Middle Georgia State University To Launch Master of Social Work

Author: Sheron Smith
Posted: Thursday, April 16, 2026 12:00 AM
Categories: School of Education and Behavioral Sciences | Students | Pressroom | Faculty/Staff

Macon, GA

Middle Georgia State University (MGA) is preparing to launch a Master of Social Work, which the University System of Georgia’s Board of Regents recently approved. The program is a major step in expanding graduate education opportunities and addressing a critical workforce need in the region and across the state. 

MGA expects to enroll the program’s first students in fall 2028. Designed as a face-to-face graduate program with on-campus classes and flexible elements for working professionals, the master’s degree (MSW) will prepare students for licensure and careers in clinical and community-based social work. 

“This program represents a significant investment in both our students and the communities we serve,” said Dr. David Jenks, provost and senior vice president for Academic Affairs. “It will fill a critical workforce need in our region. I commend our team in the School of Education & Behavioral Sciences and in Academic Planning, including Dr. David Biek, Dr. Rebekah Hazlett-Knudsen, and Dr. Kelisa Underwood, for creatively answering the call for our constituents.” 

The new MSW comes in response to workforce shortages in social work and behavioral health fields. According to state and national labor projections, careers aligned with master’s-level social work training, such as mental health counselors, healthcare social workers, and substance abuse counselors, are experiencing strong growth. 

In Georgia alone, these professions account for more than 2,500 annual job openings, with projected growth rates ranging from 12 percent to 22 percent. MGA’s program is designed to help close that gap, particularly in rural and underserved communities across Middle Georgia.  

“These are the professionals who walk alongside individuals and families during some of the most challenging moments of their lives,” said Hazlett-Knudsen, associate professor and program director of MGA’s Bachelor of Science in Social Work. “The MSW is about equipping our students with the specialized knowledge, skills, and empathy to truly help people and strengthen the communities they serve.” 

The 48-credit-hour master’s program will follow a two-part structure: an 18-credit generalist year focused on foundational practice, and a 30-credit specialized year emphasizing integrative practice.  

Students who hold a BSW from an accredited program may qualify for an advanced standing track, allowing them to waive the generalist year and complete the degree more quickly and affordably. 

The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning. Field education will connect students with real-world experience in healthcare systems, schools, nonprofits, and community agencies throughout the region. 

Middle Georgia State launched its BSW program in fall 2020, creating a strong pipeline of students ready for graduate-level education. Internal data show that nearly two-thirds of the University’s BSW graduates pursue a master’s, often within a year of completing their undergraduate degrees. 

The University plans to pursue accreditation of the program through the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), the national accrediting body for social work programs. The accreditation process is expected to run from 2028 to 2030. Students admitted during this period will benefit from retroactive recognition as graduates of an accredited program once accreditation is achieved, ensuring eligibility for licensure and expanded employment opportunities. 

Prospective students who would like to learn more about the program can email Dr. Kelisa Underwood at kelisa.underwood@mga.edu.