Social Work + Social Work (3+1)
Simmons University’s accelerated 3+1 program gives students a path to complete both their Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and Master of Social Work (MSW) in just four years.
This unique and innovative program provides exceptional training in clinical social work, scholarship, and social action at a quicker pace, so that students can enter the workforce earlier and better prepared for success.
Why Pursue the 3+1 Social Work Degree at Simmons?
In 1904, Simmons became the nation’s first institute of higher learning to offer training for clinical social workers —and has since been the industry-leading pioneer in social work education.
Our one-of-a-kind 3+1 program continues this tradition by offering an intensive yet rewarding opportunity to complete both the BSW and MSW degrees at an accelerated pace. Hands-on curriculum and field experiences are transformative and enriching, linking academic knowledge to a greater purpose of serving communities through social justice.
Students in the 3+1 program also benefit from all the advantages that our nationally regarded School of Social Work (SSW) has to offer: acclaimed faculty, alumni who are leaders in the field, and an ideal Boston location in the Fenway and Longwood Medical Area.
3+1 Social Work Degree Structure
Students in the 3+1 program complete their BSW undergraduate coursework at an accelerated pace, taking five courses per semester while also completing either electives of requirements during the summer terms. At the end of the third year, students submit an application for the master’s portion of the program, adhering to the MSW Advanced Standing application process and deadlines.
Learn more about the 3+1 program structure in our Frequently Asked Questions.
Hands-on Field Experience
Simmons University’s social work programs are renowned for their emphasis on practicum education to help students confidently prepare for the profession. Field work challenges students to think critically to apply course concepts in order to develop meaningful solutions to social injustice and provide services such as counseling, intervention, and access to social resources.
The stimulating coursework is combined with over 500 hours of field experience, building a strong foundation for practice. When students advance on to the MSW, they develop a specialization in clinical theory and practice, gaining immersive hands-on training through our renowned practicum education program. The SSW works with more than 300 exciting internship sites, ranging from schools and hospitals to government agencies and private organizations.
Equipped with theory and practice, graduates of the 3+1 program are confident leaders who have the refined expertise and hands-on experience desperately needed to enact widespread improvements that make a difference for individuals and communities.
Social Work Career Outlook
Social workers serve in essential roles that support the overall welfare of our communities. Career placements include hospitals, community health centers, adoption agencies, mental health clinics, school districts, and government agencies. Completion of an advanced and incredible versatile MSW degree qualifies graduates for a wide variety of challenging and fulfilling clinical roles at these placement locations.
Reflecting their essential role in our communities, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment of social workers will grow 13% from 2019 to 2029, making it one of the most in-demand and crucially needed professions.
In particular, students completing both a BSW and MSW degree through an accelerated 3+1 program are viewed as motivated, accomplished, and hard-working, providing a competitive edge in the employment market.
Program Accreditation
Simmons University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (formerly the Commission on Institutions of Higher Education of the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Inc.). The MSW degrees of the School of Social Work are accredited by the Council on Social Work Education's Committee on Accreditation. The accelerated 3+1 program adheres to all accreditation standards, requiring completion of all undergraduate and graduate course and field requirements.
Admission Requirements
Students interested in applying to the accelerated 3+1 social work program must submit the following items to be considered for admission at the undergraduate level:
- Completed Application
- High School Transcript
- SAT or ACT Test Scores
- TOEFL Scores (required if English is not your first language)
- College Essay
- College Transcript (if applicable)
- Two Letters of Recommendation (one teacher, one counselor)
Learn more about the application process, including deadlines and what we look for in an applicant.
Get Started in Your Social Work Career Sooner
Completing both a BSW and MSW at an accelerated four year pace means you can start taking on urgent social issues and improving the lives of those affected by them sooner. Ready to start your career in social work? Read more about the 3+1 program below, request more information or apply now!
Spotlight on Social Work + Social Work (3+1) Students and Alums
Julie Tokarowski ’21 Combines Social Work with Female Empowerment
Julie tells us about her experience transferring to Simmons and why she chose to pursue social work.