Minnesota MSW Programs
Schools with MSW Programs
Social Work Licensure
Minnesota Social Worker Careers with an MSW Degree
Minnesota Social Work Licensure
BSW Programs Overview in Minnesota
The Bachelor of Social Work degree in Minnesota provides the foundation for entry-level social work practice and eligibility for the Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW) credential. Minnesota’s programs combine rigorous academic coursework with 400+ hours of supervised field education, preparing graduates for immediate employment or advanced study in MSW programs.
Key Program Features:
- Duration: 4 years full-time (120-128 credits)
- Field Education: Minimum 400 hours required
- Accreditation: All programs are CSWE-accredited
- Format Options: Traditional, hybrid, and fully online
- Average Class Size: 15-25 students
Complete List of CSWE-Accredited BSW Programs in Minnesota
Minnesota hosts 18 CSWE-accredited BSW programs across public and private institutions. Each program maintains rigorous standards set by the Council on Social Work Education, ensuring graduates meet professional competencies for social work practice.
| University | Location | Format | Annual Tuition* | Program Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Augsburg University | Minneapolis | Traditional | $41,952 | Urban focus, diverse field placements |
| Bemidji State University | Bemidji | Traditional & Online | $9,426 (in-state) | Rural social work emphasis, online option |
| Bethel University | St. Paul | Traditional | $42,290 | Faith-integrated curriculum available |
| College of St. Scholastica | Duluth | Traditional | $40,422 | Healthcare social work focus |
| Concordia College | Moorhead | Traditional | $35,998 | International field placement options |
| Metropolitan State University | St. Paul | Hybrid | $8,571 (in-state) | Evening/weekend options, adult learner-friendly |
| Minnesota State University, Mankato | Mankato | Traditional | $8,862 (in-state) | Child welfare certificate available |
| Minnesota State University Moorhead | Moorhead | Traditional | $9,228 (in-state) | Addiction studies minor option |
| North Central University | Minneapolis | Traditional | $25,260 | Urban ministry integration |
| St. Catherine University | St. Paul | Traditional | $44,376 | Women’s College, social justice emphasis |
| Saint Cloud State University | St. Cloud | Traditional | $9,242 (in-state) | Gerontology certificate option |
| St. Olaf College | Northfield | Traditional | $52,580 | Liberal arts foundation, study abroad |
| Southwest Minnesota State University | Marshall | Traditional | $9,075 (in-state) | Rural practice specialization |
| University of Minnesota Duluth | Duluth | Traditional | $13,880 (in-state) | American Indian social work focus |
| University of Minnesota Twin Cities | Minneapolis | Traditional | $15,254 (in-state) | Research opportunities, diverse specializations |
| University of St. Thomas | St. Paul | Traditional | $48,520 | Leadership development, metro placements |
| Walden University | Online | 100% Online | $11,940 | Self-paced, competency-based option |
| Winona State University | Winona | Traditional | $9,729 (in-state) | Child & Family Services Concentration |
*Tuition rates are 2024-2025 academic year estimates and subject to change. Out-of-state rates typically double for public universities.
Already have your BSW? Explore advanced standing options in MSW programs throughout Minnesota.
Online BSW Programs in Minnesota
Online BSW programs provide flexibility for working professionals, parents, and students in rural areas. Minnesota offers multiple online options that maintain the same CSWE accreditation standards as traditional programs.
Featured Online Program: Bemidji State University
Bemidji State University’s online BSW program stands out as Minnesota’s most established distance learning option, offering:
- Format: 100% online coursework with local field placements
- Field Education: 480 hours at approved agencies in your community
- Admission Requirements: 2.75 GPA, completion of prerequisites
- Time to Completion: 4 years full-time, 6 years part-time option
- Technology Support: 24/7 help desk, online tutoring available
- Cost Advantage: Same tuition as on-campus students
Students complete field internships at pre-approved agencies, including Minnesota Department of Human Services offices, county social services, hospitals, schools, and nonprofit organizations throughout the state.
