MPA/ MSW Dual Degree Program

The Master of Public Administration (MPA) and the Master of Social Work (MSW) at Marywood University offer a dual degree program designed to assure the acquisition of both management and social work skills necessary for competence as a manager/ administrator in the social work field. Today's social workers must be knowledgeable in managerial and administrative problem-solving processes, strategic planning, practices, and responsibilities in their role as middle managers, administrators, department heads, and in other similar capacities. The MPA curriculum follows the National Association of Schools of Public Affairs and Administration (NASPAA)'s guidelines and the MSW program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). Upon successful completion of the MPA/ MSW dual degree program, a graduate will be able to accept a middle management position such as social work director or program administrator in a community program.

Admissions to the MPA/ MSW dual degree program will be on selective basis. The prerequisites and admissions process follow that of the Master of Public Administration program and the School of Social Work. A Capstone in MPA is required as an application of the theoretical base to a practical situation. The application process can be completed online through Marywood University's Office of Admissions. An undergraduate degree from an accredited institution of higher learning is required. GRE and other standardized tests are not required. 

Required MPA Curriculum for the MPA/ MSW Dual Degree Program (30 credit hours)

Four Core Courses

PADM 501: Principles of Public Administration

PADM 502: Public Policy Analysis

PADM 503: Human Resource Management

PADM 505: Public Budgeting and Finance 

(Note: PADM 504: Research Methodology to be substituted with an elective since you are taking research courses at the MSW Program).

Capstone

PADM 600: LEAD Project

Five Electives (Choose any five from the following)

PADM 506: Law and Public Affairs 

PADM 510: Fundraising and Grants Writing in Nonprofit Organizations 

PADM 511: Program Assessment and Evaluation

PADM 596: Internship

SLAS 6001: Administrative and Leadership Theories

SLAS 6002: Ethical Leadership

SLAS 6003: Policy Analysis and Organizational Dynamics

SLAS 6007: Equity and Inclusion

Any other graduate course offered at other department in the university and approved by the Program Director.