The Des Moines MSW program is perfect for working professionals who want the quality and reputation of the Iowa MSW but want to continue working in central Iowa. Housed in the John and Mary Pappajohn Education Center, the Iowa MSW in Des Moines can be completed on a full-time or part-time schedule. Classes typically meet weekly and include both day and evening times.
Most required courses are taught by University of Iowa faculty who live in Des Moines. Electives and a few required courses are taught by adjunct faculty who hold MSW degrees and are experienced social work practitioners in the community with reputations for excellence in the areas they teach. Some courses are taught via Zoom.
The Des Moines program offers students unique opportunities in policy advocacy and access to state government as well as the variety of services available in the state's largest city. Des Moines is a diverse metropolitan environment, providing students with a wide range of practice experiences.
Program options
Advanced standing program
- For students with a social work degree from a CSWE-accredited program
- Starts in the summer semester and can be completed in one or two years
- View the sample course sequence
Regular standing program
- For students without a social work degree from a CSWE-accredited program
- Starts in the fall semester and can be completed in 2, 3 or 4 years
- View a sample course sequence
Application deadline
Dec. 1 for early review of Advanced Standing and Regular Standing
Dec. 1 is the only deadline for the Advanced Standing one-year-track.
Feb. 1 for Advanced Standing 2-year & Regular Standing
In-person information sessions
Questions?