BSW Curriculum & Field Education
Minnesota BSW programs follow CSWE’s Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards, ensuring comprehensive preparation across nine core competencies. The curriculum integrates theoretical knowledge with practical application through coursework and extensive field education.
Core Curriculum Components
| Course Category | Credit Hours | Key Topics | Skills Developed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts Foundation | 40-45 | Psychology, sociology, biology, statistics | Critical thinking, research literacy |
| Social Work Core | 30-35 | HBSE, policy, practice methods, diversity | Assessment, intervention planning |
| Specialized Practice | 15-20 | Child welfare, mental health, aging, and healthcare | Population-specific interventions |
| Field Education | 12-15 | 400+ hours supervised practice | Professional competence, ethics |
| Electives | 15-20 | Student choice based on interests | Specialized knowledge areas |
Essential Courses in Minnesota BSW Programs
- Introduction to Social Work & Social Welfare: Explores the profession’s history, values, ethics, and roles across practice settings. Students examine the NASW Code of Ethics and Minnesota’s specific practice standards.
- Human Behavior and the Social Environment (HBSE): Applies developmental, ecological, and systems theories to understand individual and family functioning within environmental contexts. Emphasizes culturally responsive assessment.
- Social Welfare Policy & Services: Analyzes federal, state, and local policies affecting vulnerable populations. Students learn to evaluate Minnesota’s social service delivery systems and advocate for policy change.
- Research Methods for Social Work: Develops skills in evidence-based practice, program evaluation, and data analysis. Students complete research projects relevant to Minnesota communities.
- Social Work Practice Methods (Micro, Mezzo, Macro): Three-course sequence covering interventions with individuals/families, groups, and communities/organizations. Integrates Minnesota-specific resources and service systems.
- Diversity, Equity & Social Justice: Examines oppression, privilege, and culturally responsive practice with Minnesota’s diverse populations, including significant Somali, Hmong, and Native American communities.
- Field Education Seminar: Integrates classroom learning with field placement experiences. Students process challenges, apply theories, and develop professional identity through reflective supervision.
Specialized Tracks Available
Many Minnesota BSW programs offer specialized certificates or concentrations to enhance career readiness:
- Child Welfare Certificate: Prepares students for positions in child protection, adoption, and foster care through partnerships with the Minnesota Department of Human Services.
- Addiction Counseling: Meets educational requirements for Minnesota’s Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC) credential.
- Gerontological Social Work focuses on aging populations, which is particularly relevant for Minnesota’s growing elderly demographic.
- School Social Work Preparation: Foundation coursework for those planning to pursue school social work licensure after MSW completion.
Social Work Careers and Salaries in Minnesota
Minnesota offers robust employment opportunities for BSW graduates across a diverse range of practice settings. The state’s commitment to social services, combined with an aging population and expanding healthcare sector, creates steady demand for qualified social workers.
2024 Salary Data for Minnesota Social Workers
According to the most recent Bureau of Labor Statistics data, social work professionals in Minnesota earn competitive salaries that reflect the state’s higher cost of living and strong social service infrastructure:
| Social Work Category | Entry Level (10th %) | Median Salary | Experienced (90th %) | Job Growth |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Healthcare Social Workers | $44,520 | $64,290 | $86,130 | 12% (2023-2033) |
| Child, Family & School | $37,380 | $54,880 | $76,990 | 8% (2023-2033) |
| Mental Health & Substance Abuse | $38,350 | $57,880 | $82,470 | 11% (2023-2033) |
| All Other Social Workers | $39,920 | $61,450 | $84,730 | 9% (2023-2033) |
Top Employers for BSW Graduates in Minnesota
- Hennepin County Human Services: Minnesota’s largest county employer, offering positions in child protection, adult services, and behavioral health
- Minnesota Department of Human Services: State positions in disability services, aging programs, and economic assistance
- Allina Health & HealthPartners: Major healthcare systems employing medical social workers
- Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota: Nonprofit providing refugee services, adoption, and senior programs
- Minneapolis & St. Paul Public Schools: School social work positions (requires MSW for licensure)
BSW-Level Career Paths
While many advanced clinical positions require an MSW and a clinical license, BSW graduates qualify for numerous rewarding positions:
- Case Manager: Coordinate services for clients in healthcare, mental health, or social service settings
- Child Protection Worker: Investigate reports of abuse/neglect, develop safety plans
- Residential Counselor: Provide support in group homes, treatment facilities
- Community Outreach Coordinator: Connect vulnerable populations with resources
- Eligibility Worker: Determine qualification for public assistance programs
- Crisis Intervention Specialist: Respond to mental health emergencies
- Family Support Worker: Help families access services and develop skills
Minnesota Social Work Licensing Requirements
The Minnesota Board of Social Work regulates professional practice through a tiered licensing system. BSW graduates typically begin with the LBSW credential and can advance through additional education and supervised experience.
