Massachusetts MSW Programs
Schools with MSW Programs
Social Work Licensure
Massachusetts Social Worker Careers with an MSW Degree
Massachusetts Social Work Licensure
Whether you’re a recent high school graduate, career changer, or working professional seeking advancement, Massachusetts BSW programs offer multiple pathways to enter the social work profession. With the state’s strong job market for social workers, averaging $55,510 to $78,980 annually depending on specialization, investing in a BSW degree can lead to both personal fulfillment and financial stability.
CSWE-Accredited BSW Programs in Massachusetts
The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accreditation ensures that BSW programs meet rigorous educational standards necessary for professional practice and future licensure. Massachusetts currently has five fully accredited BSW programs, each offering unique strengths and specializations.
| School | Location | Format Options | Annual Tuition (2024-25) | Specializations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Simmons University | Boston | On-campus, Part-time | $44,958 | Clinical Practice, Child Welfare, Healthcare |
| Salem State University | Salem | On-campus, Evening | $14,374 (in-state) | Community Practice, Mental Health |
| Westfield State University | Westfield | On-campus | $13,662 (in-state) | Child & Family Services, Gerontology |
| Anna Maria College | Paxton | On-campus, Accelerated | $39,990 | Substance Abuse, School Social Work |
| Bridgewater State University | Bridgewater | On-campus | $13,358 (in-state) | Healthcare, Community Organization |
Spotlight: Simmons University BSW Program
Simmons University’s BSW program stands out as Boston’s premier social work education option, combining urban field placement opportunities with a strong clinical focus. This four-year program integrates classroom learning with 900+ hours of supervised field education, ensuring graduates are practice-ready.
The program features:
- Small class sizes (average 15-20 students)
- Field placements at prestigious Boston hospitals and agencies
- Dual degree options (BSW/MPH, BSW/MS in Nonprofit Management)
- Advanced standing eligibility for Simmons’ top-ranked MSW program
- Virtual and in-person learning options post-pandemic
Simmons BSW graduates consistently achieve above-average pass rates on the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) licensing exam, with 89% passing on their first attempt, compared to the national average of 76%.
Admission Requirements
While specific requirements vary by institution, Massachusetts BSW programs typically require:
Academic Prerequisites
- High school diploma or GED with a minimum 2.5-3.0 GPA
- SAT/ACT scores (many schools are now test-optional)
- Completion of college preparatory coursework, including:
- 4 years of English
- 3 years of mathematics
- 3 years of laboratory sciences
- 2 years of social sciences
Application Materials
- Personal statement demonstrating commitment to social justice
- 2-3 letters of recommendation
- Resume highlighting volunteer or human services experience
- Criminal background check (required for field placements)
Transfer students with associate degrees or significant college credits should explore the general BSW program requirements to understand credit transfer policies.
Online BSW Options
While Massachusetts schools primarily offer on-campus BSW programs, students seeking flexibility can explore online BSW programs from accredited institutions nationwide. These programs offer:
- Asynchronous coursework for working professionals
- Local field placement arrangements
- In-state tuition rates for Massachusetts residents at some schools
- Same CSWE accreditation standards as campus programs
Popular online BSW programs accepting students from Massachusetts include Arizona State University, Florida State University, and the University of New Hampshire, all of which offer competitive tuition rates and strong student support services.
BSW Curriculum and Coursework
Massachusetts BSW programs follow CSWE’s Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards, ensuring comprehensive preparation across nine core competencies. The typical 120-credit curriculum includes:
Foundation Courses (60 credits)
- Human Behavior and the Social Environment I & II – Explores human development across the lifespan, examining the biological, psychological, social, and spiritual factors that affect individuals, families, and communities.
- Social Welfare Policy and Services – Analyzes historical and contemporary social policies, focusing on Massachusetts-specific programs like MassHealth and the state’s pioneering healthcare reform.
- Research Methods for Social Work Practice – Develops skills in evidence-based practice, program evaluation, and data analysis using both quantitative and qualitative approaches.
- Social Work Practice with Individuals and Families – Introduces engagement, assessment, intervention, and evaluation skills for direct practice.
- Social Work Practice with Groups and Communities – Examines macro-level interventions, community organizing, and advocacy strategies.
