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important information
- Applications are open for Summer 2025! Apply by January 15, 2025. No application fee required.
- This program is open only to applicants residing within the United States.
- Our Advanced Standing program offers two flexible options: a one- or two-year in-person program that integrates select online courses for a versatile learning experience, and a two-year online program.
Our Program
The Loma Linda University MSW Advanced Standing 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.
At a Glance
- 52 quarter units (equivalent to 35 semester units)*
- Summer classes begin mid-July, allowing time following BSW graduation and approximately one month before beginning the MSW program
- 800 hours of practicum, including one bridging quarter integrating BSW experiences with the expectations of the advanced clinical practice practicum
- 1- and 2-year options (see curriculum guide for the 1-year option; contact the department about the 2-year option)
- Core courses taught on Tuesdays and Thursdays (except for summer), with practicum on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays
- Specialization in clinical practice
- See MSW Student Handbook for specific information regarding our Advanced Standing policies
- 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.
Student Story
What I admire most about the MSW program at Loma Linda University is its strong emphasis on diversity and inclusion. The program's focus on cultural competency has equipped me with the knowledge to effectively work with diverse populations in various social work settings. I am grateful to have gained essential skills, both for direct practice with clients and for roles that advocate for social justice.
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)