Maine MSW Programs
Schools with MSW Programs
Social Work Licensure
Maine Social Worker Careers with an MSW Degree
Maine Social Work Licensure
Quick Navigation
- Overview of BSW Programs in Maine
- Complete List of Accredited BSW Programs
- Admission Requirements and Application Process
- Program Costs and Financial Aid Options
- BSW Curriculum and Field Education
- Career Outlook and Salary Data
- Online BSW Options for Maine Residents
- Next Steps After Your BSW
- Frequently Asked Questions
Social work education in Maine provides unique opportunities to serve diverse populations, from coastal fishing communities to rural inland areas. The state’s aging population and ongoing substance abuse crisis have created significant demand for BSW-prepared social workers. According to 2024 BLS data, Maine employs over 3,000 social workers across various specializations, with competitive salaries that reflect the essential nature of this work.
Quick Answer:
Maine offers four CSWE-accredited BSW programs at the University of Maine, University of Southern Maine, Saint Joseph’s College, and the University of New England. These programs prepare students for entry-level social work positions with median salaries ranging from $55,220 to $72,520 depending on specialization, and all programs include extensive field education requirements of at least 400 hours.
Overview of BSW Programs in Maine
The Bachelor of Social Work degree in Maine serves as the foundation for professional social work practice. All BSW programs in the state hold accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), ensuring graduates meet national standards for competency and ethics. This accreditation is crucial for students planning to pursue licensure as a Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW) in Maine.
Maine’s BSW programs share common features while offering unique strengths. Each program requires 120-128 credit hours for completion, including liberal arts requirements, social work core courses, and field education. The programs emphasize generalist practice, preparing students to work with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities.
What sets Maine’s programs apart is their focus on rural social work practice and addressing state-specific challenges. Students learn about working with geographically isolated populations, addressing substance use disorders prevalent in the state, and supporting Maine’s significant elderly population. This localized approach ensures graduates are prepared for the realities of social work practice in Maine’s unique context.
Complete List of Accredited BSW Programs in Maine
Maine currently has four universities offering CSWE-accredited BSW programs. Each institution provides distinct advantages based on location, specialization options, and delivery format. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of each program:
| University | Location | Format | Credits | Annual Tuition (In-State) | CSWE Accredited Since |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Maine | Orono | On-Campus | 120 | $11,640 | 1974 |
| University of Southern Maine | Portland | On-Campus/Hybrid | 120 | $9,704 | 1981 |
| Saint Joseph’s College | Standish | On-Campus/Online | 128 | $41,896 | 2007 |
| University of New England | Biddeford | On-Campus | 120 | $40,980 | 2002 |
University of Maine (Orono) offers the state’s oldest BSW program, featuring strong connections to rural communities throughout northern Maine. The program emphasizes community-based practice and includes partnerships with tribal communities. Students benefit from smaller class sizes and extensive faculty mentorship.
University of Southern Maine (Portland) provides access to Maine’s largest city and its diverse social service agencies. The program offers a hybrid format option for working students and features concentrations in child welfare and aging. USM’s location provides the most urban field placement opportunities in the state.
Saint Joseph’s College (Standish) stands out for offering both traditional and online BSW options, making it accessible to students statewide. The program integrates Catholic social teaching with social work values and maintains strong connections to faith-based social service organizations. Their online program serves working adults and rural students who cannot relocate.
University of New England (Biddeford) combines social work education with the university’s strength in health sciences. The program emphasizes interprofessional education, allowing social work students to collaborate with nursing, medical, and other health profession students. This unique approach prepares graduates particularly well for healthcare social work roles.
Admission Requirements and Application Process
Admission to Maine’s BSW programs typically requires completion of specific prerequisites and maintaining minimum academic standards. While requirements vary slightly between institutions, prospective students should prepare for common expectations across all programs.
General Admission Requirements:
- GPA Requirements: Most programs require a minimum 2.5 GPA for admission, though competitive applicants often have GPAs above 3.0
- Prerequisite Courses: Introduction to Psychology, Introduction to Sociology, English Composition, and Statistics
- Application Materials: Personal statement, two to three letters of recommendation, official transcripts
- Background Check: Required for field placement eligibility (completed after admission)
The application timeline varies by institution, but most programs accept applications on a rolling basis with priority deadlines in February or March for fall admission. Transfer students can typically enter in either fall or spring semesters, though fall entry provides the best course sequencing.
