Research the programs to which you would like to apply.
Visit the schools' websites or contact an admissions representatives for a list of credits required to enter the program. For example, the University of Michigan requires students to have taken a minimum of 20 academic semester credits in psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, history, political science, government and/or languages.
Obtain your undergraduate transcript to determine if you meet the requirements. If you do not meet the class requirements, take the classes at a local college or community college.
Take standardized tests, if applicable. Some social work programs require scores from the Graduate Record Examination, or GRE, or Miller's Analogies Test, otherwise known as the MAT. Have scores sent to the schools to which you are applying.
Write a personal statement that addresses why you would like to switch from management to social work. In addition, you most likely will need to write an essay that addresses current social issues. For example, Washington University's Master of Social Work program requires that your essay analyze a social problem that is of great concern to you.
Request three letters of recommendation from professional or academic supervisors. Some programs, such as the University of Michigan, allow these to be submitted online. Otherwise, they need to be mailed separately. It is important that you make sure that the social work admissions staff receives all of the letters before the deadline.
Complete a resume that contains all of your professional, academic and community experience. While these experiences are not required of applicants, previous activity, especially within the nonprofit sector, demonstrates your dedication to social work.
Complete the online or paper application, and submit the application fee. Attach your resume, personal statement and essay with the application. Have your undergraduate school send all transcripts. If you took courses at a local college to fulfill the social work requirements, have those transcripts sent as well.