How To Apply for a Masters of Social Work

Applications for Summer and Fall 2025 are now open!  The Application for Spring 2025 will close November 1, 2024

Step 1: Apply for Graduate School

Graduate School Application Information >

Apply Now: Online Application >

Find the MSW application under College/School: "College of Arts and Sciences, School of Urban Affairs and Public Policy".

Step 2: Submit Required Documents

Items needed for your Graduate School Application:

• Entrance Exam or Writing Sample.  Applicants must submit either an entrance exam or a writing sample.  Accepted entrance exams are listed below:
  • GRE scores will be reported unofficially by the applicant, and then verified by the Graduate School.
  • Praxis (test #5723) scores will be uploaded unofficially by the applicant in Program Materials under the Graduate School application, and then verified by the Admissions Coordinator.
  • An acceptable writing sample would be a research paper or something similar that was completed in the student's undergraduate work that demonstrates their best academic writing abilities.  This is an individual paper, preferably written in APA format.  Please contact the Program Coordinator at kknrwood@memphis.edu for further instruction.

• Transcripts. Official transcripts from all universities and/or colleges are required.
  • Please follow detailed instructions provided in the application portal to ensure your transcripts are sent to the correct place. 
  • UofM alumni can upload their unofficial transcripts. 

• Current Resume. Include all paid and non-paid social work experience.

• Personal Statement. Answer the following questions (maximum 2 pages for each bulleted section below, 6 pages total):
  • • Choose and describe a current social problem. How can social workers address this problem? What are the ethical considerations that must be kept in mind in addressing this issue? (2 pages)
    • What significant life experiences or circumstances have influenced the development of your interest in social work? What are your social work-related career goals? If you have trained or worked in another field, why are you considering changing your career? (2 pages).
    • Explain a scenario where you have shown professionalism.  Explain your ethical boundaries.  What are your social work values?  How do you manage stress?  How do you prioritize competing tasks and obligations?  Why do you believe you are a good candidate for our MSW program? (2 pages)

• Professional References (ex. employers, supervisors, former/current instructors). Please include at least 3 professional references.
  • Your references will be notified through the application system to create an account and upload their reference letter to the application.
  • Be sure to contact your references separately to make sure they're on the lookout for an automated email from "graduateadmissions@memphis.edu".

• Additional questions regarding ability to practice social work, desired program of study, etc. are also included here.

Please note, your application will not be reviewed until all parts are submitted, including official test scores, official/verified transcripts and completed references.

When to Apply

• Regular Spring Start Deadline: November 1st
• Priority Regular Fall and Summer Advanced Standing Admission Deadline: March 1st
• Regular Summer Advanced Standing Deadline: April 1st
• Regular Fall Start Deadline: April 15th
• Graduate Assistantships: March 1st

We accept applications past our deadlines* until all slots are full, however, early application is highly encouraged!  *Online-only MSW student applications must be submitted by the deadline noted above, as there are additional legal processes needed to secure field placement internships for students outside of the Memphis metro area that cannot be delayed. 

Questions? Contact Us

Katie Norwood
MSW Program Coordinator
kknrwood@memphis.edu