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Laura Deupree
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Andrew Young School of Policy Studies
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ATLANTA — The School of Social Work at Georgia State University’s Andrew Young School of Policy Studies has announced the launch of a new Mental Health and Wellness specialization within its Master of Social Work (MSW) program. Beginning in fall 2026, this specialization advances clinical social work education and addresses the growing demand for skilled practitioners in mental and behavioral health across Georgia and beyond.
“The demand for licensed mental health professionals in Georgia is both urgent and growing, with projections showing a 12 percent increase over the next decade,” said MSW Program Director Nicholas Forge. “This specialization directly addresses that need by equipping social workers with the specialized knowledge and skills to strengthen the capacity of agencies, schools and healthcare systems to meet critical mental health challenges.”
With strong partnerships across community agencies, a faculty deeply engaged in practice and research, and a mission centered on strengthening communities, Georgia State’s School of Social Work is uniquely positioned to prepare the next generation of social workers to lead in the field of mental health and wellness.
The new specialization features a clinically focused curriculum that prepares graduates for professional licensure and advanced practice. Coursework emphasizes assessment, diagnosis, evidence-based interventions, trauma-informed care, cultural humility and integrated behavioral health approaches. These proven methods lay the groundwork for a successful mental health career.
Students apply what they learn through hands-on practicum experiences in schools, healthcare settings, community agencies and clinical environments — experiences made possible by the School of Social Work’s long-standing partnerships and cultivated relationships across the community, which help secure meaningful placements and ensure students are prepared to meet real-world challenges.
To open doors to more students seeking to make a difference, the new specialization offers both full-time (in-person) and part-time (online) study options, including an Advanced-Standing track for qualified applicants who already hold a bachelor’s degree in social work. These flexible options expand access for students across Georgia and beyond.
“Our online students benefit from residency-neutral tuition rates, which significantly expand access to a high-quality MSW education — regardless of where they live,” said Joon Choi, director of the School of Social Work. “Affordability and accessibility are key considerations for prospective students, and we’re proud to offer a flexible, part-time online option that is more cost-effective than many other online MSW programs.”
By expanding its advanced social work offerings, Georgia State University continues to build on its mission of community leadership and health equity.