State MSW Pages
Pennsylvania MSW Programs
Schools with MSW Programs
Social Work Licensure
Pennsylvania Social Worker Careers with an MSW Degree
Pennsylvania Social Work Licensure
If you’re a Pennsylvania resident considering a career in social work, you’re strategically positioned in a state with robust educational infrastructure and growing employment opportunities. The Commonwealth’s commitment to social services education is evident through its extensive network of accredited programs spanning from Pittsburgh to Philadelphia.
With a BSW degree from a Pennsylvania institution, you’ll be eligible for Advanced Standing (one-year) MSW programs that will save you time and money as you invest in your future career.
Already earned your BSW? Explore MSW programs in Pennsylvania to advance your career to the next level.
Why Choose a BSW Program in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania stands out as an exceptional state for social work education, offering unique advantages that extend beyond convenient geography. The state’s diverse population centers, from urban Philadelphia and Pittsburgh to rural Appalachian communities, provide varied field placement opportunities that prepare students for practice in any setting.
The state’s robust healthcare infrastructure, including world-renowned medical centers such as UPMC and Penn Medicine, creates numerous internship and employment opportunities for aspiring social workers. Pennsylvania’s commitment to social services is reflected in its comprehensive state programs and progressive policies supporting vulnerable populations.
Additionally, Pennsylvania’s central location in the Northeast corridor provides access to career opportunities throughout the Mid-Atlantic region, while maintaining a lower cost of living compared to neighboring metropolitan areas, such as New York City and Washington, D.C.
Pennsylvania’s CSWE-Accredited BSW Programs: Complete List
Choosing a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education ensures your degree meets national standards for social work education. Below is a comprehensive listing of Pennsylvania’s accredited BSW programs, organized by region for your convenience.
Eastern Pennsylvania BSW Programs
| Institution | Location | Format | Program Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temple University | Philadelphia | On-campus | Urban focus, diverse field placements, research opportunities |
| Bryn Mawr College | Bryn Mawr | On-campus | Small classes, feminist perspective, prestigious liberal arts setting |
| West Chester University | West Chester | On-campus | Community partnerships, affordable tuition, suburban setting |
| Kutztown University | Kutztown | On-campus | Rural service learning, state system affordability |
| Cedar Crest College | Allentown | On-campus | Women-focused institution, personalized attention |
| Cairn University | Langhorne | On-campus | Faith-based perspective, small cohorts |
| Eastern University | St. Davids | On-campus | Social justice emphasis, international opportunities |
| Millersville University | Millersville | On-campus & Online | Only fully online BSW in PA, flexible scheduling |
Western Pennsylvania BSW Programs
| Institution | Location | Format | Program Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Pittsburgh | Pittsburgh | On-campus | Research university, urban setting, prestigious reputation |
| Carlow University | Pittsburgh | On-campus | Catholic institution, small classes, urban placements |
| Chatham University | Pittsburgh | On-campus | Sustainability focus, women’s leadership emphasis |
| California University of PA | California | On-campus | Rural Appalachian focus, affordable state school |
| Indiana University of PA | Indiana | On-campus | Large program, diverse specializations |
| Slippery Rock University | Slippery Rock | On-campus | Gerontology emphasis, state system benefits |
| Seton Hill University | Greensburg | On-campus | Catholic values, small cohorts, personalized advising |
| Grove City College | Grove City | On-campus | Christian liberal arts, no federal aid (lower costs) |
Central Pennsylvania BSW Programs
| Institution | Location | Format | Program Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Penn State University | University Park | On-campus | Big Ten resources, research opportunities, alumni network |
| Shippensburg University | Shippensburg | On-campus | Rural/urban mix, state system affordability |
| Lock Haven University | Lock Haven | On-campus | Small town setting, close faculty relationships |
| Messiah University | Mechanicsburg | On-campus | Christian perspective, service learning emphasis |
| Elizabethtown College | Elizabethtown | On-campus | Peace and justice focus, experiential learning |
Admission Requirements for Pennsylvania BSW Programs
Understanding admission requirements helps you prepare a competitive application. While specific requirements vary by institution, Pennsylvania BSW programs typically share common expectations that align with CSWE standards.
Standard Admission Requirements
Most Pennsylvania BSW programs require a high school diploma or a GED with a minimum GPA of 2.5 to 3.0. State universities within the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) generally maintain more flexible admission standards, while private institutions may have more selective criteria.
