Here you’ll find a brief overview of the six pathways available to MSW students. For more detailed information on prerequisites, requirements, and curriculum plans, follow the links from each pathway name.
These pathways accommodate the different experiences and needs of our students. Regardless of which pathway you choose, you will have full access to the benefits, resources, and community that support all Columbia MSW students.
An admissions counselor is available to answer any questions you may have about these pathways. Call (212) 488-1784 or (866) 627-4750 (toll-free). You can also email onlinemsw@columbia.edu.
| Two-Year | Advanced Standing | Part-Time to Full-Time (Extended) | One-Year Residency for Working Professionals (Reduced Residency) | Transfer | Part-Time | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brief Description | Take classes full-time while completing your practicum placements. | An accelerated social work degree program for BSW graduates. | Begin your degree as a part-time student and then ramp up to full time. | A pathway for professionals with direct social services experience. | Students with 1 year of MSW coursework and practicum can transfer to Columbia. | Take fewer credits per term, completing your degree over more time. |
| Prerequisites | Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution | BSW from a CSWE-accredited program within last five years | Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution | At least 2 years full-time social service employment or 4 years part-time | Completed 1 year in another graduate-level, CSWE-accredited social work program | Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution |
| Completion Time | 2 years | 1 year | 3 to 4 years | 3 to 4 years | 1 year | 3 to 4 years |
| Total Practicum Hours | 1,200 | 600 | 1,200 | 900 | 600 | 1,200 |
| Starts Per Year | 1 (fall) | 1 (summer) | 2 (fall and spring) | 2 (fall and spring) | 1 (fall) | 2 (fall and spring) |