Tracy Michaels Board Chair | Official Website
Tracy Michaels Board Chair | Official Website
The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point (UWSP) is set to launch a new online Master of Social Work (MSW) degree, expanding its commitment to preparing future social workers. This program will address workforce needs in various sectors, including child and family social work, mental health, healthcare systems, and substance use disorders.
Professor Amy Zlimen Ticho, MSW Program Director at UWSP, described the program as “online but engaged,” emphasizing the importance of interaction among peers and instructors for developing necessary skills for effective social work practice.
Applications are now open for the Fall 2025 cohort, which will consist of part-time students without an undergraduate degree in social work. Future cohorts will offer both full and part-time options for students with or without such a degree.
The MSW program aims to provide opportunities for career advancement in areas requiring a master's degree. The online format caters to those unable to continue education due to work or personal commitments. Students can choose specialty tracks in school, clinical, or medical social work.
Graduates will be eligible for roles across fields like child welfare, youth justice, schools, mental health, healthcare, and more. Many may assume administrative positions or focus on advocacy and policymaking. Assistant Professor Olivia Gerrish highlighted the unique skills needed in rural environments that the program seeks to impart.
The curriculum is designed to remain relevant over time. “We are designing the program to meet students where they are today but also thinking about what they’ll need down the road,” said Gerrish.
A field education component is required for practical experience within agencies close to students' communities. The program will leverage existing partnerships while forming new ones across Wisconsin and beyond.
For more information or application details on the Master of Social Work graduate program at UWSP, interested individuals can visit their website or contact Nick Schultz or Amy Zlimen Ticho via email.
Alerts Sign-up