Masters of Social Work (M.S.W.)

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Application Fees : US$ 70

1. Academic Qualifications:

   • Postgraduate: To be eligible for admission to a postgraduate program at CSUDH, international students should have completed their undergraduate degree with a minimum academic percentage of 60% or above.                                                                                                         

2. English Language Proficiency:

   • IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 with no individual band score less than 6.5 is required.
   • TOEFL iBT: A minimum overall score of 80 in the TOEFL iBT is for postgraduate admissions.
   • DET (Duolingo English Test): An overall score of 105 or higher is usually accepted for postgraduate programs.
   • PTE (Pearson Test of English): A minimum PTE score of 53 is commonly required for postgraduate applicants.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        

3. Standardized Tests:

   • GRE (Graduate Record Examination): A minimum GRE score of 290 is required.

Scholarships for International Students at CSUDH

1. International Student Academic Scholarship: CSUDH offers academic scholarships to incoming international undergraduate students based on their academic achievements. These scholarships are competitive and typically cover a portion of tuition costs. Eligibility is based on GPA and standardized test scores.

2. CSUDH Foundation Scholarships: The CSUDH Foundation provides a variety of scholarships to both undergraduate and graduate international students. These scholarships may be based on merit, financial need, or specific academic programs. Students can apply for these scholarships through the CSUDH scholarship portal.

3. External Scholarships: International students are encouraged to explore external scholarship opportunities offered by organizations, governments, and foundations. CSUDH provides resources and guidance to help students search for and apply to these external scholarships.

4. Graduate Assistantships: For international graduate students, CSUDH offers graduate assistantship opportunities. These positions may include teaching assistantships, research assistantships, or administrative roles. In addition to a stipend, graduate assistants often receive a tuition fee waiver.

5. Cultural Scholarships: CSUDH values diversity and may offer cultural scholarships to international students who have demonstrated their commitment to promoting cultural understanding and inclusion on campus.

6. Athletic Scholarships: Exceptional student-athletes may have the opportunity to earn athletic scholarships if they join CSUDH's intercollegiate sports teams. These scholarships can help cover tuition, room, board, and other related expenses.

7. Country-Specific Scholarships: Some countries and governments offer scholarships to students pursuing higher education abroad. International students should explore scholarship opportunities from their home countries.

8. Graduate Fellowships: Graduate students pursuing research-intensive programs may be eligible for fellowships that cover tuition and provide a stipend. These fellowships are often discipline-specific and highly competitive.

9. Honors Scholarships: CSUDH offers honors programs for academically outstanding students. Participants in these programs may be eligible for honors scholarships.

10. Community College Transfer Scholarships: International students who transfer from U.S. community colleges to CSUDH may be eligible for transfer scholarships. These scholarships are designed to facilitate a smooth transition to a four-year institution.

California State University, Dominguez Hills (CSUDH) offers a Master of Social Work (M.S.W.) program that equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to pursue diverse and fulfilling career opportunities in the field of social work.  

1. Clinical Social Worker: Graduates of the M.S.W. program often pursue careers as clinical social workers. They provide therapy and counseling services to individuals and families dealing with a wide range of emotional and mental health issues. Clinical social workers work in various settings, including mental health clinics, hospitals, and private practice.

2. Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW): After completing the required supervised clinical hours and passing licensure exams, M.S.W. graduates can become LCSWs. This licensure allows them to diagnose and treat mental health disorders, making a significant impact in the field of behavioral health.

3. Medical Social Worker: Medical social workers work in healthcare settings, such as hospitals, nursing homes, and hospices, providing support and counseling to patients and their families. They help individuals cope with medical diagnoses, treatment options, and end-of-life decisions.

4. School Social Worker: M.S.W. graduates can work in schools, supporting students and families with issues like bullying, attendance problems, and behavioral challenges. They also play a crucial role in helping students with disabilities access the appropriate resources and support.

5. Child Welfare Social Worker: Child welfare social workers, often employed by government agencies or non-profit organizations, work to ensure the safety and well-being of children in at-risk situations. They investigate cases of abuse and neglect and help families access needed services.

6. Geriatric Social Worker: Geriatric social workers specialize in assisting older adults with physical, mental, and emotional challenges. They may work in nursing homes, senior centers, or as part of home healthcare teams.

7. Hospice and Palliative Care Social Worker: These professionals provide support and counseling to individuals and families facing end-of-life decisions and hospice care. They help patients and their loved ones navigate the emotional and practical aspects of this challenging time.

8. Substance Abuse Counselor: Graduates can become substance abuse counselors, helping individuals and families affected by addiction. They may work in rehabilitation centers, outpatient clinics, and group therapy settings.

9. Mental Health Counselor: M.S.W. graduates can work as mental health counselors, providing therapeutic services to individuals with a range of mental health conditions. They work in mental health agencies, private practices, and hospitals.

10. Family Therapist: Family therapists specialize in addressing relational issues and family dynamics. They work with families to improve communication and resolve conflicts.

11. Community Organizer: Some graduates choose to work as community organizers, advocating for social change, and coordinating efforts to address community needs, such as affordable housing, healthcare access, and substance abuse prevention.

12. Policy Analyst: M.S.W. graduates can engage in policy analysis and advocacy, shaping social policies and legislation at local, state, or national levels. They work for government agencies, non-profit organizations, and advocacy groups.

13. Human Resources Specialist: With their understanding of human behavior and group dynamics, M.S.W. graduates are well-equipped to work in human resources, focusing on employee well-being, diversity, and conflict resolution.

14. Researcher or Academic: Graduates interested in research and education can pursue careers in academia or research institutions, contributing to the advancement of social work knowledge and practice.

15. Non-profit Manager: Many non-profit organizations hire M.S.W. graduates as managers or directors. They oversee programs and services that address a variety of societal issues, including homelessness, poverty, and mental health.

16. Correctional Social Worker: Correctional social workers work within the criminal justice system, providing support and rehabilitation services to incarcerated individuals.

17. International Social Work: Some graduates choose to work in international social work, addressing global issues such as poverty, healthcare access, and human rights.

18. LGBTQ+ Support Specialist: Graduates interested in LGBTQ+ issues may work as support specialists, providing counseling and resources to LGBTQ+ individuals and their communities.