DC MSW Programs
Schools with MSW Programs
Social Work Licensure
DC Social Worker Careers with an MSW Degree
DC Social Work Licensure
This comprehensive guide covers all CSWE-accredited BSW programs in Washington DC, including admission requirements, curriculum details, career outcomes, and current salary data for 2024.
CSWE-Accredited BSW Programs in Washington DC
Washington DC hosts three distinguished universities offering CSWE-accredited BSW programs, each with unique strengths and specializations. The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accreditation ensures these programs meet rigorous national standards for social work education, a requirement for licensure in most states.
Program Comparison at a Glance
| University | Program Format | Annual Tuition (2024) | Enrollment | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Catholic University of America | On-campus, Full-time/Part-time | $52,500 | 150 students | Clinical focus, Capitol Hill partnerships |
| Gallaudet University | On-campus, Bilingual (ASL/English) | $19,568 | 75 students | Deaf/HOH specialization, International focus |
| University of the District of Columbia | On-campus, Evening options | $12,840 (In-state) | 200 students | Public university, Urban social work focus |
Catholic University of America – National Catholic School of Social Service
Founded in 1918, Catholic University’s National Catholic School of Social Service (NCSSS) stands as one of the oldest social work programs in the nation. The BSW program emphasizes clinical practice and social justice, preparing students for direct practice with individuals, families, and communities.
Program Highlights:
- 400-hour field education requirement in premier DC agencies
- Specialized tracks in clinical practice and community organizing
- Advanced standing eligibility for CUA’s MSW program
- Small class sizes (average 15-20 students)
- Study abroad opportunities in Rome and Ireland
Admission Requirements:
- Minimum GPA: 3.0
- Prerequisites: Introduction to Psychology, Introduction to Sociology
- Personal statement addressing commitment to social justice
- Two letters of recommendation
- An interview may be required
Gallaudet University – Department of Social Work
As the world’s only university designed specifically for deaf and hard-of-hearing students, Gallaudet’s BSW program offers a unique bilingual (ASL/English) social work education. The program prepares culturally competent social workers to serve diverse communities, with a particular emphasis on deaf culture and accessibility.
Program Highlights:
- Fully bilingual curriculum in ASL and English
- International field placement opportunities
- Specialized training in working with deaf and hard-of-hearing populations
- Small cohort model fostering close peer relationships
- 100% job placement rate for graduates (2023 data)
Admission Requirements:
- Minimum GPA: 2.75
- ASL proficiency (assessed through interview)
- Completion of liberal arts requirements
- Essay on interest in social work and the deaf community
- Criminal background check required
University of the District of Columbia – Department of Social Work
As DC’s only public university, UDC’s BSW program offers affordable, accessible social work education with a strong focus on urban social issues. The program’s location provides unparalleled access to federal agencies, national nonprofits, and diverse community organizations.
Program Highlights:
- Lowest tuition in the DC region for residents
- Evening and weekend course options for working students
- Strong partnerships with DC government agencies
- Focus on urban poverty, homelessness, and community development
- Pathway program from a community college
Admission Requirements:
- Minimum GPA: 2.5
- Completion of 45 credit hours
- C or better in English Composition and College Algebra
- Personal interview with faculty
- Volunteer or work experience preferred
Online BSW Options for DC Students
While DC’s three universities offer traditional on-campus programs, many students seek the flexibility of online education. Several CSWE-accredited online BSW programs accept DC residents and provide the same quality education with greater scheduling flexibility.
Online programs particularly benefit working professionals, parents, military personnel, and students in underserved areas of the DC region. These programs typically include:
- Asynchronous coursework allows you to study at your own pace
- Virtual office hours and student support services
- Local field placement coordination
- Same CSWE accreditation standards as on-campus programs
- Access to federal financial aid
Admission Requirements for DC BSW Programs
While each university maintains specific admission criteria, prospective BSW students in DC should prepare to meet these standard requirements:
Academic Prerequisites
- GPA Requirements: Most programs require a minimum 2.5-3.0 cumulative GPA
- Credit Hours: Completion of 45-60 credit hours of general education
- Core Courses: English composition, college algebra, introduction to psychology, introduction to sociology
- Liberal Arts Foundation: Humanities, natural sciences, and social sciences coursework
Application Components
- Personal Statement: 500-1000-word essay addressing your motivation for social work, relevant experiences, and career goals
- Letters of Recommendation: 2-3 letters from academic or professional references
- Resume: Including volunteer work, employment, and community involvement
- Interview: Many programs require an interview to assess interpersonal skills and professional readiness
- Background Check: Criminal background check and child abuse clearances for field placement
BSW Curriculum and Field Education
CSWE-accredited BSW programs in DC follow a competency-based curriculum, ensuring graduates master essential social work knowledge and skills. The typical four-year program includes:
Foundation Year (Freshman & Sophomore)
- General education requirements (60 credits)
- Introduction to Social Work and Social Welfare
- Human Behavior and the Social Environment
- Social Work Values and Ethics
- Diversity and Social Justice
Professional Foundation (Junior Year)
- Social Work Practice with Individuals and Families
- Social Work Practice with Groups
- Social Work Practice with Organizations and Communities
- Social Welfare Policy and Services
- Research Methods for Social Work
Field Education (Senior Year)
Field education, often referred to as the “signature pedagogy” of social work, requires over 400 hours of supervised practice in a social service agency. DC’s BSW students benefit from exceptional field placement opportunities, including:
- Federal agencies (VA, HHS, NIH)
- National nonprofits (Children’s National Hospital, Whitman-Walker Health)
- DC government agencies (Child and Family Services, Department of Behavioral Health)
- International organizations (World Bank, UNICEF)
- Congressional offices and policy organizations
Career Outcomes and 2024 Salary Data
BSW graduates in Washington, D.C., enter a robust job market with diverse career opportunities and competitive salaries. The DC metropolitan area offers some of the highest social work salaries in the nation, reflecting both the high cost of living and the concentration of federal and nonprofit employers in the region.
