Dordt announces new MSW fast-track partnership with Houghton University

Dordt University’s Master of Social Work (MSW) program is partnering with Houghton University in Houghton, New York. This partnership offers a fast-track path for students in Houghton's psychology department to earn their MSW degree.

Designed specifically for Houghton’s psychology students, this collaboration provides a waiver for select foundational courses in Dordt’s MSW program, allowing students to complete the program in less time. Additionally, the program is fully online, giving students greater flexibility during their time in the program.

“Because Dordt’s MSW program is fully online, Houghton graduates can continue their education from wherever they are living and fulfill the internship portion of the program at a place they know,” says Joe Bakker, dean for online, graduate, and partner programs at Dordt.

That’s one reason, according to Ann Monroe-Baillargeon, associate provost, dean of education and psychology and the director of MSEd program, that Houghton is excited to partner with Dordt. “We believe graduate students will find it valuable that they can complete the MSW degree completely online, providing them geographic, employment and work-life flexibility allowing greater access to an MSW degree,” says Monroe-Baillargeon.

Dordt’s MSW program equips students to participate in Christ-centered renewal through social work. Collaborating with institutions that share this mission, like Houghton University, strengthens this commitment. "Both Houghton and Dordt emphasize a mission of service in the world, which aligns closely with the kingdom service that Christian social workers pursue," says Bakker.

Dordt’s MSW program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) and approved by the Higher Learning Commission.

For questions about related course plans or the Master of Social Work degree, contact Taylor Droog.

About Dordt University

As an institution of higher education committed to the Reformed Christian perspective, Dordt University equips students, faculty, alumni, and the broader community to work toward Christ-centered renewal in all aspects of contemporary life. Located in Sioux Center, Iowa, Dordt is a comprehensive university named to the best college lists by the Wall Street Journal, Times Higher Education, Forbes.com, Washington Monthly, and Princeton Review.