Indiana MSW Programs
Schools with MSW Programs
Social Work Licensure
Social Work Careers
Indiana Social Worker Careers with an MSW Degree
Indiana Social Work Licensure
This comprehensive guide examines all accredited Indiana MSW programs, providing current tuition rates, admission requirements, specialization options, and career outcomes. Whether you’re a recent BSW graduate seeking advanced standing or a career changer exploring online options, you’ll find detailed information to guide your educational decision.
Table of Contents
- Quick Answer: Indiana MSW Programs Overview
- Complete List of Indiana MSW Programs
- Detailed Program Information
- Online MSW Options for Indiana Residents
- Advanced Standing Programs
- Available Specializations
- Admission Requirements
- Tuition and Financial Aid
- Indiana Social Work Licensing Requirements
- Career Outlook & Salaries (2025)
- How to Choose the Right Program
- Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Answer: Indiana MSW Programs Overview
Quick Answer:
Indiana has 6 CSWE-accredited MSW programs offered by Indiana University (multiple campuses), Ball State University, University of Southern Indiana, and Valparaiso University. Programs cost between $385-$1,250 per credit hour, with formats including online, hybrid, and traditional on-campus options. Advanced standing programs allow BSW holders to complete their MSW in 12-15 months, while traditional programs take 2 years full-time.
Complete List of Indiana MSW Programs
Indiana’s MSW programs offer diverse specializations and formats to meet various career goals. All programs maintain CSWE accreditation, ensuring quality education that meets national standards for social work practice.
| University | Location | Format Options | Credit Hours | Cost Per Credit | Advanced Standing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI) | Indianapolis | On-campus, Hybrid | 60 | $575 (in-state) | Yes |
| Indiana University East | Richmond | Online, Hybrid | 60 | $385 (in-state) | Yes |
| Indiana University Northwest | Gary | On-campus | 60 | $395 (in-state) | Yes |
| Ball State University | Muncie | On-campus, Online | 60 | $485 (in-state) | Yes |
| University of Southern Indiana | Evansville | On-campus, Hybrid | 60 | $425 (in-state) | Yes |
| Valparaiso University | Valparaiso | On-campus | 62 | $1,250 | No |
Detailed Program Information
Indiana University School of Social Work (Multiple Campuses)
Indiana University operates the state’s largest social work education system with MSW programs across three campuses. The flagship IUPUI campus in Indianapolis provides the most comprehensive program with access to urban field placements in healthcare, child welfare, and mental health settings.
The IU system offers unique multi-campus flexibility, allowing students to begin coursework at one campus and complete field education at another. This arrangement particularly benefits students in rural areas who need local field placement options while accessing quality education.
Program Highlights:
- IUPUI Indianapolis: Offers concentrations in mental health/addictions and children/families, with dual degree options including MSW/MPH and MSW/JD
- IU East Richmond: Features fully online coursework with local field placement coordination throughout eastern Indiana
- IU Northwest Gary: Provides evening and weekend courses designed for working professionals in the Chicago metropolitan area
Ball State University
Ball State’s MSW program emphasizes integrated practice, preparing graduates for versatile roles across micro, mezzo, and macro levels. The program’s strength lies in its rural social work preparation and telehealth training initiatives.
Located in Muncie, Ball State offers both traditional and online formats with synchronous evening classes accommodating working professionals. The program maintains strong partnerships with rural healthcare systems and community mental health centers throughout central Indiana.
University of Southern Indiana
USI’s MSW program in Evansville serves the tri-state region of Indiana, Illinois, and Kentucky. The program features small cohort sizes ensuring personalized attention and strong faculty mentorship throughout the educational journey.
The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice with specialized training in substance use disorders, reflecting regional workforce needs. USI’s partnership with local healthcare systems provides exceptional medical social work field placements.
Valparaiso University
Valparaiso offers northwest Indiana’s only private university MSW program, featuring a values-based curriculum rooted in social justice principles. Despite higher tuition costs, the program provides substantial merit scholarships and maintains small class sizes averaging 15 students.
The program’s distinctive faith-informed perspective (though welcoming all backgrounds) integrates spirituality and social work practice, preparing graduates for work in faith-based organizations alongside traditional settings.
