I'm currently in a part-time MSW program, but am considering applying to the online Columbia SSW program for Fall 2022. I was really impressed by what I read about the program, the prestige of the brand alone would look excellent on a resume, and they have a model that focuses on policy which is exactly what I want to continue working in long-term. My current program is more general practice focused and definitely geared towards future clinicians. I also feel (like the rest of my cohort) that we were misled when applying. The program is advertised and billed as part-time, meetings on Saturdays only, "perfect for professionals working 40 hours/week!". It turns out that after this semester, the rest of the program is full-time course load and it is unlikely that we will be able to continue the program, field placement, as well as working our full-time jobs. This, and the reaction we received from the program director when conveying our concerns, has led me to look around for other options. Everything relatively close to me takes such a small amount of transfer credits, putting me further from graduation. I've started the CSSW application and registered for an info session, but now I'm seeing mixed reviews. Does anyone have experience specifically with the online program? Maybe I should keep looking before applying too soon to this....
