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Master of Social Work Program Admissions

The Department of Social Work offers a two-year MSW program and an MSW flex program. The two-year MSW program is administered by the Department of Social Work and delivered on Fullerton’s main campus. Courses in the two-year program are scheduled on weekdays. The MSW flex program is administered through Extension and International Programs, formerly University Extended Education, and is delivered at CSUF's main campus. Courses in the MSW flex program are scheduled on weekday evenings. The MSW flex program is subject to all the fee and registration requirements of Extension and International Programs.

Students are admitted to the MSW programs during the Fall semester only. The admission cycle for Fall 2026 will begin on October 1, 2025. If you have any questions prior to submitting your application, you may contact the Department of Social Work Admissions Coordinator (657-278-3116) or the MSW Prospective Student Advisor.

Both the University (Cal State Apply) and Department of Social Work applications are required for admission to the MSW program. 

ADMISSIONS INFO

  • Fall admission only
  • Bachelor’s degree
  • An educational foundation in Liberal Arts/Social Sciences. If you have a bachelor’s degree from either the University of California or the California State University systems, you meet the liberal arts requirement. 
  • Minimum GPA of 3.0 for the last 60 semester or 90 quarter units
  • Graduate Record Examination (optional)
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Paid, volunteer, or internship experience relevant to social welfare
  • Personal statement
  • Interview with admissions committee

NOTICE TO STUDENTS RE: PROFESSIONAL LICENSURE AND CERTIFICATION

California State University programs for professions that require licensure or certification are intended to prepare the student to meet California licensure and certification requirements. Admission into programs for professions that require licensure and certification does not guarantee that students will obtain a license or certificate. Licensure and certification requirements are set by agencies that are not controlled by or affiliated with the California State University and licensure and certification requirements can change at any time.

The California State University has not determined whether its programs meet other states’ educational or professional requirements for licensure and certification.  Students enrolled in a California State University program who are planning to pursue licensure or certification in other states are responsible for determining whether they will meet their state’s requirements for licensure or certification.   This disclosure is made pursuant to 34 CFR §668.43(a)(5)(v)(C).