#USA #Milwaukee #Herzing University #Master of Social Work #CSWE Accreditation

Herzing University's Online MSW Program Achieves Full Accreditation

Herzing University has achieved a significant milestone with the full accreditation of its Master of Social Work (MSW) program by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), as announced on March 11, 2025. This prestigious recognition reinforces the university's dedication to academic excellence and its commitment to preparing students for impactful careers in social work.

Accreditation by the CSWE's Board of Accreditation (BOA) indicates that the MSW program meets and surpasses stringent standards through a thorough peer review process, confirming the quality of education offered to its students. Graduates of the program can now rest assured that they receive specialized clinical training, as well as expertise from faculty who guide them in their studies, enabling them to excel in their future endeavors with individuals, families, and communities.

Dr. Elizabeth Wilson, chair of the MSW Program at Herzing University, emphasized the importance of this accreditation, stating, "The Council on Social Work Education's decision to award our online MSW degree program full accreditation confirms Herzing University's commitment to excellence by providing a program that prepares students to work with clients in diverse settings." This acknowledgment is not just an accolade; it embodies the hard work put in by faculty members, advisory board members, field instructors, and students alike, showcasing a collaborative effort towards achieving this distinguished status.

The Herzing MSW program caters to both graduates with a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and individuals from other fields seeking a career change into social work. It combines online coursework with a hands-on field education experience, ensuring a well-rounded education that merges theoretical knowledge with practical application in real-world contexts. Students must complete between 500 to 900 hours of specialized in-person field practicum, providing them with invaluable opportunities to apply their clinical skills while making a significant impact in their own communities.

In reflecting on the accredited program, Dr. Kitty Kautzer, Chief Academic Officer, shared, "Our mission is to support students in achieving their highest potential through career-focused education that meets the needs of today's workforce. The full accreditation of our MSW program reflects this commitment, ensuring that our graduates are fully prepared to make a meaningful impact as clinical social workers in their communities." This commitment to accessibility highlights the program's aim to reach underserved and rural areas, fostering inclusive education that nurtures the next generation of social workers.

In addition to its core curriculum, the Herzing MSW program has made strides in community service and workforce development. It has received the 2024 Seeds for Strong Futures grant, aimed at enhancing mental health training and workforce development for caregivers in the greater Milwaukee area, in collaboration with the Medical College of Milwaukee and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee. This program seeks to empower caregivers, strengthen their relationships with youths, and ultimately foster healthier, more confident future generations.

Furthermore, Herzing's MSW program has been selected as one of only ten nationwide to participate in the CSWE Substance Use Disorders Education and Leadership Scholars (SUDEALS) program. This grants the university $33,000 to augment its workforce capacity in addressing substance use disorders—a crucial aspect of contemporary social work practice. Students enrolled in this program will receive stipends, specialized learning opportunities, and travel funds to attend policy events, also benefitting from mentorship opportunities.

As a military-connected institution, Herzing University acknowledges the distinct needs of service members and veterans seeking careers in social work, providing them with tailored resources and support. Dr. KaRon Spriggs-Bethea, the project director of the SUDEALS initiative, expressed pride in the program’s ability to impact students and the communities they serve, underlining the potential of social work to facilitate real change.

Overall, Herzing University's Master of Social Work program's full accreditation stands as a testimony to its quality and the competence of its graduates. As it continues to offer accessible, high-quality education, the program not only assures students of their readiness for licensure but also empowers them to engage deeply with the communities they aspire to serve, ensuring a brighter future for all stakeholders involved.