Master of Social Work Program

Dual Degree Program Description

The Department of Social Work is partnering with George Mason’s nationally recognized School for Conflict Analysis & Resolution (SCAR) to bring you a 3-year dual degree program. You can earn both an MSW and a Masters in Conflict Analysis & Resolution while taking advantage of the diversity of the D.C. metropolitan area and the university’s proximity to the nation’s capital.

The degree programs in Social Work and Conflict Analysis & Resolution complement each other. SCAR’s strong emphasis on theory is an excellent supplement to the grounding in theory provided through the Social Work curriculum.  Social Work’s strong practice orientation supplements the skill-building provided through SCAR.

The MSW degree is broad and versatile, and well-recognized in the labor market. It encompasses direct service with many different population groups in a wide range of settings, as well as policy analysis and advocacy, community practice, research, and organizational leadership. The degree in conflict analysis and resolution is more focused, demonstrating a highly specialized set of knowledge and skills. The combination provides students with the best of both worlds.

Applying to the Dual Degree Program

Students interested in the 3-year Dual Degree program in Social Work and Conflict Analysis & Resolution must complete the standard University Graduate Application (one application; designate Social Work as the primary program), which includes one general goals statement, three letters of recommendation, and two official copies of all transcripts.  In answering the goal statement and in letters of recommendation, please address your interest in both programs.

In addition, the MSW program has a set of program application materials: including a resume, critical thinking question, and an applicant data form.  On the MSW checklist and applicant data form, check Dual Degree.  

Application materials are to be submitted to the College of Health and Human Services; their address is found on the MSW program application materials..

If accepted to the Dual Degree program, one letter will be sent jointly from the Social Work Department Chair and Director of the Institute on Conflict Analysis and Resolution.  An orientation on the Dual Degree will be held during the summer prior to the beginning of the program.  Advising will be done collaboratively between the two programs.

Please note that in order to complete the Dual Degree, students must be accepted to both programs at the same time (fall semester admission), complete the courses as outlined in the curriculum beginning in the fall, and graduate with both degrees at the same time.  Students who are already enrolled in either program are not eligible to complete the Dual Degree.

View the requirements for the Social Work, MS/MSW Dual Degree. (pdf)