12 MSW Programs in Minnesota | CSWE-Accredited Guide 2025

Minnesota MSW Programs Overview
CSWE-Accredited Programs in Minnesota
Program Formats and Specializations
Admission Requirements
Minnesota Social Work Licensing Path
Minnesota Social Worker Salaries (BLS May 2023)
Metropolitan Area Opportunities
Financial Aid and Scholarships
How to Choose the Right MSW Program
Frequently Asked Questions

Whether you’re a recent BSW graduate seeking advanced standing admission, a career changer exploring flexible online options, or a working professional looking for evening programs, Minnesota’s diverse MSW landscape provides pathways tailored to your unique circumstances. This comprehensive guide examines every aspect of pursuing social work education in the Land of 10,000 Lakes.

Note: Program counts change regularly; verify current numbers in the CSWE Accreditation Directory at time of application.

Quick Answer:

Minnesota offers 14 CSWE-accredited Master of Social Work programs plus 1 in candidacy. Students can pursue the LGSW license after graduation, then advance to LISW (nonclinical) or LICSW (clinical) with 4,000-8,000 supervised hours. According to May 2023 BLS data, Minnesota social workers earn varying median salaries by specialization, with programs available in Minneapolis, Saint Paul, Duluth, Mankato, Saint Cloud, and other cities throughout the state.

Featured Programs:

Minnesota MSW Programs Overview

Minnesota’s social work education landscape encompasses a diverse array of institutions, from large research universities to specialized colleges focused on social justice and community engagement. The state’s 14 CSWE-accredited MSW programs plus 1 in candidacy serve thousands of graduate students annually, producing skilled professionals who address critical social challenges across urban, suburban, and rural communities.

These programs benefit from Minnesota’s progressive approach to social services, with strong state funding for mental health initiatives, robust child welfare systems, and innovative healthcare delivery models. Students gain practical experience through partnerships with numerous field placement sites, including renowned healthcare systems like Mayo Clinic, Allina Health, and HealthPartners.

Geographic Distribution of Programs

MSW programs strategically located throughout Minnesota ensure accessibility for students statewide:

Twin Cities Metro Area: Multiple programs serving the state’s largest population center
Greater Minnesota: Programs in regional hubs including Duluth, Mankato, Saint Cloud, and Moorhead
Online Options: Several programs offering fully online or hybrid formats for maximum flexibility

For students unable to relocate or seeking additional options, consider exploring Online CSWE-Accredited MSW programs that accept Minnesota residents.

CSWE-Accredited Programs in Minnesota

The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accreditation represents the gold standard in social work education, ensuring programs meet rigorous academic standards and prepare graduates for professional licensure. Minnesota hosts 14 CSWE-accredited MSW programs and 1 in candidacy status. Understanding CSWE accreditation requirements helps prospective students make informed decisions about program quality and professional outcomes.

Important: Programs in candidacy status may have implications for licensure portability. Verify current accreditation status in the CSWE Accreditation Directory before applying.

Institution	Location	CSWE Status	Format Options	Specializations
University of Minnesota Twin Cities	Minneapolis/St. Paul	Accredited	On-campus, Hybrid	Clinical, Policy, Families
University of St. Thomas	St. Paul	Accredited	On-campus, Weekend	Clinical Mental Health, Leadership
Augsburg University	Minneapolis	Accredited	On-campus, Weekend	Direct Practice, Community Practice
Minnesota State University Mankato	Mankato	Accredited	On-campus, Online	Advanced Generalist
University of Minnesota Duluth	Duluth	Accredited	On-campus	Advanced Generalist
St. Cloud State University	St. Cloud	Accredited	On-campus, Part-time	School Social Work
Bethel University	St. Paul	Accredited	On-campus	Clinical Practice
Minnesota State University Moorhead	Moorhead	Accredited	On-campus	Rural Social Work
Additional Programs	Various	Verify Current Status	Varies	Varies

Note: Verify all programs and their current accreditation status in the CSWE Accreditation Directory. Some institutions may have changed their program offerings or accreditation status.

Program Formats and Specializations

Minnesota’s MSW programs recognize the diverse needs of modern students by offering multiple pathways to degree completion. Understanding these options helps prospective students identify programs aligning with their career goals, learning preferences, and life circumstances.

Traditional Programs (2 Years)

Designed for students without a BSW, traditional programs typically require 60 credits completed over four semesters. Students complete foundation courses during their first year, covering social work theory, research methods, and practice skills. The second year focuses on specialized practice areas and advanced clinical or macro interventions.

Advanced Standing Programs (1 Year)

BSW graduates from CSWE-accredited programs may qualify for Advanced Standing MSW admission, completing their degree in 12-15 months. This accelerated pathway recognizes prior undergraduate preparation, allowing students to bypass foundation coursework and proceed directly to advanced curriculum.

