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The University of Wisconsin-Superior is now accepting applications for its new Master of Social Work (MSW) program, a graduate degree designed to prepare the next generation of social work leaders to address growing workforce needs in mental health, behavioral health and community well-being.
The advanced generalist program equips students to practice across diverse settings, populations and levels of intervention while providing the academic preparation required for graduates who wish to pursue licensure as independent clinical social workers.
Launching in fall 2027, the MSW program combines rigorous professional preparation with innovative approaches that reflect the unique needs of rural and underserved communities. Emphasizing rural mental health, behavioral health, trauma-informed practice and community well-being, the program prepares graduates to deliver effective services while leading change within organizations and communities.
A distinguishing feature of UW-Superior’s program is its integration of mindfulness and well-being principles throughout the curriculum. Drawing on the university’s nationally recognized leadership in mindfulness and well-being education through its Pruitt Center for Mindfulness and Well-Being, students will explore holistic approaches that support resilience, healing and sustainable professional practice. Courses will also feature instruction from experienced regional practitioners and field experts.
“The new MSW program is such an exciting opportunity, not only for UW-Superior, but for our entire region,” said Mackenzie Johnson, Spring 2026 Bachelors of Social Work graduate. ” I love that it’s built around community well-being, mindfulness and prevention. Those are areas that are becoming more important than ever, and I think they reflect where the profession is headed. That’s one of the biggest reasons I plan to enroll in the Advanced Standing MSW program. I know the quality of education and support I received as an undergraduate, and I have complete confidence that this program will prepare students to become compassionate leaders in the field.”
The program further sets itself apart through its emphasis on nature-based social work practices, which harness the restorative, healing and community-building benefits of the natural environment to support individual and community well-being.
The MSW program is led by Shawyn Domyancich-Lee, Ph.D., MSW,LGSW, whose teaching and scholarship focus on justice-centered education, place-based learning and community-engaged approaches that amplify marginalized voices. Faculty also include Rachel Hodapp, Ph.D., MSW, assistant professor and medical anthropologist whose work explores global and local issues related to reproductive and community well-being, and Carina Barker, MSW, LCSW, a teaching assistant and founder of Encouragement Clinic, an outpatient behavioral health practice in Superior.
“The demand for highly skilled social workers continues to grow, particularly in rural communities where professionals are needed to address complex mental health, behavioral health and community challenges,” said Domyancich-Lee. “Our program prepares students not only to serve individuals and families, but also to strengthen organizations and communities through innovative, evidence-informed and relationship-centered practice.”
Designed for working professionals, the primarily online program combines flexible, self-paced coursework with three in-person retreats that emphasize experiential learning, mindfulness practice, professional networking and relationship-building.
Students may choose from two pathways:
Advanced Standing Pathway: For students who hold a CSWE-accredited Bachelor of Social Work degree from an institution accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). The degree can be completed in as little as one year.
Foundation Pathway: For students with a bachelor’s degree in another field. The degree can be completed in approximately two years.
The MSW program builds upon UW-Superior’s momentum in graduate education. For two consecutive years, the university has recorded its highest number of graduate degrees awarded, reflecting increasing demand for flexible, career-focused graduate programs that meet workforce and community needs.