What I Wish I Knew Before Enrolling in a Thesis-based MSW Program
What is the Difference Between Course-Based and Thesis-Based MSW Programs?
Are you considering applying to a MSW program, but unsure if you should go the course-based or thesis-based route? The purpose of this post is to provide clarity about the difference between both tracks and what you should consider when selecting a path. The structure of a course-based versus a thesis-based program may differ depending on the school, but they will relatively follow a similar approach.
Course-based MSW programs
The vast majority of MSW programs are course based.
In a course-based MSW program, you will either enter the program as a foundation student or an advanced standing student. As a foundation student, you will begin the program with a non-social work degree. As an advanced standing student, you will begin the program with an undergraduate degree in social work.
Your first year as a foundation student will consist of foundation-level courses, similar to what you would see in a BSW program. You will typically also complete a practicum during this time. Your second year consists of more advanced or specialized courses, a practicum, and at the end of your program, you may be required to complete a capstone project demonstrating your learning throughout the program. As an advanced standing student, you would only complete one year of advanced or specialized courses, along with a practicum and a capstone project.
Thesis-based MSW programs
A thesis-based route commonly adds an extra year to your MSW program. This extra year is dedicated towards completing your thesis. Some programs will offer a mandatory or optional practicum for thesis-based students, which may be completed alongside your courses or during your thesis year, depending on the school’s curriculum plan. I entered the program as an advanced standing thesis-based student, meaning that my first year consisted of completing my advanced courses, alongside two thesis courses. My second and final year will consist of completing my thesis and the optional practicum. Had I been a foundation student, I would have also completed an additional year of foundation courses and a mandatory practicum, meaning that the program would have been three years in total. As a thesis-based MSW student, other than the two thesis courses your program may require, you will take all of your other courses with the course-based students.
To summarize, the only major differences between the course-based and thesis-based programs is that thesis-based MSW adds an additional year, may require practicums at different times or not at all, and may require thesis courses that you will complete only with other thesis-based MSW students. Again, this structure may differ depending on the school, so be sure to check with the specific program(s) you are applying to for requirements and curriculum plans.
Should you do a Course-Based or Thesis-Based MSW Program?
The majority of MSW programs follow a course-based format. Even among institutions offering thesis-based options, the preference leans heavily towards the course-based track. To provide context, out of about 75 students in my cohort, only 6 of us are thesis-based students. A student’s decision to opt for the thesis-based route is often tied to their future career goals. Some folks may have the goal of pursuing a career in academia, have a passion for research, or have an interest macro-level practice. While some students may enter a thesis-based MSW program with existing research experience, it is not mandatory. The key is the ability to showcase the significance of your research and demonstrate how a thesis-based MSW program will support your goals as a social worker. It is important to note that many programs advise that students aspiring to obtain a Ph.D. opt for the thesis-based MSW program.
In my program, both course-based and thesis-based students can apply to a specialization. As a result, I have been able to pursue a clinical specialization, while also having the opportunity to undertake a thesis. This ensures that I am still prepared to work clinically post-graduation, should I choose. Many individuals opting for a course-based program typically are interested in micro or mezzo-level social work, and often transition into clinical roles after graduation. However, even if you opt not to pursue a thesis, there are still opportunities to engage in research or macro-level work. Nevertheless, if you have aspirations for a Ph.D., undertaking a thesis presents an excellent pathway.
Thesis-Based MSW Application Process
Given that thesis-based MSW programs are not as widely recognized and information about them can be scarce compared to course-based programs, I have highlighted my experience of the process in a thesis-based MSW program. While the specifics may vary among schools, my experience may offer insight into what to expect if you opt for the thesis-based program.
Selecting a thesis topic in your MSW application
When applying to a thesis-based MSW program, you may be asked to submit a thesis proposal in addition to your personal statement. This proposal typically outlines the background of your chosen research topic and the proposed methodology for your study. While your topic idea can evolve once you're in the program, having a preliminary idea for your thesis proposal is essential.
It is important to choose a research topic that you are passionate about. Often, personal statements will ask you to discuss a social justice issue that you hope to address as a social worker. It is a similar process when selecting a thesis topic. For example, my area of interest is in eating disorders, reflecting my previous work experience in the field and my future area of interest as a social worker. Therefore, I aimed to focus my thesis in this area and narrowed down my topic by looking through the current literature to identify the gaps in research. Completing a thesis requires significant effort, so it is important to choose a topic that both interests you and is feasible to accomplish within the timeframe given.
Selecting a thesis supervisor
Choosing a thesis supervisor (or supervisors) is another crucial step in applying to thesis-based MSW programs. Potential supervisors should have expertise in your research area and be willing to guide you through your thesis project. Typically, you won't need to select your supervisor(s) until the first year of your program, but it is important to verify your school's requirements.
Many school websites provide resources for finding faculty members and their research specialties. Once you have identified a potential supervisor, you can reach out to them via email, attaching your thesis proposal along with some background information about yourself and your supervision needs. If they express interest, you can request a meeting to discuss further. The purpose of this meeting is to determine if the supervisor is the right fit for you and if they can provide the necessary support throughout the thesis process.
Thesis-based courses
As previously mentioned, my first year in the thesis-based program involved completing two thesis courses. These courses provided an opportunity to refine my research topic and address various details, such as formulating my data collection and analysis plan, and determining the theoretical frameworks guiding my research. My final year will include completing the optional practicum, conducting my research study, and writing my thesis. At the end of my final year, I will defend my thesis to a committee. The thesis defense involves the student presenting their research findings and defending the validity and significance of the research. This process determines if the student successfully fulfills the requirements for graduation.
Schools That Offer Thesis-Based Social Work Programs
The following schools offer Thesis options in their MSW program. Check the schools website for the most up to date information.
Thesis-based MSW programs in Canada
University of British Columbia
University of Northern British Columbia
Thesis-based MSW programs in the USA
Summary
In summary, the decision to pursue the thesis-based route should depend on your enthusiasm for research, long-term career goals, and readiness for a rigorous schedule. Completing a thesis is a rewarding but demanding and time-consuming process; therefore, it is important to carefully consider your options and ultimately, choose the path the best fits your needs and goals.
