DSWstudentTSSW

Re: DSW, Waiting to hear back on an application. Advice: Review your SOP. Know your strengths and weaknesses, what do you what to do with an MSW, why USC? Have 2 questions for them.

It’s definitely a good sign. In a previous comment, you had mentioned your undergraduate GPA. They would probably want to explore that. Additionally, if you can find out names of interviewers - check our their bios and see if you have any common interests.

Who are you interviewing with? Are you applying for ground or on-line?

Welcome! You’ll have to keep us posted on Kentucky! 100 seems like a large cohort but, is it a once a year start? Some programs have 3 start dates and they’re probably closer to 40-80, annually, at the end of the day?

Are you applying directly to PhD programs or do you want to do an MSW then PhD? Are you looking to teach/research or do you want to also directly treat? I would identify programs that have SUD sub-concentrations or certificates and/or have an affiliation with an interdisciplinary institute focused on SUDs and addiction. Off hand, Michigan, Tulane, NYU (SARET) Penn, USC (IAS).... they have sub-concentrations or institutes specifically related to SUDs. Penn’s MSW program was just awarded a huge grant from SAMHSA. Whether this is the right field - I would say yes, 100%. Social Workers not only frequently treat SUDs, they’re often on the front lines working with those disproportionately impacted by the “war on drugs.” Feel free to PM if you have any questions!

I’ve heard a few different things. I’ve heard decisions go out in August. I’ve also heard 3-5 weeks rolling admissions. I’ve seen 2-3 acceptances for Spring 2022... I was told today that my application was complete and awaiting a decision?!? ?‍♀️

USC’s has a macro concentration: https://dworakpeck.usc.edu/academics/departments/social-change-and-innovation I have quite a few friends who did this and they work in local government and with agencies like the ACLU. I don’t think they have a DD/ID-specific class but LA has a great agency (Regional Center) that would be a possible field placement. I’ve also heard great things about UPenn.

Great programs to choose from! Just to clarify that you would be moving to DC, Nola, Philly, NY...? When are the deadlines? Any scholarships? Any specialties? I have only done research on Tulane and I really like their certificates. I think each city has a lot of amazing opportunities. NY is going to have the highest cost of living and Nola would likely be the lowest.

Do you get in-state tuition for Maryland? If so, go there. Maryland is a great institution and program. You don’t have to stay in Maryland post-graduation. Lots of people move around. Maryland is a respected T1 Flagship school and you’ll be fine anywhere. If you’re out-of-state for Maryland, I’d look at the total costs. Some public schools can rival private tuition price tags if it’s out-out-of-state... So weigh cost of living, specialties, etc. I would choose Columbia over Maryland, if Maryland was out-of-state tuition and I wanted to do DBT in NYC - and I have a good friend willing to rent a room in Hoboken, for example. Good luck!

So I could be wrong, but I believe Columbia’s recruitment/enrollment/initially admissions is all handled in-house. so If they got a huge uptick in applications, it’s going to take them a while to get through all applications. ? This could mean that even if you applied for the ground program, they’re just massively backed up. For context, a lot of online-programs use OPM partners. Examples, 2U, Noodle, etc. They provide a valuable service, *but* also take a cut of tuition or charge a fee-for-service.... Some partners: 2U manages DU, USC, Simmons. Noodle manages Tulane and VCU. NYU (Steinhardt) uses HotChalk which was acquired by Noodle..... Basically these OPM programs stream-line the application process. The universities still handle admissions, teaching, education.... Sorry - Lengthly reply but *possibly* helpful context. Good luck!

