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important information
- Applications are open for Fall 2025! Apply by July 31, 2025. No application fee required. (No international students.)
- This in-person program incorporates a blend of traditional classroom experiences and some online courses to provide students with a versatile learning environment.
Our Program
The Loma Linda University MSW program emphasizes the biopsychosocial-spiritual approach to advanced clinical social work practice in behavioral health institutions and agencies. Students gain expertise in cutting-edge and evidence-based trauma- and resiliency-informed interventions that support prevention, early intervention, diagnosis, and treatment of children, adolescents, and adults. Experiential learning through Loma Linda University Health's internationally recognized health system and specialized community agencies provide students with advanced learning opportunities in integrated behavioral health, inpatient care, and global practice settings.
A whole-person care approach is utilized to promote wellness for individuals and families. The program is based on the institutional and professional values of compassion, integrity, excellence, freedom, and justice.
The Loma Linda University MSW program is specifically designed to provide you with:
- a meaningful career as a clinical social worker;
- required courses needed for LCSW licensure;
- preparation for advanced community and global practice within a diversity of behavioral health settings; and
- preparation for clinical and administrative leadership in behavioral health.
Student Story
Embracing the challenge of returning to school later in life was daunting, but the discovery of my true calling through Loma Linda University's MSW program felt like a divine answer. My passion for serving my community, both locally and globally, and my desire to embody the compassionate hands of Jesus Christ in this world find their fulfillment through LLU's program. I eagerly anticipate the journey ahead and feel deeply honored to be part of the LLU School of Behavioral Health family.
At a Glance
- 78 quarter units (equivalent to 52 semester units)
- 1080 hours of practicum, including one year of generalist practice and one year of advanced clinical practice
- 2-, 3-, and 4-year program options (see curriculum guides)
- Core courses taught on Tuesdays and Thursdays with practicum on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays
- Work-study available to qualified students in the amount of $18,511
- Specialization in clinical practice
- Accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
*When comparing programs, it is important to consider all costs, as many programs only post tuition costs without the associated fees.
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Play Therapy or Drug & Alcohol Counseling Certificate
Students entering an MSW degree program within the Department of Social Work and Social Ecology in academic year 2024-2025 who are interested in obtaining certification in Play Therapy or Drug & Alcohol Counseling will receive a tuition waiver for the certificate program of their choice. Courses taken as part of the Play Therapy certificate do not count toward the MSW degree (core requirements and electives). Students taking the Drug & Alcohol Counseling certificate can apply 6 units to their MSW program (these units do not qualify for a tuition waiver). These 6 units must be specified by their academic advisor. See tuition waiver amounts below.
- Play Therapy: 12 units (3 units per quarter at $1,125 for a total program tuition waiver of $4,500)
- Drug & Alcohol Counseling: 13 units (6 units taken as part of the MSW program, including religion; 4 units of practicum at $600 and 3 units at $2,733 for a total program tuition waiver of $3,333)