West Virginia MSW Programs
Schools with MSW Programs
Social Work Licensure
West Virginia Social Worker Careers with an MSW Degree
West Virginia Social Work Licensure
With the demand for social workers projected to grow 7% through 2032 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, earning your BSW from an accredited West Virginia program positions you for success in this rewarding field. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about BSW programs in West Virginia, including admission requirements, tuition costs, online options, and career outcomes.
Quick Facts: BSW Programs in West Virginia
- Number of CSWE-Accredited Programs: 7 schools
- Average Program Duration: 4 years full-time
- Average Annual Tuition: $8,000-$30,000 (in-state)
- Median Salary (2024): $48,420 for social workers in West Virginia
- Online Options Available: Yes, through select universities
- Job Growth Outlook: 7% nationally (2022-2032)
CSWE-Accredited BSW Programs in West Virginia
Choosing a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) ensures your degree meets national standards for social work education. Here are the seven accredited BSW programs available in West Virginia:
| University | Location | Format Options | Annual Tuition (In-State) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bethany College | Bethany | On-Campus | $30,200 |
| Concord University | Athens | On-Campus, Hybrid | $8,346 |
| Marshall University | Huntington | On-Campus, Online | $8,976 |
| Shepherd University | Shepherdstown | On-Campus | $8,256 |
| West Liberty University | West Liberty | On-Campus | $8,858 |
| West Virginia State University | Institute | On-Campus, Hybrid | $8,906 |
| West Virginia University | Morgantown | On-Campus, Online Options | $9,360 |
Each program maintains CSWE accreditation, ensuring graduates meet educational requirements for social work licensure in West Virginia and nationwide. Students can explore online BSW programs for additional flexibility, with several West Virginia schools offering hybrid or fully online options.
Admission Requirements for BSW Programs
While specific requirements vary by institution, most BSW programs in West Virginia share common admission criteria. Understanding these requirements helps you prepare a competitive application and increases your chances of acceptance into your preferred program.
General Admission Requirements
- High School Diploma or GED: Required for all programs
- Minimum GPA: 2.5-3.0 on a 4.0 scale (varies by school)
- SAT/ACT Scores: Some schools are test-optional as of 2024
- Application Essay: Personal statement explaining interest in social work
- Letters of Recommendation: Usually 2-3 from teachers or employers
- Background Check: Required before field placement begins
Program-Specific Requirements
West Virginia University: Requires a minimum 2.75 GPA for direct admission to the BSW program. Students with lower GPAs may enter as pre-social work majors and apply after completing prerequisite courses with a 2.5 GPA or higher.
Marshall University accepts students with a minimum GPA of 2.5. The program emphasizes volunteer experience and demonstrated interest in helping professions through application essays.
Concord University: Maintains open enrollment for the university, but requires a 2.5 GPA to declare social work as a major. Students must maintain a GPA of this level throughout the program.
BSW Curriculum and Coursework
BSW programs in West Virginia adhere to CSWE educational standards while incorporating state-specific content relevant to the Appalachian communities. The curriculum typically spans four years of full-time study, combining general education requirements with specialized courses in social work.
Foundation Year Courses (Years 1-2)
- Introduction to Social Work and Social Welfare
- Human Behavior and the Social Environment I & II
- Social Work Practice with Individuals
- Social Welfare Policy and Services
- Research Methods in Social Work
- Diversity and Social Justice
- General education requirements (English, Math, Sciences, Humanities)
Advanced Courses (Years 3-4)
- Social Work Practice with Families and Groups
- Social Work Practice with Communities and Organizations
- Social Work Ethics and Professional Development
- Child Welfare Services
- Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services
- Aging and Gerontological Social Work
- Field Education I & II (400+ hours of supervised practice)
Specialized Tracks and Concentrations
Several West Virginia BSW programs offer specialized tracks to prepare students for specific practice areas:
West Virginia University offers concentrations in:
- Child and Family Services
- Health and Mental Health
- Community Organization and Social Administration
Marshall University provides emphasis areas in:
- Substance Abuse Counseling
- School Social Work
- Medical Social Work
Field Education and Practicum Requirements
Field education represents the signature pedagogy of social work education, providing hands-on experience in real-world settings. West Virginia BSW programs require a minimum of 400 hours of supervised field placement, typically completed during the senior year.
Field Placement Settings in West Virginia
Students complete practicums at various agencies throughout the state, including:
- Healthcare Settings: WVU Medicine, Charleston Area Medical Center, CAMC Women and Children’s Hospital
- Child Welfare Agencies: West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, Children’s Home Society
- Mental Health Centers: Prestera Center for Mental Health Services, Seneca Health Services
- School Systems: County boards of education throughout the state
- Community Organizations: United Way chapters, Salvation Army, Catholic Charities West Virginia
- Substance Abuse Treatment: Recovery Point West Virginia, Harmony House
Online and Hybrid BSW Options
Recognizing the needs of working adults and students in rural areas, several West Virginia universities now offer flexible learning formats for BSW programs. These options maintain the same CSWE accreditation standards as traditional programs while providing greater accessibility.
Marshall University Online BSW
Marshall University offers a fully online BSW completion program designed for students who have completed their general education requirements. The program features:
- 8-week accelerated courses
- Year-round enrollment options
- Same faculty as the on-campus program
- Field placements arranged in the student’s local area
- In-state tuition for all online students
West Virginia State University Hybrid Program
WVSU’s hybrid format combines online coursework with monthly on-campus sessions, ideal for students within driving distance who prefer some face-to-face interaction. Benefits include:
- Reduced campus visits (once monthly)
- Evening and weekend class options
- Cohort model for peer support
- Technology support and training included
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Making your BSW education affordable requires understanding available financial aid options. West Virginia students have access to federal, state, and institutional aid programs specifically designed to support social work education.
State-Specific Financial Aid Programs
| Program Name | Award Amount | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| West Virginia Higher Education Grant | Up to $3,300/year | WV residents with financial need |
| PROMISE Scholarship | Full tuition at public universities | 3.0 GPA, 22 ACT or 1100 SAT |
| WV Invests Grant | Last-dollar tuition coverage | WV residents, specific programs |
| Social Work Education Loan | Up to $5,000/year | Commit to WV practice |
Federal Financial Aid
All students should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to access:
- Federal Pell Grant (up to $7,395 for 2024-2025)
- Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (SEOG)
- Federal Work-Study programs
- Federal Direct Loans (subsidized and unsubsidized)
Institution-Specific Scholarships
Each university offers scholarships specifically for students majoring in social work. Notable examples include:
- WVU School of Social Work Scholarships: Multiple awards ranging from $500-$5,000 annually
- Marshall University Joan C. Edwards Scholarship: Full tuition for high-achieving students
- Concord University McNeel Scholarship: $2,000 annual award for social work majors
BSW Career Outcomes and Salary Information
Graduates of West Virginia’s BSW programs enter a growing job market with diverse career opportunities. Understanding salary expectations and career paths helps you make informed decisions about your education investment.
2024 Salary Data for West Virginia Social Workers
According to 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics data, social workers in West Virginia earn competitive salaries that vary by specialization and experience level:
| Social Work Category | Entry Level (10th %) | Median Salary | Experienced (90th %) |
|---|---|---|---|
| All Social Workers | $32,450 | $48,420 | $72,890 |
| Child & Family Social Workers | $30,920 | $46,780 | $68,340 |
| Healthcare Social Workers | $35,680 | $52,310 | $78,920 |
| Mental Health/Substance Abuse | $31,240 | $47,560 | $71,450 |
Common Entry-Level Positions for BSW Graduates
BSW graduates in West Virginia typically begin their careers in the following positions:
- Case Manager: Coordinate services for clients, maintain case files, and connect individuals with resources
- Social Services Assistant: Support licensed social workers, conduct intake interviews, and maintain documentation
- Child Welfare Specialist: Investigate child abuse reports, provide family support services
- Substance Abuse Counselor Assistant: Support group therapy sessions, maintain client records
- Community Outreach Coordinator: Develop programs, connect communities with resources
- Mental Health Technician: Provide direct care in residential or hospital settings
Top Employers of BSW Graduates in West Virginia
- West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (largest employer)
- WVU Medicine Health System
- Charleston Area Medical Center (CAMC)
- Prestera Center for Mental Health Services
- Youth Services System
- Burlington United Methodist Family Services
- County school systems (school social work positions)
- Veterans Administration Medical Centers
Licensure Path for West Virginia BSW Graduates
While BSW graduates can work in many social work positions immediately after graduation, pursuing licensure expands career opportunities and often leads to higher salaries. West Virginia offers a clear pathway to professional licensure for BSW holders.
Licensed Social Worker (LSW) Requirements
To become a Licensed Social Worker in West Virginia, BSW graduates must:
- Graduated from a CSWE-accredited BSW program
- Pass the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Bachelor’s exam
- Submitan application to the West Virginia Board of Social Work
- Complete background check and pay licensing fees ($125 initial fee)
- Complete 20 hours of continuing education every two years for renewal
Advancing to Clinical Licensure
BSW graduates interested in clinical practice must pursue additional education. The path includes:
- Complete an MSW program in West Virginia (typically 2 years)
- Accumulate 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience
- Pass the ASWB Clinical exam
- Apply for Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) credential
Why Choose a BSW Program in West Virginia?
Pursuing your BSW in West Virginia offers unique advantages for students committed to serving Appalachian communities. The state’s programs focus on rural social work practice, substance abuse intervention, and addressing health disparities unique to the region.
Advantages of Studying Social Work in West Virginia
- Affordable Education: Lower tuition rates compared to national averages
- Small Class Sizes: Most programs maintain student-faculty ratios under 15:1
- Rural Practice Focus: Specialized training for serving rural and underserved populations
- Strong Job Market: High demand for social workers throughout the state
- Community Connections: Established relationships with local agencies for field placements
- Cultural Competency: Emphasis on Appalachian culture and values in the curriculum
Unique Learning Opportunities
West Virginia’s BSW programs offer distinctive experiences that prepare graduates for the state’s specific social challenges:
- Opioid Crisis Response Training: Specialized coursework addressing the substance abuse epidemic
- Rural Social Work Practice: Focus on service delivery in areas with limited resources
- Poverty and Economic Justice: Understanding systemic issues affecting Appalachian communities
- Telehealth and Technology: Training in remote service delivery methods
- Disaster Response: Preparation for flooding and other natural disasters common to the region
Application Timeline and Next Steps
Planning your BSW education requires understanding application deadlines and preparing materials well in advance. Most West Virginia programs follow similar timelines for admission.
Typical Application Timeline
| Timeframe | Action Items |
|---|---|
| August-September (Year Before) | Research programs, attend virtual information sessions |
| October-November | Take the SAT/ACT if required, request transcripts |
| December-January | Complete applications, write personal statements |
| February 1-March 1 | Priority application deadlines for most programs |
| March-April | Receive admission decisions, compare financial aid offers |
| May 1 | Deposit deadline for fall enrollment |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I complete a BSW program part-time in West Virginia?
Yes, several universities, including Marshall University and West Virginia State University, offer part-time BSW options. Part-time programs typically take 5-6 years to complete, allowing students to maintain employment while pursuing their degree.
What’s the difference between a BSW and other social service degrees?
A BSW from a CSWE-accredited program specifically prepares you for professional social work practice and licensure. Unlike psychology or sociology degrees, BSW programs include supervised field education and meet requirements for social work licensure in all 50 states.
Do I need a BSW to become a social worker in West Virginia?
While some entry-level positions accept related degrees, a BSW from an accredited program is required for social work licensure in West Virginia. Many employers prefer or require BSW degrees for social work positions.
Can I transfer credits from community college to a BSW program?
Yes, West Virginia’s BSW programs accept transfer credits for general education requirements. Some schools have articulation agreements with community colleges that guarantee credit transfer. Students typically complete their first two years at community college, then transfer for social work courses.
What GPA is required to maintain in a BSW program?
Most programs require students to maintain a 2.5 GPA overall and a 2.75 GPA in social work courses. Students who fall below these standards may be placed on academic probation or removed from the program.
Making Your Decision: Choosing the Right BSW Program
Selecting the best BSW program for your needs involves considering multiple factors beyond just location and cost. Use this decision-making framework to evaluate your options:
Key Factors to Consider
- Accreditation Status: Ensure CSWE accreditation for licensure eligibility
- Program Format: Match learning format to your lifestyle (online, hybrid, or traditional)
- Cost and Financial Aid: Calculate total program cost, including fees and living expenses
- Field Placement Options: Verify agencies align with your career interests
- Faculty Expertise: Research faculty backgrounds and areas of specialization
- Student Support Services: Evaluate tutoring, advising, and career services
- Graduation and Licensure Rates: Review program outcomes data
- Class Size and Faculty Ratio: Consider your preferred learning environment
Questions to Ask During Campus Visits
- What percentage of graduates pass the licensure exam on their first attempt?
- How does the program support students during field placements?
- What career services are available to BSW students and alumni?
- Are there opportunities for undergraduate research or special projects?
- How diverse is the student body and faculty?
- What technology resources are available to students?
- Can I speak with current students or recent graduates?
Conclusion
Pursuing a BSW degree in West Virginia opens doors to meaningful careers serving individuals, families, and communities throughout the Mountain State. With seven CSWE-accredited programs offering various formats and specializations, you can find a program that aligns with your career goals and learning preferences.
The combination of affordable tuition, strong job prospects, and comprehensive training in rural social work practice makes West Virginia an excellent choice for aspiring social workers. Whether you choose a traditional on-campus experience at West Virginia University or opt for the flexibility of Marshall University’s online program, you’ll gain the knowledge and skills needed to make a positive impact in your community.
Take the next step in your social work education journey by requesting information from the programs that interest you. With growing demand for qualified social workers and competitive salaries for BSW graduates, now is an ideal time to begin your path toward this rewarding profession.
2023 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary and employment figures for Child, Family, and School Social Workers, Healthcare 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.
