Howard Payne University recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Angelo State University (ASU) to create a streamlined pathway for HPU social work graduates to enter ASU’s Master of Social Work (MSW) program.

“This partnership with Angelo State University offers our students a valuable opportunity to further their education in social work,” said Shantel Oplotnik, program director and assistant professor of social work at HPU. “We are excited to support our student’s growth and success in this important field.”

The partnership expands opportunities for HPU graduates who wish to continue their education in social work. ASU’s MSW program is available either in person or fully online, offering flexibility to meet the needs of a diverse student population. When an HPU student completes the final 60 hours of their social work degree with a GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale and meets all application requirements, they are eligible for direct admission to ASU’s Master of Social Work program through this agreement.

The student must apply for the graduate program within five years of earning their undergraduate degree from HPU. Through this partnership, HPU students are also eligible for scholarship opportunities at ASU.

Advanced social work practitioners may pursue careers across diverse fields such as healthcare, the justice system and counseling services for individuals, groups, and families.

“We are honored to have the opportunity to send our social work students to the graduate program at Angelo State University,” said Dr. Millard Kimery, dean of the School of Humanities. “While degrees from Howard Payne and Angelo State prepare students to work anywhere in the world, it is especially meaningful to partner with another school that serves Central and West Texas, as meeting the needs of rural regions like these is a major focus of the field of social work.”

For more information about the HPU social work program, contact Oplotnik at [email protected] or visit www.hputx.edu.