Master of Social Work (MSW) with a specialization in Medical Social Work

The Master of Social Work (MSW) with a specialization in Medical Social Work at Walden University is designed to prepare students for advanced roles in healthcare settings, focusing on the complex social, emotional, and psychological challenges faced by patients and their families. This program aims to equip future social workers with the skills necessary to provide compassionate, evidence-based support within hospitals, clinics, mental health facilities, and community health organizations. Through a comprehensive curriculum, students will explore topics such as healthcare policies, ethical considerations, case management, trauma-informed care, and culturally competent practices. The program emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical application, enabling graduates to assess patient needs accurately, develop personalized intervention plans, and advocate effectively for vulnerable populations. Coursework integrates the latest research and best practices, ensuring students are prepared to address issues related to chronic illness, mental health, end-of-life care, and recovery processes. Walden's flexible online format allows working professionals to balance their studies with personal and professional responsibilities while engaging in meaningful interactions with faculty and peers through interactive discussions and collaborative projects. The program also offers opportunities for practicum experiences in healthcare environments, giving students real-world exposure and networking opportunities. Upon completion of the MSW with a specialization in Medical Social Work, graduates will be equipped to lead initiatives that improve patient outcomes, contribute to multidisciplinary teams, and influence healthcare policies. They will be prepared to serve as advocates for patients’ rights and to implement social work principles that promote holistic health and well-being. This program is ideal for those committed to making a difference in healthcare settings by providing compassionate, ethical, and effective social work services grounded in a strong understanding of medical and psychosocial issues.

The Master of Science in Medical Social Work at Walden University is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for advanced practice within healthcare settings. This program equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to address the complex psychosocial needs of patients and their families in medical environments. Through a combination of rigorous coursework, practical experiences, and research opportunities, students learn how to assess, intervene, and advocate effectively in diverse healthcare contexts.

The curriculum covers essential topics such as health and illness psychology, patient-centered communication, case management, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Students also explore ethical considerations and policies impacting healthcare delivery, gaining a deep understanding of the legal and ethical responsibilities of medical social workers. Emphasis is placed on developing culturally competent practices, ensuring that graduates can serve diverse populations with sensitivity and professionalism.

In addition to core coursework, the program offers specialized training in areas such as mental health, chronic illness, end-of-life issues, and healthcare policy. Students engage in practicum experiences that provide real-world exposure under supervision, fostering the application of theoretical knowledge to clinical situations. These field practicums allow students to refine their clinical skills, establish professional networks, and gain confidence in working with patients facing complex medical and emotional challenges.

The program also emphasizes research literacy, encouraging students to critically analyze current advancements in medical social work and contribute to evidence-based practices. Graduates are prepared for roles in hospitals, clinics, hospice organizations, community health agencies, and other healthcare organizations, where they can make significant impacts on patient outcomes and quality of life.

Walden University’s Master of Science in Medical Social Work is ideal for professionals seeking to advance their careers in healthcare social work, as well as for those new to the field who wish to specialize in medical settings. The curriculum is flexible, allowing students to balance their studies with personal and professional responsibilities. Upon completion, graduates are equipped with the expertise to advocate for patients, support families through difficult health journeys, and promote holistic approaches to healthcare delivery.

Program Requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Medical Social Work at Walden University typically include a combination of coursework, research, and comprehensive examinations designed to prepare students for advanced practice, research, and leadership roles within healthcare and social services settings. Applicants are generally required to hold a master's degree in social work (MSW) or an equivalent credential from an accredited institution. The application process also involves submitting academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement outlining professional goals and research interests, and a current resume or curriculum vitae. Once admitted, students are expected to complete foundational coursework in social work principles, ethics, and research methods, followed by specialized courses focusing on medical social work topics such as healthcare systems, patient advocacy, and psychosocial aspects of illness.

