Hawaii MSW Programs
Schools with MSW Programs
Social Work Licensure
Hawaii Social Worker Careers with an MSW Degree
Hawaii Social Work Licensure
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The demand for qualified social workers in Hawaii continues to grow, with the state offering competitive salaries that reflect both the high cost of living and the critical need for these professionals. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2023), social workers in Hawaii earn wages that vary significantly by specialization, with some categories exceeding national averages substantially. This compensation structure makes the investment in a BSW education particularly valuable for those committed to serving Hawaii’s communities.
Quick Answer:
Hawaii offers 3 CSWE-accredited BSW programs at University of Hawaii at Manoa, Hawaii Pacific University, and Brigham Young University-Hawaii. Social workers in Hawaii earn varying salaries by specialty, with Healthcare Social Workers averaging $73,210 and Social Workers, All Other averaging $87,420 annually (BLS May 2023 data). BSW graduates qualify for LBSW licensure after passing the ASWB Bachelor’s examination.
CSWE-Accredited BSW Programs in Hawaii
The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accreditation ensures that BSW programs meet rigorous academic standards and properly prepare students for professional practice. Hawaii’s three accredited programs combine theoretical knowledge with practical skills, emphasizing cultural competency essential for working with the state’s diverse populations.
University of Hawaii at Manoa – Myron B. Thompson School of Social Work
The University of Hawaii at Manoa offers Hawaii’s most established BSW program through the Myron B. Thompson School of Social Work. This CSWE-accredited program integrates Native Hawaiian values and perspectives throughout its curriculum, preparing students to work effectively within Hawaii’s unique cultural context. The program requires 120 credit hours and includes a minimum of 400 hours of supervised field education, meeting CSWE accreditation standards.
Students benefit from the school’s strong connections to local agencies, providing extensive networking opportunities and field placement options across Oahu. The curriculum emphasizes social justice, cultural diversity, and evidence-based practice methods particularly relevant to Hawaii’s multicultural environment. The program’s location in Honolulu provides access to the state’s largest concentration of social service agencies and healthcare facilities.
Hawaii Pacific University
Hawaii Pacific University’s BSW program combines liberal arts education with professional social work preparation. Located in downtown Honolulu, HPU provides urban field placement opportunities while maintaining smaller class sizes that foster personalized learning experiences. The program emphasizes global perspectives alongside local practice, preparing graduates for increasingly interconnected social work environments.
HPU’s flexible scheduling options accommodate working students and those with family responsibilities. The university’s diverse student body enriches classroom discussions and prepares students for culturally responsive practice. Field education experiences meet CSWE’s minimum 400-hour requirement, with placements arranged through partnerships with local agencies.
Brigham Young University-Hawaii
BYU-Hawaii offers a BSW program that integrates faith-based perspectives with professional social work education. Located in Laie on Oahu’s North Shore, the program serves students from throughout the Pacific region. The curriculum emphasizes service, leadership development, and ethical practice grounded in both professional standards and institutional values.
The program features community partnerships throughout the North Shore and Windward Oahu, providing students with rural and small-town practice experiences. Students complete field education requirements through supervised placements that meet CSWE standards while gaining exposure to diverse practice settings across the island.
BSW Program Comparison Guide
| University | Location | Tuition (2024-25) | Program Length | Accreditation Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UH Manoa | Honolulu | $12,186 (resident) | 4 years | CSWE Accredited |
| Hawaii Pacific | Downtown Honolulu | $33,140 | 4 years | CSWE Accredited |
| BYU-Hawaii | Laie | $6,496 | 4 years | CSWE Accredited |
Admission Requirements and Prerequisites
BSW programs in Hawaii maintain selective admission standards to ensure students are prepared for the rigorous academic and field education components. While requirements vary by institution, common prerequisites demonstrate the comprehensive preparation expected of future social work professionals.
General Education Requirements
Most Hawaii BSW programs require completion of liberal arts prerequisites including English composition, college algebra or statistics, biological sciences, and social sciences. These foundational courses develop critical thinking, communication, and analytical skills essential for social work practice. Psychology and sociology courses are particularly important, providing theoretical frameworks for understanding human behavior and social systems.
Prospective students should complete introductory courses in human biology, psychology, sociology, and cultural anthropology before applying. Statistics coursework proves increasingly valuable as evidence-based practice becomes central to social work education. Communications courses, including public speaking and professional writing, prepare students for the extensive documentation and presentation requirements of social work practice.
GPA and Academic Standards
Competitive BSW programs typically require minimum GPAs ranging from 2.5 to 3.0 for admission consideration. The University of Hawaii at Manoa considers students with GPAs above 2.7 more competitive for admission, while actual admitted students often present GPAs exceeding 3.0. Programs evaluate academic performance holistically, considering improvement trends, performance in prerequisite courses, and overall academic trajectory.
