Application Information

Strong essays are developed carefully and thoughtfully. Essays should address each question. Strong answers include examples and evidence. To demonstrate an ability to apply concepts, strong essays include examples from work, volunteer, education, and other pertinent details.

Essays should be written clearly, concisely, and ideas should be expressed explicitly. Be sure to allot plenty of time to complete essay questions. Essays written hastily reflect a lack of preparedness.

You have 250 words for each question. Strong essays provide enough detail to fully answer the question without being wordy. Strong essays answer the questions concisely and clearly. We recommend typing your response in Word and then pasting it into the application.

It is extremely important. Essay responses are a key component of the application and provide information faculty consider when reviewing your application materials.

It is very important to use complete sentences, proper grammar, punctuation, spelling, and other mechanics of written English. Strong essays often undergo revision and proofreading.

For the purpose of this application, no.

Yes. Be sure to fully answer each question. Some questions have multiple parts. Make sure you address each part in your answer.

We are not concerned with gaps in your resume only that your resume corresponds with what you share in your essay questions.

We recommend you include one academic, one reference from someone involved in your field experience and one professional reference. If you have been out of school for more than 5 years, it may be more difficult to obtain an academic reference. Choose references who can accurately and directly speak about your past work and your potential in this program. References should be able to speak to your ability to succeed academically and/or to your ability to practice as a social worker. We do not accept references from personal friends, family, a counselor/client, or faith leader/parishioner.

You can contact Dr. Tim Hilton at thilton@ewu.edu to see if your course meets the requirements.

If you didn’t earn a 2.0 you will be required to take and pass a statistics course during your foundation portion of the MSW program. You may use it as one of your elective courses.

You do not have to take a class prior to applying or starting the program. You will be required to take and pass a statistics course prior to take Research Methods II.

No, previous life or work experience cannot be substituted for course credit.

We accept applications for multiple programs each year. Be sure to select the correct program in the GradCAS. It is very important you complete the correct application for the program to which you want to apply. You may only apply to one program. If you are having trouble identifying which application to choose, contact Susan Thompson at sthompson2@ewu.edu or 509.359.6485. When calling, be specific about which program you interested in.

No, in all instances. The Spokane Hybrid program only serves Eastern Washington and Northern Idaho. Everett and Vancouver serve their respective regions.

We may ask students for an interview.

Overall GPA is one of the primary factors considered in the admissions criteria. Students with an overall GPA of less than 3.0 may find it more difficult to be successful in a graduate level program. Additionally, Graduate Studies only allows admission of a small number of applicants with an overall GPA of less than 3.0.

If your overall GPA is less than 3.0, you will be asked to write a rationale explaining why you should be admitted to the program.

No, the program is competitive. We receive many strong applications each year and not everyone who applies is admitted.

No, you need to indicate on the application you would be willing to accept admission to the full program.

If you indicate yes, your application will be re-evaluated for admission to the full program.

There is no appeals process, but you can reapply when we are accepting applications for the next cohort.

The GRE exam is not necessary for admission.