Online MSW Options for Indiana Residents
Indiana residents seeking maximum flexibility can choose from multiple online MSW programs, both in-state and from nationally recognized universities. Online programs provide identical CSWE-accredited curricula as campus programs while accommodating work schedules and geographic constraints.
Indiana-Based Online Programs
Indiana University East leads the state’s online MSW offerings with a completely virtual program requiring no campus visits. Students complete asynchronous coursework with weekly deadlines, participating in virtual simulations and online group projects that build digital collaboration skills increasingly valuable in modern social work practice.
Ball State University provides a hybrid-online option combining asynchronous coursework with optional monthly synchronous sessions. This format particularly suits students wanting peer interaction without frequent campus visits.
Out-of-State Online Options for Indiana Residents
Several prestigious universities offer online MSW programs accepting Indiana residents. Our comprehensive guide to online CSWE-accredited programs details over 40 options. Popular choices among Indiana residents include:
- University of Louisville: Offers competitive tuition rates for Indiana residents through regional agreements
- Arizona State University: Provides multiple start dates and accelerated options
- University of Denver: Features specialized concentrations not available in Indiana
Advanced Standing Programs
Five of Indiana’s six MSW programs offer advanced standing options for BSW graduates from CSWE-accredited programs. Advanced standing allows qualified students to complete their MSW in 30-36 credit hours (typically 12-15 months) rather than the standard 60 credits.
Advanced Standing Eligibility Requirements
Indiana MSW programs typically require advanced standing applicants to meet these criteria:
- BSW Degree: From a CSWE-accredited program completed within 5-7 years
- GPA Requirements: Minimum 3.0 overall GPA, with 3.25 in social work courses
- Field Education: Successful completion of BSW field placement (400+ hours)
- Recommendations: Strong references from BSW program faculty and field instructors
Advanced standing students typically begin with summer foundation coursework before joining second-year students for specialized concentration courses. This accelerated path saves approximately $15,000-$25,000 in tuition costs while reducing time to licensure.
Available Specializations
Indiana MSW programs offer diverse specialization tracks aligned with state workforce needs and emerging practice areas. Specialization selection typically occurs after completing foundation coursework, with focused training beginning in the second year.
| Specialization | Available At | Career Focus | Field Placement Settings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clinical/Mental Health | All programs | Therapy, counseling, diagnosis | Community mental health, hospitals, private practice |
| Children & Families | IUPUI, Ball State, USI | Child welfare, family therapy, school social work | DCS, schools, family service agencies |
| Healthcare | IUPUI, USI | Medical social work, discharge planning | Hospitals, hospice, rehabilitation centers |
| Addictions | IUPUI, Ball State | Substance use treatment, recovery support | Treatment centers, MAT programs, recovery houses |
| Community Practice | Ball State, Valparaiso | Program development, policy, administration | Nonprofits, government agencies, advocacy organizations |
| Gerontology | IUPUI, USI | Aging services, elder care management | Area agencies on aging, nursing homes, senior centers |
Admission Requirements
Indiana MSW programs maintain competitive admission standards while seeking diverse cohorts representing various backgrounds and experiences. Understanding specific requirements helps applicants prepare competitive applications.
Standard Admission Requirements
- Bachelor’s Degree: From an accredited institution in any field
- GPA: Minimum 3.0 on 4.0 scale (some programs consider last 60 credit hours)
- Prerequisites: Statistics and biology/human development courses recommended
- Experience: Volunteer or paid human services experience (200+ hours preferred)
- References: Three professional or academic references addressing interpersonal skills
- Personal Statement: 3-5 pages discussing career goals and commitment to social work values
- Resume: Detailing education, experience, and community involvement
GRE Requirements Update
Most Indiana MSW programs have eliminated GRE requirements, recognizing that standardized tests poorly predict social work success. Currently, no Indiana MSW program requires the GRE, though some accept scores for scholarship consideration. This change improves accessibility for non-traditional students and reduces application barriers.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Indiana MSW programs offer competitive tuition rates compared to neighboring states, with substantial differences between public and private institutions. Understanding total program costs helps students plan financing strategies.
