Indiana MSW Programs
Schools with MSW Programs
Social Work Licensure
Indiana Social Worker Careers with an MSW Degree
Indiana Social Work Licensure
According to the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), Indiana’s BSW programs maintain rigorous standards that ensure graduates are well-prepared for entry-level social work positions and eligible for advanced standing in MSW programs. This guide offers comprehensive information about BSW programs in Indiana, including admission requirements, tuition costs, curriculum details, and career prospects, based on the latest 2024 data.
CSWE-Accredited BSW Programs in Indiana
Indiana currently hosts seven universities offering CSWE-accredited BSW programs, each with unique strengths and specializations. These programs combine theoretical knowledge with practical experience through field education, preparing students for the diverse challenges of social work practice.
| University | Location | Format Options | Program Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ball State University | Muncie | On-campus | Strong community partnerships, dual degree options |
| Huntington University | Huntington | On-campus & Online | Faith-based perspective, flexible online format |
| Indiana State University | Terre Haute | On-campus | Rural social work emphasis, research opportunities |
| Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI) | Indianapolis | On-campus | Urban practice focus, extensive field placement network |
| Indiana Wesleyan University | Marion | On-campus & Online | Accelerated online option, working adult friendly |
| University of Indianapolis | Indianapolis | On-campus | Small class sizes, personalized advising |
| Valparaiso University | Valparaiso | On-campus | Liberal arts foundation, international field placements |
Each program maintains CSWE accreditation, ensuring that graduates receive education meeting national standards for social work practice. This accreditation is essential for licensure eligibility and admission to advanced standing MSW programs.
Online BSW Programs in Indiana
For students needing flexibility due to work, family, or geographic constraints, Indiana offers two fully accredited online BSW programs through Huntington University and Indiana Wesleyan University. These programs provide the same rigorous curriculum as their on-campus counterparts, allowing students to complete coursework remotely.
Indiana Wesleyan University Online BSW
Indiana Wesleyan University’s online BSW program stands out as one of the most popular options in the state for working adults seeking a degree in social work. The program features:
- Accelerated Format: Complete your degree in as little as 18 months if you have existing college credits
- Asynchronous Learning: No required login times, complete coursework on your schedule
- Local Field Placements: Complete your required 400-hour field practicum at agencies in your community
- Student Support: Dedicated online student success coaches and technical support
- Transfer-Friendly: Accept up to 80 transfer credits from accredited institutions
Huntington University Online BSW
Huntington University offers a faith-integrated online BSW program designed for students seeking to combine their calling to serve with professional social work education. Program features include:
- 8-Week Courses: Focused, intensive course format allows concentration on fewer subjects at once
- Faith Integration: Optional faith-based perspective woven throughout curriculum
- Small Class Sizes: Maintain personal connections with professors and classmates
- Field Education Support: Assistance in finding appropriate field placement sites in your area
Both online programs require the same 400 hours of supervised field education as traditional programs, ensuring graduates gain essential hands-on experience. Students typically complete field placements at social service agencies, schools, hospitals, or community organizations near their homes.
Admission Requirements for Indiana BSW Programs
While specific requirements vary by institution, Indiana’s BSW programs generally maintain similar admission standards to ensure student success. Understanding these requirements helps prospective students prepare competitive applications.
General Admission Requirements
| Requirement | Typical Standard | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| High School GPA | 2.5-3.0 minimum | Higher GPAs improve admission chances and scholarship eligibility |
| SAT/ACT Scores | Varies; some test-optional | Many schools adopted test-optional policies post-2020 |
| Prerequisites | English, Math, Science, Social Studies | Specific course requirements vary by institution |
| Personal Statement | 500-750 words | Should demonstrate commitment to social work values |
| Letters of Recommendation | 2-3 letters | Academic and/or professional references preferred |
| Background Check | Required before field placement | Criminal history may affect field placement options |
Transfer Student Requirements
Indiana’s BSW programs welcome transfer students, with many offering generous policies for transferring credits. Transfer students typically need:
- Minimum 2.5 GPA from previous institution(s)
- Completion of general education requirements
- Official transcripts from all attended institutions
- May need to complete prerequisite social work courses before entering upper-division coursework
Several Indiana universities participate in statewide transfer agreements, making it easier for community college students to transition into BSW programs. The Indiana Core Transfer Library ensures that approved courses transfer seamlessly between participating institutions.
Program Costs & Financial Aid
The cost of obtaining a BSW in Indiana varies significantly between public and private institutions, as well as between in-state and out-of-state students. Understanding the full cost of attendance and available financial aid options is crucial for educational planning.
