Unlike the other degrees, a Master s degree in Social Work requires practicum, the marriage of theory and practice. Therefore you would take classes two days a week and work on your practicum 3 days, for example. The philosophical model dominant in most social work schools is NOT the medical model of illness. In fact, it is the model of helping people to build on their strengths, not treat their illness.
Different programs emphasize one track or the other.
The MSW candidate is trained to work with organizations their planning and development. Courses are grouped into content areas such as Research, Social Policy, Social Work Practices, and Individual and Social Processes. The student is also given training in assisting and counseling clients. The academic evaluation in many Social Work schools does not consist of grades, rather of a narrative evaluation of the student by his or her mentors. To be accepted you need a liberal arts background and volunteer or work experience in the field.