FAQ – Advanced Standing

Can I begin the program by taking summer school courses?

No, Advanced Standing (AS) students enter the program in September after they have been accepted into the program.

Do I need to take Research I?

Since most Advanced Standing students have had research coursework in their undergraduate programs, they are required to take the Research I proficiency exam to see if they have mastered this material. The exam is given in May and also at the start of the fall semester. You will receive information about the exam. Despite most students’ backgrounds it is highly recommended that students study for the exam using the text for the course. If you place out of the course, you do not need to replace it with another course.

Can I transfer in more courses than those accepted from my BSW program?

No, AS students have been afforded the most transfer credits allowed by the School at the time of their acceptance into the MSW program.

If I haven’t had much experience, how am I going to fare when I enter the field alongside students who are going into their second-year MSW placements?

While your BSW experience provided you with a foundation experience, should you or the Field Education Office ascertain in the beginning or along the way that you need a more in-depth experience, you may request or be asked to do an extended placement through the summer. Please discuss this with Field Education staff when you meet to discuss placement opportunities.

Can I do my placement at my job?

No, in order to offer Advanced Standing students a new and broadening experience, your one field placement cannot be at your place of employment.

Do I need to be in both summer terms next summer?

The AS program is a concentrated experience. Taking more courses during a term can be stressful and may detract from your ability to apply yourself fully to the educational experience you are receiving. We do not recommend adding more courses to any term. It is advisable to take two summer term courses during Summer I and then one course during Summer II.

When will I graduate?

When you have successfully completed the fall and spring semesters, you may walk with graduates in the May Commencement ceremony; your actual true graduation date and receipt of your diploma will be in September after your summer coursework is complete.

Does a September diploma mean I can’t take the LCSW exam until the fall?

No, the School has arranged with the licensing board that once your coursework is complete you can request a special annotated transcript that indicates to the board that you have completed your coursework for the MSW; this will allow you to apply for and then take the licensing exam even before you have your diploma in hand.

Can I be in the Human Service Management program (for macro students), the Group Work specialization or Family Therapy certificate program (for clinical students), or one of the dual degree programs?

Yes, you can. Be in touch with the coordinator/director of the program that interests you in order to plan the coursework you will need. In most cases your electives will be prescribed by the program.

Where can I get support as I go through the program?

Advanced Standing students are enrolled together in a non-credit integrative field seminar that meets more frequently in the fall and less so as the year progresses. In the seminar, you garner support via your classmates as well as from the director of the program, who facilitates this group experience. In addition, the director remains available to you throughout your experience for academic planning and support.