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

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Application Fees : US$ 120

Academic Requirements:

• A completed bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution.
• A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent) is  required.  
• For postgraduate programs, applicants are expected to have a minimum academic average of 60% or above in their previous studies.
   

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS (International English Language Testing System):

  • An overall score of 6.5 or higher.
  • No individual band score less than 6.0.
     

• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) iBT (Internet-Based Test):

  • A minimum total score of 80 or higher.
     

• DET (Duolingo English Test):

  • A score of 105 or higher.

Youngstown State University (YSU) offers several scholarships and financial aid opportunities for international students to help make their education more affordable. These scholarships are highly competitive, and eligibility criteria may vary.

1. Global Leadership Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to academically talented and highly motivated international students. It provides financial support for tuition and is renewable for up to eight semesters. Eligibility is based on a student's academic record and standardized test scores.

2. American-Midwest Scholarship: YSU offers this scholarship to undergraduate international students. It covers a portion of tuition costs and is based on academic merit.

3. Athletic Scholarships: For students with exceptional athletic abilities, YSU provides athletic scholarships. These scholarships are awarded to student-athletes who participate in YSU's sports programs.

4. Graduate Assistantships: YSU offers graduate assistantships to eligible international students pursuing master's and doctoral programs. These assistantships provide a stipend and may include tuition remission.

5. Non-Resident Tuition Scholarships: Some scholarships are designed to offset the higher out-of-state tuition costs for international students. These awards help reduce the overall tuition burden.

6. International Student Scholarships: YSU provides general scholarships for international students to support their academic journey. These scholarships are based on merit, and the selection process is highly competitive.

7. Honors College Scholarships: High-achieving international students may be eligible for Honors College scholarships. These scholarships offer additional funding for students in the Honors College program.

8. School-Specific Scholarships: Various schools and colleges within YSU may offer scholarships specific to their academic disciplines. Students pursuing particular majors or fields of study should inquire about school-specific scholarship opportunities.

9. External Scholarships: YSU encourages international students to explore external scholarships offered by organizations, foundations, or home country governments. These external scholarships can help cover educational expenses.

To apply for YSU scholarships, international students typically need to submit scholarship applications, academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and possibly a personal statement. The specific requirements and deadlines may vary for each scholarship.

Earning a Master of Social Work (M.S.W.) degree from Youngstown State University opens the door to a diverse range of career prospects in the field of social work. This comprehensive program equips students with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience necessary to make a meaningful impact on the lives of individuals, families, and communities.

1. Clinical Social Worker: M.S.W. graduates can pursue a clinical social worker role, providing therapy, counseling, and support to individuals dealing with mental health issues, substance abuse, or emotional challenges. Clinical social workers often work in hospitals, mental health clinics, or private practice.

2. Medical Social Worker: Hospitals, nursing homes, and healthcare facilities employ medical social workers to assist patients and their families in navigating complex healthcare systems, addressing emotional needs, and ensuring access to necessary resources.

3. Child Welfare Social Worker: Working with child protective services or nonprofit organizations, child welfare social workers focus on protecting children from neglect or abuse. They assess family situations, provide counseling, and determine if removal from a dangerous environment is necessary.

4. School Social Worker: M.S.W. graduates may find fulfilling careers as school social workers, supporting students' academic success and emotional well-being. They work with teachers, parents, and administrators to create a positive and effective learning environment.

5. Mental Health Social Worker: These professionals assist clients facing mental health challenges, such as depression, anxiety, and addiction. They provide therapy, support, and connect clients with appropriate resources.

6. Geriatric Social Worker: As the population ages, there's a growing demand for social workers who specialize in working with older adults. They provide counseling, access to services, and support for elderly individuals and their families.

7. Substance Abuse Counselor: M.S.W. graduates can become substance abuse counselors, helping individuals recover from addiction and develop healthier, drug-free lifestyles. They work in rehabilitation centers, outpatient clinics, and private practice.

8. Community Outreach Coordinator: In this role, social workers facilitate community programs, advocate for social change, and help underserved populations access critical resources.

9. Policy Advocate: M.S.W. graduates can become policy advocates, working for government agencies, nonprofits, or advocacy groups to influence social policies and address systemic issues in healthcare, education, or social justice.

10. Private Practice: Some social workers choose to establish private practices, offering individual, family, or group counseling services. This path provides autonomy and the opportunity to specialize in specific areas of interest.

11. Hospice and Palliative Care Social Worker: These professionals help patients and families navigate end-of-life care, providing emotional support and guidance during difficult times.