Kentucky MSW Programs
Schools with MSW Programs
Social Work Licensure
Kentucky Social Worker Careers with an MSW Degree
Kentucky Social Work Licensure
With social work employment in Kentucky projected to grow around 9% for specific roles (e.g., healthcare social workers) from 2022 to 2032, earning your BSW from an accredited program positions you for a rewarding career helping individuals, families, and communities across the Commonwealth.
Quick Answer:
Kentucky offers about 12 CSWE-accredited BSW programs with options for campus, online, and hybrid formats. Typical in-state tuition at the listed schools ranges roughly from $9,000–$34,000 per year (verify current catalogs). In Kentucky, recent BLS data show average wages around $46,000–$63,000 depending on specialization. Programs typically require 120 credit hours including ~400 hours of field placement, preparing students for LSW licensure and diverse social work careers.
Complete List of Kentucky BSW Programs (2025)
Finding the right BSW program requires comparing multiple factors, including format, cost, and specialization. Kentucky’s universities offer a diverse range of options to meet the needs of different students.
| University | Location | Format Options | Typical In-State Tuition | CSWE Accredited |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Kentucky | Lexington | Campus & Online (BASW) | See current catalog | Yes (see CSWE directory) |
| University of Louisville | Louisville | Campus & Online | See current catalog | Yes (see CSWE directory) |
| Western Kentucky University | Bowling Green | Campus & Hybrid | See current catalog | Yes (see CSWE directory) |
| Eastern Kentucky University | Richmond | Campus & Online | See current catalog | Yes (see CSWE directory) |
| Murray State University | Murray | Campus | See current catalog | Yes (see CSWE directory) |
| Northern Kentucky University | Highland Heights | Campus | See current catalog | Yes (see CSWE directory) |
| Morehead State University | Morehead | Campus | See current catalog | Yes (see CSWE directory) |
| Campbellsville University | Campbellsville | Campus & Online | See current catalog | Yes (see CSWE directory) |
| Brescia University | Owensboro | Campus & Online | See current catalog | Yes (see CSWE directory) |
| Kentucky Christian University | Grayson | Campus | See current catalog | Yes (see CSWE directory) |
| Spalding University | Louisville | Campus | See current catalog | Yes (see CSWE directory) |
| Asbury University | Wilmore | Campus | See current catalog | Yes (see CSWE directory) |
Online BSW Programs in Kentucky
The rise of online BSW programs has transformed social work education, making degrees more accessible to working professionals, parents, and students from rural areas. Kentucky offers at least five fully online BSW/BASW options (e.g., University of Louisville, Eastern Kentucky University, Brescia University, Campbellsville University, University of Kentucky).
Top Online BSW Programs:
- University of Louisville Online BSW: Fully online; same faculty as on-campus program
- Eastern Kentucky University Online BSW: 100% online; many courses delivered asynchronously in accelerated terms
- Brescia University Online BSW: Accelerated online courses with multiple annual start dates
- Campbellsville University Online BSW: Faith-integrated curriculum with flexible scheduling
Online programs maintain the same rigorous standards as campus programs, including the ~400-hour field placement requirement. Most programs help arrange placements in your local community.
BSW Admission Requirements in Kentucky
Understanding admission requirements helps you prepare a competitive application. While requirements vary by institution, Kentucky BSW programs share common standards.
Standard Admission Requirements:
- GPA Requirements: Minimum 2.5–3.0 cumulative GPA from high school or previous college work
- Prerequisite Courses: English composition, college algebra, introduction to sociology or psychology
- Application Materials: Official transcripts, 2–3 letters of recommendation, personal statement (500–750 words)
- Background Checks: Criminal background check and drug screening (required before field placement)
- Technical Requirements: For online programs, reliable internet and computer meeting specific standards
Application Deadlines:
- Fall Semester: Varies by university; check program admissions pages
- Spring Semester: Varies by university
- Summer Start: Offered at select schools; confirm dates
BSW Curriculum and Coursework
Kentucky BSW programs follow CSWE educational standards while incorporating state-specific content relevant to local practice. The 120-credit-hour curriculum strikes a balance between theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
Core Curriculum Components:
Foundation Year (60 credits):
- General Education: Liberal arts courses including English, math, sciences, and humanities
- Social Sciences Foundation: Psychology, sociology, political science, and economics
- Introduction to Social Work: History, values, ethics, and career exploration
- Human Biology: Understanding physical and mental health across the lifespan
Professional Years (60 credits):
- Social Work Practice Courses: Micro, mezzo, and macro practice methods
- Human Behavior and Social Environment: Developmental theories and ecological perspectives
- Social Welfare Policy: Analysis of policies affecting vulnerable populations
- Research Methods: Evidence-based practice and program evaluation
- Diversity and Social Justice: Cultural competence and anti-oppressive practice
- Field Education: ~400 hours of supervised practice in community agencies
Field Placement and Internship Opportunities
Field education represents the signature pedagogy of social work education. Kentucky BSW programs require a minimum of ~400 hours of supervised field placement, typically completed during the senior year.
Common Field Placement Settings in Kentucky:
- Child Welfare Agencies: Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services, Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA)
- Healthcare Settings: UK HealthCare, Norton Healthcare, Baptist Health Systems
- Mental Health Centers: Fourteen Regional Community Mental Health Centers that serve all 120 counties
- School Systems: Jefferson County Public Schools, Fayette County Public Schools
- Veterans Services: VA Medical Centers in Lexington and Louisville
- Corrections: Kentucky Department of Corrections, halfway houses, drug courts
Field placements include weekly supervision by licensed social workers and integrate classroom learning with real-world practice.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Making your BSW affordable requires understanding all available financial resources. Kentucky students have access to state-specific aid programs, in addition to federal options.
Kentucky-Specific Financial Aid:
- Kentucky Educational Excellence Scholarship (KEES): Base GPA awards up to $500 per year plus ACT/SAT bonus; combined, students can receive up to $2,500 per college year
- College Access Program (CAP) Grant: Up to $5,300 for 2025–26 (amounts vary by year)
- Kentucky National Guard Tuition Award: Pays up to 100% of in-state public tuition, subject to funding and program caps
- Work Ready Kentucky Scholarship: Last-dollar aid covering remaining tuition/eligible fees up to the KCTCS in-state rate
Social Work-Specific Scholarships:
- NASW-KY Foundation Scholarships: $500–$2,000 for Kentucky social work students
- Vern Riffe Scholarship: Up to $3,000 for students committed to child welfare careers
- Title IV-E Child Welfare Scholars Program: Campus-specific packages commonly include tuition support plus per-semester stipends with a DCBS service commitment
BSW Career Outcomes and Salary Data
Kentucky BSW graduates enter a growing job market with diverse opportunities across practice settings. Understanding salary ranges is essential for effective career planning and managing educational debt.
2023–24 Social Work Salaries in Kentucky (BLS OEWS, May 2023; state data):
| Social Work Specialization | Average Annual Wage (KY) | Employment in KY |
|---|---|---|
| Healthcare Social Workers | $62,040 | 1,690 |
| Child, Family & School Social Workers | $46,390 | 7,140 |
| Mental Health & Substance Abuse Social Workers | $49,310 | 1,290 |
| Social Workers, All Other | $62,670 | 730 |
Source: BLS OEWS, Kentucky, May 2023. Use medians when programs publish them; BLS state tables provide means and median hourly figures.
Top Employers for BSW Graduates in Kentucky:
- State Government: Department of Community-Based Services, Department of Juvenile Justice
- Healthcare Systems: UK HealthCare, Norton Healthcare, Baptist Health
- Nonprofit Organizations: Family Scholar House, Home of the Innocents, Brighton Center
- School Districts: Jefferson, Fayette, Kenton, and Warren County schools
- Private Practice: Community mental health centers and counseling agencies
Path to Social Work Licensure in Kentucky
After earning your BSW, pursuing licensure opens up additional career opportunities and potentially leads to higher salaries. Kentucky offers multiple licensure levels through the Kentucky Board of Social Work.
Kentucky Social Work License Types:
- Licensed Social Worker (LSW): Entry-level license requiring a CSWE-accredited BSW and passing the Bachelor’s exam
- Certified Social Worker (CSW): Requires an MSW and passing the Master’ster’s exam; supervised experience applies when working toward LCSW
- Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW): Requires MSW plus clinical supervision as defined by the Board
Bachelor’s Exam Preparation:
- Exam Format: 150 multiple-choice questions in 4 hours
- Passing Score: ASWB uses scaled scoring; the number of items correct to pass varies by exam form rather than a fixed Kentucky-specific cutoff
- Cost: $230 exam fee plus applicable Kentucky application fee
- Pass Rate: Varies by program; check the school’s outcomes page
Choosing Between Campus and Online BSW Programs
Selecting the correct program format impacts your educational experience and career preparation. Both formats lead to the same degree and eligibility for licensure.
Campus Programs Best For:
- Traditional Students: Recent high school graduates seeking the whole college experience
- Hands-On Learners: Students who benefit from face-to-face interaction and immediate feedback
- Network Builders: Those prioritizing in-person professional connections
- Structure Seekers: Students who thrive with set schedules and physical classroom environments
Online Programs Best For:
- Working Professionals: Maintaining employment while earning your degree
- Parents and Caregivers: Needing flexibility around family responsibilities
- Rural Students: Living far from university campuses
- Military Members: Subject to deployment or relocation
BSW vs. Related Degrees
Understanding how the BSW compares to related degrees helps ensure you choose the right path for your career goals. The BSW offers unique advantages for social work practice.
BSW Advantages Over Related Degrees:
- Direct Path to MSW: Advanced standing programs allow BSW graduates to complete MSW in one year
- Professional Licensure: Only social work degrees qualify for social work licenses
- Field Education: ~400 hours of supervised practice not typically found in psychology or sociology programs
- CSWE Accreditation: Standardized curriculum ensuring quality and transferability
- Career Specificity: Targeted preparation for social work roles and responsibilities
For those interested in clinical practice, the BSW provides a foundation for eventual LCSW licensure, whereas a doctoral education in psychology is often required for independent practice.
Next Steps After BSW Graduation
Planning your post-graduation path during your BSW program maximizes opportunities. Kentucky BSW graduates have multiple pathways for career advancement.
Immediate Post-Graduation Options:
- Enter the Workforce: Begin practicing with an LSW license in various settings
- Pursue Advanced Standing MSW: Complete the MSW program in Kentucky in about one year
- Specialized Certifications: Add credentials in trauma-informed care, substance abuse counseling, or case management
- AmeriCorps or Peace Corps: Gain experience while earning loan forgiveness eligibility
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to complete a BSW in Kentucky?
Full-time students complete the BSW in four years (8 semesters). Part-time options typically take 5–6 years. Some universities offer accelerated summer courses that can be completed in approximately 3.5 years.
Can I get my BSW entirely online in Kentucky?
Yes, at least five Kentucky universities offer fully online BSW/BASW programs. However, all programs require in-person field placements at approved agencies in your community. What’s the difference between state and private university BSW programs?
State universities cost less for Kentucky residents (typically about $9,000–$13,000 annually) while private universities (often ~$21,000–$34,000) may offer smaller class sizes, faith-based perspectives, and more personalized attention. Both types maintain CSWE accreditation standards.
Do I need a BSW to become a social worker in Kentucky?
While some entry-level positions accept related degrees, the BSW is required for LSW licensure and provides the best preparation for social work practice. Only BSW graduates qualify for advanced standing MSW programs.
How competitive are Kentucky BSW programs?
Competitiveness varies; check the program’s recent admit rates and cohort size.
Making Your Decision
Choosing the right BSW program shapes your social work career trajectory. Consider these factors when making your decision:
- Location and Format: Balance convenience with learning style preferences
- Total Cost: Calculate tuition, fees, and living expenses against expected salary
- Specialization Options: Match program strengths with your practice interests
- Support Services: Evaluate academic support, career services, and field placement assistance
- Graduation Outcomes: Review licensure pass rates and job placement statistics
Kentucky’s BSW programs provide excellent preparation for meaningful careers in social work. Whether you choose a traditional campus experience or a flexible online format, CSWE accreditation ensures quality education, preparing you for professional practice.
Start your journey by researching programs, attending information sessions, and connecting with current students or alums. Kentucky’s growing need for social workers means your BSW degree will open doors to rewarding careers serving individuals, families, and communities across the Commonwealth.
Ready to take the next step? Explore how to become a social worker and discover social work career paths that align with your passion for helping others.
2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary and employment figures for Healthcare Social Workers, Child, Family, and School 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 September 2025.
2024–2025 notes: BLS salary figures above reflect Kentucky state data (May 2023 OEWS) unless otherwise labeled. Always verify tuition and deadlines on the program’s website before applying.