2024-2025 Estimated Annual Costs
| Institution Type | In-State Tuition | Out-of-State Tuition | Room & Board |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Universities (Average) | $10,000-$12,000 | $25,000-$30,000 | $10,000-$12,000 |
| Private Universities (Average) | $30,000-$40,000 | $30,000-$40,000 | $11,000-$13,000 |
| Online Programs | $400-$600 per credit | $400-$600 per credit | N/A |
Financial Aid Opportunities
Indiana students pursuing BSW degrees have access to various financial aid sources:
State-Specific Aid Programs
- Frank O’Bannon Grant: Need-based grant for Indiana residents attending eligible Indiana colleges (up to $5,000 annually)
- 21st Century Scholars: Provides up to four years of tuition for eligible Indiana students who meet program requirements
- Next Generation Hoosier Educators Scholarship: Up to $7,500 annually for students committing to teach in Indiana (some social workers in schools qualify)
- Indiana National Guard Supplemental Grant: Covers 100% of tuition for eligible Guard members
Federal Financial Aid
- Pell Grant: Need-based grant up to $7,395 for 2024-2025
- Federal Student Loans: Subsidized and unsubsidized options available
- Federal Work-Study: Part-time employment opportunities, often in social service settings
Social Work-Specific Scholarships
Many Indiana BSW programs offer department-specific scholarships. Additionally, students can apply for national social work scholarships through organizations like:
- National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Indiana Chapter
- Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) Minority Fellowship Program
- Association of Baccalaureate Social Work Program Directors (BPD) scholarships
Students interested in working with specific populations may also find targeted scholarships for those committed to child welfare, mental health, or gerontological social work.
BSW Curriculum & Field Education
Indiana’s BSW programs follow CSWE’s Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards (EPAS), ensuring comprehensive preparation for generalist social work practice. The curriculum typically requires 120 credit hours, including general education, social work courses, and field education.
Core Curriculum Components
All CSWE-accredited BSW programs in Indiana cover nine core competencies through coursework addressing:
Foundation Courses (First Two Years)
- Introduction to Social Work: Overview of the profession, values, and ethics
- Social Welfare Policy: History and current state of social welfare systems
- Human Behavior and the Social Environment: Understanding individual and family development
- Cultural Diversity and Social Justice: Working with diverse populations and addressing oppression
- Research Methods: Evidence-based practice and program evaluation
Practice Courses (Junior and Senior Years)
- Social Work Practice with Individuals: Micro-level intervention skills
- Social Work Practice with Families and Groups: Mezzo-level practice methods
- Social Work Practice with Organizations and Communities: Macro-level change strategies
- Case Management: Coordination of services and resources
- Professional Writing: Documentation, reports, and grant writing
Field Education Requirements
Field education, often referred to as the “signature pedagogy” of social work education, provides students with supervised practice experiences in real-world settings. Indiana BSW programs require a minimum of 400 hours of field placement, typically completed during the senior year of study.
Learn more about social work field education requirements and expectations to prepare for this crucial component of your BSW education.
Common Field Placement Settings in Indiana
- Indiana Department of Child Services
- Community mental health centers
- School corporations (elementary through high school)
- Hospitals and healthcare systems (IU Health, Community Health Network)
- Aging and adult services agencies
- Substance abuse treatment facilities
- Homeless shelters and housing programs
- Youth development organizations
Students typically spend 16-20 hours per week in field placement during their final year, working under the supervision of a licensed social worker. This experience allows students to apply classroom knowledge, develop professional skills, and explore potential career paths.
Indiana Social Work Licensure Requirements
After completing a BSW program, graduates in Indiana can pursue licensure as a Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW). Understanding licensure requirements is essential for career planning and professional development.
LBSW Requirements in Indiana
The Indiana Behavioral Health and Human Services Licensing Board oversees the licensure of social workers. To obtain LBSW licensure, candidates must:
- Education: Graduate from a CSWE-accredited BSW program
- Examination: Pass the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Bachelor’s level exam
- Application: Apply with required documentation and fees ($50 application + $230 exam fee)
- Background Check: Complete criminal history check
Learn more about the LBSW licensure process and requirements across different states.
Career Advancement Through Additional Licensure
Many BSW graduates eventually pursue advanced licensure by completing an MSW degree. Indiana offers several pathways:
- Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW): Requires an MSW degree and passing the ASWB Master’s exam
- Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW): Requires MSW, 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience, and passing the ASWB Clinical exam
BSW graduates from CSWE-accredited programs may qualify for advanced standing in Indiana MSW programs, allowing them to complete their graduate degree in as little as one year.
Career Outlook & 2024 Salary Data for Indiana
Social work careers in Indiana offer competitive salaries and strong job growth projections. According to 2024 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Indiana employs over 50,000 social workers across various specializations, with continued growth expected through 2032.
2024 Indiana Social Worker Salaries by Specialization
| Specialization | Employment | Entry Level (10th %) | Median Salary | Experienced (90th %) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Child, Family, and School Social Workers | 6,270 | $41,450 | $48,730 | $61,310 |
| Healthcare Social Workers | 4,320 | $47,330 | $67,220 | $95,390 |
| Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers | 39,350 | $45,910 | $67,400 | $80,220 |
| Social Workers, All Other | 510 | $53,140 | $80,410 | $105,140 |
These salaries reflect the value Indiana places on social work professionals. Entry-level BSW graduates typically start in the lower percentiles but can advance with experience and additional credentials.
