California MSW schools

[Ashamc9]

I'm looking into applying to MSW programs in California for Fall 2013. I know NYC schools like the back of my hand but need a little assistance with these schools. There are so many Cal State schools, which one has the better program for a mental health concentration and/or child welfare? I've been looking into CSULA, CSUN, UCLA, and USC (Pricey) so far. Do any of the schools offer a part time or an OYR program? Do any of these schools have small to medium sized classes? None of the schools have posted their deadlines for Fall 2013 as of yet, is mid December a good time for them to receive my application? Any assistance with this will be greatly appreciated. Any topics that I didn't mention and you feel that I've missed please feel free to let me know.

Thanks in advance!

[citychild]

Not sure if this will help but I found a great blog by a student in the MSW program at UCLA.

http://thenudgepatrol.blogspot.com/

[MSW Bound]

Most Cali schools, if not all are great - I will be attending CSUDH in the fall. Most individuals prefer CSULB and UCLA; however, UCLA does not have a specific concentration outside of micro and macro social work so you will not have your specific mental health concentration. I selected CSUDH because their platform for their program is race relations and the part it plays within society and social settings - hope that makes sense. I would research where you will live and make a decision according to THAT! FYI, Wilshire Blvd exit off the 405 will be closed for about a year or so, you may want to take that into consideration.

Regarding applications, I would try and turn my app in shortly after the application period opens. Review the applications for the 2011-2012 application season - there is not much change from those apps and the apps for next season. 2010-2011 application season, I waited and turned my info in very late and did not gain acceptance, I also did not receive notification of the rejection and lack of space until July or early August. Not sure if you are moving from out of state; however, you will want to know your status ASAP so that you can make plans. This year, I turned my app in around October, and received an early Christmas gift!!! Any who, hope some of my info helps!

[Ashamc9]

MSW Bound, Thank you for your advice!

[allyba]

CSUN also has a fantastic program. That's where I am going but they do not have specific concentrations. The whole program is based on social work in an urban setting like LA. Your field placements would probably be what put you more into a mental health concentration. The office is really friendly and I am sure if you contact them in the fall they will give you a lot of info. They do require an interview as part of their application process. Do apply early. The CA schools are getting a lot of MSW apps!

With all the great CSUs, I just don't think it is necessary to pay more for a UC or that crazy pricetag for USC unless you have a really specific and good reason for going there. In the LA area people from all the nearby schools can end up competing for the same placements anyway. A lot depends on you. Even though I am at CSUN I could try to go for the same 2nd year placement someone at UCLA also wants.

[allyba]

That being said I hear CSULB is one of the more popular for mental health.

[MSW Bound]

You're welcome!

CSULB only has two concentrations - Children and Youth and gerontology - no mental health concentration.

CSUDH, Fullerton, and CSULA or and high-priced USC are the only schools I recall having a mental health or community building focus.

[allyba]

Huh, wonder why CSULB seems to be popular with mental health folks. It wasn't a school I really looked into. Maybe they are able to get a lot of spots for the mental health stipend.

That's another thing to check out if you are looking at CA schools. There are some stipend programs available. Maybe ask the schools about how many ppl get & apply for the stipends each year if that is something you are interested in and can commit to the work period after graduation.

[ashley222]

I'm in the same boat as you! I have two questions - Should I still apply early if I'm currently an undergrad? I like the idea of getting my apps in sooner rather than later, but if I turn them in before late December, I won't have my senior year fall semester grades to show. Also, I'm applying from out of state as well. Do you guys think being an out of state applicants helps or hurts us, or doesn't make a difference?

The mental health concentration stuff cleared some things up for me, thanks for the input

[MSW Bound]

I'm in the same boat as you! I have two questions - Should I still apply early if I'm currently an undergrad? I like the idea of getting my apps in sooner rather than later, but if I turn them in before late December, I won't have my senior year fall semester grades to show. Also, I'm applying from out of state as well. Do you guys think being an out of state applicants helps or hurts us, or doesn't make a difference?

The mental health concentration stuff cleared some things up for me, thanks for the input

You will not need all of your grades. Most apps have a space for you to add classes you plan to take or class you have taken and grades have yet to post. If I were you I would attach a letter explaining your reasoning for not including your grades. You can apply even though your grades have not posted. Get your app in ASAP!

[creativesocialworker]

Hiii. I'm a UCLA MSW. UCLA has 2 concentrations, micro and macro, but there are a number of specializations under that. Children/families, mental health, gerontology, health, and nonprofit sector services. Under children/families there is also child welfare and school social work, where you would get a PPS Credential through the program (what I'm doing). Let me know if you have any questions lstockly@ucla.edu