Part-Time and Evening Programs

Working professionals benefit from part-time options extending program completion to 3-4 years. Evening and weekend formats accommodate employment schedules while maintaining academic rigor. Several Minnesota institutions specifically design schedules for working adults.

Online and Hybrid Formats

Multiple Minnesota institutions offer online or hybrid MSW programs, combining flexibility with quality education. These programs utilize synchronous and asynchronous learning, virtual field placements, and intensive on-campus sessions to deliver comprehensive social work education accessible statewide.

Specialization Areas

Minnesota MSW programs offer diverse specialization tracks reflecting the state’s social service priorities:

Clinical Mental Health: Prepares students for direct practice with individuals, families, and groups experiencing mental health challenges
Child and Family Welfare: Focuses on child protection, family preservation, and adoption services
Healthcare Social Work: Emphasizes medical social work in hospitals, clinics, and integrated care settings
School Social Work: Prepares practitioners for K-12 educational settings, requiring additional state certification
Policy and Administration: Develops leaders for nonprofit management, advocacy, and systems change
Gerontology: Addresses the growing needs of Minnesota’s aging population
Rural Practice: Specialized training for serving communities in Greater Minnesota

Admission Requirements

Minnesota MSW programs maintain selective admission standards while valuing diverse backgrounds and experiences. Understanding typical requirements helps prospective students prepare competitive applications.

Academic Prerequisites

Bachelor’s Degree: From an accredited institution in any field
GPA Requirements: Minimum 3.0 overall or 3.25 in last 60 credits (varies by program)
Liberal Arts Foundation: Coursework in social sciences, humanities, and statistics recommended
GRE Scores: Most Minnesota programs have eliminated GRE requirements; check specific program policies

Professional Experience

While not always required, relevant experience strengthens applications significantly:

Human services volunteer work (minimum 200-400 hours recommended)
Professional experience in social services, education, or healthcare
Leadership roles in community organizations
Cross-cultural or international service experiences

Application Components

Complete applications typically include:

Personal Statement: 3-5 pages addressing career goals, relevant experiences, and commitment to social work values
References: 3 letters from academic and professional sources
Resume: Highlighting education, experience, and community involvement
Transcripts: Official documents from all post-secondary institutions
Interview: Some programs require in-person or virtual interviews

Minnesota Social Work Licensing Path

The Minnesota Board of Social Work oversees professional licensure, establishing standards that protect public welfare while supporting professional development. Minnesota’s tiered licensing system provides clear pathways for career advancement.

Licensed Graduate Social Worker (LGSW)

Entry-level license available immediately upon MSW graduation:

Complete CSWE-accredited MSW program
Pass ASWB Master’s examination (ASWB does not publish fixed passing scores; pass points vary by exam form, typically requiring approximately 90-107 correct answers of 150 questions. The Board receives pass/fail results)
Submit application with current fee
No supervised experience required

Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW)

Important clarification: The LISW is a nonclinical master’s-level license. For independent clinical practice in Minnesota, social workers must obtain the LICSW (Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker).

LISW requirements:

Hold active LGSW license
Complete supervised practice according to Minnesota Board requirements
Pass appropriate ASWB examination
Submit application with current fee

Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW)

Required for independent clinical practice and supervision:

Minnesota requires 200 hours of supervision over 4,000-8,000 hours of practice (supervision ratio: 4-8 hours per 160 hours of practice)
For the clinical pathway to LICSW: accumulate 4,000-8,000 clinical hours with at least 1,800 direct clinical hours
Minimum 100 of the 200 supervision hours must be one-on-one supervision
Pass ASWB Clinical examination
Eligible to supervise other social workers
Required for private practice and insurance reimbursement

For complete and current licensing requirements, consult the Minnesota Board of Social Work licensure page.

Minnesota Social Worker Salaries (BLS May 2023)

Minnesota social workers enjoy competitive compensation reflecting the state’s commitment to social services. The following data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) for Minnesota, May 2023 (published April 3, 2024), demonstrates earning potential across specializations:

Specialization (SOC Code)	Minnesota Median Annual Salary	25th Percentile	75th Percentile
Child, Family, and School Social Workers (21-1021)	[Insert from MN OEWS]	[Insert from MN OEWS]	[Insert from MN OEWS]
Healthcare Social Workers (21-1022)	[Insert from MN OEWS]	[Insert from MN OEWS]	[Insert from MN OEWS]
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers (21-1023)	[Insert from MN OEWS]	[Insert from MN OEWS]	[Insert from MN OEWS]
Social Workers, All Other (21-1029)	[Insert from MN OEWS]	[Insert from MN OEWS]	[Insert from MN OEWS]

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, Minnesota, May 2023 (published April 3, 2024). Access current data at BLS Minnesota OEWS. Verify specific occupational codes: 21-1021, 21-1022, 21-1023, 21-1029.

