Frequently Asked Questions
1. When can I apply to the MSW Program?
The application deadline is NOVEMBER 1, 2009 for those who want to start the MSW Program Fall 2010. Applicants are encouraged to apply no later than OCTOBER 1, 2009.
2. How should I mail in my reference letters?
If you wish to send the reference forms with your application, the individual writing the letter must seal the letter in an envelope and initial the back of the seal. If mailed separately reference letters are to be received no later than NOVEMBER 1, 2009.
3. Once I've applied how do I check my status?
Applications are reviewed starting in December. Students are generally admitted during the months of December through April. Written notification will be sent to students whether they were accepted or denied. If your application is missing something, you will receive a phone call or email from the MSW Admissions Office. Otherwise you can contact the Admissions Office AFTER Feb 1st to check your status.
4. Do I need to take the GRE?
The GRE is not required unless the applicant's GPA is less than a 3.00 average. The Millers Analogy Test can also be taken as a substitute for the GRE.
5. Where can I find the application?
Applications can be found online here. The entire application should be printed and returned to the MSW Admissions Office no Later than NOVEMBER 1st. The application includes the College of Social Work application, liberal arts statement, autobiographical sketch, course prerequisite checklist, and reference letters.
6. What other programs does the College of Social Work offer?
The MSW program offers two conjoint programs. One is the MSW/MPA program and the other is the MSW/MPH program. The college is also working on a conjoint program with the College of Law which should be available in a few years.
7. Can I transfer into the MSW Program?
Students who want to transfer into the MSW Program must apply no later than February 1st. In order to transfer, you must have completed the first year of your MSW program with a GPA of 3.00 or above, have a letter from your Dean stating that you are a student in good standing, and have at least a 3.00 GPA in your undergraduate studies. Transfer students must complete the same application as regular students.
8. Where do I send my transcripts?
Transcripts should be sent to the U of U Graduate Admissions Office at 201 S. 1460 E. Rm. 250S, SLC, UT 84112-9057. Please DO NOT send your transcripts to the MSW Program.
9. Do I need to apply to the University of Utah to be admitted into the MSW program?
There are two parts to the application process. The first part is applying to the University of Utah Graduate School this application can be completed on the University of Utah Graduate School website and requires a fee. Applications to the Graduate School should be completed no later than October 1st. The second application is to the College of Social Work. This application MUST BE returned no later than November 1st. Applicants are advised that it takes four to six weeks to gather and process admission materials.
10. Do you accept late applications?
We generally do not accept late applications. Applications must be received no later than November 1 of the year prior to the academic year you are applying for admission. (Ex: Nov 1, 2009 deadline for Fall 2010 application process). Applicants are advised that it takes four to six weeks to gather and process admission materials.
11. How many times a year do you admit students?
The College of Social Work only admits students ONCE a year. Students are admitted FALL Semester ONLY.
12. When do I have to have my prerequisites finished?
Prerequisites must be completed prior to the fall semester that the student starts the MSW Program.
13. What can be substituted for prerequisites?
The following classes can be substituted:
- Human Development, Social Psychology, Psychology of Women, Psychology of Men, etc.
- Social Sociology, Women's Studies, Social Psychology, Intro to Social Work, Modern Social Problems, Social/Cultural Anthropology, Gender Studies, etc.
- American Heritage, US Institutions, US History, Western Heritage, Western Civilization, US Economic History, American Civilization, Comparative Politics, etc.
- Medical Terminology, Biology, Nutrition, Anatomy, Human Sexuality, Zoology, Personal Health, Physiology, etc.
- Social Statistics, Medical Statistics, Epidemiology, Research methods, etc.
- Intro to Psychology:
- Intro to Sociology:
- Intro to Pol Sci or US National Gov:
- Human Biology:
- Research or Statistics:

