Graduation & Licensure Information 2025

Graduation is almost here!

The advising team wanted to share with you all critical information regarding graduation and licensure. There's a ton of information so please make sure you read this carefully.

If you need any support or clarification, please contact your academic advisor.

Friday May 2 @ 9:00AM     

Breslin Center

Master's and Educational Specialist

Details about the commencement ceremony can be found at:

Commencement | Michigan State University

You need to register if you plan to attend. 

** If you have FERPA restriction, your name will not be included. 



(Note: If you are not graduating until Summer 2024, you are welcome to participate in the Spring 2024 Commencement Ceremony, as there is not one in the Summer.)

You can find your cap, gown, and other regalia through the Spartan Spirit Shop using the links below:

MSU Commencement Cap & Gown

Spartan Spirit Shop Cap & Gown

Graduate cap/gown with Social Science: Citron (yellowish) stole.

(Note: MSU does not have a hooding ceremony)

Please review previous information sent from the Advising Team regarding:

• Applying for graduation
• GradPlan completion
• Degree Conferral process

Additional Resources/Links

A reminder to you all that you will need to complete trainings in human trafficking and implicit bias. Here are links that may be helpful in completing those requirements!

MSU School of Social Work offers several trainings via continuing education that meet requirements for both human trafficking & implicit bias. Student rate for these courses is $5, they are online and self-paced.

MSU School of SW Continuing Education Courses 



Please note that there are more options available though other organizations, and that we do not endorse or promote any of the ones below.  

Human Trafficking

(Region V Public Health Training Center)

• Human Trafficking Prevention & Advocacy ON DEMAND-No CE
• Addressing Human Trafficking in Healthcare Settings Self Paced-CE

Implicit Bias



• Implicit Bias in Public Health Practice ON DEMAND-CE
• Implicit Bias: Using Brain Science ON DEMAND-CE
• Racial Equity Through Action & Learning, Summit Part 1 ON DEMAND-NO CE

Below are links for resources to navigate licensure after graduation – which include licensure prep courses from NASW and some of our partner universities! 

Preparing for the social work license exam through ASWB (Association of Social Work Boards)?

You don’t have to face the challenge of test preparation on your own. Passitpro’s online program allows you to listen, see and learn the essential content for the ASWB exam and master the method for identifying the right answers and concepts.

NASW MI Licensing Exam Prep

This online review course* is designed to help you prepare for either the Masters, Advanced Generalist, or Clinical licensure examination. This self-paced course gives you access to the highest quality review materials, in addition to the support of an instructor and other course participants. 

UM School of SW License Exam Prep

The Wayne State University School of Social Work Continuing Education Office offers community members the option to purchase a 90-day subscription to the Social Work Examination Services (SWES) online clinical practice exam.

The online computer-based SWES exam is designed to respond to the ASWB social work license exams in all states and can be taken from the comfort of your own home at a time that is convenient to you.

 WSU License Exam Prep

Can I practice in another State

Yes, but you would have to follow to another state's licensing process. The good news is that because you are from an accredited CSWE program, you should qualify for licensure in most states. What I would recommend also doing is contacting another state's NASW chapter and seeing what resources are available.

Can I have two licenses from different states?

Yes, but again, please make sure to follow the both states' licensure process as there may be some restrictions.

Can I be licensed Clinical or Generalist (the 2 designations of licensure in MI) even though my concentration was the other one while in the MSW program?

Yes. The practice done after receiving your MSW (while accruing hours for licensure) will determine which license will be obtained –

not the concentration chosen while in the MSW program. 

Therefore, take note of the scope of practice details which will determine under which designation your hours are counting. You will need to receive supervision hours from someone who has the same type of license you are working toward, and take the corresponding exam.  

We hope your time in the MSU MSW program has been meaningful and prepared you well for your next steps.

Best of luck on your final journey to graduation, licensure, and beyond!

~Jen & Kelly

MSW Advising Team

Michigan State University

655 Auditorium Road

East Lansing, MI 48824

(517) 355-1855