New partnership between Dordt and Kuyper expands opportunities for faith-based MSW education

Dordt University has partnered with Kuyper College in Grand Rapids, MI, to offer students a seamless transition from Kuyper’s Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program to Dordt’s Master of Social Work (MSW) program.

Joe Bakker, dean of online, graduate, and partner programs at Dordt University says this partnership is a natural fit, only strengthening the preparation of Christian social workers. “Dordt and Kuyper’s shared Reformed faith forms the foundation of this partnership, ensuring that students are prepared to integrate Christian values with social work practice,” Bakker says.

Jennifer Colin, director of the BSW program at Kuyper College, describes the partnership as a natural step from undergraduate study to impactful professional service in social work. "This partnership provides a clear and seamless path for students to continue their education,” she says. "Along with excellent curriculum, both programs offer a Christ-centered foundation that emphasizes all people are made in God's image and that He desires justice for them."

In addition to building on their Christian education, Dordt's MSW program provides students with a range of valued skills and experiences, preparing them to address complex needs in various fields. "By combining Kuyper’s strong undergraduate preparation with Dordt’s advanced graduate education, students will be well-prepared to enter the field with both academic excellence and a deep-rooted commitment to faith-based service,” adds Bakker.

According to Erin Olson, director of the Master of Social Work program at Dordt, “The demand for social workers continues to grow, with increasing needs in mental health services, healthcare, schools, and community organizations.” Through this partnership, more Christian social workers will be prepared to step into these critical roles.

Dordt’s MSW program is fully remote, providing students with the flexibility to complete coursework from anywhere in the world and apply their learning directly to their unique careers and callings. “This partnership between Kuyper College and Dordt University ensures that more students are equipped to integrate faith with professional practice, preparing them to serve diverse populations with competence,” says Olson. “This collaboration expands access to MSW education, helping equip more Christian social workers to address pressing social challenges with both expertise and compassion.”

Dordt’s MSW program is accredited by Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) and approved by the Higher Learning Commission.

To learn more about Dordt’s MSW degree, visit Dordt.edu/MSW.

About Dordt University

As an institution of higher education committed to the Reformed Christian perspective, Dordt University equips students, faculty, alumni, and the broader community to work toward Christ-centered renewal in all aspects of contemporary life. Located in Sioux Center, Iowa, Dordt is a comprehensive university named to the best college lists by the Wall Street Journal, Times Higher Education, Forbes.com, Washington Monthly, and Princeton Review.