The Part-Time MSW Program allows students who are not able to pursue full-time study to work towards a master’s degree on a structured, time-extended basis with classes delivered in a hybrid manner. Some courses are designed as blended courses with a mix of online learning and in-person sessions, while others are taught as online courses. In-person sessions take place every other Saturday on our Madison campus.
Job Title and Organization: I work as a Program and Policy Analyst in the Quality Improvement Section for the Division of Milwaukee Child Protective Services (DMCPS)
Year in the program: Currentlyin year 4 (the final year) of the Part-Time MSW program.
Focus area: Child, Youth and Family Welfare (IV-E student)
Future job interest: I very much enjoy my current role, so I plan to stay where I’m at for a while.
Why did you choose the Part-Time Program?
After working in child welfare for a few years, I knew I wanted to pursue my MSW to better serve my community. The Part-Time Program was the perfect fit because it allowed me to continue working while earning my degree. Having earned my undergraduate degree from UW-Madison, I already knew I loved the school and wanted to return for my graduate studies. The hybrid format, with classes meeting only on Saturdays, was especially appealing since it allowed me to live in Milwaukee and commute to Madison just every other Saturday.
How would you describe your experience in the Part-Time MSW Program?
Overall, my experience has been incredibly positive. The faculty have been outstanding—they are passionate about the profession and genuinely care about their students. As long as you communicate, they are understanding and accommodating to every situation. The classes have been both engaging and informative, but the friendships I’ve formed are by far the best part of the program. Balancing work, school, interning, self-care, and… life is no small feat, and there have definitely been moments of high stress. However, knowing that my cohort is experiencing the same challenges has created a sense of camaraderie and support. We’ve bonded over this shared experience, building close friendships with people who truly understand what we’re going through. It’s also worth noting that while there are stressful periods, it’s not always overwhelming, and the time flies by—four years have passed so quickly!
What has been your favorite course so far in the program and why?
It’s tough to choose because there have been so many incredible courses and professors, but I think my favorite has been the Field Practice and Integrative Seminar class, especially during the year I used my job as my internship. This class fostered such an open, honest, and vulnerable atmosphere among my peers. Despite the stress of working, studying, and interning, we came together in class and supported one another. It was a truly unique bonding experience. Additionally, the assignments gave me the push I needed to implement meaningful changes at my agency—things I might never have had the courage to attempt otherwise. It’s been an empowering experience that has had a real impact on my professional growth.
How do you think the Part-Time MSW Program has prepared you for entering the field of social work?Before starting the program, I was working in child welfare without a BSW and had limited familiarity with the profession. This program has significantly boosted my confidence in my practice. It’s given me a solid foundation in the NASW Code of Ethics, which I now rely on to guide and justify my decisions. The program’s emphasis on supervision and leadership has also been transformative. I approach supervision with my boss much more prepared than I did before, and I feel equipped to step into a leadership role if that opportunity arises. Additionally, I’ve taken many concepts, readings, and media from the program and used them to create trainings for my agency. It’s been a truly enriching experience that has helped me grow both personally and professionally.
What would you say to someone who is considering the program?
I would wholeheartedly recommend this program to anyone thinking about pursuing their MSW. It’s a fantastic opportunity to earn a graduate degree while continuing to work. With classes meeting just once a week, it’s very manageable. If you’re interested in the Child, Youth, and Family Welfare track, I strongly would encourage you to look into becoming a IV-E student. The program not only funds your tuition but also provides additional support and training opportunities. It’s an amazing resource that can make this experience even more rewarding!