Western Colorado MSW Program
Preparation for Rural Social Work Practice
Based in Glenwood Springs, Colorado, our Western Colorado MSW Program and Western Colorado Advanced-Standing MSW Program bring our top-ranked master of social work program to the state’s Western Slope, strengthening the region’s professional social work infrastructure. With a specialization in Advanced Social Work Practice and an emphasis on equity, you’ll be prepared to meet the unique needs of rural and mountain communities, such as the urgent need for more behavioral health treatment providers.
Social work is one of the nation’s most in-demand professions, and the need for social workers in rural areas is particularly acute. Whether you’re seeking a new career in social work or seeking an MSW to advance your current career, the Western Colorado programs will prepare you to practice social work in a variety of settings, such as behavioral and integrated health, counseling and therapy, substance abuse treatment, school social work, nonprofits and more. You also will be on track to pursue licensure as a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) after graduation.
View Western Colorado MSW Program Options
Get to Know Glenwood Springs
Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Glenwood Springs, Colorado, is a gateway to the state’s Western Slope and a hub for its mountain communities. From Montrose in the south to mountain communities such as Leadville, Steamboat Springs or Breckenridge, you can live anywhere on the Western Slope while pursuing your MSW. You won’t find the congestion or fast pace of major cities. What you will find is a relaxed rural lifestyle in an area known for its hot springs, scenic beauty and outdoor recreation (skiing, mountain biking, river rafting, rock climbing, fly fishing and more). You’ll also discover that it’s easier to network and build relationships in a smaller community like Glenwood Springs.
Want to learn more about the Western Colorado MSW Programs?
16-18 With a cohort of no more than 18 people, you’ll start and finish your degree with the same group of students, forming close bonds with classmates and your professors
MSW Program Options
Western Colorado MSW Program
This format is for students who have a bachelor’s degree in any field other than social work. You’ll focus on the foundation curriculum in your first year, developing a generalist perspective and basic skills for working with individuals, families, groups, communities and organizations. In your second year, you’ll start your specialization curriculum in Advanced Social Work Practice. You will complete two field internships — one each year — in your community.
- Program length: 6 quarters (students have summers off)
- Next start date: September 2025
- Curriculum Plan: With the Fall Start Curriculum Plan, you’ll have summer quarter off.
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Western Colorado Advanced-Standing MSW Program
This format is for students who already have a bachelor of social work degree that’s accredited by the Council on Social Work Education. You’ll take courses rooted in social justice during the first quarter and then start your specialization curriculum in Advanced Social Work Practice while completing a field internship in your community.
- Program length: 4 quarters
- Next start date: July 2026
- Curriculum plan: With the Summer Start Advanced-Standing Curriculum Plan, you’ll complete your internship in fall, winter and spring quarters.
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Related Stories
A Decade of Community Impact
The Western Colorado MSW Program celebrates 10 years of transforming lives and supporting communities in rural Colorado.
Ecosocial Work
A new book co-edited by University of Denver Graduate School of Social Work Prof. Rachel Forbes encourages social workers to advocate for environmental justice.
Supporting LGBTQIA+ Youth
Western Colorado grad Steven Moreno, MSW ’23, fights for youth experiencing oppression.
Application Information
2025 Western Colorado MSW Program Final Application Deadline