TWU-UNT Joint Master of Social Work program gains accreditation

July 28, 2020 —The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) has granted initial accreditation to a Joint Master of Social Work (JMSW) degree program offered by Texas Woman’s University and the University of North Texas through June 2024.

“Securing accreditation is the culmination of years of hard work by the JMSW program faculty, with the support of TWU and UNT’s deans, directors and support personnel. CSWE accreditation is the gold standard in social work education. Earning accreditation is not a simple task,” said JMSW Program Director Alex Colvin.

The need for skilled social workers is expected to rise by 16 percent by 2026, much faster than average job growth. Graduates of the JMSW program will be ready to fill those jobs in health care, child and family services, mental health and other rapidly growing areas.

“We’re grateful for such a strong partnership with TWU where we can capitalize on the talented, student-centered faculty on both campuses,” said Neale Chumbler, dean of the UNT College of Health and Public Service. “We are teaching our students skills that are especially important during a time where we are dealing with a pandemic and social injustice, and shaping social workers who will make our nation stronger.”

Universities are required to complete a three-year process in compliance with CSWE Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards, demonstrating that the curriculum and program meet rigorous standards and is competency-based as outlined by the council. “It further affirms that we are successfully preparing students to practice ethically, address complex social issues, conduct research, and serve diverse populations,” Colvin added.

TWU and UNT developed the JMSW degree program to provide students and faculty with the unique opportunity to draw on the strengths and resources of both universities. Students of the program are considered members of both university communities, and they have access to resources on both campuses. Upon successful degree completion, program graduates are jointly awarded a degree from TWU and UNT and become eligible for licensure.

Page last updated 3:25 PM, July 28, 2020