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The UNT MSW Program Options

We offer two types of program degree options for prospective students to consider.
Advanced Standing option:
The advanced standing degree program is available to students who have graduated with their BSW degree from a CSWE accredited Social Work program within the last five years. Applicants who meet this criterion are eligible to apply to our 30-credit hour advanced standing degree program. The program is in person on the Denton, Texas campus. Students admitted into the program will be expected to attend classes on campus once a week on every Wednesday. In addition, students will be required to complete a full time (500 hour) practicum placement during their final semester of the program. Field practicum requires approximately 30-35 hours per week in an agency setting. The practicum will be face to face, and during regular business hours (Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-5 p.m.).
Applicants can select from our 30-credit hour full time degree plan or extended degree plan options for the advanced standing degree program. You can visit our degree paths website to learn more about the courses and degree plans offered.
Traditional Standing option:
The traditional standing degree program is available to students who have completed their undergraduate program in a field other than social work. Applicants who meet this criterion will complete the 60-credit hour traditional degree program. The program is in person on the Denton, Texas campus. Students admitted into the program will be expected to attend classes on campus once a week on every Monday. In addition, students will be required to complete two full time practicums. The first practicum is 400 hours, and the second practicum is 500 hours. Field practicum requires approximately 30-35 hours per week in an agency setting. Each practicum will be face to face, and during regular business hours (Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-5 p.m.).
Applicants can select from our 60-credit hour full time degree plan or extended degree plan options for the traditional standing degree program. You can visit our degree paths website to learn more about the courses and degree plans offered.

How To Apply

For step-by-step instructions on the application process, please visit the Graduate Admissions website.
This will include details on how to submit all required application materials including transcripts, contact information for supportive references, essay questions criteria, and other items.
 
**Important Note: Incomplete application portfolios are not reviewed by the admissions committee. It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure that all elements of the application have been received by UNT. Applicants should check their application status and Tasks lists.
 
Program Application Deadlines:
The University of North Texas Social Work Master’s Program accepts applications for fall and spring cohorts. We are now accepting applications for the Fall 2026 cohort for our advanced standing and traditional standing programs. The application deadline is Feb. 1, 2026.  You can learn how to apply to our program here by reviewing the graduate admission process.

Application Information

The University of North Texas Master of Social Work Program application process is competitive, and applying for the program does not guarantee acceptance or admission. The admissions committee considers several factors, including last 60 hours GPA, responses to the three required essay questions, and three supportive references to evaluate applicants. Questions about our admissions process should be directed to UNTMSWProgram@unt.edu. You can also learn more about the program by visiting our websites FAQ section.  
 
Essay Questions:
  • Personal Statement
Describe your interest and professional goals in pursuing a Master of Social Work degree. Describe any experiences that have influenced your decision. (500-word limit)
  • Social Issue
Briefly identify a social issue at the local, national, or global level. As a social worker, what factors would you need to consider when assisting clients affected by this issue? What difficulties might you expect to face in addressing these challenges? (500-word limit)
  • Program Preparedness
In addition to traditional coursework, you will participate in 1-2 full-time field practicum placements requiring approximately 30-35 hours per week in an agency setting. Each practicum will be in one semester, face to face, and during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm). Considering this, please describe a specific plan to balance your work, education, and personal life, as well as practice self-care as you engage in graduate study. (500-word limit)
Personal References:
You will need to list three individuals who could serve as a professional reference for your application. Examples of possible references include an academic reference from a professor or field instructor and a reference from an employer, such as a supervisor or professional colleague. No letters are required but program faculty may reach out to references during the admissions process. If you earned your undergraduate degree in the last 5 years, at least one reference should be from a faculty member. If you have an undergraduate degree in social work, one reference should be from your field instructor from your practicum site. If you do not provide the required references your application will be considered incomplete.  Provide the following information for each reference:
  • Name
  • Title
  • Email
  • Phone Number
  • Relationship to reference 
The GRE is not a requirement to apply to the MSW program
 
Funding Resources: 
To learn about the cost of attendance, financial aid, and scholarship opportunities please visit the UNT Scholarship and Financial Aid website. 
 
Additional Information:
For any additional admissions and application related questions, please send an email to UNTMSWProgram@unt.edu. Please allow 5 business days for a reply when classes are in session. Replies may take longer between academic terms. We appreciate your patience.