Evaluation of Student Learning Outcomes in MSW Programs

Directors of 64% of the 99 CSWE-accredited Master of Social Work (MSW) programs in the United States responded to a survey that examined how programs evaluate educational outcomes. The findings revealed that educators in the majority of programs assess acquisition of foundation and advanced knowledge on a course-by-course basis using a variety of traditional methods. Educators in only 14% of the programs conduct qualifying examinations before student enrollment in the advanced curriculum, and those in approximately 33% of the programs conduct comprehensive examinations upon students' completion of the advanced curriculum. Most programs rely on self-report alumni surveys to additionally assess post-MSW outcomes. The results point to a number of issues that need to be considered in the profession's attempt to ensure academic accountability.