The MSSW/MDiv dual degree responds to the growing demand for social workers to be sensitive toward and proficient in their understandings of their client’s religious and spiritual lives, and also to work with faith-based communities to foster both individual and community well being.
- The program is designed to be completed in four years of full-time study. Download program of work (PDF)
- Students will receive degrees from both institutions.
- Students must be accepted into both programs independently, meeting each institution’s admission criteria.
- Students interested in pursuing this degree may choose either the Clinical or the Administration and Policy Practice (APP) concentration in social work. As much as possible, the program of study will be tailored to meet students’ individual vocational needs as approved by an oversight committee.
This dual degree extends the Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary‘s current offerings for students with particular interests in non-traditional ministries, including agency-based social service, advocacy, policy-oriented work, and clinical counseling. The program also provides added resources for students planning to serve in more traditional ministry settings as pastors or chaplains. These resources include opportunities for enhancing understanding of, and skills in, the following: negotiating concrete services related to the social welfare system, public advocacy, programming assessment, community organizing, service to organizations that set or influence public and/or ecclesiastical policy, and clinical and community counseling.
MSSW/MDiv Program Options
There are 4 program options for the MSSW/MDiv dual degree.
- Post BSW Track 42 Hour Program (Spring Admission)
- Post BSW Track 42 Hour Program (Summer Admission)
- Post BSW Track 48 Hour Program
- 4 Year Full-time Program
Download program of work (PDF).
Application to the Dual Degree Program (MSSW/MDiv)
In addition to all of the materials required for admission to the MSSW program, applicants to the MSSW/MDiv dual degree program must also apply and be accepted to the Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary for the Master of Divinity program.