MSW Choices

[BPAUKER]

I am new to this forum but would like some input.  I have two options to choose from the first being USC School of Social Work or the University of Utah.  Both of the schools are top 60 in the nation, however there are several factors that come into play.  1st. Cost  2nd. Credibility in the Field  3rd. Placement post graduate..... The cost difference alone is enough to sway some.... But the USC name holds a lot of clout.... 

 

 

Help..... Please

[Purplescarves]

Did you get financial aid at USC? That would bring the cost down. If not, $45,000 for just tuition for a single year is a lot. I would talk to students and alumni about the 'clout'. To be honest, I've heard conflicting reviews. I don't know anything about Utah though. Have you visited? Talked to people who are familiar with the program? Looked at course offerings? Checked out the research interests of the professors?

[juilletmercredi]

Social work doesn't seem like one of those fields that is really prestige-driven.  It's also not a field with very high salaries.  If you have to borrow all or most of the cost at both schools, then Utah would be my choice.

[JungWild&Free]

Social work doesn't seem like one of those fields that is really prestige-driven.  It's also not a field with very high salaries.  If you have to borrow all or most of the cost at both schools, then Utah would be my choice.

 

This is so true.  My mother has an MSW and the prestige doesn't really seem to factor in (she went to a well-respected program).  If you are going to be a social worker, you will have a hard time repaying loans since it's not a very lucrative career. 

[biogirl2013]

Yep, prestige won't matter so much as your opportunities to get great practical/clinical experience as part of your program. Go with the cheaper option, and the one that will get your better experience in line with your career goals. (I worked in social work for a number of years, and know many people with MSWs.)