Oof! Technically, this is a NY state issue. Typically, it matters more where the *client* is physically located than the therapist. That being said, it may still impact your ability to have NY-based supervisees. Depends on what the NY board allows during non-covid times.... Here is what I found (I’m a statutes nerd and big advocate for licensure portability). Telehealth: http://www.op.nysed.gov/prof/sw/swteleprac.htm Supervision: http://www.op.nysed.gov/prof/sw/part74.htm Supervision of a licensed master social worker providing clinical social work services in accordance with section 7701(1)(d) of the Education Law who is not using such services to satisfy the experience requirements for licensure as a licensed clinical social worker. Supervision of the clinical social work services provided by the licensed master social worker shall consist of contact between the licensed master social worker and supervisor during which: the licensed master social worker apprises the supervisor of the diagnosis and treatment of each client; the licensed master social worker's cases are discussed; the supervisor provides the licensed master social worker with oversight and guidance in diagnosing and treating clients; the supervisor regularly reviews and evaluates the professional work of the licensed master social worker; and the supervisor provides at least two hours per month of in-person individual or group clinical supervision. The Department, in its discretion, may accept alternative means to meet the in-person supervision requirements of this subparagraph that cannot be successfully completed due to the State of Emergency declared by the Governor pursuant to an Executive Order for the COVID-19 crisis.

Why doesn't gradcafé let you edit. Gah! I used my phone to post the quote and didn't realize that it made the font ginormous.

Yes! Done and submitted. My graduate institution took 3 days to send “auto/instant” official e-transcripts. It’s the worst week to request them! ? I saw a great quote yesterday - always a good reminder - ❤️?? “You weren’t rejected you were redirected.” ?I’ll keep you posted on Tulane ?

I would say, it depends.... Cal States, UCLA, and USC all have great reputations in the LA and So Cal area. I will say that UCLA and USC have recognition outside of the region - does that matter? It’s debatable. Private schools sometimes have the option to offer better funding. Scholarships + stipends + networking *could* make USC or UCLA (because the UCs are getting more expensive...) comparable/competitive to the Cal State price tag. I always think it’s worth applying and seeing what private schools offer.

Strong emphasis on social justice and treating underserved and marginalized populations. I also find that the MSW is flexible (you can do clinical, medical, school, industrial, policy....). And a big pro - LCSWs are currently the only masters-level license able to bill Medicare - this often means more opportunities. I find that federal agencies also lean toward LCSWs (e.g. the VA).

Did you hear back?

My friend just got into Loma Linda’s DSW program and her employer is providing tuition assistance. I’ve heard good things! I believe it’s hybrid with an in person element though. GRE’s typically required but waived this year.

Sorry sent this too soon from my phone and it won't let me edit or add... That being said, I will cross my fingers and toes for you @DSW1977 that you're able to get in this year.

I’m applying to Tulane for Spring 2022. I like their applied research focus and the flexibility. My hope is to get that application done and submitted in the next week.

The past 2 cycles no one has declined their offer. That being said - very good sign for next cycle. You were on ten bubble of a extraordinary competitive cycle. Are you going to reach out and see what, if anything, you can do to strengthen your application for next year?

Hi! Thanks so much for the feedback and insight! I think my concern, initially, with an EdD over the DSW was that it’s not social work..... that being said, I have my LCSW which is the current and foreseeable terminal license.... and I work in education. My current employer has quite a few EdDs (and even a few psychologists...). I wonder if it’s more common in private universities vs. public. Totally Anecdotal- the public universities I have looked at often require “PhD in social work or closely related field” - but when I look at current faculty, I don’t see EdDs (or even DSWs!) ?

Hi! I’m a social worker by training (and licensure) and I work in higher education. My research interests include reducing structural stigma surrounding substance use and addiction. Specifically, among health care providers via educational interventions (trainings, continuing education, and professional degree programs). I’ve primarily looked at professional doctorates related to social work, but I’ve also had an eye on EdDs - it’s not uncommon for clinical faculty in my field.. I've looked at a few programs, including the ones mentioned here. I’m primary looking at Fall 2022.... Just wanted to say hello!

Hi! Quick note on SC. The communication prior to admission is handled by their OPM - 2U. Rossier really is a great program! I’ve had the same issues with other professional programs handled by 2U, Noodle... ? Very frustrating. I think they must have an algorithm that tells them who’s most likely to apply and follow up and that’s who they reply to. ?

It’s frustrating but I understand why it’s in place and how it could create a conflict of interest. What if the only open section is taught by my friend? What if my supervisor winds up as a professor and the class requires you to critique leadership...? ??

Hopefully that means you’re waitlisted?