Total Program Cost Comparison
| University | In-State Total | Out-of-State Total | Advanced Standing |
|---|---|---|---|
| IU East (Online) | $23,100 | $42,000 | $11,550 |
| IU Northwest | $23,700 | $43,200 | $11,850 |
| USI | $25,500 | $39,000 | $12,750 |
| Ball State | $29,100 | $48,600 | $14,550 |
| IUPUI | $34,500 | $63,000 | $17,250 |
| Valparaiso | $77,500 | $77,500 | N/A |
Financial Aid Opportunities
Indiana MSW students access multiple funding sources beyond traditional loans. The Indiana Commission for Higher Education coordinates state-specific aid programs including:
- Next Generation Hoosier Educators Scholarship: Up to $7,500 annually for students committing to school social work
- Workforce Ready Grant: Covers remaining tuition after other aid for eligible programs
- Federal Title IV-E Stipends: Available through IUPUI and Ball State for child welfare specialization
- Graduate Assistantships: Provide tuition remission plus $8,000-$15,000 annual stipends
- Field Placement Stipends: Some agencies offer $5,000-$10,000 for committed field placements
Indiana Social Work Licensing Requirements
The Indiana Behavioral Health and Human Services Licensing Board oversees social work licensure, offering multiple credential levels based on education and experience. Understanding licensing pathways helps students plan their career trajectory.
Indiana License Types
Licensed Social Worker (LSW)
- Requires CSWE-accredited BSW or MSW degree
- Pass ASWB Bachelor’s or Master’s examination
- Application fee: $100
- Renewal every 3 years with 40 hours continuing education
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
- Requires CSWE-accredited MSW degree
- Complete 3,000 supervised clinical hours over minimum 24 months
- Pass ASWB Clinical examination
- Supervision must be provided by Indiana LCSW
- Application fee: $100
- Higher earning potential and independent practice authority
Supervision Requirements for LCSW
Indiana’s LCSW supervision requirements include specific parameters ensuring quality clinical preparation:
- Duration: Minimum 24 months, maximum 6 years to complete
- Supervision Hours: Minimum 100 hours (50 individual, 50 group acceptable)
- Clinical Hours: 3,000 total with at least 1,500 direct client contact
- Setting: Must be in clinical mental health or integrated healthcare setting
- Documentation: Detailed supervision logs and quarterly evaluations required
Career Outlook & Salaries in Indiana (2024 Data)
Indiana’s social work job market demonstrates robust growth with competitive salaries across specializations. According to 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics data, Indiana employs over 8,500 social workers with projected 11% growth through 2034, exceeding the national average.
2025 Indiana Social Worker Salaries by Specialization
- Healthcare Social Workers: Median $58,750 annually. Healthcare social workers coordinate patient care, facilitate discharge planning, and provide psychosocial support in medical settings. Indiana’s aging population drives demand for medical social workers in hospitals, rehabilitation facilities, and home health agencies.
- Child, Family, and School Social Workers: Median $47,500 annually. These professionals protect vulnerable children, strengthen families, and support educational success. Indiana Department of Child Services consistently recruits MSW graduates, offering loan forgiveness programs for committed service.
- Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers: Median $52,300 annually. With Indiana’s ongoing addiction crisis, these specialists provide critical treatment services. The state’s expansion of certified community behavioral health clinics creates numerous opportunities for clinical social workers.
- Social Workers, All Other: Median $75,000 annually. This category includes specialized roles such as forensic social workers, policy analysts, and private practice clinicians. Administrative and supervisory positions in this category require MSW degrees and offer the highest earning potential.
