Fall 2015 Applicants

[mswperson]

I appreciate honesty. Thanks a lot. Sucks that I can't apply now, though. The struggle is real...lol. Thanks again.

[Kristopher]

Daisy isn't wrong, but it's not unheard of to get into programs without social work experience. You also have volunteered already, that's good experience and more than I had. I've posted this here before and I'll posit it again:

 

GPA is just part of the picture that programs look at. Most programs I have seen require GRE scores for those under 3.0 in order to help bolster it. MSW programs look at much more than GPA. Work/volunteer experience, LOR, and personal statement are all considered. I would say that out of many grad school programs, MSW programs don't weight GPA as heavily as other programs. I am sure at the very top tier schools like Michigan or Columbia GPA may matter more since they get a ton of applicants. If you search this message board you'll find many people get into programs with GPAs below 3.0. Don't worry about prestige unless you want to obtain a PhD and become a professor. Going to an accredited program and having relevant field placements are what is important.

 

Personally, I only applied to one school: Ohio State. I had a 3.04 undergrad GPA (3.5 last two years/60 credits) and no direct social work experience. I obtained solid LOR and explained how my work experience in retail and experience in my personal life motivated me to obtain my MSW. I had experience ONLY working in retail sales and I highlighted how similarities to working with people, solving problems, and finding solutions was similar to clinical social work.

 

Social Work is a field where individual experiences and circumstance matters. Schools don't necessarily want everyone with a 3.8 GPA. MSW programs "love" to see stories where someone didn't have a high GPA because they had to work two jobs to support family, or other reasons. It's experiences like that which make great social workers, not necessarily good grades.

[daisydukes]

 

Daisy isn't wrong, but it's not unheard of to get into programs without social work experience. You also have volunteered already, that's good experience and more than I had. I've posted this here before and I'll posit it again:

 

GPA is just part of the picture that programs look at. Most programs I have seen require GRE scores for those under 3.0 in order to help bolster it. MSW programs look at much more than GPA. Work/volunteer experience, LOR, and personal statement are all considered. I would say that out of many grad school programs, MSW programs don't weight GPA as heavily as other programs. I am sure at the very top tier schools like Michigan or Columbia GPA may matter more since they get a ton of applicants. If you search this message board you'll find many people get into programs with GPAs below 3.0. Don't worry about prestige unless you want to obtain a PhD and become a professor. Going to an accredited program and having relevant field placements are what is important.

 

Personally, I only applied to one school: Ohio State. I had a 3.04 undergrad GPA (3.5 last two years/60 credits) and no direct social work experience. I obtained solid LOR and explained how my work experience in retail and experience in my personal life motivated me to obtain my MSW. I had experience ONLY working in retail sales and I highlighted how similarities to working with people, solving problems, and finding solutions was similar to clinical social work.

 

Social Work is a field where individual experiences and circumstance matters. Schools don't necessarily want everyone with a 3.8 GPA. MSW programs "love" to see stories where someone didn't have a high GPA because they had to work two jobs to support family, or other reasons. It's experiences like that which make great social workers, not necessarily good grades.

 

They look at statement of purpose too dont they?

[Kristopher]

They look at statement of purpose too dont they?

 Yes that is what I said "Work/volunteer experience, LOR, and personal statement are all considered."

[daisydukes]

 Yes that is what I said "Work/volunteer experience, LOR, and personal statement are all considered."

statement of purpose and personal statement are two separate things

[esp.msw]

statement of purpose and personal statement are two separate things

Personal statement, statement of purpose, letter of intent....they are all the same thing. 

[SaraFL]

I think you should go ahead and try, you might be pleasantly surprised.  I was really, really afraid I wouldn't get accepted.  I had barely a 3.0 because of various personal circumstances, my GRE verbal was really good but math was average and writing was 3 (I am a fairly strong writer but didn't understand what GRE was looking for/didn't prep or study).  I had some volunteer experience and just started a job in social services.  I was admitted to a state school, the only one I applied to because I can't afford to move right now.  You could get in and that would be great.  If you don't get in, yeah it'll suck but at least you'll know what you need to work on before applying next term.  Good luck!

[daisydukes]

Personal statement, statement of purpose, letter of intent....they are all the same thing. 

If it's the same thing then why do some schools, (San Diego State, CSU Long beach, CSU San Jose etc.) both require a personal statement and a statement of purpose?

[esp.msw]

If it's the same thing then why do some schools, (San Diego State, CSU Long beach, CSU San Jose etc.) both require a personal statement and a statement of purpose?

