Work (MSW) program at Minnesota State University, Mankato offers in-person learning in small cohorts—designed to deepen your understanding and build lasting professional connections. With a focus on Advanced Generalist practice and the unique challenges of small and rural communities, you'll be prepared for both direct and indirect roles across social services, healthcare, and education. Learn from expert faculty through immersive fieldwork, innovative teaching, and hands-on experiences that elevate your skills and confidence.
Social Work, Bachelor of Science Social Work
Start your career in social work here! The Bachelor's in Social Work Program (BSSW) prepares ethical and competent generalist social work professionals who are committed to enhancing human well-being and supporting social, economic, and environmental justice for all.
Social Welfare, Minor
The Social Welfare minor is a five-course, 19-credit program that allows you to dive deeper and learn more about the issues that are important to you. This program complements majors like corrections, psychology, gender and women studies, and many healthcare majors well.
Social Work, Master of Social Work
The Master of Social Work (MSW) program at Minnesota State University, Mankato offers in-person learning in small cohorts—designed to deepen your understanding and build lasting professional connections. With a focus on Advanced Generalist practice and the unique challenges of small and rural communities, you'll be prepared for both direct and indirect roles across social services, healthcare, and education. Learn from expert faculty through immersive fieldwork, innovative teaching, and hands-on experiences that elevate your skills and confidence.
Accreditation
The Bachelor of Science in Social Work (BSSW) program at Minnesota State University, Mankato has been accredited continuously since February 1974 by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) for preparation of generalist social work practitioners at the baccalaureate-level.
Child Welfare Program
You care about helping children thrive. The Title IV-E Child Welfare Program prepares BSSW and MSW students for impactful work in public and tribal child welfare—and offers professional development across southern Minnesota and beyond.
Practicum Education
Practicum education is the capstone of the BSSW and MSW programs, giving students real-world experience. Through practicum and seminar courses, students apply their coursework in professional settings, under the guidance of experienced social workers and community partners.
Learn More
Licensing
The State of Minnesota requires that all persons with a degree in social work (regardless of their job title), providing services in a social service setting or similar environment, be licensed. Exceptions to licensure are limited. View a presentation from the Minnesota Board of Social Work regarding licensing and one on Exam Prep and Information.
Social Work Club
The Social Work Club, led by students and supported by faculty, is an active and proud part of our campus community. Whether you're just starting or nearing graduation, you're encouraged to join! Stay updated on meetings and events via the club's Facebook page.
Phi Alpha Honor Society
Phi Alpha Honor Society connects social work students and promotes humanitarian values. Dedicated to fostering high standards in the field, Phi Alpha invites members who excel in both scholarship and achievement.
Related Programs
Alcohol and Drug Studies
Alcohol and Drug Studies (ADS) focus on substance use prevention, treatment, and recovery to improve the lives of individuals, families, and communities impacted by alcohol and other drugs. Employment settings for this field include behavioral health treatment centers, detoxification centers, health care facilities, social service agencies, nonprofit organizations, correctional facilities, and education institutions.
Counseling and Student Personnel
Counseling and Student Personnel prepares culturally responsive and equity-minded professional practitioners at the graduate level who will serve in a variety of helping settings including K-12 schools, colleges and universities, community mental health agencies, treatment centers, correctional facilities, and hospital settings.
Psychology
Psychology is the scientific study of the effects of individual, social, physiological, developmental and environmental factors on thoughts, feelings and behavior.
Health Communication
The Health Communication Program combines coursework from Communication and Media, Technical Communication, and Applied Health Sciences to prepare students for careers in health or medical fields, emphasizing effective communication to enhance health literacy, influence healthy behaviors, and improve outcomes and patient satisfaction in various health contexts.
Department of Social Work
College of
Allied Health and Nursing
The College of Allied Health and Nursing is a thriving community dedicated to preparing future leaders in nursing, communication sciences and health-related fields. With state-of-the-art learning centers, real-world experiences, clinical practicums and fieldwork and strong community connections, students gain the hands-on training needed for success. Committed to equity and inclusion, we create an environment where all learners can excel and make a meaningful impact in health and wellness.