Social Work (BSW) + Master of Social Work (MSW) 3+1 Program

The Social Work (BSW) + Master of Social Work (MSW) 3+1 program at Simmons University offers an exceptional pathway to complete a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and Master of Social Work (MSW) in four years. This accelerated program is designed for students who want to launch their career in social work quickly.

Program Overview

The program is rooted in social justice and prepares students for a purposeful career helping individuals and communities. Simmons University has been a leader in social work education since 1904 and is the first school of social work in the country. The university's MSW graduates consistently outperform state and national averages on the ASWB licensing exams.

Why Study Social Work at Simmons?

The 3+1 social work BSW/MSW program option at Simmons University offers an intensive yet rewarding opportunity that accelerates the path to professional practice. Students will:

• Put their purpose into action with rigorous coursework and on-site agency experiences
• Study at the center of opportunity, located in Boston's Fenway and Longwood Medical Area
• Utilize the power of simulation, with trained actors simulating clinical scenarios
• Learn from scholar-practitioner faculty who are nationally recognized leaders in social work practice, research, and education
• Join a lifelong network of Simmons School of Social Work alumnae/i leading the profession globally

Program Structure

The program is designed to build skills year by year, preparing students for advanced professional practice. The structure includes:

• Year 1-3 (BSW): Building a foundation in generalist social work practice
• Year 4 (MSW): Transitioning into master's coursework while staying within the Simmons community
• Note: Students must apply to the Advanced Standing MSW Program during their junior year and be accepted to earn the MSW

Career Opportunities

An MSW qualifies students for unlimited roles and opportunities, including:

• Licensed therapist in outpatient mental health clinics, inpatient hospitals, and private practice
• Administrator, leading an agency, developing programs, and supervising staff
• Leader at the systems level, serving in public office, shaping policy, and advancing change that strengthens communities
• Eligibility to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) or a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW)

Program Requirements

The program requires students to complete all undergraduate and graduate course and field requirements at an accelerated pace. This includes:

• Completing undergraduate work in three years by taking five courses per semester and additional electives or requirements during summer terms
• Applying for advanced standing at the MSW level and beginning the MSW program at the end of three years
• Completing the MSW program in one additional year (three semesters)

Accreditation

Simmons University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education, and the MSW degrees from the School of Social Work are approved by the Council on Social Work Education.

Practicum

The program includes a practicum component, which provides hands-on experience in social work practice. The practicum is designed to gradually prepare students for the profession through theoretical learning in the classroom and hands-on experience.

Experience-Based Learning

The curriculum ensures students graduate "career-ready" through a two-tiered practical approach, including:

1. Service Learning: Engaging in 40 hours of community service as part of SW253: Human Behavior in the Social Environment
2. Simulated Practicum Placement (Junior Year): Integrating social work knowledge, skills, values, and ethics in an immersive virtual practicum course
3. Practicum Placement (Senior Year): Engaging in a formal, supervised internship that offers immersive, professional practice over 425 hours

Program Details

• Offered as: Major, Masters
• School/Department: School of Social Work
• Format: Accelerated (Undergraduate + Graduate), On Campus

Highlights of the Social Work Program at Simmons

• First School of Clinical Social Work in the country
• Over 125 years of experience in social work education
• Extensive Boston internship network with over 500 partner agencies
• High first-time pass rate on the ASWB licensing exam (85% in 2025)
• Strong clinical training, with 82% of students ranking it as "excellent"
• Invested faculty, with 80% of students reporting that faculty are invested in their success

Related Programs

• Undergraduate:
  • Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)
  • Psychology
  • Public Health
  • Sociology
  • Sociology + Public Policy (3+1)
• Graduate:
  • Behavior Analysis (MS or EdS)
  • Social Work MSW
  • Social Work MSW: Accelerated 16-Month Program
  • Social Work MSW: Advanced Standing (BSW Holders)

Simmons University

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Overview:

Simmons University is a private university located in Boston, Massachusetts. It is known for its focus on women's leadership and its commitment to social justice. The university offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including online options, and is recognized for its real-world learning opportunities and integrated career advising.

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Services Offered:

Simmons University provides a variety of services to its students, including:

Academic Advising:

Customized support throughout the academic journey, from first-year advising to career guidance.

Campus Dining:

A variety of dining options on campus.

Community Engagement:

Opportunities for students to engage in social justice initiatives and community service.

Student Support & Resources:

A range of resources to support student success, including academic support, counseling, and health services.

Library:

Access to a comprehensive library with extensive resources.

Athletics:

A variety of athletic programs and opportunities for students to participate in sports.

Events:

A calendar of events and activities for students to participate in.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

Simmons University offers a vibrant campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can expect:

A small college feel:

A close-knit campus community with a focus on student support and engagement.

A dynamic city location:

Located in the heart of Boston, students have access to a wealth of cultural, historical, and professional opportunities.

Real-world learning opportunities:

Students gain practical experience through internships, research, and creative projects.

A commitment to inclusivity:

A welcoming and supportive environment for students from diverse backgrounds.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Real-world learning:

Students gain practical experience through internships, research, and creative projects.

Integrated career advising:

Customized support throughout the academic journey, from first-year advising to career guidance.

Accelerated graduate programs:

Shorten the time to a graduate degree with accelerated undergraduate to graduate programs.

Location in Boston:

Access to a wealth of cultural, historical, and professional opportunities.

Commitment to social justice:

A focus on women's leadership and social justice initiatives.

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Academic Programs:

Simmons University offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Undergraduate programs:

A variety of majors and minors in fields such as business, health sciences, humanities, and social sciences.

Graduate programs:

Master's and doctoral programs in fields such as business, education, health sciences, law, and social work.

Online programs:

A range of online undergraduate and graduate programs for adult learners.

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Other:

Simmons University has been recognized with the 2024 Carnegie Elective Classification for Leadership for Public Purpose, which acknowledges its commitment to leadership and the collective public good. The university also has a strong alumni network and offers a variety of resources for alumni to stay connected.