By Matthew Biddle

A pair of new joint degree programs will create a seamless pathway for University at Buffalo psychology students to earn their bachelor’s degree and Master of Social Work (MSW) in only five years.

The Psychology BA/MSW and Psychology BS/MSW programs allow UB students to complete their bachelor’s in psychology and MSW in less time and fewer credits than if the two degrees were completed separately, thereby saving graduates money in tuition expenses — and helping them to enter the social work profession faster.

The programs are a collaboration between the UB School of Social Work and the Psychology Department in the College of Arts and Sciences. They mirror the School of Social Work’s longstanding BA/MSW program for health and human services majors at UB.

“Right now, there’s a significant need for skilled and dedicated mental health professionals, and this joint degree provides a path for students to expedite their degree completion and join the workforce sooner and with less of a financial burden,” says Katie McClain-Meeder, clinical associate professor and MSW program director.

“Combining these degrees will provide excellent clinical training for those wishing to work in clinical practice,” she continues. “The program will also expose students to other careers in social work. While clinical social work is a common route students take, the MSW will introduce students to opportunities at every level of practice — all centered around enhancing human wellbeing and promoting social justice.”

For psychology students, the new joint programs with social work are among several combined degree programs the department is launching this fall with graduate programs in law, public health and other disciplines.

Christa Greenberg, senior academic advisor and undergraduate studies program coordinator for UB’s Psychology Department, says the programs increase students’ career readiness by opening new possibilities for licensure and improving their marketability with employers.

“Overall, these joint programs provide students with a holistic perspective, so they are able to assess both an individual’s internal state and their external environment or social challenges,” Greenberg explains. “Psychology provides a theoretical depth that builds a foundation in human behavior, cognition, mental processes and empirical research methods. Social work’s practical applications add real-world intervention strategies, case management and policy execution.”

McClain-Meeder also sees a natural fit between the two disciplines.

“While an MSW does not require a certain educational background, this joint degree is an exciting opportunity, as psychology and social work complement each other well,” she says. “An undergrad degree in psychology from UB will equip students with the knowledge to understand people’s behavior and mental processes. An MSW will build from that foundation to further help students understand how to integrate theory, research and practice to make a positive impact on people’s lives.”

Applications open in September for fall 2027. For more information and full application requirements, visit socialwork.buffalo.edu/ba-msw.

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