Specialized Electives (15-18 credits)
Students can tailor their education through concentration areas such as:
- School Social Work Practice – Prepares students for roles in K-12 settings, addressing academic, behavioral, and social-emotional challenges
- Substance Abuse and Addiction – Covers screening, assessment, and treatment approaches for substance use disorders
- Child Welfare and Family Services – Focuses on child protection, foster care, and family preservation strategies
- Healthcare Social Work – Explores medical social work roles in hospitals, clinics, and community health centers
Field Education (900+ hours)
The signature pedagogy of social work education, field placements provide hands-on experience in real-world settings. Massachusetts BSW students complete placements at renowned organizations, including:
- Boston Children’s Hospital
- Massachusetts General Hospital
- Department of Children and Families
- Community mental health centers
- School districts throughout the Commonwealth
Massachusetts Social Work Careers and Salaries
Massachusetts offers excellent employment prospects for BSW graduates, consistently ranking among the top five states for social worker employment and compensation. According to 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics data, Massachusetts social workers earn significantly above national averages:
| Specialization | Massachusetts Median Salary | Massachusetts Mean Salary | Employment Numbers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mental Health & Substance Abuse Social Workers | $64,960 | $78,980 | 49,280 |
| Healthcare Social Workers | $58,910 | $72,280 | 7,540 |
| Child, Family & School Social Workers | $45,620 | $55,510 | 9,830 |
Top Employers for BSW Graduates
Massachusetts BSW holders find employment in diverse settings:
- State Agencies – Department of Children and Families, Department of Mental Health, Department of Youth Services
- Healthcare Systems – Partners HealthCare, Beth Israel Lahey Health, UMass Memorial
- School Districts – Boston Public Schools, Worcester Public Schools, Springfield Public Schools
- Nonprofit Organizations – United Way, Family Services Association, Boys & Girls Clubs
- Community Mental Health Centers – Serving all regions of Massachusetts
The projected job growth for social workers in Massachusetts is 11% through 2032, faster than the average for all occupations, driven by increased demand for mental health and substance abuse services.
Massachusetts Licensing Requirements
Massachusetts offers multiple levels of social work licensure through the Board of Registration of Social Workers. BSW graduates typically begin with the Licensed Social Worker (LSW) credential. For comprehensive information about all licensing levels, visit our social work licensure guide.
Licensed Social Worker (LSW) Requirements
- BSW from a CSWE-accredited program
- Pass the ASWB Bachelor’s examination (minimum score: 70)
- Application fee: $262
- Criminal background check
Career Advancement Path
Many BSW graduates pursue advanced degrees and licensure:
- LSW (Entry-level) – BSW degree required
- LCSW – MSW plus 3,360 hours supervised experience
- LICSW – Massachusetts’ independent practice license, requiring additional clinical hours
For those considering graduate education, explore MSW programs in Massachusetts that offer advanced standing for BSW graduates, allowing degree completion in just one year.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Massachusetts students have access to numerous financial aid opportunities:
State-Specific Programs
- MASSGrant Program – Need-based grants up to $1,800 annually for Massachusetts residents
- Gilbert Matching Student Grant – Matches donor scholarships at participating schools
- Public Service Grant Program – Loan forgiveness for social workers in public service
Federal Aid
- Pell Grants – Up to $7,395 for the 2024-25 academic year
- Federal Work-Study – Part-time employment in social service agencies
- Direct Loans – Subsidized and unsubsidized options
Social Work-Specific Scholarships
- NASW-MA Chapter scholarships ($1,000-$5,000)
- Constance W. and William R. Greif Scholarship
- Verne LaMarr Lyons Memorial Scholarship
Complete the FAFSA by Massachusetts’ priority deadline of May 1st to maximize aid eligibility. Many schools also require the CSS Profile for consideration of institutional aid.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to complete a BSW in Massachusetts?
Traditional full-time students complete the BSW in four years (8 semesters). Part-time options at schools like Salem State University allow completion in 5-6 years. Some schools offer accelerated programs for students who have completed prior college credits.
Can I get my BSW online while living in Massachusetts?
While Massachusetts schools primarily offer on-campus programs, you can enroll in online BSW programs from out-of-state CSWE-accredited institutions. Field placements can be arranged locally, allowing you to gain experience in Massachusetts agencies.
What’s the difference between a BSW and a BA in Social Work?
Both degrees prepare students for social work practice; however, the BSW is the professional degree recognized by the CSWE and is required for advanced standing in MSW programs. Some schools offer a BA in Social Work as a liberal arts degree without the professional practice component.
Do I need a BSW to become a social worker in Massachusetts?
While some entry-level positions accept related degrees, the BSW is required for LSW licensure and provides the strongest foundation for professional practice. Many employers prefer BSW graduates for their specialized training and field experience.
How much can I expect to earn with a BSW in Massachusetts?
Entry-level BSW social workers in Massachusetts typically earn between $40,000 and $50,000 annually, with salaries increasing based on experience, specialization, and location. Boston-area positions usually offer 10-15% higher salaries than those in other regions of the state.
2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary and employment figures for Child, Family, and School Social Workers, Healthcare Social Workers, and Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers reflect national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed August 2025.
