Avila Now

March 2, 2018

Avila University Partners with Saint Louis University to Offer Masters of Social Work

Saint Louis University Logo
SLU Logo.

(March 2, 2018) KANSAS CITY, MO – Avila University and Saint Louis University (SLU) have entered into a partnership to offer an innovative Master of Social Work (MSW) program to students in the Kansas City metro.

Offered in a hybrid model, approximately 60% of the program is taught online through SLU while the remainder of the courses are available in a face-to-face format at Avila University, including the practicum planning and seminar courses.

“We are excited about this partnership which allows students in the Kansas City metro area to complete their MSW from SLU,” said Francis Origanti, Ph.D., associate professor and chair of the Avila department of social work.

The program utilizes a 4+1 approach, allowing for a four-year bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Avila and a one -year Advanced Standing master’s degree from SLU. Likewise, Avila students who have graduated with a BSW in the last five years can obtain their MSW in just one additional year.

Students who have earned their BSW from institutions other than Avila can also enroll in the MSW program. If their degree is from a CSWE accredited program, the MSW can be completed in 39 credit hours. Students who have earned an undergraduate degree in any major can enroll and complete the MSW in 57 credit hours.

“Saint Louis University is a nationally recognized leader in social work education,” Origanti said. “This program, with concentrations in clinical, community and organization, prepares students to be practitioners and change agents at the micro or macro level.”

Students who complete the program will earn a degree from SLU, which is a nationally and globally recognized leader in social work education, ranked in the top 20% of social work programs by U.S. News and World Report.

Founded on the Jesuit tradition of “educating the whole person,” SLU encourages students to learn as much as possible about social work and service while committing to serve humankind with compassion.

For more information, visit the Master of Social Work page or inquire at socialwork@avila.edu.  

Avila University, a Catholic University founded and inspired by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet, provides undergraduate and graduate education in the liberal arts and professional studies, preparing lifelong learners who make meaningful contributions to the global community.

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