UCLA v UC Berkeley for Social Welfare

[Tlacuache]

Hello! I've been accepted to UCLA and wait listed at UC Berkeley for the Masters in Social Welfare program beginning this Fall. I am over the moon but also a bit at a crossroads.

It seems that near everyone I speak to have a strong lean toward UCB and I wonder how much of it is due to name recognition and prestige over the program itself or the potential fit it might be.

UCB is the main reason I began to apply to graduate programs, but UCLA seems like it would potentially be a better fit. I am deadset on UCLA but am WELL aware that I might be thrown for a loop if I am offered admission to UC Berkeley. Do any social workers here have feedback on what you believe are some of the strongest points of draw backs to these programs? I see a lot of positives and honestly, not much draw back aside from not having too much formal experience conducting research.

 

Thank you!

[berkmswco2019]

I was choosing between UCLA and Cal for my MSW a couple years ago! I'm finishing up my MSW - CMH concentration at UC Berkeley right now and I have no regrets. Both are very good programs. It really depends on what area you plan to work/settle down in and what you're interested in, population or concentration-wise. If you're planning to stay around NorCal, go for Berkeley. They have an incredible placement network and you will get to know the resources in the bay area. I'm sure UCLA also has a strong placement network. The goodness of fit really depends on you and what your needs are! Berkeley's program has it's ups and downs like any other academic institution. Although, I've had little difficulty reaching out to faculty/field for the answers/learning/support that I feel like I might be missing. 

[Tlacuache]

22 hours ago, berkmswco2019 said:

I was choosing between UCLA and Cal for my MSW a couple years ago! I'm finishing up my MSW - CMH concentration at UC Berkeley right now and I have no regrets. Both are very good programs. It really depends on what area you plan to work/settle down in and what you're interested in, population or concentration-wise. If you're planning to stay around NorCal, go for Berkeley. They have an incredible placement network and you will get to know the resources in the bay area. I'm sure UCLA also has a strong placement network. The goodness of fit really depends on you and what your needs are! Berkeley's program has it's ups and downs like any other academic institution. Although, I've had little difficulty reaching out to faculty/field for the answers/learning/support that I feel like I might be missing. 

Oh fantastic! I am so glad to hear you've had a great experience. It looks like a wonderful program! What has your experience been in regards to research in your degree?