Tips for Strengthening Your Application: Admissions committees value relevant experience, even if informal. Volunteer work with social service agencies, participation in community organizations, or experience in helping roles strengthens applications. Your personal statement should articulate understanding of social work values, particularly social justice and service to vulnerable populations.
Maine residents benefit from in-state tuition at public universities, while the New England Board of Higher Education Tuition Break program may provide reduced tuition for out-of-state New England residents in certain circumstances. Veterans should explore Yellow Ribbon Program participation at each institution.
Program Costs and Financial Aid Options
The cost of earning a BSW in Maine varies significantly between public and private institutions. Understanding the full financial picture, including hidden costs and available aid, helps students make informed decisions about their education investment.
| Cost Category | Public Universities (Annual) | Private Universities (Annual) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition (In-State) | $9,700 – $11,640 | $40,000 – $42,000 |
| Room and Board | $10,000 – $12,000 | $13,000 – $15,000 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,000 – $1,200 | $1,000 – $1,200 |
| Field Education Costs | $500 – $1,000 | $500 – $1,000 |
| Total Annual Cost | $21,200 – $25,840 | $54,500 – $59,200 |
Financial Aid Opportunities Specific to Social Work Students:
The Maine State Grant Program provides need-based aid to Maine residents attending eligible institutions. Additionally, many Maine BSW programs offer departmental scholarships specifically for social work majors, typically ranging from $500 to $2,500 annually.
Federal programs like the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program can significantly reduce the long-term cost of education for students who commit to public service careers. Maine also offers the Educators for Maine Program, which includes school social workers and provides loan forgiveness for graduates working in underserved areas.
Work-study opportunities within university social service programs provide both financial support and relevant experience. Many BSW students work 10-15 hours weekly in campus counseling centers, diversity offices, or community outreach programs, earning $2,000-$4,000 annually while building their resume.
BSW Curriculum and Field Education in Maine
Maine’s BSW programs follow CSWE’s Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards while incorporating state-specific content. The curriculum typically spans four years, with the first two years focusing on liberal arts and foundational courses, and the final two years emphasizing social work theory and practice.
Core BSW Curriculum Components:
- Foundation Courses (Years 1-2): Human Biology, Psychology, Sociology, Statistics, Cultural Diversity, and Introduction to Social Work
- Professional Courses (Years 3-4): Social Work Practice with Individuals, Families, and Groups; Community Organization; Social Policy; Research Methods
- Specialized Maine Content: Rural Social Work Practice, Substance Abuse Treatment, Working with Aging Populations, Native American Studies
Field education represents the signature pedagogy of social work education. Maine BSW programs require a minimum of 400 field education hours, typically completed during the senior year. Students complete placements in agencies throughout Maine, from Portland’s urban social services to rural community action programs in Aroostook County.
Popular Field Placement Sites in Maine Include:
- Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS)
- Community mental health centers throughout the state
- School districts implementing social work services
- MaineHealth system hospitals and clinics
- Area Agencies on Aging
- Substance abuse treatment centers
Field education includes weekly supervision from licensed social workers and integrative seminars connecting classroom learning to practice experiences. Many students receive job offers from their field placement sites upon graduation, making this experience crucial for career development.
Career Outlook and Salary Data for Maine BSW Graduates
The job market for BSW graduates in Maine remains strong, with growing demand across multiple sectors. According to 2024 BLS data, Maine employs thousands of social workers with competitive salaries that vary by specialization and geographic location within the state.
2024 Maine Social Worker Salary Data by Specialization:
| Specialization | Entry Level (10th %ile) | Median Salary | Experienced (90th %ile) | Employment in Maine |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Healthcare Social Workers | $54,560 | $72,520 | $86,720 | 590 |
| Child, Family & School | $49,230 | $56,670 | $71,410 | 1,910 |
| All Other Social Workers | $45,760 | $55,220 | $94,660 | 560 |
BSW graduates typically begin in case management or direct service roles, with opportunities for advancement as they gain experience. Common entry-level positions in Maine include Child Protective Services caseworker, hospital social work assistant, mental health case manager, and school social work aide.
Maine faces particular workforce challenges that create opportunities for new graduates. The state’s aging population drives demand for gerontological social workers, while the ongoing opioid crisis requires substance abuse specialists. Rural areas especially need social workers, often offering loan forgiveness and higher salaries to attract professionals.
Career advancement typically requires pursuing an MSW degree, which Maine BSW graduates can often complete in one year through Advanced Standing programs. The Maine Board of Social Work Licensure offers LBSW licensure for BSW graduates, though many positions don’t require licensure at the bachelor’s level.
