Cal State San Bernardino Palm Desert Campus is celebrating the graduation of its first cohort from the Master of Social Work (MSW) program this spring. This inaugural group of graduates is prepared to contribute to the communities in the Coachella Valley and beyond. Deirdre Lanesskog, director and associate professor at CSUSB School of Social Work, stated, “The Coachella Valley needs compassionate, well-trained behavioral health professionals now more than ever. We’re proud to be helping fill that gap through our MSW program, and we’re thrilled to see our first graduates step into this vital profession.”
The MSW program at the campus was made possible with a $2.2 million grant from the California Health Care Access and Information Agency, which supports the development of a behavioral health workforce in underserved areas. The program offers various degree pathways, including two-year and three-year MSW degree pathways and a one-year Advanced Standing program. Evening classes are provided, and scholarships of up to $4,200 are available for some students.
The application deadline for the summer 2025 semester is May 15. The program is designed for those interested in roles such as case managers, therapists, and community organizers, working in sectors like healthcare, education, and public assistance.
The university underlines its commitment to the Coachella Valley through these programs, reiterating the goal of expanding access to careers in behavioral and mental health.
More information on the programs is available by contacting Melinda Corral, CSUSB social work outreach coordinator, or visiting the CSUSB School of Social Work website. Furthermore, additional details about the Palm Desert Campus and its offerings can be obtained from Mike Singer or through the PDC website.
