Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW Degree)

Yes. An MSSW program and an MSW program are academically equivalent social work degrees. The only difference is the degree title, which is determined by a university’s state charter. 

Like many leading graduate social work programs, we award a Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW) degree that offers a bold and innovative path to leadership in today’s team-based social work environments. Our program features a specialized focus on Interprofessional Collaborative Practice, preparing graduates to excel in healthcare, education, and community-based organizations. It also positions students for LMSW licensure in New York State while building the advanced competencies required for future LCSW advancement.

Yes. Iona’s MSSW program features two enrollment pathways, both starting in the fall semester, allowing students to complete the degree on either a full-time or part-time schedule. Full-time students typically complete the 60-credit MSSW curriculum in two years, while part-time options allow for a more extended pace. Students progress through the program as part of a cohort and complete coursework through a format that blends on-campus instruction with selected online course delivery. 

Both pathways provide the rigorous preparation necessary for clinical or macro practice, ensuring all graduates meet the educational requirements to sit for LMSW (licensed master social worker) licensure and establishing the foundation for eventual pursuit of LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) credentialing.

Iona’s MSSW program features an innovative practicum model that focuses on interprofessional collaborative practice. Students complete 900 total field work hours over three contiguous semesters. Preparation for the practicum experience begins in the first semester with on-campus, simulation-based experiences, which ensure candidates are practicum-ready. This is followed by three semesters of practicum at one of our select multi-service partner sites, such as the NewYork-Presbyterian Health System, that operate on an interprofessional collaborative practice model. 

The practicum experience commences with a rotational placement in spring of Year 1, and continues with two semesters of specialized placement in one of that organization’s programs, departments, or units in Year 2. 

Iona’s partner sites are strategically selected to provide diverse exposure to generalist, clinical, and macro social work practice. This hands-on training is essential for meeting LMSW licensing requirements.

Interprofessional collaborative practice is the cornerstone of the Iona MSSW program, preparing graduates to lead in modern, team-based healthcare and educational settings, as well as community-based organizations. By learning “about, from, and with” peers in disciplines such as medicine, nursing, occupational therapy, mental health counseling (among others), and across service systems, graduates develop the type of holistic perspective that is essential for effective practice, from generalist to clinical and macro. 

Research shows that this collaborative approach significantly improves patient/client outcomes by reducing intervention errors and addressing the social determinants of health. In the social work profession, this translates to increased job satisfaction, reduced burnout, and a competitive edge with employers. This specialized training also ensures graduates are ready to advocate within interprofessional teams, which is a vital competency for LMSW licensure and long-term success as an LCSW, if electing to pursue the clinical credential.

Yes, mentorship is a central pillar of Iona’s MSSW program. Each student is paired with a dedicated faculty member who provides individualized guidance, from admission to graduation. Faculty mentors also assist with career planning, professional development, and navigating the LMSW licensing process. Because the program utilizes an intentionally small, supportive cohort model, students benefit from genuine connections and personal attention from highly qualified faculty, many of whom are experienced clinical practitioners. This mentorship ensures graduates are not only practice-ready for their practicum sites but also prepared for long-term advancement and becoming LCSWs, should they so choose.

Iona’s MSSW program is strategically designed to position graduates for LMSW licensure in New York State and provides the foundation for future LCSW advancement. The curriculum integrates the nine foundational and specialized competencies required for licensed practice, ensuring graduates are excellently prepared as highly competent, effective, and ethical social work professionals. Through a combination of individualized faculty mentoring, a curriculum focused on interprofessional collaborative practice, and 900 hours of practicum experience, graduates are equipped with the advanced knowledge and skills needed for success in both direct practice and leadership roles.