Commonwealth University Master of Social Work program earns accreditation

Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania’s Master of Social Work program has been awarded full accreditation through the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).

The culmination of a three-year progressive self-study and rigorous scrutiny by CSWE, the accreditation is retroactive to the program’s inception in August 2021. The program’s 30 alumni are now authorized to take the Licensed Social Worker (LSW) licensing exam. There are currently 32 students in the program.

Program director Andy Dunlap attributes the program’s popularity with students to the personalized experience. “This is an innovative, primarily in-person program. We focus on providing a great hands-on, in-classroom experience for students.”

“Accreditation ensures that Commonwealth University MSW students are provided a standardized, rigorous education. One of the things that CSWE looks at is institutional resources and commitment to the program,” adds Dunlap. “The accreditation is a reflection of the strength of the university as well as the program.”

Commonwealth’s MSW is a two-year program for people who’ve earned bachelor’s degrees, not limited to just social work. Applicants with a bachelor’s degree in social work may apply for “advanced standing,” which can reduce the program time by up to two semesters. Classes are scheduled in blocks two evenings a week on the Bloomsburg campus.

“Field placements are required in this program we have great relationships with the agencies where we place our students,” says Tammy Carson, director of MSW field education. “Agencies want our graduates. They’ve been waiting for us to announce that we are accredited.”

Agencies that have hosted Commonwealth students and hired graduates include Geisinger, CMSU, KidsPeace, and child welfare agencies.

“Achieving accreditation also opens doors for the program and our students,” says Carson. “Several important incentive programs for MSW students will now be available to our students.”

“Commonwealth’s dedicated faculty have invested in this program and our mission, to train the next generation of social work leaders,” says Dunlap. “With CSWE’s endorsement, we are ready to build on our program’s success.”