District of Columbia MSW Programs
Schools with MSW Programs
Social Work Licensure
Social Work Careers
District of Columbia Social Worker Careers with an MSW Degree
District of Columbia Social Work Licensure
Quick Navigation
- Overview of MSW Programs in DC
- CSWE-Accredited MSW Programs
- Program Comparison Table
- Online MSW Options
- Admission Requirements
- Specializations Available
- Social Work Salaries in DC
- DC Licensing Requirements
- Nearby Programs in MD and VA
- How to Choose the Right Program
- Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Answer:
Washington DC has 5 CSWE-accredited MSW programs at Catholic University, Gallaudet University, Howard University, University of the District of Columbia, and National Catholic School of Social Service. These programs offer specializations in clinical practice, policy, administration, and specialized populations, with both campus and online options available. DC social workers earn median salaries ranging from $72,720 to $92,600 depending on their specialization.
Overview of MSW Programs in Washington, DC
The District of Columbia stands as a premier destination for social work education, combining academic excellence with unparalleled professional opportunities. Students pursuing their MSW in DC benefit from proximity to federal policy-making institutions, international organizations, and leading healthcare facilities including the National Institutes of Health and Walter Reed National Military Medical Center.
The district’s diverse population creates rich learning environments for social work students. From addressing urban poverty and homelessness to working with international refugee populations, DC provides exposure to the full spectrum of social work practice. Additionally, the concentration of advocacy organizations and think tanks presents unique macro-practice opportunities rarely found in other cities.
For those interested in policy and administration, studying in DC provides direct access to the federal agencies that shape national social welfare policy. Students can intern at the Department of Health and Human Services, participate in congressional advocacy days, and network with leaders in social justice movements. This combination of micro and macro practice opportunities makes DC MSW programs particularly attractive for students seeking comprehensive professional preparation.
CSWE-Accredited MSW Programs in Washington DC
All five MSW programs in Washington DC maintain CSWE accreditation, ensuring they meet the highest standards for social work education. The Council on Social Work Education accreditation ensures that graduates are eligible for licensure and have received education that meets national competency standards.
Catholic University of America – National Catholic School of Social Service
Catholic University’s National Catholic School of Social Service, founded in 1918, is one of the nation’s oldest social work programs. The program offers both traditional two-year and advanced standing tracks, with specializations in clinical social work and social policy and administration. Their unique focus on social justice and Catholic social teaching attracts students interested in faith-based practice and community organizing.
The program emphasizes evidence-based practice while maintaining a strong commitment to serving vulnerable populations. Students can participate in specialized certificate programs, including clinical social work with military families and trauma-informed practice. The school’s location near the Brookland-CUA Metro station provides easy access to field placement sites throughout the metropolitan area.
Gallaudet University
Gallaudet University offers the world’s only MSW program designed specifically for deaf and hard-of-hearing students, though the program welcomes hearing students as well. This unique program prepares social workers to serve deaf communities while providing all students with valuable cultural competency skills and American Sign Language proficiency.
The program features small class sizes and personalized attention, with a strong emphasis on cultural diversity and social justice. Students gain specialized skills in working with deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals across the lifespan, preparing them for an underserved niche in social work practice. The bilingual (ASL/English) environment creates an immersive learning experience unlike any other MSW program.
Howard University School of Social Work
Howard University, a historically black university, offers an MSW program with a distinctive focus on African diaspora perspectives in social work practice. The program provides concentrations in direct practice and community organization, planning, and administration, with special emphasis on addressing racial disparities in health and social services.
The school’s dual-degree options, including MSW/MBA and MSW/JD programs, prepare students for leadership roles in social enterprises and policy advocacy. Howard’s location in the heart of DC provides excellent field placement opportunities in federal agencies, international NGOs, and community-based organizations serving diverse populations.
University of the District of Columbia
As DC’s only public university, UDC offers an affordable MSW option for district residents. The program focuses on urban social work practice, with particular attention to issues affecting the DC metropolitan area, including gentrification, educational equity, and criminal justice reform. Their evening and weekend class options accommodate working professionals.
UDC’s commitment to community engagement means students work directly with DC residents through the university’s community extension services. The program emphasizes cultural competence and prepares students to work with the district’s diverse immigrant and refugee populations.
