College of Liberal Arts & Social Sciences
Social Sciences Department
Master of Social Work (MSW)

Application Deadline: May 31, 2022 to begin Fall 2022

                   

Graduate and MSW Program Admissions Requirements

  1. Earned a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university.

  2. Possess a minimum combined 2.7 GPA on a 4.0 scale as reported on official transcripts from accredited institutions. A GPA of 3.0 or above is preferred.

  3. Submit an online application or paper application form to the Graduate Admissions Office on the appropriate campus requesting admission to the Graduate Program by May 31st, 2021.

  4. Submit official transcript(s) of all previous college course work. Transcript(s) must be forwarded by the institution(s) attended. Update: Due to COVID-19, UVI admissions office is accepting unofficial transcripts via email to admissions@uvi.edu . Official transcripts will be required prior to admission into the program.

  5. References: Provide three letters of recommendation from someone who can address the applicant's abilities and interpersonal skills, potential for graduate education and potential for professional social work practice.

    1. One letter should be from a former professor and one from a professional who should address the applicant’s ability to perform at the graduate level as well as relevant experiences that he or she has had with the applicant. If a letter from a professor is not possible, a letter by someone who can address academic writing and scholastic abilities can be submitted. A professional is ideally a former employer from a social service agency. Please no recommendations from family members.

    2. Letters must be submitted electronically or by mail. This instruction sheet can be given to those who are writing the letter. Be sure to complete the top half of the sheet for their reference of information.

  6. Personal Statement: Applicants must provide a well-written personal statement that addresses the following:

    1. Describe your interest in social work and how your personal and professional goals align with the mission and goals of the profession and the MSW Program. See the "assessment" tab  for information on our program's mission and goals. You also can review the National Association of Social Worker's Code of Ethics to review our profession 's mission.                                                                                                

    2. Explain how the program's specialization in Children, Youth and Families can help you to achieve your identified goals.

    3. Describe your personal and professional skills and qualities, strengths and weaknesses that will support and/or may challenge you to achieve your professional goals.

    4. Field practicum (internship) is a critical component of the MSW curriculum and requires regular daytime hours to fulfill the requirements for successful completion of the program. Explain how your work/life responsibilities and support system will accommodate your field practicum and other requirements of the program.

  7. Resume: Applicants will provide a professional resume that includes the following: a) Educational background, including honors and distinction b) Internships, paid or voluntary, in social service settings c) Work experience and duties d) Extra-curricular activities e) Reading interests and hobbies 

  8. Interview: Applicants may be asked to interview with the Admissions Committee before a final decision is reached.
  •  Please contact our admissions office, if you have questions about the UVI graduate application process.

            St. Thomas Campus                                                  Albert A. Sheen Campus
            Admissions Office                                                        Admissions Office
            University of the Virgin Islands                                    University of the Virgin Islands
            #2 John Brewers Bay                                                  Box 10,000 Kingshill
            St. Thomas, VI 00802-9990                                        St. Croix, VI 00850-9781
           (340) 693-1160                                                            (340) 692-4158


Questions can be emailed to: admissions@uvi.edu