Program overview

The College of Social Work and the Department of Educational Leadership and Policy Studies at the University of Tennessee offer an innovative dual degree program combining a Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW) with a Master of Science in College Student Personnel (MS-CSP). This program is designed to address the growing demand for case management in higher education, allowing students to complete both degrees in three years of full-time study. By recognizing overlapping course content and integrating specialized coursework, the program provides a streamlined path for those interested in the intersection of student affairs and social work.

The dual degree curriculum prepares graduates with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills in both fields, enabling them to support students’ mental health, academic success, and overall well-being. With the rise of case management in student services, this program equips professionals to work in areas such as counseling services, residence life, student wellness, and the dean of students’ office. Students benefit from hands-on experience through field placements, practicums, and internships, developing a unique skill set that combines social work principles with higher education administration.

Students must apply separately for admission to both the MSSW and MS-CSP programs.

This program is only offered at our Knoxville campus.

View program curriculum

Academic standards

• Applicants for the MSSW-MSCSP dual program must make separate applications to the Office of Graduate Admissions and be accepted by the School of Social Work for the MS and the Department of Educational Leadership and Policy Studies for the MS-CSP.
• A dual program candidate must satisfy the graduation requirements of each college.
• Students who have been accepted by both departments may apply for approval to pursue the dual program any time prior to, or after, matriculation in either or both departments.

Credit hours required

• 87 credit hours

Non-course requirements

Students may elect to complete the project as a self-directed Thesis. In the Thesis students work independently with a self-selected committee of faculty advisors who oversee the work and certify its completion.

Thesis option

• Meet the 36 credit hours of required graduate courses
• Complete a qualitative or quantitative graduate statistics course (3 credit hours) chosen in consultation with the major advisor