The MSW Title IV-E Expense Allowance Program (Stipend Program) is available to persons who are currently full-time employees of the Tennessee Department of Children's Services and who are accepted into ETSU's MSW program. Eligibility criteria are established by DCS, and applicants complete an internal application process. Selected students receive tuition and reimbursed funds each semester to cover the costs of books and some additional expenses incurred while enrolled. The student is then obligated to continue their employment at DCS for a two-year commitment.

In addition to traditional MSW degree requirements, Title IV-E stipend students take one child welfare elective and the field placement in a clinical child welfare internship.