To What Extent Is Criminal Justice Content Specifically Addressed in MSW Programs?

This study examined the extent to which criminal justice content is addressed in all CSWE-accredited MSW programs in the United States (N = 192). Criminal justice content was measured in three areas: (1) dual or joint degree programs, (2) concentrations or specializations, and (3) coursework. Excluding social work and law classes, 22% of all MSW programs offered a course specific to criminal justice. Nine programs (5%) offered a concentration or specialization in criminal justice. Only 1% of MSW programs offered all three areas of criminal justice content. These findings indicate that opportunities for MSW students to explore interests in criminal justice are quite limited. Implications for the influence of the social work profession on criminal justice policy and practice are discussed.