 

Can you please elaborate? I've just checked the application packet for CSULB, and while it does ask for a personal statement, nowhere does it state an additional written response for a statement of purpose is required (probably because it is the same thing). Are you referring to the graduate application? If so, you should know that under that section you're supposed to state something along the lines of "sent directly to department".

[daisydukes]

Can you please elaborate? I've just checked the application packet for CSULB, and while it does ask for a personal statement, nowhere does it state an additional written response for a statement of purpose is required (probably because it is the same thing). Are you referring to the graduate application? If so, you should know that under that section you're supposed to state something along the lines of "sent directly to department".

 

Yes, I am referring to the application on CSU Mentor. There is a section on there that states "Write a brief statement (500 words/3500 characters or less including punctuation, but not spaces) describing your reason(s) for pursuing graduate or postbaccalaureate study. Include any additional information concerning your preparation that is pertinent to the objective specified. You may also send a resume and/or letters of reference if required by department. "

 

And theres also a section thats a part of the MSW application that states

 

"The Personal Statement must be written by you without the use of an editor. It should be

typed, double-spaced, 12 pt. font, and 4-6 pages in length. Your Personal Statement must address each of

the questions and areas of discussion below. (IMPORTANT NOTE: In answering these questions, make

sure not to use names or information that might violate the confidentiality of the individuals you

decide to use in your descriptions.)"

 

So, they have different instructions

[esp.msw]

 

Yes, I am referring to the application on CSU Mentor. There is a section on there that states "Write a brief statement (500 words/3500 characters or less including punctuation, but not spaces) describing your reason(s) for pursuing graduate or postbaccalaureate study. Include any additional information concerning your preparation that is pertinent to the objective specified. You may also send a resume and/or letters of reference if required by department. "

 

And theres also a section thats a part of the MSW application that states

 

"The Personal Statement must be written by you without the use of an editor. It should be

typed, double-spaced, 12 pt. font, and 4-6 pages in length. Your Personal Statement must address each of

the questions and areas of discussion below. (IMPORTANT NOTE: In answering these questions, make

sure not to use names or information that might violate the confidentiality of the individuals you

decide to use in your descriptions.)"

 

So, they have different instructions

 

 

You should contact admissions or attend an informational meeting. They all have very specific guidelines. I didn't have to submit an extra "statement of purpose", rather, under that section (as i've mentioned before) you write something along the lines of "sent directly to the department". I would highly suggest that you reach out to these schools directly and inform yourself. 

[Kristopher]

I agree, from my experience only the specific departments require letters. The graduate office usually just verifies that you meet the requirements for admission that submits your stuff to the specific department.

[daisydukes]

You should contact admissions or attend an informational meeting. They all have very specific guidelines. I didn't have to submit an extra "statement of purpose", rather, under that section (as i've mentioned before) you write something along the lines of "sent directly to the department". I would highly suggest that you reach out to these schools directly and inform yourself. 

ok i will thanks

[snaddaf]

Hey all, 

 

I will be a second year MSW candidate at the University of Washington starting this fall. I am concentrating in Mental Health Practice and will be interning as a Child and Family Therapist at the Community Psychiatric Clinic in North Seattle for my advanced practicum.

 

I am happy to read personal statements and offer feedback to those who want it. Shoot me a message if you're interested!

Hey! I think I already sent you a message, however im new to this website so I would really love to take your offer on reading my personal statements! I am stressing and having a hard time applying to schools! it would be great to get any tips or help from you! 

 

Thanks again

 

Saman Naddaf

[MSWapplicant7346]

Does anyone know any acceptance rates? I can't seem to find that information anywhere and the admissions office seem reluctant to tell me. I am applying to University of Washington, University of Denver, Smith COllege, NYU Silver, and Simmons. 

 

Thanks!

[paige_elizabeth10]

Does anyone know any acceptance rates? I can't seem to find that information anywhere and the admissions office seem reluctant to tell me. I am applying to University of Washington, University of Denver, Smith COllege, NYU Silver, and Simmons. 

 

Thanks!

 

I was accepted to UW in spring 2013 (I had applied that December), and during orientation for Autumn quarter folks from the admissions office told my cohort that approximately 600 individuals applied to the program and that UW only accepted around 110-125 people (I can't remember exactly how many people are in my cohort). So it came out to around a 25% acceptance rate. I can't speak to last year's admissions, however. 

Edited October 17, 2014 by paige_elizabeth10

[MotoX]

Does anybody know if school social workers or counselors are covered under the public student loan forgiveness (pslf)? I have heard some say it is covered and some say it's not. I know that government employed social workers are but unsure if schools qualify. Any information is greatly appreciated. Thanks.

