MEDIA RELEASE__Bluffton University has announced that its Master of Social Work (MSW) program, conducted in partnership with Goshen College, has been granted initial accreditation for eight years from the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) Board of Accreditation. 

Accreditation affirms that Bluffton’s MSW program meets rigorous national standards for curriculum, faculty qualifications, student support and field education. The designation also ensures that graduates are academically prepared to pursue professional licensure and practice in a variety of social work settings. 

“Our online MSW program prepares students for social work practice, making pathways for mental health and justice for people and communities everywhere,” said Dr. Jeanette Harder, MSW program director and professor of social work. “Come see how our MSW program mimics social work practice in its curriculum, grading, and field education. Students learn to integrate spirituality into social work practice through bringing health, justice, and hope to the mind, body, and spirit of people they serve.” 

Bluffton’s MSW program is grounded in evidence-based practice and a commitment to social justice; it emphasizes trauma-informed practice, clinical preparation and community engagement. Students complete extensive field education experiences in diverse settings, working alongside experienced professionals to address real-world needs across northwest Ohio and beyond. 

The curriculum integrates classroom learning with hands-on field education, preparing graduates to work with individuals, families, groups, organizations and communities. Through small class sizes and close faculty mentorship, students gain the professional competencies, ethical foundation and cultural responsiveness essential for effective social work practice. 

Bluffton University’s master of social work program mimics social work practice in our curriculum, grading and field education; offers students flexibility in the rate in which they move through the program; and students participate in weekly Zoom classes in the evenings which enhances knowledge and skill development and builds learning communities. 

“This achievement reflects years of intentional development and the dedication of our faculty and students,” said Dr. Gayle Trollinger, interim vice president and dean of academic affairs. “We are pleased to offer a program that equips graduates to serve communities with skill, compassion and ethical leadership.” 

For more information about the MSW program, visit www.bluffton.edu/msw. 

Driven by our peace-church tradition and a focus on developing students for life as well as vocation, Bluffton has spent 125 years learning, experiencing and bettering the world together. 

Located on a 65-acre residential campus in northwest Ohio and lined with abundant natural beauty, Bluffton University offers more than 90 majors, minors and programs for undergraduate students. Bluffton also offers graduate programs in business administration (MBA), dietetics (MND), education (MAEd) and social work (MSW). 

Founded in 1899 and affiliated with Mennonite Church USA, Bluffton graduates are prepared for life; 94 percent are employed, in graduate school or completing voluntary service within six months of graduation.