Application Deadline Is January 11, 2013 For Admission Fall Semester 2013

Thank you for your interest in the UMD MSW program. Applicants need to submit an application to the Department of Social Work and an electronic application to the Graduate School through the Apply Yourself application system.

Application Process

Materials

We cannot review your application until all of the required materials listed below are submitted successfully.

REQUIRED MATERIALS

Materials Instructions Where to Submit
Graduate School application

Complete and submit the electronic application.

Required sections: Personal Information, Application Information, Educational Background, Languages, Awards & Activities, Employment/Residence Information, Financial Support, Legal agent/privacy statement.

Optional sections: Applicant Statements #1, #2, and #3. The MSW program requires a Personal Statement asking for specfic information in these areas. Applicable portions of the MSW statement can be cut and pasted into the Apply Yourself Applicant Statements 1-3.

GRE is not required.

Electronically via Apply Yourself
Application fee

Information about fees

Electronically via Apply Yourself
Transcripts

Unofficial transcripts should be uploaded directly to the online application.

Please do not mail in paper copies of your transcripts, there is no need for official transcripts for initial review.

International students should also upload an English translation if the transcript is not in English.

If you are admitted, the Graduate School will then request official copies of transcripts.

Additional information about uploading transcripts and credentials.

Electronically via Apply Yourself
MSW Program Application

Complete the 2-page MSW application (word doc.)

 

Program application can be uploaded into the Program Supplementary Information section in Apply Yourself under "Graduate Program Additional Application."

Or can be included in an application packet mailed to the Department of Social

Personal Statement The personal statement should be typewritten, double spaced, and approximately 3-4 pages in length. It should demonstrate graduate level writing skills and include the following.
  • Provide a brief biographical sketch including personal family, and past experiences that have influenced your decision to enter the Social Work profession. Why are you interested in becoming a MSW Social Worker? What personal qualities do you possess that will allow you to contribute to the social work profession?
  • Describe human service, volunteer and/or paid work experiences, which have contributed to your interest in social work. Include experiences working with diverse groups and how it has impacted you.
  • Explain your career goals and the professional activities in which you plan to engage after completing your graduate studies.
  • Describe how you believe UMD's Advanced Generalist MSW program will prepare you to achieve your goals.
  • Present any additional information you would like the Admissions Committee to consider in formulating recommendations concerning your admission.

Personal Statement can be uploaded into the Program Supplementary Information section in Apply Yourself under "Upload 1."

Or can be included in an application packet mailed to the Department of Social.

Resume A brief document that summarizes education, employment history, and experiences.

Resume can be uploaded into the Program Supplementary Information section in Apply Yourself under "Resume' or CV."

Or can be included in an application packet mailed to the Department of Social.

Writing Sample

A two-page essay in Times New Roman 12-point font, double-spaced with 1-inch margins, on one of the following topics:

  • Disporportionate number of children of color in foster care
  • Social work as an art: Social work as a science
  • Utilizing natural versus professional helpers
  • Rural social work practice: Challenges and rewards

Each essay should compare and contrast points of view, demonstrate critical thinking, be clear, logical, well organized and grammatically well written.

Each essay should cite a minimum of three sources from the professional literature using the correct APA format.

Writing Sample can be uploaded into the Program Supplementary Information section in Apply Yourself under "Writing Sample."

Or can be included in an application packet mailed to the Department of Social.

Three letters of Recommendation that include the MSW Recommendation form

Click on link for the recommendation form.

Three letters of recommendation from former instructors, professional colleagues or employers.

  • At least one recommendation should be an academic reference. If you are unable to obtain an academic reference, include one reference that can specifically comment on your academic skills and abilities.
  • If Graduate level "Non-Degree Seeking" social work courses were taken through UMD Continuing Ed, include a recommendation from the instructor of one of these courses.

PLEASE NOTE: The recommendation section will need to be completed for the Graduate School application in order to submit the application. For the question "Will this provider be submitting a letter of recommendation online?" Check "NO."

 

Complete the top portion of the "Request for Recommendation" form and give one form to each person providing a reference.

Applicant provides the recommender with a self addressed stamped envelope to return the recommendation form and letter to the applicant. Applicant collects all three recommendations and mails them to the Department of Social.

Department of Social Work, Admissions, 220 Bohannon Hall, 1207 Ordean Court, Duluth, MN 55812

FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS: English Language test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, etc.) Click here for more information about English Language Assessment Tests Electronically via Apply Yourself in the "Languages" section.

Address for mailing application materials to the Department of Social Work: UMD Department of Social Work; Admissions Committee, 220 Bohannon Hall, 1207 Ordean Court, Duluth, MN 55812.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

If you need further clarification about the Graduate School admission requirements or procedure, you could refer to the Duluth Graduate School Catalog 2010-2011. Also feel free to contact Rita Ohman about any admission questions you may have by email at rohman@d.umn.edu or by phone at 218-726-8497.

 

 

 
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