In addition to coursework, students must develop and present a research proposal, confirming their readiness to undertake independent research. The program emphasizes scholarly research culminating in the defense of a dissertation that contributes new knowledge or innovations in the field of medical social work. Throughout the program, students are required to engage in practicum experiences or supervised clinical practice hours to gain hands-on experience in medical settings. These internships or practicum placements are designed to enhance practical skills, interdisciplinary collaboration, and application of theoretical knowledge to real-world healthcare challenges.

Progression through the program is monitored via comprehensive assessments, and students are expected to demonstrate mastery of core competencies at each stage. The PhD program generally takes approximately 3-4 years to complete, depending on whether students are enrolled full-time or part-time. Candidates must also fulfill residency requirements, which include participation in on-campus sessions or intensive workshops, as specified by the university. Graduates of the program are equipped with advanced knowledge in medical social work, research expertise, and leadership abilities to improve patient care quality, advocate for vulnerable populations, and influence health policies. Completing all program requirements results in earning a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in Medical Social Work from Walden University, opening doors to academic, research, administrative, or policy-making careers in healthcare and social services.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The Master of Social Work (MSW) program at Walden University offers a range of financing options to support students in achieving their academic and professional goals. Tuition costs for the program are structured to provide transparency and flexibility, with current figures indicating a total tuition of approximately $34,000 to $36,000 for the full program, depending on the specific track and credit requirements. Walden University provides a variety of financial aid opportunities, including federal financial aid programs such as Pell Grants and Direct Loans, which are available to eligible students to help offset the cost of tuition and related expenses.

In addition to federal assistance, students can explore institutional scholarships offered by Walden University, which may include merit-based and need-based awards designed to support academic excellence and diversity. The university also encourages students to seek external scholarships, fellowships, and grants specifically geared towards social work education, including those available through professional associations like the National Association of Social Workers (NASW).

Walden University offers flexible payment plans that allow students to spread out their tuition payments over the duration of their studies, reducing the financial burden and providing greater access to education. These payment plans typically involve monthly installment options, which can be tailored to individual financial circumstances. The university's Financial Aid Office provides personalized counseling and assistance to help students understand their options, complete aid applications, and navigate the financial aid process effectively.

For students enrolled in the MSW program with a focus on clinical or community social work, there are also employer tuition reimbursement programs and professional development grants that can contribute to the cost of education. Moreover, Walden University emphasizes affordability and value, regularly reviewing tuition rates and costs to ensure they remain competitive and commensurate with the quality and outcomes of their programs. Overall, the financing studies at Walden University aim to make advanced social work education accessible and affordable for a diverse student body, supporting their career development and professional growth in the field of social work.

The Master of Social Work (MSW) program with a specialization in Medical Social Work at Walden University prepares students to become expert social workers in healthcare settings. The program focuses on equipping students with the skills necessary to address the complex psychosocial needs of patients and their families in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare environments. It emphasizes the development of advanced assessment, intervention, and case management skills tailored to medical contexts. Students will learn about health disparities, ethical considerations in healthcare, and the importance of cultural competence when working with diverse populations. The curriculum integrates theories of social work, health sciences, and human development, fostering a comprehensive understanding of the social determinants of health. Practical experience is a key component, with opportunities for fieldwork and internships that allow students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings under supervision.

The program is designed for students who wish to deepen their expertise in medical social work, including those aiming for leadership roles in healthcare organizations or specialized clinical positions. Walden University’s online format provides flexibility for working professionals, enabling students to balance their studies with personal and professional commitments. The faculty comprises experienced practitioners and educators dedicated to mentoring students and supporting their career goals. Upon graduation, students are prepared to work with multidisciplinary teams, advocate for patient needs, and contribute to improving health outcomes through social work interventions. The program also emphasizes ethical practice, advocacy, and continuous professional development to ensure graduates are well-prepared for the evolving healthcare landscape. Overall, the Medical Social Work specialization at Walden University offers a comprehensive, practice-oriented education that empowers students to make meaningful contributions to patient care and healthcare systems.