University at Buffalo, Hilbert College create accelerated MSW pathway

By Matthew Biddle

A new partnership between the University at Buffalo School of Social Work and Hilbert College will help future social workers complete their education — and enter professional practice — faster and at a lower cost.

The partnership agreement establishes two new accelerated pathways for students to earn their bachelor’s degree at Hilbert and their Master of Social Work (MSW) at UB in five years of full-time study, thereby shaving off one year of undergraduate coursework from the typical six-year course of study.

Undergraduates in Hilbert’s Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Bachelor of Science in Human Services programs can apply to the 3+2 option in their junior year, after ensuring they are on track to complete all prerequisites. If accepted, students will begin their MSW graduate coursework at UB in their fourth year, with qualifying graduate credits transferring back to Hilbert to complete their remaining bachelor’s degree requirements.

Students will follow the same graduate curriculum as traditional, full-time MSW students and complete their MSW in two years, or their fifth year of study overall.

In total, the 3+2 pathway reduces the time and cost for students to complete their advanced degree and join a growing profession. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment for social workers will grow by 6% by 2034, faster than the average of all occupations.

Moreover, an MSW is a versatile credential that positions graduates for success across every level of social work practice — from micro-level roles, where clinicians work one-on-one with individuals or families, to macro-level positions, where social workers are setting policy, developing programs and leading organizations.

MSW-trained social workers also find meaningful work in a variety of organizations, including human service agencies, nonprofits, schools, government agencies, hospitals and healthcare settings, law firms and beyond.

“Social work is vital in today’s society — and, at UB, we are helping to build a diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve as social workers,” says Keith A. Alford, dean of the UB School of Social Work. “Our partnership with Hilbert College is just one example of our efforts to remove barriers that limit access to education and to provide support that enhances student success. Through this accelerated pathway, we can train more trauma-informed social workers to protect human rights, confront injustice and promote healing.”

Mike Cormell, president of Hilbert College, adds: “This partnership reflects Hilbert College’s commitment to creating innovative pathways that expand opportunity for our students while addressing critical workforce needs across Western New York. The demand for highly qualified social workers continues to grow, and by partnering with one of the nation’s leading schools of social work, we are providing our students with an exceptional opportunity to earn an advanced degree more efficiently while preparing to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals, families and communities.”

The School of Social Work’s 3+2 partnership with Hilbert mirrors a similar and successful partnership the school has with Canisius University. In both cases, students complete 90 credits toward an applicable major at their undergraduate institution before applying to the UB School of Social Work through the 3+2 program option.

Applications for the new 3+2 pathways with Hilbert are open now for the 2027-28 academic year. For more information, visit socialwork.buffalo.edu/3-plus-2. 

Matthew Biddle
Director of Communications and Marketing
School of Social Work
Tel: 716-645-1226
mrbiddle@buffalo.edu