Required application materials typically include official transcripts, SAT or ACT scores (though many schools are now test-optional), a personal statement addressing your interest in social work, and 2-3 letters of recommendation from teachers, employers, or community leaders who can speak to your potential for social work practice.
Transfer Student Opportunities
Pennsylvania’s BSW programs welcome transfer students, with many institutions offering articulation agreements with community colleges. Students with associate degrees or 60 or more credits can often complete their BSW in two years. Programs evaluate transfer credits individually, typically accepting up to 90 credits from accredited institutions.
BSW Curriculum and Field Education Requirements
Pennsylvania BSW programs adhere to the CSWE’s Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards, ensuring comprehensive preparation for generalist social work practice. Understanding the curriculum structure helps you plan your academic journey effectively.
The BSW program can provide learners with introductory information about social work practice, hands-on training, and independent research opportunities for maximum growth.
Core Curriculum Components
During your first two years, you’ll complete liberal arts requirements that build a foundation for social work practice. These courses include psychology, sociology, human biology, statistics, and research methods. This broad educational base ensures you understand human behavior within social contexts.
The social work major typically begins in junior year with courses in social welfare policy, human behavior and the social environment, social work practice methods, and diversity and social justice. These courses integrate theory with practical application, preparing you for field education.
Specialized Course Examples
Pennsylvania BSW programs offer specialized courses addressing the state’s unique demographics and social issues. Courses in child welfare prepare students to work with Pennsylvania’s county-based child protective services system. Given the state’s aging population, many programs offer gerontology courses focusing on services for older adults.
Substance abuse courses address Pennsylvania’s ongoing opioid crisis, teaching evidence-based interventions and harm reduction strategies. Rural social work courses prepare students for practice in Pennsylvania’s extensive rural regions, where access to services presents unique challenges.
Field Education: The Signature Pedagogy
Field education represents the cornerstone of BSW education, requiring a minimum of 400 hours of supervised practice in social service agencies. Pennsylvania programs typically structure field education as a senior-year experience, with students spending 2-3 days per week in placement settings.
Field placement sites across Pennsylvania include hospitals, schools, child welfare agencies, mental health centers, correctional facilities, and nonprofit organizations. Students work under the supervision of licensed social workers, who provide mentorship and evaluate their competency development.
Spotlight: Millersville University’s Online BSW Program
Millersville University distinguishes itself by offering Pennsylvania’s only fully online BSW program, providing unprecedented flexibility for working adults and distant learners. This innovative program maintains the same CSWE accreditation and rigorous standards as traditional programs while eliminating geographic barriers.
Program Structure and Benefits
The online BSW program operates on a part-time basis, enabling students to balance employment with their degree pursuit. Courses follow an asynchronous format, meaning you can complete coursework on your schedule without required login times. This flexibility proves invaluable for adult learners balancing family, work, and educational commitments.
Despite the online format, students complete the exact 400-hour field education requirement. Millersville’s field education office helps distant students secure placements in their local communities, thereby expanding the program’s reach throughout Pennsylvania and beyond.
For those considering online BSW programs, Millersville’s option provides the perfect balance of flexibility and quality, with the added benefit of in-state tuition for Pennsylvania residents.
Financial Aid and Scholarship Opportunities
Financing your BSW education requires understanding available resources. Pennsylvania offers numerous financial aid opportunities specifically for social work students, making education more accessible.
State-Specific Financial Aid
The Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) administers state grants for Pennsylvania residents attending in-state institutions. The Pennsylvania State Grant program provides need-based aid up to $5,750 annually for full-time students at four-year institutions.
PASSHE schools offer additional affordability through the State System’s commitment to keeping tuition rates competitive. Many institutions within the system freeze tuition for students who maintain continuous enrollment, providing cost predictability.
Social Work-Specific Scholarships
The National Association of Social Workers, Pennsylvania Chapter, offers annual scholarships to BSW students who demonstrate academic excellence and a commitment to social work values. Individual universities often maintain scholarship programs for social work majors, which are frequently funded by alums and community partners.
Many Pennsylvania BSW programs participate in the federal Title IV-E Child Welfare Education program, offering tuition assistance to students who commit to child welfare employment after graduation. This program addresses Pennsylvania’s ongoing need for qualified child welfare professionals.