Application Components
Beyond academic credentials, BSW programs assess candidates’ commitment to social work values and potential for professional development. Personal statements should articulate understanding of social work’s mission, relevant volunteer or work experience, and commitment to serving Hawaii’s diverse populations. Letters of recommendation from professors, employers, or volunteer supervisors strengthen applications by providing external validation of applicants’ interpersonal skills and professional potential.
Career Opportunities and Salary Outlook in Hawaii
Hawaii’s social work job market reflects the state’s unique demographic and geographic characteristics. The concentration of healthcare facilities in urban Honolulu creates numerous medical social work positions, while rural communities on neighboring islands need generalist practitioners capable of addressing diverse client needs. According to Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2023), social work salaries in Hawaii vary significantly by specialization area.
Entry-Level BSW Positions
BSW graduates in Hawaii qualify for various entry-level positions across public and private sectors. Case management roles in healthcare settings offer competitive starting salaries, with positions available at major medical centers including Queen’s Medical Center, Kaiser Permanente, and Straub Medical Center. The state’s Department of Human Services regularly recruits BSW graduates for social services specialist positions, offering stable employment with comprehensive benefits packages.
Community-based organizations serving Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander populations particularly value BSW graduates with cultural competency and language skills. Organizations like ALU LIKE Inc., Papa Ola Lokahi, and Lunalilo Home offer opportunities to work directly with indigenous communities while developing specialized expertise valued throughout Hawaii’s social service sector.
Social Work Salaries by Specialization (Hawaii, May 2023)
| Social Work Category | BLS Code | Mean Annual Salary | Employment Count |
|---|---|---|---|
| Child, Family, and School Social Workers | 21-1021 | $67,300 | 740 |
| Healthcare Social Workers | 21-1022 | $73,210 | 640 |
| Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers | 21-1023 | $59,660 | 330 |
| Social Workers, All Other | 21-1029 | $87,420 | 260 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2023. Data accessed January 2025.
Hawaii Social Work Licensing Requirements
The Hawaii Board of Social Work regulates professional practice through a tiered licensing system. BSW graduates typically begin with the Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW) credential, the entry-level professional license in Hawaii. Understanding licensing requirements early in your educational journey ensures smooth transition from student to licensed practitioner.
LBSW Requirements
To obtain LBSW licensure in Hawaii, candidates must graduate from a CSWE-accredited BSW program and pass the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Bachelor’s examination. The application process includes submission of official transcripts, criminal background checks, and application fees. Detailed requirements and current application materials are available through the Hawaii Board of Social Work’s official website.
The ASWB Bachelor’s examination tests competency in human development, diversity, and social work practice methods. Candidates typically prepare through comprehensive study programs, with many universities offering exam preparation support to recent graduates. Pass rates and study resources are available through the ASWB website.
Career Advancement Through Licensure
LBSW licensure opens pathways to increased responsibilities and career advancement opportunities. Licensed practitioners qualify for positions requiring independent practice authority and may supervise unlicensed staff in certain settings. Many BSW graduates use LBSW experience to strengthen applications for MSW programs, particularly advanced standing options that recognize prior social work education.
Professional development continues beyond initial licensure through continuing education requirements and specialized training opportunities. Hawaii’s social work community offers regular workshops, conferences, and training events that support ongoing professional growth while maintaining licensure requirements.
Online BSW Options for Hawaii Residents
While Hawaii’s three universities primarily offer traditional on-campus BSW programs, residents seeking additional flexibility can explore CSWE-accredited online programs from mainland institutions. Online education provides alternatives for students on neighboring islands, working professionals, and those with family responsibilities that make regular campus attendance challenging.
Accredited Online Program Considerations
Hawaii residents interested in online BSW programs should verify that prospective programs hold current CSWE accreditation and can facilitate field education placements within Hawaii. The CSWE Accreditation Directory provides comprehensive listings of accredited programs offering distance education options. Prospective students should contact programs directly to confirm Hawaii resident acceptance and field placement coordination capabilities.
Programs include a minimum of 400 hours of field education per CSWE standards, with school-specific requirements detailed in each program’s field education manual. Online programs must demonstrate ability to arrange qualified supervision and appropriate placement sites meeting educational objectives. Students should request written confirmation of field placement support before enrollment to ensure timely degree completion.
Field Education Coordination
The primary consideration for online BSW students involves securing appropriate field placements in Hawaii. Quality programs employ dedicated field education coordinators who work with students to identify agencies and supervisors meeting CSWE standards. Hawaii’s social service agencies increasingly accommodate distance education students, recognizing the value of developing local workforce capacity through flexible educational pathways.
Financial Aid and Scholarship Opportunities
Financing BSW education requires strategic planning, particularly given Hawaii’s higher living costs. Beyond federal financial aid programs, numerous scholarships specifically support Hawaii social work students, recognizing the critical need for qualified professionals serving local communities.
