Frequently Asked Questions

PROGRAM

Is it possible to do graduate work away from BYU? Are there any distance learning programs or classes for graduate degrees?

At the present, the School of Social Work does not offer any distance learning or independent study programs, and student cannot use independent study courses as part of their graduate course work.

Do you offer a part-time program?

No, when you are accepted in the MSW program you will go full-time for 20 consecutive months. There is no part-time program available now, nor is there a plan for one in the near future.

DEGREE

Do I need to have a bachelor of social work degree (BSW) to apply?

You do not need to have a BSW degree to apply for the MSW program. No particular undergraduate degree is required, but a broad liberal arts preparation is essential.

Can I get my DSW at BYU?

BYU offers only BSW and MSW degrees at this time.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Can I waive the Intro to Social Work prerequisite?

Even if you have graduated in sociology or another related social work field, you must take the Intro to Social Work class before you apply. If you have questions about transfering credits for this class from another college/university, or what classes are avaliable in the Utah area to qualify for this prerequisite, contact Lisa Willey at (801)422-5681.

When is the deadline to apply to the MSW program?

January 15th of each year. ALL of your items must be submitted to the Graduate Studies Office (not the School of Social Work). On January 16th the complete applications are sent to us. As we have so many qualified applicants, we do not accept incomplete applications.

What is the 6 digit code for the School of Social Work that we need to put on the application?

The 6-digit code is usually found on the web page for the Graduate School Application (http://www.byu.edu/gradstudies/index.php?action=programs.home) but the code is 735960.

How long does it take to make a decision?

The admissions committee reads each and every complete file. Forty are accepted into the MSW program. Each and every applicant is notified by letter around April 15th of the admissions committee's decision.

What are my chances of being admitted?

We admit 40 students every year, and we usually have about 160 apply, making your chances of admission about 25%.

If I am denied admission, can I apply again?

Yes. Your application materials are good for the following school year. However, you should carefully update your file including your letter of intent and references if necessary. Also, check with us or the Graduate Studies Office to make sure there are no new changes or additions to the application process. Please notify the School of Social Work if you are re-applying from a previous year.

What do I need to do to defer or withdraw my application?

Contact our office. If you defer, you will be considered in the applicant pool the following year. If you withdraw, you cannot get your materials back, as they become the property of the university.

GRE and TOFEL

Do I have to take the GRE?

No, but if you are an international applicant, the test scores will be helpful to us. But, the Graduate Admissions Committee does reserve the right to request scores on the GRE or the Miller's Analogy Exam.

Do I have to submit TOFEL scores?

All applicants whose native language is not English and who have not graduated from an institution in a country wherein the primary language of instruction is English are required to submit TOFEL scores. The IELTS minimum band score is 7.

FINANCIAL AID

How do I apply for financial support with the School of Social Work?

After you are accepted into the MSW program, you then can apply for the limited scholarships and graduate assistant positions available. A form is mailed out to all accepted students with details in May.