The Des Moines MSW program is perfect for working professionals who want the quality and reputation of the Iowa MSW but want to continue working in central Iowa. Housed in the John and Mary Pappajohn Education Center, the Iowa MSW in Des Moines can be completed on a full-time or part-time schedule. Classes typically meet weekly and include both day and evening times.

Most required courses are taught by University of Iowa faculty who live in Des Moines. Electives and a few required courses are taught by adjunct faculty who hold MSW degrees and are experienced social work practitioners in the community with reputations for excellence in the areas they teach. Some courses are taught via Zoom. 

The Des Moines program offers students unique opportunities in policy advocacy and access to state government as well as the variety of services available in the state's largest city. Des Moines is a diverse metropolitan environment, providing students with a wide range of practice experiences.

Program options

Advanced standing program

36 semester hour program
  • For students with a social work degree from a CSWE-accredited program
  • Starts in the summer semester and can be completed in one or two years
  • View the sample course sequence

Regular standing program

54 semester hour program
  • For students without a social work degree from a CSWE-accredited program
  • Starts in the fall semester and can be completed in 2, 3 or 4 years
  • View a sample course sequence

Application deadline

December 1st for advanced standing 

February 1st for regular standing

In-person information sessions

Please join us for an in-person info session to learn more about earning your MSW degree from the University of Iowa.

The following sessions take place Tuesdays from 4–5 p.m. (Central Time) at the John and Mary Pappajohn Education Center located at 1200 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309.

2024

  • April 9
  • May 14
  • June 11
  • July 9
  • Aug. 13
  • Sept. 10
  • Oct. 8
  • Nov. 12
  • Dec. 10

If you have any questions or requests, please contact our coordinator:
Christy Thies
Des Moines and Online Program Coordinator
christy-thies@uiowa.edu
515-235-4662

Questions?

Christy Thies

Christy Thies, M.S.W., L.M.S.W.

Title/Position
Des Moines and Online Program Coordinator