2024 Salary Data for Social Workers in Washington DC
| Social Work Category | Entry Level (10th %) | Median Salary | Experienced (90th %) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Child, Family, and School Social Workers | $48,670 | $72,450 | $98,760 |
| Healthcare Social Workers | $52,340 | $76,890 | $105,230 |
| Mental Health and Substance Abuse | $45,890 | $68,550 | $92,340 |
| All Other Social Workers | $44,560 | $71,240 | $96,780 |
Common BSW Career Paths in DC
Entry-Level Positions (BSW Required):
- Case Manager – DC Child and Family Services Agency
- Family Support Worker – Martha’s Table
- Housing Advocate – Coalition for the Homeless
- Youth Program Coordinator – Boys and Girls Clubs
- Victim Advocate – DC Coalition Against Domestic Violence
Career Advancement: Many BSW graduates pursue their MSW degree to qualify for clinical positions and advanced roles. DC offers excellent MSW programs with advanced standing options for BSW holders, allowing completion in just one year. Additionally, professionals without a BSW can explore MSW programs that don’t require a BSW.
How to Choose the Right BSW Program
Selecting the ideal BSW program requires careful consideration of multiple factors beyond just location and cost. Consider these key criteria when evaluating DC’s BSW programs:
Program Fit Assessment
| Factor | Catholic University | Gallaudet | UDC |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best For | Clinical practice focus, traditional students | Deaf/HOH students, bilingual practice | Working adults, budget-conscious students |
| Class Schedule | Daytime, traditional semester | Daytime, immersive | Flexible, evening options |
| Financial Aid | Extensive merit scholarships | Federal funding, VR support | State grants, lowest cost |
| Special Strengths | Research opportunities, study abroad | Cultural competence, international focus | Urban practice, government connections |
Questions to Ask During Campus Visits
- What is your NCLEX-SW (social work licensure exam) pass rate?
- How does the program support students in finding field placements?
- What percentage of graduates find employment within 6 months?
- Are there opportunities for research or specialized certificates?
- What mental health and academic support services are available?
- How diverse is the student body and faculty?
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Financing your BSW education in DC requires exploring multiple funding sources. Beyond federal financial aid, numerous scholarships and grants specifically support social work students:
Federal and State Aid
- FAFSA: Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid by priority deadlines
- DC TAG: DC Tuition Assistance Grant provides up to $10,000 annually for DC residents
- Federal Work-Study: Part-time employment in social service agencies
- Pell Grant: Up to $7,395 for the 2024-2025 academic year
Social Work-Specific Scholarships
- NASW Foundation Scholarships: Multiple awards for BSW students
- Consuelo W. Gosnell Memorial Scholarship: For students committed to working with American Indian/Alaska Native and Hispanic/Latino populations
- Verne LaMarr Lyons Memorial Scholarship: For African American students
- CSWE Minority Fellowship Program: For students from underrepresented groups
Loan Forgiveness Programs
Social workers may qualify for several loan forgiveness programs:
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF): Complete forgiveness after 120 qualifying payments while working for qualifying employers
- National Health Service Corps: Up to $50,000 for working in underserved areas
- DC Government Loan Repayment: Programs for social workers in child welfare and behavioral health
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be licensed to practice social work with a BSW in DC?
Washington DC requires licensure for all social workers, including BSW graduates. The DC Board of Social Work offers the Licensed Graduate Social Worker (LGSW) credential for BSW holders who pass the ASWB Bachelor’s exam and complete application requirements.
Can I get my BSW online if I live in DC?
Yes, numerous CSWE-accredited online BSW programs accept DC residents. These programs offer the same quality education with greater flexibility. However, you’ll still need to complete field education hours at approved agencies in the DC area.
How long does it take to complete a BSW program?
Traditional full-time BSW programs take four years to complete. However, part-time options at UDC may take 5-6 years. Transfer students with associate degrees or significant credits can often complete their BSW in 2-3 years.
What’s the difference between a BSW and a BA in Social Work?
There is no practical difference between a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Social Work. Both degrees meet the same CSWE accreditation standards and qualify graduates for the same positions and licensure. The title variation simply reflects institutional preferences.
Can I specialize within my BSW program?
While BSW programs provide generalist training, many offer concentration areas or certificates. Catholic University offers tracks in clinical practice and community organizing. Gallaudet specializes in deaf studies. UDC emphasizes urban social work. Additional certificates in areas like substance abuse or child welfare may be available.
What GPA do I need to get into a BSW program in DC?
Admission requirements vary by institution. UDC requires a minimum GPA of 2.5, Gallaudet requires a GPA of 2.75, and Catholic University prefers a GPA of 3.0 or higher. However, programs consider your entire application, including experience, personal statement, and recommendations. Strong performance in prerequisite courses can offset a lower overall GPA.
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 local data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed August 2025.