Online BSW Options for Maine Residents
For Maine residents unable to attend traditional on-campus programs, online BSW options provide flexibility while maintaining academic rigor. Saint Joseph’s College offers Maine’s only fully online, CSWE-accredited BSW program, designed specifically for working adults and place-bound students.
Online BSW students complete the same curriculum as on-campus peers, including field education requirements. The challenge lies in arranging local field placements, though programs provide placement coordinators to assist students in finding appropriate sites in their communities. Rural Maine students particularly benefit from online options, avoiding long commutes to campus while remaining in their communities.
Additionally, Maine residents can explore nationally available online BSW programs from accredited institutions. When considering out-of-state online programs, verify that the program meets Maine’s educational requirements for licensure and that field placements can be arranged locally.
Next Steps After Your BSW: Licensure and Advanced Education
Graduating with a BSW opens multiple pathways in Maine. While many entry-level positions don’t require licensure, obtaining your LSW (Licensed Social Worker) credential expands opportunities and may increase salary potential. The Maine Board of Social Work Licensure requires BSW graduates to complete an application, pass the ASWB Bachelor’s examination, and submit to a background check. Maine’s licensure structure includes four levels: LSW (Licensed Social Worker), LMSW (Licensed Master Social Worker), LMSW-CC (Licensed Master Social Worker – Conditional Clinical), and LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker).
Many BSW graduates pursue immediate employment to gain experience before returning for graduate education. Maine’s social service agencies often provide tuition assistance for employees pursuing MSW degrees, making this a financially strategic approach. The state’s MSW programs offer Advanced Standing admission for BSW holders, allowing degree completion in 12-16 months rather than the traditional two years.
Professional development opportunities through the Maine Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers provide networking, continuing education, and advocacy opportunities. Joining professional organizations during your BSW program helps establish connections that benefit your entire career.
Frequently Asked Questions About BSW Programs in Maine
What’s the difference between University of Maine and University of Southern Maine BSW programs?
Both offer excellent CSWE-accredited programs, but they serve different needs. UMaine in Orono focuses on rural social work practice with strong connections to northern Maine communities. USM in Portland provides urban field placements and offers more flexible scheduling options for working students. UMaine has lower tuition but Orono is more remote, while USM offers city amenities but at slightly different program costs.
Can I complete my BSW field placement at my current job?
Generally, no. CSWE standards require field placements to be educational experiences distinct from employment. However, some programs offer employment-based field placements where students complete additional projects or serve different populations within their workplace under qualified supervision. Discuss options with your program’s field education director.
How competitive is admission to Maine BSW programs?
Public university programs typically accept 60-70% of qualified applicants, while private programs may have higher acceptance rates. Meeting minimum requirements usually ensures serious consideration. Strengthening your application with relevant volunteer experience, strong personal statements addressing social work values, and letters of recommendation from people familiar with your helping skills improves admission chances.
Is financial aid available for part-time BSW students?
Yes, though options may be limited compared to full-time enrollment. Federal Pell Grants prorate based on credit hours, and federal loans remain available for students taking at least six credits. Some institutional scholarships require full-time status, but many Maine BSW programs offer specific support for non-traditional students. Check with each school’s financial aid office for specific part-time aid options.
What’s the job placement rate for Maine BSW graduates?
While specific rates vary by institution, Maine BSW programs generally report 85-95% job placement within six months of graduation. Many students receive job offers from field placement sites. The state’s ongoing need for social workers, particularly in rural areas and specialty fields like substance abuse treatment, creates strong employment prospects for qualified graduates.
Conclusion: Choosing Your Path in Maine Social Work Education
Pursuing a BSW in Maine offers unique opportunities to serve communities facing distinct challenges, from rural isolation to substance abuse crises. The state’s four accredited programs each provide quality education while emphasizing different strengths, whether that’s rural practice at UMaine, urban opportunities at USM, online flexibility at Saint Joseph’s, or healthcare integration at UNE.
Your choice should align with your career goals, financial situation, and life circumstances. Consider factors like location, cost, specialization options, and learning format when making your decision. Remember that your BSW is just the beginning of your social work journey, with opportunities for advanced education and specialization throughout your career.
Take the next step by attending information sessions, connecting with current students, and visiting campuses when possible. Maine needs dedicated social workers to address its unique challenges and support its diverse populations. Your BSW education will prepare you to make a meaningful difference in communities across the Pine Tree State.
2023 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary and employment figures for Healthcare Social Workers, Child, Family, and School Social Workers, and Social Workers, All Other reflect national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed August 2025.
