What kind of grades do you need to have to get a masters degree in social work?

Answer 1

Before answering this question, there are several key facts that impact upon the answer.  Because the question is vaguely written, I break it down into two different areas that you may be addressing:  admissions and completion of the MSW program.  

Assuming your question is related to the admissions process:

1. Programs vary, as do the standards set forth by the individual schools.  If you are looking at a highly competetive school, the standards will be higher.  

2.  When I was applying for MSW programs, I found that the MINIMUM GPA from undergrad was a 3.0.  Having said that, also realize that exceptional circumstances can offset this 3.0 requirement.  I know a few students having less than a 3.0 that did get admitted, but they were few and far between.  The GPA that seemed to be about the regular posted norm when I was researching was a 3.5 in undergrad.  If you don't have this, there are ways to fudge your numbers...You can calculate your GPA for your major if you did better in the major than overall.  Or, if you have the 3.5 c*m GPA flaunt it!

Assuming your question relates to completing the MSW Program:

1.  Know that each school has its own policies and procedures for completion.  My school had the requirement that all students must maintain a 3.0 minimum for each semester, and must therefore graduate with at least a 3.0 c*m GPA.  

2.  The effect of a C grade.  C grades in grad school are terrible.  They are akin to an F in an undergraduate course.  Also, they bring down your GPA to the 2.0 level (again, varies by school).  In my program, any C had to be counterbalanced with an A so as to offset that semester with the 3.0 requirement.  Moreover, a student earning 2 grades of C during their matriculation in the MSW program was academically dismissed.  

Good luck with your pursuits...I hope this has been helpful for you.