Frequently Asked Questions for Prospective Students

ADMISSIONS

Q. Does the MSW program require a certain kind of undergraduate degree? If so, do I need to take some courses before I apply?

A. The MSW Program requires a degree with a liberal arts component. Most degrees awarded by colleges and universities have general education, liberal arts, or foundational course requirements. These normally include English, Literature, History, Math, Science, and the Arts. If you do not think that your particular degree included liberal arts content, contact the MSW admission office and we can advise you on additional course work that will prepare you for MSW study.

Q. Do I need to apply to the graduate program alone, or do I need to apply to both the graduate program and the department program? If both, how do I accomplish this?

A. You do need to apply to both the graduate program and the MSW program. You may either request a packet from this office which contains both applications, or you can go to http://www.kennesaw.edu/graduate/admissions/ and apply online, then you must go to the MSW webpage ( http://www.kennesaw.edu/humanservices/msw/ ) to print out an application and forms to mail in.

Q. Which GRE Test should I register for?

A. The GRE general test. An advanced or subject specific GRE test is not required and will not be considered in the application screening process. Kennesaw State University does not administer the GRE. For more information about the GRE and how to register please contact the ETS or visit their website at www.gre.org.

Q. What if my GRE scores do not make the application deadline?

A. To be considered during the initial round of review all application materials must be received by the Graduate Admissions Office by the posted deadlines.

Q. What if my GRE test date is after the deadline? Should I send my packet in incomplete?

A. All application materials, including current GRE scores must be received by the Graduate Admissions offices by the application deadline.

Q. Where do I send my application material?

A. All material including transcripts and letters of recommendation should be sent to the KSU Office of Graduate Admissions. Their address is listed on the application material. When your file is complete, they will forward a copy to our admissions committee.

Q. When is the deadline for submission?

A. March 15th for the 2 year program, Feb. 15th for advanced standing. Our Admissions Committee will meet shortly after that date.

Q. What happens if I do not have my application complete before the deadline?

A. If you do not meet the initial deadline your application will be "wait listed" meaning that as we get additional positions available you will be considered. The cut off date for this waiting list is June 15.

Q. I have poor GRE scores…will this hurt me?

A. Our admission process looks at the "whole person". However, objective data (GPA and GRE scores are important…especially if we have numerous applications. If you get a low GRE you are still encouraged to apply, the Admissions Committee will consider all aspects of your application before making a decision. The minimum GRE score for admissions in to our program is a combined score of 800.

Q. I have less than the required GPA…should I not apply?

A. Because of the competetiveness of our program, unless you are close, probably not. Be sure you check the last 60 hours of your undergraduate program.

Q. Can a representative from either the Graduate Admissions Office or the MSW program tell me if I am a strong candidate for the program?

A. Unfortunately because of the high volume of applicants, we are not able to assess your particular situation to determine if you are a strong candidate for the program. If you meet the minimum requirements we encourage you to apply.

Q. Do my three letters of recommendation need to follow a particular format?

A. Recommenders should use the program's recommender's form which is included in the application section of this website. If a recommender chooses to write an additonal letter, that letter should be typed on official letterhead and sealed in an envelope with the recommender's signature across the back seal.

Q. Do my three letters of recommendation need to be forwarded to the graduate studies office in sealed envelopes?

A. You should have the letters mailed to you in sealed envelopes with the letter writer's signature across the seal. Mail the letters in your packet with the rest of your application materials. For your convenience the MSW program office has created application packets to facilitate the process. If you would like a packet please contact the office at (770) 423-6630.

PROGRAM OF STUDY

Q. Is there a part-time study plan?

A. As of now Master of Social Work program is a full-time program. Applicants should be aware of this before applying. In addition to a full course load, students in the MSW program are required to fulfill field practicums in a social work setting.

Q. I am fully employed by DFCS can I enroll in the MSW program and still work full-time?

A. Yes, DFCS and Kennesaw State University have created a program which allows full-time DFCS employees to enroll in the MSW program. For more information please contact the Director of the Child Welfare Scholars Program, Professor Quienton Nichols.

Q. I have completed some coursework in another masters program. Can I get credit for work I have completed?

A. We allow a "testing out" for up to 2 courses.

Q. I was (am) enrolled in a MSW program at another school. Can I transfer to the KSU program?

A. We allow only the 2 courses under the "testing out" provision.

Q. What is required to be accepted into the advanced standing program.

A. A Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree from a CSWE accredited program earned within the last 5 years. No exceptions.

Q. I am not interested in either of the listed specializations…can I propose another emphasis that more closely matches my interests?

A. No. You must choose one or the other.

Q. Is the work-load more intense than an undergraduate degree, is the MSW much more difficult?

A. Being a graduate degree program, students should expect the MSW program to be more intense than their undergraduate courses. The MSW classes will require more preparation time, the reading of more complex materials and more study time required for exams. Students should not expect this program to be a continuation of their undergraduate degrees.

FINANCIAL AID

Q. How do I apply for financial aid?

A. After you are accepted, you will receive a letter with specific instructions. There will be several kinds of assistance. We'll send you a summary and instructions as to how to apply.

Q. After I am accepted for admission, what happens next?

A. We will send you a welcome package that will tell you everything you need to know to start your planning. It will also tell you the date and time for the orientation session.