HELENA, MT – Carroll College is expanding access to its Master of Social Work (MSW) program with the addition of a spring start, giving prospective students another opportunity each year to begin their path toward a career in social work and behavioral health.
Beginning in January 2027, Carroll will enroll MSW students twice annually, with cohorts beginning in both the spring and fall. Applications are now open for the spring and fall 2027 cohorts.
“Adding a spring start gives students greater flexibility to begin their MSW when the timing is right for them rather than having to wait for the next academic year,” said Dr. Jean Ollis, Director of Carroll College’s Master of Social Work program. “At the same time, it allows us to prepare more skilled clinical social workers to meet the significant need for behavioral health and social work services in Montana and communities across the country.”
The January 2027 cohort will be available to students entering Carroll’s traditional MSW track. The application deadline is December 1, 2026.
Beginning with the August 2027 cohort, Carroll will offer both its traditional and advanced standing tracks, which will run concurrently. The advanced standing option is designed for eligible students who have already earned a Bachelor of Social Work degree. The application deadline for the fall cohort is July 1, 2027.
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, with admission decisions typically provided within two weeks after a completed application is submitted. Prospective students are encouraged to apply early.
Carroll’s 100 percent online MSW program combines the flexibility of online learning with a clinically focused curriculum designed to build community, connection, and professional competence. The curriculum emphasizes four core areas: trauma-informed, resilience-focused practice; evidence-based practice; integrated and interdisciplinary care; and professional leadership.
The program is designed in part to help address the need for behavioral health professionals and prepares graduates for independent clinical licensure. Through coursework and field education, students develop the clinical knowledge and practical skills needed to work with individuals, families, groups and communities, including vulnerable and marginalized populations.
Since launching in 2021, Carroll’s MSW program has graduated four cohorts totaling 87 students and has steadily expanded its reach in Montana and beyond.
“Growth in the program reflects both the need for well-prepared social workers and the value students see in a program that combines flexibility with strong clinical preparation,” Dr. Ollis said. “Our goal is to make graduate social work education accessible while maintaining the personal connection and high-quality preparation that students expect from Carroll.”
Carroll has also taken steps to make the program more affordable. The college reduced MSW tuition by 18 percent beginning in fall 2025 and established a partnership scholarship program that provides employees of participating organizations with a scholarship equivalent to a 14 percent tuition reduction.
MSW students may also be eligible for scholarships, employment-based field practicums, paid practicums, tuition assistance, and federal graduate financial aid.
The addition of a second annual cohort is part of Carroll’s continued investment in the MSW program.
Applications are currently open for the spring and fall 2027 cohorts. To learn more about Carroll College’s Master of Social Work program or to apply, visit carroll.edu/msw.