Top Employers for BSW Graduates in Indiana
Major employers actively recruiting BSW graduates include:
- State Agencies: Indiana Department of Child Services, Family and Social Services Administration
- Healthcare Systems: IU Health, Community Health Network, Parkview Health
- School Districts: Indianapolis Public Schools, Fort Wayne Community Schools
- Mental Health Organizations: Centerstone, Aspire Indiana Health
- Nonprofit Organizations: United Way, Salvation Army, Wheeler Mission
The Indiana Professional Licensing Agency reports steady growth in the number of licensed social workers, indicating strong demand for qualified professionals throughout the state.
How to Choose the Right BSW Program
Selecting the right BSW program requires careful consideration of multiple factors beyond just location and cost. Consider these key elements when evaluating Indiana’s BSW programs:
Program Specializations and Concentrations
While BSW programs provide generalist training, some Indiana universities offer specialized tracks or certificates:
- Child Welfare: Preparation for work with Indiana DCS and child-serving agencies
- Gerontology: Focus on Indiana’s growing aging population
- Mental Health: Emphasis on behavioral health and substance abuse services
- School Social Work: Preparation for educational settings (may require additional certification)
Learning Format Considerations
| Format | Best For | Advantages | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional On-Campus | Recent high school graduates, full-time students | Face-to-face interaction, campus resources, traditional college experience | Less flexibility, may require relocation |
| Online | Working adults, parents, rural residents | Flexibility, study from anywhere, maintain employment | Requires self-discipline, less in-person networking |
| Hybrid | Students wanting flexibility with some structure | Balance of flexibility and face-to-face learning | Must be available for scheduled on-campus sessions |
Support Services and Resources
Evaluate the support services each program offers:
- Academic Support: Tutoring, writing centers, study groups
- Field Placement Assistance: Help secure appropriate internship sites
- Career Services: Job placement assistance, resume reviews, networking events
- Financial Aid Counseling: Assistance in navigating aid options and loan repayment
- Licensing Exam Preparation: ASWB exam prep courses or materials
Questions to Ask During Your Program Search
When researching programs, consider asking:
- What is the program’s pass rate on the ASWB Bachelor’s exam?
- What percentage of graduates find employment within six months?
- How does the program support students during field placement?
- Are there opportunities for research or international field experiences?
- What advanced standing MSW programs accept graduates?
- How diverse is the student body and faculty?
- What community partnerships does the program maintain?
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I complete a BSW program part-time in Indiana?
Yes, several Indiana universities offer part-time BSW options, particularly through their online programs. Indiana Wesleyan University and Huntington University both accommodate part-time students. Part-time study typically extends program completion to 5-6 years, allowing students to maintain employment and family responsibilities.
Do I need a BSW to become a social worker in Indiana?
While some entry-level social service positions accept related degrees, a BSW from a CSWE-accredited program is required for licensure as an LBSW in Indiana. Many employers prefer or require the BSW degree, and it’s essential for pursuing advanced social work education and licensure.
How competitive is admission to Indiana BSW programs?
Admission competitiveness varies by institution. Public universities like IUPUI and Ball State typically have moderate selectivity with acceptance rates around 60-70% for qualified applicants. Private institutions may be more selective. Meeting the minimum requirements doesn’t guarantee admission; therefore, strong applications with relevant volunteer experience are recommended.
Can I transfer from an out-of-state community college to an Indiana BSW program?
Yes, Indiana BSW programs accept transfer students from out-of-state institutions. However, course equivalencies must be evaluated on an individual basis. Complete general education requirements and maintain a strong GPA to improve transfer admission chances. Contact admissions offices early to understand specific transfer requirements.
What’s the difference between an LBSW and an LSW in Indiana?
Indiana issues the LBSW (Licensed Bachelor Social Worker) credential to BSW graduates who pass the ASWB Bachelor’s exam. The LSW (Licensed Social Worker) credential is used in some other states but not in Indiana. Indiana’s licensing progression is as follows: LBSW → LMSW → LCSW.
Are there accelerated BSW to MSW programs in Indiana?
Yes, BSW graduates from CSWE-accredited programs can apply for advanced standing in Indiana MSW programs, completing their graduate degree in 12-16 months instead of the traditional two years. IUPUI, Indiana University, and other schools offer advanced standing options for qualified BSW graduates.
Next Steps: Start Your Social Work Journey
Beginning your BSW education in Indiana opens doors to meaningful career opportunities serving individuals, families, and communities. Whether you choose a traditional campus experience or flexible online learning, Indiana’s CSWE-accredited programs provide excellent preparation for professional social work practice.
Ready to take the next step? Explore our comprehensive guide to BSW programs nationwide to compare Indiana programs with options in neighboring states. For those interested in advancing their education, learn about MSW programs in Indiana that offer advanced standing for BSW graduates.
Consider connecting with current students or alums through program information sessions, social media groups, or professional organizations like the National Association of Social Workers Indiana Chapter to gain firsthand insights into program experiences and career outcomes.
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.