Metropolitan Area Salary Variations
Geographic location significantly impacts earning potential within Indiana:
- Indianapolis-Carmel-Anderson MSA: Average $62,400 (15% above state median)
- Chicago-Naperville-Elgin MSA (including Northwest Indiana): Average $68,900
- Evansville MSA: Average $54,200
- Fort Wayne MSA: Average $51,800
- South Bend-Mishawaka MSA: Average $49,500
Emerging Career Opportunities
Indiana’s evolving healthcare landscape creates new social work roles with enhanced earning potential:
- Integrated Behavioral Health Specialists: $65,000-$75,000 working in primary care settings
- Telehealth Social Workers: $55,000-$70,000 providing virtual mental health services
- Criminal Justice Social Workers: $50,000-$65,000 supporting reentry and diversion programs
- Geriatric Care Managers: $60,000-$75,000 coordinating elder care services
How to Choose the Right Indiana MSW Program
Selecting an MSW program requires careful consideration of personal circumstances, career goals, and learning preferences. Indiana’s diverse programs offer various advantages depending on individual priorities.
Key Decision Factors
Geographic Considerations
Program location impacts more than convenience. Urban programs like IUPUI offer diverse field placements in specialized settings, while rural programs like IU East provide community-based experiences. Consider where you plan to practice after graduation, as programs often have stronger employment networks in their immediate regions.
Learning Format Preferences
Evaluate your learning style and life circumstances when choosing between formats. Traditional on-campus programs provide structured learning and immediate peer interaction. Online programs offer flexibility but require strong self-discipline and time management. Hybrid formats balance both advantages but may require periodic campus visits.
Financial Investment Analysis
Calculate total program costs including tuition, fees, books, and opportunity costs of reduced work hours. Compare financial aid packages carefully, considering both immediate assistance and long-term obligations. Public universities offer lower tuition but may have limited assistantship opportunities compared to private institutions.
Specialization Alignment
Match program strengths with your career interests. If pursuing clinical practice, prioritize programs with strong mental health partnerships. For macro practice interests, seek programs emphasizing policy and administration courses. Review faculty expertise and research areas as indicators of program strengths.
Support Services Assessment
Investigate student support services including academic advising, career counseling, and licensing exam preparation. Programs with dedicated MSW advisors and structured mentorship programs typically show higher graduation and licensure pass rates.
Questions to Ask Programs
When researching Indiana MSW programs, ask these essential questions:
- What percentage of graduates pass the ASWB exam on first attempt?
- How does the program support field placement selection and problems?
- What technology requirements exist for online/hybrid formats?
- Are graduate assistantships available for full-time students?
- How does the program accommodate working professionals?
- What career services support exists after graduation?
- Can you connect me with current students or recent alumni?
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get my MSW in Indiana without a BSW degree?
Yes, all Indiana MSW programs accept students with bachelor’s degrees in any field. Non-BSW holders complete the traditional two-year program including foundation and concentration years. Liberal arts, psychology, and sociology majors often transition successfully into MSW programs. Programs provide foundation courses covering social work theories, ethics, and practices during the first year.
How long does it take to become a licensed clinical social worker in Indiana?
After earning your MSW, becoming an LCSW in Indiana requires 24-36 months of supervised clinical experience. You’ll need to accumulate 3,000 clinical hours with at least 100 supervision hours. Most full-time clinicians complete requirements in 24-30 months. The timeline extends for part-time practitioners or those in non-clinical settings. Factor in 2-3 months for application processing and exam scheduling.
What GPA do I need for Indiana MSW programs?
Most Indiana MSW programs require a minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale for regular admission. However, competitive applicants typically present GPAs above 3.3. Programs may consider the last 60 credit hours if early academic performance was weak. Some programs offer conditional admission for GPAs between 2.75-2.99 with strong experience and references. Advanced standing admission typically requires a 3.25 GPA in social work courses.
Are Indiana MSW programs accredited?
All six Indiana MSW programs maintain accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). This accreditation ensures programs meet national educational standards and qualifies graduates for licensure nationwide. CSWE accreditation requires regular review of curriculum, field education, and student outcomes. Only graduates from CSWE-accredited programs can pursue social work licensure in Indiana and most other states.
What’s the difference between LSW and LCSW licenses in Indiana?
The LSW (Licensed Social Worker) allows practice under supervision in various settings with either a BSW or MSW degree. The LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) requires an MSW plus 3,000 supervised clinical hours and permits independent practice, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health conditions. LCSWs can establish private practices, bill insurance independently, and typically earn $15,000-$25,000 more annually than LSWs. Only LCSWs can provide clinical supervision to LSW candidates.
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.
