What’s it like to be a student in our Worcester Hybrid Program?
Our Worcester Hybrid MSW Program is designed for working professionals living in the Central Mass. area who are looking to advance their careers or change careers entirely with a top-ranked MSW program from Boston University. We combine the best of classroom-based and online learning, offering the same top-ranked curriculum as the Boston program with all courses taught by BU School of Social Work faculty.
You’ll progress through the program with the same small community of students, developing close bonds with a group of peers as you share your graduate journey. You’ll also build a local network of professional relationships that will benefit you as you seek career development and professional advancement.
Hear from a recent student about her experience in the Worcester Hybrid Program:
Why I Chose BUSSW’s Worcester Hybrid Program
Explore the Worcester Experience
Cohort Learning Model
- In-person classes are held once a week on Tuesday night during your first four semesters.
- Ask any hybrid program student about their experience and you will hear all about our unique and supportive cohort model, which provides a student-centered, shared learning experience that greatly benefits busy adult learners.
- You’ll develop close bonds and friendships with a group of your peers as you share your graduate educational experience.
Online Learning Community
In your fifth semester, you’ll shift to online courses that blend a highly interactive Live Classroom session, meeting on Sunday or Monday evening, with independent work and self-paced learning taking place throughout the week. This added flexibility in your schedule makes it easier to balance your practicum experience, an essential component of your MSW journey.
In addition to course content that includes online lectures, videos, interactive animations, discussion boards, electronic portfolios, and more, the Live Classroom experience allows instructors and students to engage in weekly virtual classes that feature dynamic discussions and the opportunity to engage with classmates via peer groups, dyads, and group projects.
Our small virtual classes include students from across the nation, so you will also learn about social work practice in diverse regions and settings as you build your professional network.
Practicum Education
- Starting in the fourth semester of the program, you’ll complete a practicum placement close to where you live and/or work, with the added benefit of building networks within your local community.
- We use a personalized and collaborative approach to field education with our experienced staff helping to identify a placement that is a good fit for you from our wide network of local partner sites.
- This important applied learning experience allows for deep integration of theory and practice. This is where social work competencies will come alive as you grow your skills and knowledge in a supportive hands-on environment.
Academic & Student Support
You will have a committed team providing academic and programmatic support consistently throughout your academic experience, whether in-person or online.
- Boston University is home to twelve libraries, including the Mugar Library with many online resources available to Worcester and Online students.
- Career services support is provided by your program director, our Student Services team, and the BUSSW Career Services dept. You’ll also find resources at BU’s Center for Career Development including help with résumé building, cover letter writing, career search and interview preparation, and more.
- If you require accommodations or related support, you can connect with your program director and Disability & Access Services at BU.
Beyond the Classroom
Worcester Hybrid students develop both formal and informal networks of support throughout their time in the program, both in-person and online.
- If you’re looking for ways to get involved with a student organizations at BUSSW or take advantage of Worcester’s culture and history, our close-knit community in the Worcester Hybrid Program can help.
- BUSSW is home to a growing number of student-led groups, giving you the opportunity to connect with your peers on issues you care about including volunteering at local organizations, leading drives and marches, and more. Check out our numerous student organizations or choose to be a voice on school-wide committees focused on curriculum, racial justice, admissions and financial aid.
- During the online portion of your program, you’ll be able to participate in the Peer Mentors program and the Virtual Lounge, as well as continue to connect to virtual on-campus events.
Health & Wellness
- All BU students receive free membership to the wellness app Headspace, as well as group advising opportunities focused on self-care.
- BU Health Insurance is available during the first two years of the Worcester Hybrid Program.
- BU Student Health Services provides emergency mental health assessments and interventions.
Life Around Worcester
In-person classes are held on the picturesque campus of the College of Holy Cross, perched high on a hill. You’ll enjoy views of the city of Worcester and sunsets from the classroom windows and while walking to class.
- Parking is free and located next to the classroom building.
- When school is in session at Holy Cross, a cafe is available for coffee and snacks before class and provides comfortable seating for dinner breaks.
The city of Worcester provides an urban experience with a diverse population and numerous arts, entertainment, and recreational opportunities:
