Rhode Island MSW Programs
Schools with MSW Programs
Social Work Licensure
Rhode Island Social Worker Careers with an MSW Degree
Rhode Island Social Work Licensure
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about pursuing your BSW in Rhode Island, including program comparisons, admission requirements, costs, career outcomes, and the path to social work licensure in the state.
CSWE-Accredited BSW Programs in Rhode Island
The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accreditation is the gold standard for social work education. All three BSW programs in Rhode Island maintain this crucial accreditation, ensuring graduates meet national educational standards and are eligible for licensure.
1. Providence College – School of Social Work
Located in the state’s capital, Providence College offers a comprehensive BSW program that combines liberal arts education with professional social work preparation. The program emphasizes social justice, human rights, and service to vulnerable populations.
Key Features:
- Study abroad opportunities specifically designed for social work students
- 400-hour field education requirement
- Small class sizes (average 15-20 students)
- Focus on urban social work practice
- Strong alumni network in the Rhode Island social services
2. Rhode Island College – School of Social Work
As the most affordable option, Rhode Island College (RIC) has been preparing social workers since 1973. The BSW program at RIC is known for its strong community partnerships and emphasis on serving diverse populations in urban settings.
Key Features:
- Most affordable BSW program in the state
- Evening and weekend course options
- Extensive field placement network throughout Rhode Island
- Dedicated BSW student lounge and resource center
- Partnership with state agencies for internships
3. Salve Regina University – Department of Social Work
Located in historic Newport, Salve Regina University offers a BSW program grounded in the Catholic tradition of social justice and human dignity. The oceanfront campus provides a unique setting for social work education.
Key Features:
- Mercy Mission focuses on compassionate service
- Small program size ensures personalized attention
- Unique coastal community practice opportunities
- Strong emphasis on international social work
- Service learning is integrated throughout the curriculum
Program Comparison: Costs, Duration & Requirements
| Institution | Annual Tuition (2024-25) | Total Credits | Program Duration | Minimum GPA | Field Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Providence College | $58,680 | 120 credits | 4 years | 2.5 | 400 hours |
| Rhode Island College | $11,052 (in-state) $25,014 (out-of-state) |
120 credits | 4 years | 2.0 | 450 hours |
| Salve Regina University | $47,350 | 120 credits | 4 years | 2.5 | 400 hours |
Online BSW Options for Rhode Island Students
For students seeking flexibility, several online BSW programs are available to Rhode Island residents. These CSWE-accredited online programs offer the same rigorous curriculum as campus-based programs with added convenience.
Benefits of Online BSW Programs:
- Complete coursework from anywhere in Rhode Island
- Continue working while earning your degree
- Access to programs outside Rhode Island
- Often more affordable than private institutions
- Field placements can be arranged locally
Popular online BSW programs for Rhode Island students include Arizona State University Online, Florida State University Online, and the University of Central Florida. These programs typically offer in-state tuition rates to online students, regardless of their residency.
Admission Requirements & Application Timeline
General Admission Requirements
While specific requirements vary by institution, most BSW programs in Rhode Island require:
- High school diploma or GED
- Minimum GPA of 2.0-2.5
- SAT/ACT scores (test-optional at some schools)
- Personal statement or essay
- 2-3 letters of recommendation
- Evidence of community service or volunteer work
Application Timeline for Fall 2025 Entry
| Deadline Type | Providence College | Rhode Island College | Salve Regina |
|---|---|---|---|
| Early Decision | November 15, 2024 | N/A | November 1, 2024 |
| Regular Decision | January 15, 2025 | March 15, 2025 | February 1, 2025 |
| Transfer Students | April 1, 2025 | Rolling | Rolling |
BSW Curriculum & Field Education
BSW programs in Rhode Island adhere to the CSWE Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards, ensuring comprehensive preparation for generalist social work practice.
Core Curriculum Components
Foundation Courses (Years 1-2)
- Introduction to Social Work and Social Welfare
- Human Behavior in the Social Environment I & II
- Social Welfare Policy and Services
- Research Methods for Social Work
- Diversity, Oppression, and Social Justice
Practice Courses (Years 2-3)
- Social Work Practice with Individuals
- Social Work Practice with Families and Groups
- Social Work Practice with Organizations and Communities
- Assessment and Intervention Strategies
- Case Management and Documentation
Field Education (Years 3-4)
Field education is the signature pedagogy of social work education. Rhode Island BSW programs require between 400 and 450 hours of supervised field placement, typically completed during the senior year.
Popular Field Placement Sites in Rhode Island
- Rhode Island Department of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF)
- Hasbro Children’s Hospital
- Butler Hospital
- Family Service of Rhode Island
- Crossroads Rhode Island
- Providence Public School District
- Rhode Island Coalition Against Domestic Violence
- The Providence Center
Career Outcomes & Salary Data
Rhode Island offers strong employment prospects for BSW graduates, with competitive salaries and diverse career opportunities across the state’s robust social services sector.
2024 Social Work Salaries in Rhode Island
According to the May 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics data, social workers in Rhode Island earn well above the national average:
| Social Work Category | Median Annual Salary | Entry Level (10th %) | Experienced (90th %) | RI Employment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Child, Family, and School Social Workers | $50,770 | $42,210 | $83,910 | 2,320 |
| Healthcare Social Workers | $79,460 | $58,000* | $95,000* | 570 |
| All Other Social Workers | $106,910 | $87,240 | $124,780 | 100 |
*Estimated based on state averages
Top Employers for BSW Graduates in Rhode Island
- State of Rhode Island (DCYF, BHDDH, DHS)
- Lifespan Health System
- Care New England Health System
- Community Care Alliance
- Tides Family Services
- Child & Family Services of Newport County
Career Advancement Opportunities
Many BSW graduates in Rhode Island pursue MSW programs to advance their careers. Rhode Island College and Providence College offer advanced standing MSW programs that allow BSW graduates to complete their master’s degree in just one year.
Rhode Island Social Work Licensing
Rhode Island offers multiple levels of social work licensure through the Rhode Island Department of Health. BSW graduates are eligible for the Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW) credential.
LBSW Requirements in Rhode Island
- BSW degree from a CSWE-accredited program
- Pass the ASWB Bachelor’s examination
- Submit application with $175 fee
- Complete criminal background check
- No supervised experience required for LBSW
Career Progression Through Licensure
- LBSW (Bachelor’s level) – Entry-level practice
- LMSW (Master’s level) – Requires MSW degree
- LICSW (Clinical level) – Requires MSW + 2 years supervised experience
Financial Aid & Scholarships
Rhode Island students have access to various financial aid opportunities to make BSW education more affordable.
State-Specific Financial Aid
- Rhode Island Promise – Free tuition at CCRI for eligible students (can transfer to RIC)
- Rhode Island State Grant – Need-based grants up to $1,500 annually
- RI National Guard Education Benefits – 100% tuition waiver at state schools
Social Work-Specific Scholarships
- NASW-RI Student Scholarship – $500-$1,000 for social work students
- Vicki Schmelzer Memorial Scholarship (Providence College) – $2,000 annually
- School of Social Work Scholarship (RIC) – Various amounts based on merit
- Mercy Scholarship (Salve Regina) – Up to $20,000 annually
Federal Programs
- Title IV-E Child Welfare Education Program – Full tuition support for students committed to child welfare careers
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness – Loan forgiveness after 10 years of qualifying public service
How to Choose the Right BSW Program
Selecting the best BSW program for your needs requires careful consideration of multiple factors:
Key Factors to Consider
| Factor | Questions to Ask | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Cost & Financial Aid | What is the total program cost? What aid is available? | Minimize debt while maximizing education quality |
| Location & Commute | Can I commute or do I need housing? | Impacts total costs and daily quality of life |
| Class Schedule | Are evening/weekend classes available? | Important if working while studying |
| Field Placement Support | How are placements arranged? Where are sites located? | Quality field experience is crucial for career success |
| MSW Advanced Standing | Does the school offer advanced standing MSW? | Can save a year if planning to pursue MSW |
| Support Services | What academic and career support is available? | Impacts retention and job placement rates |
Campus Visit Checklist
- Meet with BSW program director and faculty
- Tour social work facilities and student spaces
- Speak with current BSW students
- Attend a social work class if possible
- Meet with financial aid counselor
- Explore field education opportunities
- Review graduation and job placement rates
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between a BA and BSW in Rhode Island?
A BSW is a professional degree accredited by CSWE that prepares you for social work licensure and practice. A BA in sociology, psychology, or human services provides related knowledge but doesn’t qualify you for social work licensure or advanced standing MSW programs. All three Rhode Island programs offer the BSW degree specifically.
Can I complete field placement at my current job?
Possibly, if your workplace meets program requirements and can provide appropriate supervision by a licensed social worker. Each program has specific criteria for employment-based field placements. Contact the field education director at your chosen school to discuss options.
How competitive is admission to Rhode Island BSW programs?
Rhode Island College, as a public institution, maintains accessible admission standards with an acceptance rate of 73%. Providence College is more selective, with an acceptance rate of 53%, while Salve Regina accepts approximately 70% of applicants. Strong volunteer experience and a compelling personal statement can significantly strengthen your application.
Is online BSW as valuable as campus-based programs?
Yes, CSWE-accredited online BSW programs meet the same rigorous standards as campus programs and qualify graduates for licensure. Employers generally don’t distinguish between online and campus degrees, especially from accredited programs. The key is ensuring your program has proper accreditation.
What if I already hold a bachelor’s degree in a field other than the one I’m interested in?
If you already hold a bachelor’s degree, consider pursuing an MSW degree directly rather than pursuing a second bachelor’s degree. Many MSW programs in Rhode Island accept students without a BSW degree, although the program will take two years instead of one year with advanced standing.
How much can I earn with just a BSW in Rhode Island?
According to 2024 BLS data, entry-level BSW social workers in Rhode Island typically start at $42,000-$69,000, depending on the field. With experience, salaries can range from $80,000 to $125,000. Healthcare and clinical settings generally offer higher salaries than school or community settings.
Next Steps Toward Your BSW
Starting your journey toward a Bachelor of Social Work degree in Rhode Island is an investment in both your future and your community. Whether you choose the urban focus of Providence College, the affordability of Rhode Island College, or the coastal setting of Salve Regina University, you’ll join a profession dedicated to social justice and human wellbeing.
Take these actions to move forward:
- Request information from all three Rhode Island BSW programs
- Schedule campus visits and meet with admissions counselors
- Connect with current students and alumni through program websites
- Research financial aid options and submit FAFSA early
- Gain volunteer experience in social services to strengthen your application
- Consider shadowing a social worker to confirm career fit
For those unable to attend campus-based programs, explore online BSW options that offer flexibility while maintaining academic rigor.
The need for qualified social workers in Rhode Island remains constant, particularly in healthcare, child welfare, and mental health settings. By choosing a CSWE-accredited BSW program, you’re taking the first step toward a meaningful career that makes a real difference in people’s lives.
2023 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary and employment figures for Child, Family, and School Social Workers, Healthcare Social Workers, and Social Workers, All other, reflect national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed August 2025.