BSW Career Outcomes and Pennsylvania Employment Outlook
Pennsylvania’s diverse economy and comprehensive social service infrastructure create abundant opportunities for BSW graduates. Understanding career paths and salary expectations helps you make informed decisions about your education.
2024 Salary Data for Pennsylvania Social Workers
According to the most recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of May 2024, Pennsylvania social workers earn competitive salaries that vary by specialization and geographic location. These figures reflect the state’s commitment to supporting social service professionals through fair compensation and benefits.
Child, Family, and School Social Workers in Pennsylvania earn a median annual salary of $43,900, with experienced professionals earning up to $63,890 per year. The state employs approximately 18,200 professionals in this category, making it the largest sector of social work employment. These professionals work in schools, child protective services, and family service agencies throughout the Commonwealth.
Healthcare Social Workers command higher salaries, with a median annual wage of $63,010. The salary range extends from $47,640 for entry-level positions to $85,250 for experienced professionals. Pennsylvania employs about 6,560 healthcare social workers in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and home health agencies.
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers earn a median salary of $63,230, reflecting the critical need for addiction and mental health services. With 38,590 professionals employed statewide, this represents Pennsylvania’s fastest-growing social work sector, driven by the ongoing behavioral health crisis.
Social Workers in specialized roles (categorized as “All Other”) earn the highest median salary at $65,990, with top earners reaching $109,390. These 2,040 professionals work in specialized settings, including correctional facilities, employee assistance programs, and policy organizations.
Geographic Salary Variations
Salaries vary significantly across Pennsylvania’s regions. Philadelphia and Pittsburgh metropolitan areas typically offer salaries 10-15% above state averages, reflecting higher living costs and competitive healthcare markets. Rural areas may offer lower base salaries, but they often include loan forgiveness programs and lower living expenses that help offset wage differences.
Career Advancement Pathways
BSW graduates can pursue various Pennsylvania social work licenses, beginning with the Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW) credential. This entry-level license permits supervised practice and serves as a stepping stone to advanced credentials.
Many BSW graduates pursue Advanced Standing MSW programs, completing their graduate education in just one year. This accelerated path leads to eligibility for the Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) credential and, ultimately, the Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) credential.
Preparing for Your BSW Application
Success in BSW admissions requires thoughtful preparation and a thorough understanding of what programs seek in their candidates. Pennsylvania programs value diverse perspectives and experiences that demonstrate commitment to social work values.
Building a Competitive Application
Begin building your application profile early by engaging in volunteer work with vulnerable populations. Pennsylvania offers numerous volunteer opportunities through organizations like United Way chapters, homeless shelters, food banks, and youth programs. Document your experiences and reflect on how they’ve shaped your understanding of social issues.
Academic preparation should include courses in psychology, sociology, and human services when available. Maintain strong grades in these areas, as they demonstrate readiness for social work coursework. If your overall GPA is lower, consider taking community college courses to demonstrate recent academic success.
Crafting Your Personal Statement
Your personal statement should articulate why you’re drawn to social work, not just helping professions generally. Reference specific experiences that demonstrated social work values like social justice, human dignity, and empowerment. Connect your goals to the particular program’s mission and strengths.
Address any academic challenges honestly while emphasizing growth and resilience. Admissions committees recognize that life experiences, including overcoming personal challenges, often inspire the most effective social workers.
In total, you can expect to spend around 4 years in a BSW program if you are taking classes at a full-time rate.
Is a BSW Right for You? Key Considerations
Choosing a BSW program represents a significant commitment to professional social work education. Understanding whether this path aligns with your goals helps ensure educational success and career satisfaction.
Essential Questions for Prospective BSW Students
- Am I called to help others as my vocation? Social work requires a genuine commitment to serving vulnerable populations, often in challenging circumstances. Reflect on whether this calling resonates with your values and life purpose.
- Do I feel certain I want to pursue a career as a social worker? BSW programs specifically prepare students for social work practice, not general human services. Consider whether you’re committed to this specific professional identity.
- Am I certain I intend to attend graduate school after earning my bachelor’s degree? The BSW’s primary advantage lies in its eligibility for Advanced Standing in MSW programs. If you’re uncertain about pursuing graduate education, consider whether a BSW or another bachelor’s degree better aligns with your goals.