Hawaii-Specific Scholarships
The Hawaii Community Foundation administers multiple scholarships supporting social work students, with awards ranging from $2,000 to $10,000 annually. These scholarships prioritize students demonstrating financial need, academic merit, and commitment to practicing in Hawaii after graduation. Native Hawaiian students may access additional funding through Kamehameha Schools scholarship programs and the Office of Hawaiian Affairs educational assistance programs.
Individual universities offer institutional scholarships and grants specifically for social work majors. The University of Hawaii at Manoa’s School of Social Work maintains scholarship funds supporting both undergraduate and graduate students. Hawaii Pacific University and BYU-Hawaii similarly provide need-based and merit-based financial assistance to qualified BSW students.
Federal and Military Benefits
Hawaii’s significant military population creates unique educational funding opportunities through various federal programs. The Post-9/11 GI Bill and Yellow Ribbon Program provide substantial educational benefits at participating universities. Military spouses may qualify for MyCAA (Military Spouse Career Advancement Accounts) scholarships, providing up to $4,000 for career training including BSW prerequisite coursework.
Federal Work-Study programs at Hawaii universities often place students in social service agencies, combining financial support with relevant professional experience. These positions provide valuable networking opportunities while helping students manage educational expenses through meaningful employment aligned with career goals.
Choosing the Right BSW Program for Your Goals
Selecting a BSW program requires careful evaluation of multiple factors beyond basic accreditation and cost considerations. Career objectives, learning preferences, geographic constraints, and personal circumstances all influence which program best supports individual professional development goals.
Location and Practice Setting Preparation
Program location significantly impacts field placement opportunities and practice preparation. The University of Hawaii at Manoa and Hawaii Pacific University, both located in Honolulu, offer extensive urban placement opportunities in hospitals, schools, and diverse social service agencies. Students interested in rural practice might consider how each program incorporates neighbor island perspectives and rural practice considerations into curriculum and field education options.
Transportation access and commute times represent practical considerations for program selection. Students should evaluate campus locations relative to residence, work, and family obligations when determining program feasibility. Online course options and evening classes may provide additional flexibility for students balancing multiple responsibilities.
Specialization Foundations
While BSW programs provide generalist education, institutional strengths and emphases vary. The University of Hawaii at Manoa’s integration of Native Hawaiian perspectives prepares students for culturally-specific roles serving indigenous populations. Each program’s faculty expertise, research focus, and community partnerships create unique learning opportunities that may align with specific career interests.
Students planning to pursue MSW education should consider how BSW program selection impacts graduate school options. Advanced standing MSW programs, which allow BSW graduates to complete master’s degrees in one year, often prioritize applicants from their own undergraduate programs. Understanding these pathways can inform strategic educational planning.
Support Services and Resources
Comprehensive support services contribute significantly to student success and professional development. Academic advising, career counseling, tutoring services, and mental health support vary across institutions. Programs with robust alumni networks provide ongoing professional connections and mentorship opportunities extending beyond graduation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the requirements for LBSW licensure in Hawaii?
LBSW licensure in Hawaii requires graduation from a CSWE-accredited BSW program and passing the ASWB Bachelor’s examination. Applicants must submit official transcripts, complete criminal background checks, and pay required fees. The Hawaii Board of Social Work provides detailed application instructions and current requirements on their official website.
How much do entry-level social workers make in Hawaii?
Entry-level social work salaries in Hawaii vary by specialization and employment setting. According to BLS May 2023 data, mean annual salaries range from $59,660 for Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers to $87,420 for Social Workers, All Other category. Healthcare Social Workers average $73,210, while Child, Family, and School Social Workers earn a mean of $67,300 annually.
Can I complete a BSW program online while living in Hawaii?
Yes, Hawaii residents can enroll in CSWE-accredited online BSW programs from mainland institutions. Prospective students should verify that programs can coordinate field placements with Hawaii agencies before enrolling. The CSWE Accreditation Directory lists programs offering distance education options. Contact admissions offices directly to confirm Hawaii resident eligibility and field placement support.
How many field education hours are required in BSW programs?
BSW programs require a minimum of 400 hours of field education per CSWE accreditation standards. Individual programs may exceed this minimum, with specific requirements detailed in each school’s field education manual. Field education typically occurs during the final year of study and includes supervised practice in approved social service agencies.
What’s the difference between Hawaii’s three BSW programs?
While all three programs maintain CSWE accreditation and prepare students for professional practice, they differ in cost, location, and institutional culture. UH Manoa emphasizes Native Hawaiian perspectives and research opportunities, HPU offers urban convenience and flexible scheduling, while BYU-Hawaii integrates faith-based perspectives with professional education. Tuition ranges from $6,496 at BYU-Hawaii to $33,140 at HPU for the 2024-25 academic year.
May 2023 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 January 2025.