License Types and Requirements
| License Level | Education Required | Supervision Required | Exam Required | Renewal Period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LBSW (Bachelor) | CSWE-accredited BSW | None for initial license | ASWB Bachelor’s exam | Biennial (40 CEUs) |
| LGSW (Graduate) | CSWE-accredited MSW | None for initial license | ASWB Master’s exam | Biennial (40 CEUs) |
| LISW (Independent) | MSW + 2 years post-grad | 4,000 hours supervised | ASWB Advanced Generalist | Biennial (40 CEUs) |
| LICSW (Clinical) | MSW clinical + 2 years | 4,000 hours clinical | ASWB Clinical exam | Biennial (40 CEUs) |
LBSW Application Process
- Complete a CSWE-accredited BSW program from one of Minnesota’s 18 approved schools
- Request official transcripts sent directly to the Minnesota Board of Social Work
- Pass ASWB Bachelor’s exam (minimum score: 70)
- Submit application with $135 fee through online portal
- Complete background check, including fingerprinting
- Receive license typically within 4-6 weeks of complete application
Learn more about specific requirements for each license level on our Minnesota social work careers page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What GPA is required for admission to Minnesota BSW programs?
Most Minnesota BSW programs require a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5-2.75 for admission. Competitive programs like the University of Minnesota Twin Cities typically admit students with a 3.0 or higher. Some programs consider the last 60 credits if you’ve shown academic improvement.
Can I complete field education at my current workplace?
Generally, no. CSWE standards require field education to be a new learning experience. However, if your workplace offers significantly different roles or departments from your current position, some programs may consider it, provided proper supervision is in place.
How much does a BSW cost in Minnesota?
Public university BSW programs cost between $35,000 and $55,000 total for in-state students and between $70,000 and $110,000 for out-of-state students. Private colleges typically range from $100,000 to $200,000 in total. Financial aid, grants, and work-study programs can significantly reduce these costs.
What’s the difference between LBSW and LGSW licenses?
The LBSW requires a bachelor’s degree in social work, while the LGSW requires a master’s degree. LGSWs can perform more complex clinical assessments and typically earn between $10,000 and $15,000 more annually. Both require passing the appropriate ASWB exam and maintaining continuing education.
Can I specialize in school social work with just a BSW?
No, Minnesota requires school social workers to hold an MSW degree and complete additional requirements for licensure as a school social worker. However, BSW programs offer excellent preparation and some include education-focused electives that prepare you for graduate study in school social work.
How long does the field education requirement take to complete?
Field education typically spans two semesters during the senior year, requiring 15-20 hours per week to complete the 400-480 hour requirement. Most programs schedule field education on Tuesday/Thursday or Monday/Wednesday/Friday to allow for consistent placement schedules.
Are online BSW programs respected by employers?
Yes, CSWE-accredited online BSW programs meet the same rigorous standards as traditional programs. Employers focus on accreditation status and the quality of field education rather than the delivery format. Graduates from accredited online programs are eligible for the same licenses and positions as those from traditional programs.
2023 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 August 2025.
