Nazareth University Social Work Programs
Nazareth University is a prestigious institution known for its educational excellence in social work. This private university in Rochester, New York, blends academic rigor with service and social justice values that line up with its renowned social work programs.
The university started with principles of inclusivity and community participation. It has grown into a leading center for social work education that prepares students to serve people from all walks of life. Students learn both theory and practice to become skilled social work professionals.
Nazareth University’s detailed curriculum adapts to reshape the scene of social work practice. The School of Social Work updates its programs to match current best practices and new needs in the field. The university builds strong partnerships with community organizations and creates opportunities for fieldwork and professional networking.
Experienced practitioners and researchers bring their ground expertise to Nazareth’s social work classrooms. This mix of academic and hands-on knowledge will give students an education that works in practice. The university also offers complete support systems – from academic advising to career services – to help students succeed during their studies and after graduation.
The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredits Nazareth University, proving it right that its social work programs meet high standards. This accreditation matters to students who want to pursue a master of social work degree or undergraduate social work major because it meets national standards for professional practice.
Students looking for “social work programs near me” in Rochester will find a supportive community at Nazareth University. Here, they can develop skills, knowledge, and ethical principles needed for effective social work. The university’s steadfast dedication to social work education makes it an excellent choice for both undergraduate and graduate studies.
Social work programs offered
Nazareth University has complete social work education programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels. These programs are accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).
The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program gets students ready for generalist practice through its curriculum. Students gain supervised field experience extensively. You’ll complete 144 hours of practicum experience in your junior year. An intensive 420-hour senior practicum follows. This hands-on approach helps students apply classroom learning in ground applications. Students must maintain at least a ‘C’ grade in all social work courses and a 2.3 overall average to stay in the major.
The Master of Social Work (MSW) program offers two main tracks to advance your education. Students who already hold a BSW from a CSWE-accredited institution can take the 36-credit Advanced Standing program. Those with bachelor’s degrees in other disciplines can opt for the 60-credit program. Both tracks come with full-time and part-time options, and classes run during day and evening.
The program’s standout feature lets qualified Nazareth BSW graduates finish their MSW in just one extra year of full-time study. Students can earn both degrees in five years instead of six through this 4+1 option.
The MSW program focuses on advanced integrated practice in an interprofessional context. Students complete either 500 hours (36-credit) or 900 hours (60-credit) of practicum experience. This field training leads to great outcomes. Nazareth students achieve an 83% licensure exam pass rate, which is higher by a lot than state (71%) and national (73%) averages.
Almost all Nazareth social work majors find jobs after graduation. Some join service organizations like Peace Corps or Americorps, while others continue their education in graduate programs. Recent data shows 98% of MSW graduates found jobs within six months of finishing.
Both programs let students specialize in different areas. They can choose substance abuse prevention (CASAC certification) or child life specialist pathways. These options help students shape their education around specific career goals.
Online program options
Flexibility is the core of Nazareth University’s social work programs. Students can choose from multiple study options that fit their needs. The Master of Social Work degree program includes both in-person and online class formats, so you can tailor your education to match your personal and work commitments.
Nazareth makes its programs available to everyone with daytime and evening classes. You can study full-time or part-time. This setup works great for working professionals, parents, and students who need flexible schedules.
The university’s MSW program offers two main paths:
- 36-Credit Program – This option is perfect for students with an undergraduate degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited or CASWE-accredited institution. Your prior social work education counts here.
- 60-Credit Program – This path welcomes students who earned their bachelor’s degree in any field other than social work.
The program lets you pick a three-course sequence to build expertise in your chosen area. This specialized knowledge boosts your career prospects in specific social work fields.
A bachelor’s degree and formal application are needed for Nazareth’s online learning options. Here’s some great news – qualified advanced standing students who start in spring or summer 2026 and finish in spring 2027 might get their tuition, textbooks, and required fees fully covered for a limited time.
Nazareth shows its dedication to your success by providing a free state-licensure preparation workshop as you near graduation.
Admissions
Nazareth University evaluates social work program candidates through an all-encompassing approach. Students need to submit their applications online through the university portal. They must also write a 400-500 word professional statement that shows they’re ready for graduate social work education. The application package should have a resume with relevant experience, official transcripts from previous schools, and two professional recommendation letters that speak to academic readiness.
You don’t need to take the GRE, but you should have a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA. The university offers provisional admission to students with lower GPAs. Students must complete 12 credits in social/behavioral sciences and 12 credits spread across mathematics, natural sciences, and humanities with grades of “C” or better.
BSW graduates from Nazareth with a 3.0+ GPA can speed up their application process if they have good field evaluations and faculty recommendations. This optimized path only needs a quick application submission.
The program type and location determine application deadlines. Students applying to the Rochester campus Advanced Standing program for summer admission should submit by March 31. The deadline extends to June 30 for fall admission to both 36-credit and 60-credit programs.
Students from other countries need to get their bachelor’s degree transcripts translated to English and evaluated through NACES-certified services.
Tuition
Nazareth University’s Master of Social Work degree provides better value than many similar programs across the country. Students pay $850 per credit hour for the program, which is a big deal as it means that it costs less than the usual graduate rate of $1,160 per credit hour. Your educational background determines the credits needed – either 36 credits for advanced standing or 60 credits through the traditional pathway.
Students need to plan for some extra costs. These include a $30 registration fee each semester and a $27 graduate supplemental fee per credit hour. The budget should also include $1,226 for books and supplies, plus around $2,980 for transportation and personal needs.
Here’s a great opportunity: advanced standing students starting in spring or summer 2026 can get their complete tuition, textbooks, and required fees covered if they graduate by spring 2027. This limited-time funding initiative makes the program even more accessible.
Nazareth helps make the social work graduate program fit your budget. Students can choose from various payment options including traditional grants and loans, flexible payment plans, veterans benefits, and possible public service loan forgiveness. Graduate assistantships are a great way to get tuition waivers by working in university offices.
Other information
Nazareth University’s social work programs excel in hands-on learning opportunities beyond regular coursework. BSW students complete 144 hours of practicum during junior year. Their senior year features an intensive 420-hour experience at local organizations. MSW students put in either 400 hours (generalist year) or 500 hours (advanced year) based on their program track.
Students gain real-world experience through partnerships with more than 400 regional agencies. The university creates an interprofessional learning environment where students combine their knowledge, skills, and values to serve community needs.
Students can enhance their academic journey by joining Kappa Lambda Mu, Nazareth’s chapter of the Phi Alpha Honor Society for Social Work. This national organization celebrates academic achievements of both undergraduate and graduate social work students.
Professional preparation at Nazareth extends to licensure support. MSW graduates meet New York State’s educational requirements for the Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) examination. The program also covers clinical content needed for the Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) examination. Additional post-degree clinical hours and supervision are required for LCSW certification.
The Career Design Office helps students with valuable resources. Students get access to Handshake—an online career management system with daily updates on jobs and internships.