Siena Heights University (SHU) in Adrian, Michigan, has recently renewed a Master of Social Work (MSW) agreement with Barry University in Florida. This agreement allows for Siena graduates to receive a tuition discount on Barry University’s MSW program.

Under the articulation agreement, recent SHU graduates are eligible to receive a 20% discount on Barry University’s posted tuition rates for their MSW program. The renewed agreement now allows both in-person and online students to receive this discount—an opportunity that was previously only offered to in-person students. This discount cannot be applied to additional costs such as late registration fees, online course fees, books, and other course materials or required expenses. To qualify for this discount, the Siena alumnus/a must have graduated within the last three years.

Receiving a Master of Social Work degree helps prepare students for practice in clinical settings and at a macro-level. The addition of this degree often opens opportunities for extra education, licensure, and certifications, which can help individuals get hired into positions that are above entry-level. In doing so, MSW-obtaining individuals’ prospective salaries are increased by approximately $10,000, as indicated by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Of the renewed agreement, President of Siena Heights University, Sister Peg Albert, O.P., Ph.D., said: “As a proud graduate of Barry University’s School of Social Work, I am so pleased that we are renewing our agreement for the master’s degree in Social Work for our undergraduate majors in the social work field.  Our mission and values are similar to Barry’s, and I am happy that our students can continue in that tradition.  Both universities are sponsored by the Adrian Dominican Sisters, a heritage that both institutions cherish.”

Barry University was established by the Adrian Dominican Sisters in 1940. It is a Catholic institution rooted in liberal arts tradition. The core values of Barry University include commitments to knowledge and truth, inclusive community, collaborative service, and social justice. As a result, the MSW Programs available through Barry—and now to Siena Heights students—keep these core values at the heart of each class. In doing so, Barry University strengthens students’ skills in relationships, communication, critical thinking, and organization.

“Our partnership with Siena Heights University will provide more students the opportunity to prepare for high-demand careers in this field,” Barry University President Mike Allen said. “Barry’s School of Social Work teaches students to comprehensively approach the most pressing issues of the day from a broader, more holistic perspective that includes mental health, community health and social justice.”

Siena Heights is proud to be educational partners with Barry University, and thanks Barry University for their crucial part in this tremendous opportunity for SHU students.