MSW/MA Theology Dual Degree

Now you can prepare to serve the spiritual and social needs of individuals, families, and communities in both urban and rural settings. Enroll in Luther and Augsburg’s dual degree program and receive theological training and advanced social work skills. Both institutions have a commitment to social and economic justice, as well as to teamwork in pastoral and human service settings. This program has been approved by the Council on Social Work Education.

• Integrate the values, skills, and knowledge of theology and social work.
• Discover how to serve people in holistic ways.
• Learn how to partner with other professionals to meet community and individual needs.

An Integrated Approach
The dual degree program offers students the opportunity to explore and imagine interdisciplinary teamwork in faith and human service settings. Students complete a Master of Arts in theology (MA) at Luther Seminary, while the Master of Social Work (MSW) degree is earned through the Augsburg College Social Work Department. Internships for the MA program and field placements for the MSW program are coordinated and integrated by both institutions to meet the dual degree requirements.

Everyone is Welcome
Students from other faith traditions will find a supportive environment at Luther and Augsburg. The dual degree program is ecumenical in both outlook and admission policy.  The MSW program follows an intensive weekend format, with classes generally offered on alternating weekends on Friday evenings, Saturday mornings, and Saturday afternoons. The academic calendar spans three trimesters: fall, winter, and spring.

Course Format and Field Practicum
Luther Seminary courses are offered on a weekday schedule; Augsburg College courses are offered on a weekend schedule. Students begin with Luther courses for the first year, and then move on to Augsburg courses for the second and third years. The field practicum is incorporated into the Augsburg curriculum and will be in a setting reflective of the dual degree program.

Foundation students complete 920 hours in 2 field practica; Advanced Standing students complete 500 hours in 1 field practicum. Field practicum hours are completed concurrent with enrollment in the fieldwork seminars, as well as other MSW courses. Each practicum experience is spread out over at least two trimesters (fall and winter) and many continue into the spring.

As the Luther Seminary program and the Augsburg College MSW program are both full time, it is not feasible for students to complete both programs simultaneously.

About Luther Seminary
Luther Seminary educates men and women to fulfill God’s call as Christian leaders—pastors, teachers, and congregational and community leaders. It offers rigorous and well-respected academic programs with an unparalleled breadth of courses. Luther Seminary devotes thoughtful attention to all students, helping them integrate study with ministry and accompanying them on their faith journeys.

About Augsburg’s MSW Program
The Augsburg College Master of Social Work program prepares students for agency-based practice in public and non-profit settings. The program mission is to develop social work professionals for practice that promotes social justice and empowerment toward the well being of people in a diverse and global society. The Augsburg MSW program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).

What’s the Next Step?
For more information on the dual degree program at Augsburg College and Luther Seminary, contact:

Admission Deadlines

Admission into one program does not ensure admission into the other.