Applying to the MSW Program

Instructions for start dates in 2027

Thank you for your interest in the MSW programs at the University of Arkansas. These instructions have changed for 2027. Please read ALL instructions carefully.  

Which Program Should I apply to:

  • Advanced Standing MSW (on campus or online): For applicants with a Bachelor of Social Work Degree from a CSWE accredited program.
  • Traditional MSW Program (two year or extended three year): For applicants with a bachelors degree in some other field.

Application Deadlines and Program Start Dates:

Program Format Start Date

Select Start Date for Graduate School Application

 Application Deadline
Advanced Standing On Campus June 1, 2027 Summer 2027 January 15, 2027
Advanced Standing  Online June 1, 2027 Summer 2027 January 15, 2027
Traditional Two-Year On Campus August 23, 2027 Fall 2027 February 15, 2027
Traditional Extended (3 year) On Campus August 23, 2027 Fall 2027 February 15, 2027

*All deadlines are at 11:59 p.m. CST

Application Process

You must complete and submit two separate applications to be considered for admission:

  1. School of Social Work via SocialWorkCAS at: 

       https://socialworkcas.cas.myliaison.com/applicant/login

-Create an account, log in, complete application materials and submit.
- Application fee: $48

  1. University of Arkansas Graduate School via graduate school portal at:

 University of Arkansas Graduate School

- Create an account, log in, and complete application and submit.
- Application fee: $60

Both applications are required. Timely submission of all materials for the SocialWorkCAS application and fee payment are especially critical, as completing this process allows the admissions committee to review your materials. Applications are reviewed after the deadline so just make sure to submit all materials by the appropriate deadline.

1.     Complete your SocialWorkCAS application

Submit the following through SocialWorkCAS:

  • Completed application (answer all required questions, attach all documents). 
    • Experiences section: Include ALL employment, volunteer, internship and field experience – not only experiences related to social work.
    • Three professional references should be submitted by the deadline.  Examples of appropriate reference writers are professors, internship instructors or supervisors, supervisors from paid employment or from volunteer positions. Personal references are not accepted. Enter reference writer names and emails in CAS application.  CAS will send each writer a request to complete a form and write a letter. If you have questions about appropriate references, please ask.  Note: CAS will only send out requests for references one time unless you ask them to do so again. Checking CAS periodically to see if references have been submitted so that you can ask the reference requests to be re-sent is the best way to ensure all your references are submitted.
    • Submit an unofficial transcript from the college/university where you graduated or will graduate to CAS. International students must submit an official academic credential evaluation.  (instructions for submitting transcripts to the graduate school are below).
  • Attachments to the CAS application:
    • Resume
    • Personal Statement
    • Essay analyzing one case study 
    • Optional: Graduate Assistantship materials (see below) 

Instructions for completing the Personal Statement and Case Study

Personal Statement ALL programs:

One-to-two-page document outlining your interest in Social Work.

Link to Personal Statement Requirements 2026-2027

Advanced Standing (On campus and (on-line) Case Study:

Four to Five page paper addressing case study provided.

Link to advanced standing case study for admissions 2026-2027

Traditional Programs Case Study:

Four to five page paper addressing case study provided.

Link to traditional programs case study 2026-2027

Reference documents for the personal statement and case study.

All Program applicants use these documents as reference in completing personal statement and case study.

Apply for Graduate Assistantship in School of Social Work (Optional)

To apply for a Graduate Assistantship with the School of Social Work, attach the following to the CAS application under other documents (see instructions in the attachment below):

GA overview and cover letter requirements 2026-2027

  • GA application
  • Resume or Curriculum Vitae
  • Transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate work
  • Cover letter

Attachment: GA application 2026-2027

Attachment: GA overview and cover letter instructions 2026-2027

2.     Apply to the University of Arkansas Graduate School

When applying to the Graduate School, you will:

  • Answer the application questions online.
  • Upload an official transcript.
    If you have not yet graduated, upload your most current official transcript.   Once available, you must provide a transcript that shows your graduation date. If you are a University of Arkansas undergraduate or alumni, you may call the graduate school and ask them to obtain your official transcript from the registrar at no charge.

Advanced Standing Students – Degrees Older Than 6 Years

Applicants who earned a BSW more than six years prior to application may petition for an exception. As a part of your application to CAS by the application deadline, you must provide:

  • Documentation of significant post-bachelor’s social work employment, and
  • Evidence of ongoing continuing education.
  • Upload to other document space in CAS.

Attachment: Requirements for Exception of BSW Degree > 6 years

If you're interested in applying, we encourage you to attend one of our MSW Program Information Sessions. All sessions are held virtually via Zoom.

Click here to register:

University of Arkansas Advanced Standing MSW and Traditional MSW Program Info Session   

For any questions about the application process, please email: jkmorga@uark.edu