Application Process

General Instructions

Please read through these instructions carefully prior to completing your application to the Master of Social Work (MSW) program. You can apply online or request a paper application from the School of Social Work, or download and print out your application.

In addition to the application, you will need to submit:

• the application fee
• official transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• three-page personal statement
• Criminal History Disclaimer / Core Performance Standards

(you will need the free Adobe Acrobat Reader to view these PDF documents)

Please submit all your application material in one large envelope, if possible. Make sure you do not open the sealed transcripts envelopes. Once submitted, all credentials become the property of the University and cannot be returned.

Your printed name should appear on all documents, including checks and money orders for application fees and deposits.

Deadlines

The School of Social Works admits students in both the fall, spring, and summer semesters. Please see specifics below.

• Summer (May Enrollment) application deadline April 15th
• Fall (September enrollment) application deadline July 15th
• Spring (January Enrollment) application deadline December 10th

Miami Shores Campus

In the 60-credit MSW program, you may enroll full- or part-time in either the Fall or Spring semesters. In the Advanced Standing 32-credit program you may begin the full-time program in the fall, spring or summer semester and for the part-time program in the fall or summer semesters only.

Palm Beach/Treasure Coast Campus

You may enroll in the 60-credit program or the 32-credit, Advanced Standing program on a part-time basis in the fall semester only.

Application Fee Application Fee

1. Print your name on all documents including on your check/money order.

2. Please submit the nonrefundable application fee (U.S. $30) with your other application materials.

3. Your check should be made payable to Barry University.

Transcripts

1. Use of Transcript Request Forms (you will need the free Adobe Acrobat Reader to view this PDF document) will expedite receipt and processing of transcripts. All transcripts must be official. You may want to check the web sites of the colleges/universities you previously attended to see if you can request a transcript online.

2. If your transcripts are in your possession, you must submit them in an official envelope sealed by the institution issuing the transcripts.

3. If you are applying to the part-time or full-time 60-credit program, your transcript must show your degree was earned from a regionally accredited institution (domestic) or a listed institution (international).

4. If you are applying to the 32-credit. Advanced Standing program, your transcript must show that you hold a Bachelor of Social Work degree from an institution accredited by the Council on Social Work Education. You must have received this degree no more than five years prior to enrolling at Barry University.

5. Transcripts received from foreign colleges/ universities which are in a language other than English must be translated by an official translation agency. You must arrange for the translation. You may also be required to present an evaluation of coursework from an official transcript evaluation service.

6. Your applications will not be given full consideration until your transcripts are received.

7. If you are a Barry alumna/us or current student, you do not need to request transcripts.

Please note: Transcripts must be submitted in an official envelope sealed by the institution issuing the transcripts.

All applicants currently enrolled in a college/university degree program must submit an official copy of your final transcript verifying your graduation date before you can officially enroll in the MSW program.

Letters of Recommendation

1. You must submit three letters of recommendation (you will need the free Adobe Acrobat Reader to view this PDF document). Your letters of recommendation must be submitted using the School of Social Work forms. Supportive information may be included and should be submitted on the person's business letterhead (if applicable). The person submitting the recommendation should not be a relative or friend, but the recommendation should come from a professional or academic relationship.

2. Individuals writing a recommendation may submit that recommendation directly to the School. Recommendations may also be included with your other application materials. Please note: If you submit the letters of recommendation, they must be in envelopes sealed by the person who completed your recommendation.

3. If you are a BSW student entering the Advanced Standing Program you must submit two letters of recommendation plus a copy of your final field placement evaluation. If you are currently enrolled in a BSW program you can submit a copy of your mid-term filed evaluation. Before enrolling in our program you must submit both a copy of your final field placement evaluation and an official copy of your final transcript verifying your graduation date.

Please Note: Barry University BSW students seeking admission to the MSW program need to submit only one letter of recommendation from the BSW program director or BSW faculty member and  a copy of their final field placement evaluation.

Three-Page Personal Statement of Purpose

This is an extremely important component of your application. It should be carefully and thoughtfully prepared. Be sure to:

1. Submit your personal statement on separate sheets of paper.

2. Type and double-space your statement, which must consist of a minimum of three full pages.

3. Affix your signature at the end.

4. Type your name, social security number (optional), desired program, and page number on the upper right-hand corner of each page.

Online Application