Reference Instructions for MSW Application
We require two reference letters for the MSW application. It is strongly recommended that one reference come from a college-level instructor.
If one of your references is not a college-level instructor, you should give the rational for this in the education section of your narrative statement. In addition to a college-level instructor, the most meaningful references are drawn from the following individuals:
- Present or former employment supervisor
- Field placement or internship supervisor
- Supervisor or coordinator from volunteer, community engagement, or social justice activity
- Present or former college-level class instructor, an advisor, student support center staff, or research assistant supervisor
References will be collected electronically via an emailed prompt to the reference person. The applicant will need the name, contact information, and email address for the reference people to enter into the MSW application. It is advised that this reference information be entered as early as possible in the stages of the applicant filling out and completing the application to maximize the amount of time the recommenders have to submit their recommendation.
Other guidelines:
- Make sure the reference names you submit have agreed in advance to serving as a reference and know to expect an email from UWM regarding this reference.
- Do not include friends, relatives, or your own social worker, counselor, therapist, or doctor. Include only those who have been in a position to be able to evaluate you and with whom you have a primarily professional or academic connection.
- In order for an application to be considered complete, both letters must be received into the application system.
- Do not submit more than two references. Only two will be accepted and reviewed for your MSW application.
Transcript
You will need an electronic copy of your undergraduate transcript that can be uploaded to the application. This will serve as the initial unofficial transcript for admission purposes.
After being accepted for admission and before starting classes, you will be required to have an official transcript submitted directly from your undergraduate institution to the UWM Graduate School office.
If you have completed any graduate-level work, please include a copy of any transcripts reflecting that work as a separate submission in your application.