National Catholic School of Social Service at Catholic University
This program deserves special mention for its joint programs and certificates. Students can pursue joint MSW/MA degrees in theology, nonprofit management, or library science. The school also offers post-master’s certificates for practicing social workers seeking specialized training.
MSW Program Comparison Table
| University | Format Options | Specializations | Credit Hours | Tuition (per credit) | Advanced Standing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Catholic University | Campus, Hybrid | Clinical, Policy & Administration | 60 | $925 | Yes |
| Gallaudet | Campus | Deaf Studies, Clinical | 60 | $820 | Yes |
| Howard | Campus, Evening | Direct Practice, COPA | 60 | $1,067 | Yes |
| UDC | Campus, Evening/Weekend | Urban Social Work | 60 | $424 (resident) | No |
Online MSW Options for DC Residents
While most DC-based programs require on-campus attendance, residents have access to numerous online MSW programs offered by universities nationwide. Online programs provide flexibility for working professionals and individuals who are unable to attend campus classes. Many online programs offer the same CSWE-accredited curriculum as their campus counterparts.
Popular online options for DC residents include programs from the University of Southern California, Boston University, and Rutgers University. These programs typically arrange field placements in the student’s local area, allowing DC residents to complete internships at local agencies while earning degrees from institutions outside of the state. When considering online programs, verify that they meet DC’s specific licensing requirements.
Admission Requirements for DC MSW Programs
Most DC MSW programs share similar admission requirements, though specific criteria vary by institution. Generally, programs require a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0, though some programs consider applicants with lower GPAs who demonstrate strong potential through work experience or other achievements.
Standard application materials include official transcripts, three letters of recommendation (academic or professional), a personal statement addressing career goals and alignment with social work values, and a resume that demonstrates relevant experience. Some programs require GRE scores, though this requirement has become less common post-pandemic.
Advanced standing programs, available for BSW graduates from CSWE-accredited programs, typically require a BSW GPA of 3.5 or higher and completion of the BSW within the past five years. These programs allow students to complete their MSW in one year rather than the traditional two years.
Specializations and Concentrations Available
DC MSW programs offer diverse specialization options reflecting the district’s unique practice environment:
Clinical Social Work: Focuses on direct practice with individuals, families, and groups. Students learn evidence-based interventions, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, trauma-focused therapy, and crisis intervention. Clinical tracks prepare students for LICSW licensure and private practice.
Policy and Administration: Prepares students for leadership roles in social service organizations and policy advocacy. Coursework covers program evaluation, grant writing, budget management, and policy analysis. DC’s location provides unmatched opportunities for policy practice internships.
International Social Work: Several DC programs offer international focus areas, leveraging the district’s global connections. Students explore human rights, refugee resettlement, and international development, with opportunities for international field placements.
Military Social Work: Given DC’s military presence, programs offer specializations in working with service members, veterans, and military families. This includes training in PTSD treatment, military culture competency, and navigating veterans’ benefits.
Social Work Salaries in Washington DC (2024 BLS Data)
According to 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics data, social workers in Washington DC earn significantly higher salaries than the national average, reflecting both the high cost of living and the concentration of federal and nonprofit employers offering competitive compensation.
| Social Work Category | DC Median Salary | National Median | DC 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Healthcare Social Workers | $92,600 | $61,330 | $105,750 |
| Mental Health & Substance Abuse | $72,720 | $61,330 | $106,720 |
| All Social Workers | $82,000 | $61,330 | $105,000 |
These salary figures demonstrate the strong return on investment for MSW education in DC. Federal positions often start at the GS-11 or GS-12 level ($72,750-$87,198), with potential for advancement to the GS-14 level ($108,885-$141,555) for supervisory roles.
DC Licensing Requirements for Social Workers
The DC Department of Health Board of Social Work oversees licensing for social workers in the district. DC offers several license levels, each with specific education and experience requirements:
Licensed Graduate Social Worker (LGSW): Entry-level license requiring an MSW from a CSWE-accredited program. LGSWs must practice under supervision and complete 3,000 hours of supervised experience over at least two years to advance to independent licensure.
Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW): Requires an MSW, passage of the ASWB Clinical exam, and 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience with at least 100 hours of face-to-face supervision. LICSWs can practice independently and bill insurance directly.
Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW): For macro practice, requires an MSW and 3,000 hours of supervised experience in administration, policy, or community organization. This license allows independent practice in non-clinical settings.
DC participates in the Interstate Compact for Social Work Licensure, facilitating mobility for social workers moving between participating states. The district also requires 40 hours of continuing education every two years for license renewal, including specific requirements for ethics and cultural competency training.
Nearby MSW Programs in Maryland and Virginia
The Washington metropolitan area includes excellent MSW programs just outside DC borders, easily accessible via Metro or short commutes:
George Mason University (Fairfax, VA): Located on the Orange Line, it offers a highly regarded MSW with evening and weekend options. Known for strong mental health and substance abuse concentration.
University of Maryland (College Park, MD): Accessible via Green Line, ranked among the top 20 social work programs nationally. Offers specializations in family and children’s health, as well as behavioral health.
Virginia Commonwealth University (Arlington, VA): Northern Virginia campus offers a part-time MSW program designed for working professionals, with classes in Arlington and Alexandria.
These programs often have lower tuition rates for state residents while remaining accessible to DC residents. Many DC students choose these options for their specific specializations or for the scheduling flexibility they offer.
How to Choose the Right MSW Program in DC
Selecting an MSW program requires careful consideration of multiple factors beyond location and cost. Start by identifying your career goals and preferred practice area. If you’re interested in clinical practice, ensure the program offers sufficient clinical coursework and field placements in therapeutic settings.
Consider your learning style and life circumstances. Working professionals might prefer evening or hybrid programs, while recent graduates may benefit from full-time immersive programs. Evaluate each program’s field education offerings, as quality internships significantly impact career preparation and job prospects.
Financial considerations extend beyond tuition. Factor in living expenses, as DC has a high cost of living. Research assistantship opportunities, which can provide tuition remission and stipends. Federal work-study programs and Public Service Loan Forgiveness can make MSW education more affordable for those committed to public service careers.
Visit campuses and attend information sessions to assess program culture and fit. Talk with current students and alumni about their experiences. Consider each program’s connections to your areas of interest, whether that’s federal agencies, international organizations, or community-based nonprofits.
Frequently Asked Questions
What GPA is required for DC MSW programs?
Most programs require a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA, though some consider applicants with lower GPAs who demonstrate strong professional experience or improvement in upper-division coursework. Advanced standing programs typically require a 3.5 GPA in BSW.
Can I work while completing my MSW in DC?
Yes, several DC programs offer part-time options designed for working professionals. UDC and Catholic University offer evening and weekend classes. Field placements can often be arranged around work schedules, though this requires careful planning with field education offices.
How much does an MSW cost in Washington DC?
Tuition ranges from approximately $25,000 (for UDC residents) to $70,000-$80,000+ (for private universities) for the complete program. Consider additional costs, including books ($2,000-3,000), licensing exams ($500), and living expenses in DC’s expensive market.
What’s the difference between LICSW and LISW in DC?
LICSW (Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker) permits independent clinical practice, including therapy and diagnosis. LISW (Licensed Independent Social Worker) is for macro practice, including administration, policy work, and community organizing. Both require 3,000 supervised hours, but in different practice areas.
Do I need to live in DC to attend these programs?
No, many students live in Maryland or Virginia, where housing costs may be lower. The extensive Metro system makes commuting feasible, and some students find that living outside DC provides better value while maintaining access to educational and professional opportunities.
Start Your MSW Journey in the Nation’s Capital
Washington, D.C., offers unparalleled opportunities for social work education and career development. With five CSWE-accredited programs, competitive salaries, and access to diverse practice settings, the district provides an ideal environment for launching or advancing your social work career.
Whether you’re drawn to clinical practice, policy advocacy, or international social work, DC’s MSW programs offer pathways to meaningful careers serving individuals and communities. The combination of excellent education, professional networks, and career opportunities makes pursuing your MSW in Washington, DC an investment in both your professional future and your commitment to social justice.
Take the next step by requesting information from programs that align with your goals, attending virtual information sessions, and connecting with admissions counselors who can guide you through the application process. Your journey to becoming a master ‘s-level social worker in the nation’s capital starts today.
2023 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary and employment figures for 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.