- Have I made a complete plan for my educational path to the career I want? Research specific social work roles requiring BSW versus MSW credentials. Understanding licensure requirements and career trajectories helps you plan effectively.
If you answered yes to these questions, a BSW program offers the most direct path to professional social work practice. The investment in specialized undergraduate education pays dividends through accelerated graduate education and comprehensive professional preparation.
Next Steps: From Interest to Enrollment
Moving from interest to enrollment requires systematic planning and timely action. Pennsylvania’s BSW programs typically admit students for fall semester, with application deadlines ranging from December through March.
Application Timeline
Junior Year of High School: Begin researching programs and visiting campuses. Attend college fairs and connect with admissions representatives. Consider job shadowing social workers to confirm career interest.
Senior Year Fall: Finalize your college list, complete applications, and submit FAFSA by October 1st for maximum financial aid consideration. Request transcripts and recommendations early to avoid delays.
Senior Year Spring: Compare financial aid packages and make your enrollment decision by May 1st. Attend accepted student days to experience campus culture and meet faculty.
Transfer Students: Work with advisors to ensure credits transfer appropriately. Request official evaluations before committing to ensure timely graduation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do most social workers hold BSWs?
While many social workers enter the field through various educational paths, BSW holders represent a significant portion of the workforce. The BSW provides the most direct route to professional practice, with 37 accredited programs in Pennsylvania alone demonstrating strong demand for this credential. BSW graduates often advance more quickly due to their specialized preparation and eligibility for Advanced Standing MSW programs.
Why is it helpful to get a BSW?
A BSW provides comprehensive social work education that forms the foundation for professional practice. Graduates qualify for Advanced Standing MSW programs, completing graduate education in one year instead of two. This saves approximately $20,000 to $ 40,000 in tuition and opportunity costs. Additionally, BSW programs offer specialized field education and professional socialization that is not typically available in general liberal arts degrees.
I already hold a bachelor’s degree in another subject. Can I still apply to an MSW program?
Yes, holders of any bachelor’s degree can apply to traditional two-year MSW programs. These programs include foundation coursework that BSW graduates have already completed. While you won’t qualify for Advanced Standing, many Pennsylvania MSW programs offer part-time and online options accommodating career changers. Consider whether completing prerequisite courses might strengthen your application.
Can I work while completing a BSW program?
Many Pennsylvania BSW programs accommodate working students through flexible scheduling. Part-time enrollment options extend program completion to 5-6 years but allow employment continuation. However, senior year field education requires 16-24 hours weekly, necessitating schedule adjustments. Millersville’s online program offers maximum flexibility for working adults.
What’s the difference between state and private BSW programs in Pennsylvania?
PASSHE schools offer lower tuition rates for Pennsylvania residents, typically $8,000-12,000 annually. Private institutions charge $25,000-50,000 but often provide substantial financial aid. State schools serve larger, more diverse student bodies, while private colleges offer smaller classes and specialized missions. Both maintain CSWE accreditation, ensuring equivalent educational quality.
How competitive are Pennsylvania BSW programs?
Admission competitiveness varies significantly. PASSHE schools typically accept 70-85% of applicants, making them accessible to most qualified students. Selective private institutions like Bryn Mawr accept 30-40% of applicants. Most programs prioritize fit with social work values over perfect academic credentials, valuing diverse life experiences and demonstrated service commitment.
Conclusion: Your Path to Social Work Excellence
Pennsylvania’s 37 BSW programs offer diverse pathways to professional social work practice, from urban research universities to small liberal arts colleges, from traditional campus experiences to flexible online learning. The state’s commitment to social work education, combined with growing employment opportunities and competitive salaries, creates an ideal environment for launching your social work career.
Whether you’re drawn to child welfare, healthcare, mental health services, or emerging practice areas, a Pennsylvania BSW provides the foundation for meaningful professional practice. With careful program selection and dedicated preparation, you’ll join thousands of BSW graduates making a difference in communities across the Commonwealth and beyond.
Take the next step by researching specific programs, connecting with admissions counselors, and visiting campuses. Your journey toward professional social work practice begins with selecting the right BSW program that aligns with your unique goals and circumstances.
2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary and employment figures for Child, Family, and School Social Workers, Healthcare Social Workers, Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers, and Social Workers, All other reflect national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed August 2025.
