EOU Master of Social Work Program Achieves CSWE Candidacy Status

EOU Master of Social Work Program Achieves CSWE Candidacy Status

LA GRANDE, Ore. – Eastern Oregon University’s online Master of Social Work (MSW) program has achieved candidacy status from the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) Board of Accreditation (BOA), marking a significant milestone in the program’s progress toward full accreditation and expanding opportunities for students seeking careers in social work.

Candidacy status indicates that EOU’s Master of Social Work program is actively progressing through the CSWE accreditation process and has demonstrated substantial compliance with national standards for social work education. CSWE is the accrediting body recognized for social work education programs across the United States.

“This achievement reflects years of dedication and collaboration among faculty, staff, university leadership, and community partners,” said Christine Saladino, MSW Program Director. “Candidacy status demonstrates our commitment to providing a high-quality social work education that prepares graduates to serve individuals, families, and communities throughout Oregon and beyond.”

The Master of Social Work (MSW) program was developed in response to growing workforce shortages across behavioral health, healthcare, schools, aging services, and community-based organizations. By preparing graduates for high-demand practice areas, the program will help strengthen the social services workforce in rural and underserved communities where access to qualified social workers is critically needed.

Students who enroll in EOU’s program can be confident that they are joining a program that is actively advancing through the nationally recognized accreditation process while receiving a rigorous education grounded in social work values, ethics, and practice.

“Our region needs compassionate, well-prepared social workers who understand the unique strengths and challenges of rural communities,” Saladino said. “Our goal is to prepare graduates who are ready to address complex social needs through professional social work practice.”

The program aligns with Eastern Oregon University’s mission of serving rural Oregon through accessible, high-quality educational opportunities that meet regional workforce demands.

“As workforce shortages continue across behavioral health and human services fields, EOU is committed to providing pathways that help students enter meaningful careers while addressing critical community needs,” said EOU President, Dr. Kelly Ryan.

The Master of Social Work program is accepting applications for Spring 2027 and Fall 2027. Students interested in learning more about the program can visit eou.edu/master-of-social-work/ or contact faculty, Dr. Christine Saladino, or Heather McConnell, Administrative Program Assistant.