[MSWapplicant7346]

I was accepted to UW in spring 2013 (I had applied that December), and during orientation for Autumn quarter folks from the admissions office told my cohort that approximately 600 individuals applied to the program and that UW only accepted around 110-125 people (I can't remember exactly how many people are in my cohort). So it came out to around a 25% acceptance rate. I can't speak to last year's admissions, however. 

 

Thanks so much!!

[danibo]

Hello All!

 

I am current BSW student with a 3.4 overall GPA (excluding my senior year courses). 

 

My top choice is USC, and I am applying early! Has anyone been accepted to USC or knows how fair their admittance rate is?

 

Also, if anyone would like to read my personal statement, let me know I appreciate the help. 

[Deez]

Good day all

 

I graduated in 2010 with a Bachelor in Psychology. Through the Department of Mentall Health and CSU Dominguez hills, I was able to be certified as a mental health rehabilitation specialist in 2012.

 

Recently, I submitted my applications to CSU Long Beach and Dominguez for their Social Work programs. My gpa was a 2.95 so I'm extrememly nervous about getting accepted to either program. I would've applied to USC or UCLA my obviously my gpa wasn't up to their standards so I'm going with the the Cal State's (my favorite anyway).

 

I got solid letter of recommendations (clinical supervisor,felid supervisor,academic professor) and my personal statement was legit. My only concern is the gpa factor.

 

Would a 2.95 gpa hender my chances of getting accepted in a MSW program for next fall?

[esp.msw]

Good day all

 

I graduated in 2010 with a Bachelor in Psychology. Through the Department of Mentall Health and CSU Dominguez hills, I was able to be certified as a mental health rehabilitation specialist in 2012.

 

Recently, I submitted my applications to CSU Long Beach and Dominguez for their Social Work programs. My gpa was a 2.95 so I'm extrememly nervous about getting accepted to either program. I would've applied to USC or UCLA my obviously my gpa wasn't up to their standards so I'm going with the the Cal State's (my favorite anyway).

 

I got solid letter of recommendations (clinical supervisor,felid supervisor,academic professor) and my personal statement was legit. My only concern is the gpa factor.

 

Would a 2.95 gpa hender my chances of getting accepted in a MSW program for next fall?

 

 

Nope, they look at your overall application. I was accepted to USC with a 2.9 GPA. Ironically, I was not accepted to any of the CSU's I applied for. Keep in mind that CSU's receive a much higher amount of applicants (impacted programs) based on that alone, they are much more competitive. 

[Deez]

Nope, they look at your overall application. I was accepted to USC with a 2.9 GPA. Ironically, I was not accepted to any of the CSU's I applied for. Keep in mind that CSU's receive a much higher amount of applicants (impacted programs) based on that alone, they are much more competitive. 

 

I'm just not big on USC for some reason. I'd rather do a CSU and come out with the same experience gained as a USC student. Plus that $17,000 vs $80,000 graqd school loan makes a difference too. I have roots at both school so I will be keeping my fingers crossed!!!

[esp.msw]

I'm just not big on USC for some reason. I'd rather do a CSU and come out with the same experience gained as a USC student. Plus that $17,000 vs $80,000 graqd school loan makes a difference too. I have roots at both school so I will be keeping my fingers crossed!!!

Agreed. I ended up declining their offer because i could not justify that much money.

[Nochal]

Finally got my last letter of recommendation submitted to complete University of Michigan's application. Having everything submitted is such a relief!

 

My head is telling me to apply to a back-up school, but UofM is my definite top choice. I'll be really disappointed if I don't get in and end up going to another school. I applied for advanced standing with my BSW and "should" get accepted (3.97 GPA,  a letter of recommendation from a professor in UofM's program, and I worked on my statement all Summer), but there's always that chance of rejection. Based on snooping around these forums, it looks like UofM has decisions for Dec 1 applicants in mid February. 

 

I'm crossing my fingers for everyone applying!

[kelseygwynne]

Finally got my last letter of recommendation submitted to complete University of Michigan's application. Having everything submitted is such a relief!

 

My head is telling me to apply to a back-up school, but UofM is my definite top choice. I'll be really disappointed if I don't get in and end up going to another school. I applied for advanced standing with my BSW and "should" get accepted (3.97 GPA,  a letter of recommendation from a professor in UofM's program, and I worked on my statement all Summer), but there's always that chance of rejection. Based on snooping around these forums, it looks like UofM has decisions for Dec 1 applicants in mid February. 

 

I'm crossing my fingers for everyone applying!

 

 

Good luck! UM is my top choice too, and even though I applied to other schools I can't help but feel like even if I get in other places Michigan is the only place I'll want to be. I hope February comes quickly for us!