Carroll College has introduced a Tuition Assistance Partnership Program for its online Master of Social Work (MSW) degree. The program aims to improve access and affordability for those seeking advanced education in health, behavioral health, and social service sectors across Montana.
The initiative offers a 14 percent tuition reduction, provided as a scholarship, to employees of organizations that participate in the program. This benefit is available to students enrolled in Carroll’s clinically-focused online MSW program. The college states that this move will help employers develop their clinical workforce while increasing access to care throughout the state.
A recent survey by the American Association of Colleges and Universities found that most employers value higher education: 70 percent express strong confidence in it, and 73 percent believe a college degree is worth the investment. Employers also highlighted experiential learning, leadership development, and community engagement as important factors—areas emphasized within Carroll’s MSW curriculum.
“Employers recognize that higher education plays a critical role in preparing professionals who are adaptable, ethical, and ready to serve,” said Dr. James Petrovich, Director of Carroll College’s Master of Social Work program. “Our MSW program is intentionally designed to meet the realities of today’s workforce by offering rigorous clinical preparation through a flexible, accessible online model. This tuition assistance partnership reflects our shared responsibility to support the professionals who care for our communities.”
The MSW program is fully online with no campus visit required. However, students can choose to attend optional weekend intensives for direct interaction with faculty and peers. This format allows working professionals flexibility while maintaining opportunities for connection.
Currently, the program serves students from Montana as well as Wyoming, California, Minnesota, Oklahoma, and West Virginia; past cohorts have included students from Idaho and Utah. The MSW curriculum undergoes ongoing evaluation to ensure it meets current standards for adult learners.
Carroll College implemented an 18 percent tuition decrease last year. Combined with the new partnership program’s scholarship offer, this positions Carroll among the more affordable options for advanced clinical social work education in Montana.
“We are proud to collaborate with organizations that share our commitment to service, community, and the common good,” Dr. Petrovich said. “Together, we are investing in a workforce prepared to address Montana’s longstanding health and mental health needs and to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals, families, and communities.”
The Tuition Assistance Partnership Program is currently being piloted with selected organizations in Montana. There are plans to expand participation further; interested organizations may contact Dr. James Petrovich at jpetrovich@carroll.edu.
