Detailed Program Information

Mandel School Orientation

Intensive Weekend Program Overview

Complete in 2-3 years

As a student in the intensive weekend master’s program, you will be required to commute to Case Western Reserve University’s campus in Cleveland, Ohio, one weekend per month to attend classes. Most classes are held on Saturdays and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and include lectures, group work and independent study. In the first year, students will be required to attend a Field Education Seminar on three (3) Fridays from 10 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. that coincide with a weekend course.

Students typically pursue two classes each semester, along with participating in field education—an essential component of any master’s in social work program.

Advanced Standing

Applicants to the intensive weekend master’s program who hold a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) are automatically considered for advanced standing status. The advanced standing track allows students to earn their master’s in social work in as little as 2 years in the intensive weekend format.

A Hands-On, Practical Master’s in Social Work Curriculum

Our MSW curriculum teaches practical skills across a range of social work topics, so you can learn over the weekend and use your new knowledge to make decisions in your current role during the week.

Paths of Study

You will choose advanced elective coursework that offers you the opportunity to tailor your master’s in social work curriculum to fit your personal learning objectives and career goals. We offer three paths of study in our intensive weekend program.
- Children, Youth and Families: You’ll provide a broad range of services to individuals and families, including marital therapy, family counseling, parent education and child welfare. Read more about the Children, Youth and Families path of study.
- Mental Health: You’ll be an advocate for community-based mental health practice in professional settings such as hospitals, schools, child and family service agencies, substance abuse treatment programs and mental health centers. Read more about the Mental Health path of study.
- Substance Use Disorders and Recovery: You’ll work to diagnose and treat substance use and dependence, explore the interaction of mental health issues and substance abuse, and the impact of substance use on different populations. Read more about the Substance Abuse Disorders and Recovery path of study.