Apply to the MSW Program

Everything you need to know to complete your application to the MSW program.

Graduate Admissions

MSW Application Process

Here you will find all the information you need to apply to the Master of Social Work Program at New Mexico State University. Explore available program options, review admission requirements and application deadlines, prepare your application materials, and take the next step toward becoming a Master's level social worker.

Notice: The Fall 2027 application is now open. The priority deadline is January 15, 2027.
Program Options

Choose Your MSW Pathway

Explore the available MSW pathways and select the program that best aligns with your educational background and career goals.All programs require some synchronous class attendance and practicum completion.

Regular Two-Year MSW Program

Main Campus or Online

Regular Three-Year MSW Program

Main Campus or Online

Advanced Standing MSW Program

One-year pathway for students with a CSWE-accredited BSW earned within the past five years.

Dual MSW/MPH Program

Earn both your Master of Social Work and Master of Public Health through an integrated degree pathway.

Admission Requirements

General Admission Requirements

Applicants to the MSW Program must meet the following minimum admission requirements.

Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.
Prerequisite coursework in basic statistics or research methods. Applicants with a non-liberal arts major must also show coursework in humanities, natural science, and behavioral and social science content.
Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. (Applicants with GPAs between 2.75–2.99 may be considered for provisional admission. Limited to 9 credits in first semester.)

Advanced Standing Applicants

Applicants seeking Advanced Standing admission must also meet the following requirements:

  • BSW from a CSWE-accredited program completed within the past five years.
  • Cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 and BSW coursework GPA of 3.5 or higher (no provisional admission).
  • Basic statistics or research methods course completed before the program begins.
  • 2 years of social work-related experience (employment, volunteer work, or leadership activities) is preferred.
  • Must be able to begin coursework during the summer term. (3 credits before fall cohort.)
  • At least one letter of reference from a social work faculty member, field liaison, or field instructor from your BSW program who taught, supervised, or advised you.
  • Completed Case Analysis.
Application Timeline

Important Dates

The MSW Program admits one cohort each fall. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis beginning in October, so applying early is encouraged.

  • 1
    Application Opens

    September 15, 2026

  • 2
    Application Review Begins

    October 15, 2026
    Admission decisions are typically made within approximately eight weeks.

  • 3
    Priority Deadline

    January 15, 2027

  • 4
    Late Application Period

    Applications submitted between January 15 and March 15, 2027 will be reviewed as space permits and are not guaranteed consideration.

  • 5
    Application Closes

    March 15, 2027

How to Apply

Complete Your Application in Four Steps

Once you've selected your program pathway, complete your Graduate School application and submit the required supporting materials for review.

            • 1
              Submit Your Graduate School Application

              Complete the NMSU Graduate School Application and pay the $40 application fee.

            • 2
              Prepare Your Application Materials
              Unofficial transcripts from all colleges or universities attended. International transcripts require a certified English evaluation by a professional translation service or a NACES-recognized credential evaluation agency. A list of participating members can be found at NACES.
              Current résumé or curriculum vitae.
              Two letters of reference addressing academic abilities, professional experience, and potential for success. Transfer applicants must include at least one reference from a prior social work faculty member or professional confirming good standing. Advanced Standing applicants must include at least one reference from a social work faculty member, field liaison, or field instructor from their BSW program who taught, supervised, or advised them.
              Personal Statement (three to five pages). Your statement should address:
              Your interest in social work and career goals aligned with NMSU's mission.
              How your goals and values align with the NASW Code of Ethics , particularly the principles of social justice and dignity and worth of the person, including your experience with diverse populations and commitment to challenging social injustice.
              Your plan to successfully manage the responsibilities of completing the MSW program, including coursework and practicum requirements.
              Optional: Address any previous academic or legal issues and explain how they have been resolved.
              AI Use: If AI assists with preparing your personal statement, include an attribution describing the tool(s) used and how they contributed to your writing.
              • 3
                Review Your Application

                Carefully review all materials before submitting. Ensure transcripts, references, and your personal statement are complete and accurate.

                Review the MSW Admission Packet for complete policies, procedures, and detailed instructions.
                Confirm that all required documents have been uploaded.
              • 4
                Submit Your Application

                Submit your completed application by the appropriate deadline for full consideration. Late applications may be reviewed on a space-available basis.

          Additional Applicant Information

          In addition to the standard application materials, please submit:

          A complete and signed evaluation of your performance in your BSW practicum. Applicants currently completing practicum may submit a mid-term evaluation and may be admitted provisionally pending the final evaluation.
          At least one letter of reference from a social work faculty member, field liaison, or field instructor from your BSW program.
          Case Analysis. Read the standardized case in the MSW Admission Packet and respond to the four prompts in 600 to 900 words. See the Case Analysis Requirement for Advanced Standing Applicants section of the packet.
          Submit separate applications to both the MSW and MPH programs.
          Indicate your intent to enroll in the Three-Year MSW Program.
          Email Dr. Sterling Brown at shbrown@nmsu.edu if admitted to both programs.
          International applicants are admitted to the Main Campus Three-Year MSW Program.
          Limited Graduate Assistantships are available.
          Students who do not secure a visa before August 1 may need to defer admission.

          Need More Details?

          The MSW Admission Packet includes complete program options, application instructions, personal statement requirements, and additional timeline information.

          Download the MSW Admission Packet
Ready to Apply?

Begin Your MSW Application

Take the next step toward earning your Master of Social Work at NMSU. When you're ready, submit your Graduate School application and begin uploading your required materials.

Apply to the MSW Program
For questions about the MSW Program, contact Dr. Sterling Brown
Beyond the Degree

Additional Opportunities for MSW Students

These opportunities are available to students admitted to the MSW program. Learn more about each program and find relevant contact information on each page.

Graduate Certificate in School Social Work: Special Education Related Services Child Welfare Scholar Program Licensure Preparation Program Diversity and Social Justice Fellowship Program