Make a Difference.

The profession of social work is grounded in a commitment to serving vulnerable and oppressed populations and advocating for public policies that promote social justice.  

The Master of Social Work (MSW) program at CSUB prepares students for advanced generalist social work practice. Graduates are prepared to work with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities in fields such as mental health, physical health, child and family services, gerontology, corrections, juvenile justice, youth services, and substance abuse treatment. 

CSUB uses advanced-generalist practice as the model for the curriculum.  This model prepares graduates to perform a variety of roles across micro, mezzo, and macro levels of practice. Within the advanced-generalist framework of the curriculum, students may choose an emphasis in child and family services, mental health, or gerontology/ health social work in a full-time, part-time, or advanced standing plan of study. CSU Bakersfield’s MSW program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education.

Pursuing a degree and career in Social Work is a life-altering experience. If you want an exciting education that gives you the skills you need to create real change in the community, study Social Work at CSUB!

Please click on the links at left for more information about the MSW program at CSUB.

Department of Social Work

California State University, Bakersfield
9001 Stockdale Highway
Bakersfield, CA  93311-1022 

Phone: (661) 654-3434

Fax: (661) 654-6928
Email: mswadmissions@csub.edu
Office: Dorothy Donahoe Hall A100 

MSW Admissions

Phone: (661) 654-2107
Email: mswadmissions@csub.edu
Office:  Dorothy Donahoe Hall A103

Fall 2023 Applicants: Application will be available beginning October 1, 2022. Application deadline is January 31, 2023 

*The Department plans to conclude the admissions notification process in late Spring 2023

Announcements & Events

MSW Program Brochure

MSW Open House Flyer

Open House Dates: 

*Sessions will be offered both in-person/via Zoom, click on the date to register.

Updated: 2022-23 MSW Student Handbook

Updated: 2022-23 Field Manual

GWAR Information