HAMBURG, NY — Hilbert College and the University at Buffalo School of Social Work have entered into a new partnership that will provide qualified students with an accelerated pathway to earn both a bachelor's degree and a Master of Social Work (MSW) in approximately five years of full-time study. The agreement establishes two new accelerated pathways: a 3+2 Bachelor of Arts in Psychology/Master of Social Work and a 3+2 Bachelor of Science in Human Services/Master of Social Work.
The partnership creates a seamless pathway for students to complete three years of undergraduate study at Hilbert before applying to the University at Buffalo School of Social Work. Students accepted into the program begin graduate coursework during their fourth year, with qualifying graduate credits transferring back to Hilbert to fulfill undergraduate degree requirements. Upon successful completion of the first year of the MSW program, students earn their bachelor’s degree from Hilbert before completing the second year of graduate study at UB.
Designed to prepare the next generation of social work professionals, the new pathways reduce both the time and cost traditionally required to earn an advanced degree while preparing graduates for careers in behavioral health, healthcare, schools, community agencies, nonprofit organizations, and other human service settings.
“This partnership reflects Hilbert College’s commitment to creating innovative pathways that expand opportunity for our students while addressing critical workforce needs across Western New York,” said Michael R. Cornell, Interim President of Hilbert College . “The demand for highly qualified social workers continues to grow, and by partnering with one of the nation’s leading schools of social work, we are providing our students with an exceptional opportunity to earn an advanced degree more efficiently while preparing to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals, families, and communities.”
“Social work is vital in today’s society — and, at the University at Buffalo, we are helping to build a diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve as social workers,” says Keith A. Alford, dean of the UB School of Social Work. “Our partnership with Hilbert College is just one example of our efforts to remove barriers that limit access to education and to provide support that enhances student success. Through this accelerated pathway, we can train more trauma-informed social workers to protect human rights, confront injustice and promote healing.”
Students interested in the program must complete at least 90 undergraduate credits at Hilbert, satisfy the academic requirements for their Psychology or Human Services major, and meet the University at Buffalo School of Social Work’s admissions standards.
The agreement strengthens Hilbert College’s commitment to developing career-focused academic pathways while expanding graduate opportunities for students pursuing careers dedicated to service. It also reinforces the shared commitment of Hilbert College and the University at Buffalo School of Social Work to preparing highly skilled professionals who will help address the growing demand for social workers throughout Western New York and beyond.
Application for the new 3+2 pathways will open this fall for the 2027-28 academic year.
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Michael R. Cornell
Interim President
