Admissions Requirements and Checklist

Thank you for your interest in the Social Work B.A. program offered by the College of St. Scholastica. As part of the application process, we invite you to schedule an on-campus visit. Although this is not mandatory, we highly encourage and welcome all interested students to come and visit the campus of interest. Please contact the campus of your choice to schedule your visit.

Eligibility

Cumulative GPA of 2.0 for admission to the College
Student must maintain acceptable academic standing. For admissions this includes: Junior standing; a 2.5 overall GPA in psychology, sociology and social work courses. All social work courses must be passed with a minimum grade of C.

Note: Meeting minimum entrance requirements does not guarantee admission. The Social Work Program reserves the privilege of accepting and retaining in the program only those students who, in the judgment of the faculty, Admissions Committee and Grievance Committee, satisfy the requirements of scholarship and the integrity of the social work profession as set forth in the NASW Code of Ethics. No academic credit is awarded for life or previous work experiences in this degree program.

Application Checklist

Request official transcripts. Transcripts must be in the original sealed envelope from the school, or from a certified electronic official transcript provider such as Docufide, Scrip Safe or National Clearinghouse. (email to transcripts@css.edu)
- College transcripts from all colleges that you have attended and/or from which you received financial aid
- High School transcripts, if you have no college credit, or you took three full years of high school foreign language.
Please order early - transcripts can take up to 4-6 weeks to arrive. If you are currently attending college, a final official transcript will also be required after grades are posted. Mail transcripts for receipt on or before the deadline to:

The College of St. Scholastica
Office of Graduate and Extended Studies Admissions
1200 Kenwood Avenue
Duluth, MN 55811

Complete the Online Application. You will need to use an updated browser, preferably Firefox, Chrome, or Safari.
1. Upload the SWK Focus Essay (pdf or word)
  
  The admissions essay should represent your highest level of academic writing and demonstrate your ability to participate in a rigorous, fast-paced, accelerated academic program.
  
  Prepare a 3-4 page essay, typed and double-spaced, using 12-point Times New Roman font and one-inch margins, addressing the following topics:
  - In what way has your previous academic work (including general education classes) prepared you for the social work profession?
  - Please describe your personal values and ethics.
  - Review the National Association of Social Workers Code of Ethics. Discuss how you think the core values of service, social justice, dignity and worth of the person, importance of human relationships, integrity, and competence apply to you as an applicant to the Social Work Program. Describe your strengths and/or challenges in upholding each of the six values during your undergraduate education.
2. Enter contact information for a minimum of three references from individuals who have observed and evaluated your leadership competencies or abilities.
  These should include:
  - One reference from a faculty member
  - One reference from an agency/employment supervisor who has observed your interaction with clients.
  - One personal or professional reference.
If you have international transcripts or non-citizen status, you will need to send additional documentation. Please see the International Admissions Policy for complete details.
Discuss financing your education with the Financial Aid Office early in the application process by calling (877) 287-8716.
Upon receipt of all application materials, the application packet will be forwarded to the Admissions Committee for review and the admissions decision.