Master of Social Work

Cleveland State University (CSU) welcomes international students who are looking to pursue their postgraduate studies in a diverse and dynamic academic environment.

1. Academic Qualifications:

   • A completed bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution.
   • Minimum academic achievement of 65% or higher in the applicant's previous academic studies.
      

2. English Language Proficiency: Accepted English language proficiency tests and their minimum score requirements include:

   • PTE (Pearson Test of English): Minimum score of 50.
      
   • DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 100.
      
   • TOEFL iBT (Internet-Based Test): Overall score of 79.
      
   • IELTS: Overall score of 6.5 with no band less than 6.
      

3. Standardized Tests:

   •  GRE score requirement 310

Cleveland State University (CSU) offers a range of scholarships and financial aid opportunities to support international students in pursuing their education in the United States. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, leadership qualities, and contributions to the campus community. 

1. Global Diversity Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to incoming international students who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievements and a commitment to promoting diversity and inclusivity. The scholarship amount varies and is renewable for up to four years based on continued academic success.

2. Merit Scholarships: CSU offers merit-based scholarships to both undergraduate and graduate international students who exhibit strong academic performance. These scholarships are awarded based on factors such as GPA, test scores, and other achievements.

3. Graduate Assistantships: CSU provides graduate assistantships that offer a stipend and often include a tuition waiver. These assistantships allow international graduate students to gain valuable research or teaching experience while pursuing their studies.

4. CSU Foundation Scholarships: The CSU Foundation offers various scholarships to both domestic and international students across different academic disciplines. Students can apply for these scholarships based on their field of study and other criteria.

5. Athletic Scholarships: International students who excel in sports may have the opportunity to receive athletic scholarships if they participate in CSU's intercollegiate athletic programs.

6. International Student Scholarships: CSU provides scholarships specifically tailored to international students to help cover tuition costs and ease the financial burden of studying abroad.

7. Graduate Scholar Awards: These awards are granted to exceptional graduate students who demonstrate leadership, academic excellence, and potential for contributions to their field.

8. Honors Program Scholarships: The CSU Honors Program offers scholarships to academically talented students who participate in the program. These scholarships are designed to enhance the honors experience.

9. External Scholarships: CSU encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities, both in their home countries and globally, to help fund their education.

It's important to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines may vary depending on the academic program and level of study

Graduates of the Master of Social Work (MSW) program at Cleveland State University (CSU) are prepared for a wide range of rewarding career opportunities in the field of social work. The Master of Social Work program at Cleveland State University prepares graduates for diverse and meaningful career opportunities in clinical practice, community advocacy, policy analysis, research, education, and leadership roles. With their advanced training, specialized skills, and commitment to social justice, MSW graduates make a positive impact in the lives of individuals, families, communities, and society as a whole.

1. Clinical Social Worker: MSW graduates can pursue careers as clinical social workers, providing counseling, therapy, and support services to individuals, families, and groups facing mental health challenges, trauma, addiction, or interpersonal conflicts. They may work in settings such as mental health clinics, hospitals, schools, or private practice.

2. Medical Social Worker: MSW graduates may work as medical social workers in healthcare settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, or hospice care facilities. They provide psychosocial support, care coordination, and assistance with healthcare decision-making for patients and their families, addressing issues related to illness, disability, or end-of-life care.

3. School Social Worker: MSW graduates can pursue careers as school social workers, supporting students' academic success and social-emotional well-being in educational settings. They provide counseling, crisis intervention, and behavior management services, collaborate with teachers and administrators, and connect students and families with community resources.

4. Community Organizer: MSW graduates interested in community practice and social action can work as community organizers or community development specialists, mobilizing communities, advocating for social justice, and addressing systemic inequalities. They may work for non-profit organizations, grassroots movements, or social service agencies, leading initiatives to promote community empowerment and social change.

5. Child Welfare Specialist: MSW graduates may work in child welfare agencies, advocating for the safety, well-being, and permanency of children and families involved in the child welfare system. They assess family needs, develop case plans, provide supportive services, and facilitate reunification, adoption, or foster care placements, ensuring that children receive appropriate care and support.

6. Substance Abuse Counselor: MSW graduates with expertise in addiction treatment can work as substance abuse counselors in rehabilitation centers, outpatient clinics, or correctional facilities. They provide counseling, support groups, and relapse prevention services to individuals struggling with substance abuse disorders, helping them achieve and maintain sobriety.

7. Policy Analyst: MSW graduates may work as policy analysts or researchers, analyzing social policies, advocating for legislative changes, and promoting social justice initiatives at local, state, or national levels. They may work for government agencies, advocacy organizations, research institutes, or think tanks, influencing policies related to healthcare, education, poverty alleviation, or social welfare.

8. Program Coordinator: MSW graduates can work as program coordinators or managers in social service agencies, overseeing programs and services aimed at addressing specific social issues or serving vulnerable populations. They develop program goals, manage budgets, supervise staff, and evaluate program effectiveness, ensuring that clients receive high-quality support and assistance.

9. Geriatric Social Worker: MSW graduates may specialize in geriatric social work, providing support and advocacy services to older adults and their families. They may work in settings such as senior centers, assisted living facilities, or home health agencies, helping seniors access healthcare, social services, and long-term care options to maintain independence and quality of life.

10. Researcher or Educator: MSW graduates interested in academia or research can pursue careers as social work researchers, educators, or faculty members in colleges, universities, or research institutions. They may conduct research studies, publish scholarly articles, and teach courses in social work theory, practice, or policy, preparing future generations of social workers and advancing knowledge in the field.