Factors Influencing Salary

Multiple variables affect social worker compensation in Minnesota:

Geographic Location: Metropolitan wages are generally higher than non-metropolitan areas. See BLS metro-area OEWS tables for specific comparisons
Practice Setting: Healthcare and government positions generally provide higher compensation
Licensure Level: LICSW practitioners typically earn more than LGSW-level social workers
Years of Experience: Mid-career professionals (5-10 years) typically see substantial salary increases
Specialization: Clinical mental health and medical social work often command higher salaries
Advanced Credentials: Additional certifications in trauma, addiction, or specific therapies may increase earning potential

Metropolitan Area Opportunities

Minnesota’s diverse metropolitan areas offer distinct professional environments for social workers, each with unique characteristics, populations served, and career opportunities.

Minneapolis-St. Paul Metro Area

The Twin Cities region, home to 3.7 million residents, provides the state’s most diverse social work opportunities. Major healthcare systems including Allina Health, HealthPartners, and M Health Fairview employ thousands of social workers. The region’s Fortune 500 companies offer robust employee assistance programs, while numerous nonprofit organizations address urban challenges including homelessness, refugee resettlement, and educational disparities.

Key opportunities include:

Medical social work at nationally recognized hospitals
Corporate wellness and employee assistance programs
Refugee and immigrant services
Urban school districts with diverse student populations
Policy and advocacy positions at state government agencies

Duluth

Serving as northeastern Minnesota’s regional hub, Duluth combines urban amenities with access to rural communities. The city’s focus on outdoor recreation, arts, and education creates unique practice opportunities. Essentia Health and St. Luke’s Hospital anchor the healthcare sector, while the University of Minnesota Duluth provides academic and research opportunities.

Rochester

Home to the world-renowned Mayo Clinic, Rochester offers unparalleled opportunities in medical social work. The city’s healthcare focus attracts patients globally, creating demand for culturally competent social workers skilled in complex case management, transplant coordination, and international patient services.

St. Cloud

Central Minnesota’s largest city balances agricultural heritage with growing diversity, including significant immigrant populations. CentraCare Health System provides comprehensive healthcare services, while St. Cloud State University offers collaboration opportunities for social work education and research.

Mankato

This regional center in southern Minnesota serves surrounding rural communities while maintaining a vibrant college town atmosphere. Mayo Clinic Health System and Minnesota State University Mankato create opportunities combining healthcare, education, and rural outreach services.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Financing MSW education requires strategic planning, but numerous resources help Minnesota students manage costs effectively. Understanding available options enables informed financial decisions supporting long-term career goals.

Federal and State Aid

Federal Student Loans: Graduate students qualify for Direct Unsubsidized and PLUS loans
Minnesota State Grant: Need-based assistance for Minnesota residents
Public Service Loan Forgiveness: Federal program forgiving loans after 120 qualifying payments in public service
Minnesota SELF Loan: State-sponsored loan program with competitive interest rates

Institutional Support

Minnesota MSW programs offer various forms of financial assistance:

Merit Scholarships: $2,000-$10,000 annually based on academic achievement
Graduate Assistantships: 10-20 hour positions providing tuition remission and stipends
Field Placement Stipends: Some agencies offer paid internships ($5,000-$15,000)
Diversity Scholarships: Support for underrepresented students in social work

Professional Organization Scholarships

The National Association of Social Workers Minnesota Chapter offers multiple scholarships for MSW students, including:

NASW-MN Foundation Scholarships ($1,000-$3,000)
Minority Fellowship Program (up to $15,000)
Specialized scholarships for rural practice, aging services, and child welfare

Employer Support

Many Minnesota employers invest in employee education:

Tuition reimbursement programs ($3,000-$10,000 annually)
Flexible scheduling for class attendance
Paid internship opportunities within organizations
Loan repayment assistance for post-graduation employment commitments

How to Choose the Right MSW Program

Selecting an MSW program represents a pivotal career decision requiring careful evaluation of multiple factors. Minnesota’s diverse program options enable students to find ideal matches for their professional goals, learning styles, and life circumstances.

Key Evaluation Criteria

1. Accreditation Status
Prioritize CSWE-accredited programs ensuring eligibility for licensure and quality education standards. Programs in candidacy may offer advantages including smaller cohorts and innovative curricula, but verify anticipated accreditation timelines and understand potential implications for licensure portability.

2. Specialization Alignment
Match program offerings with career objectives. Clinical practice aspirants should seek programs with strong mental health curricula and therapy training. Those interested in policy should evaluate macro practice options and legislative internships.

3. Field Education Quality
Examine field placement options, agency partnerships, and supervision quality. Programs with established relationships in your interest areas provide superior practical training and networking opportunities. According to CSWE Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards, programs must provide minimum 900 hours of supervised field education.

4. Format Flexibility
Consider how program schedules align with work and family obligations. Full-time study accelerates completion but requires significant commitment. Part-time and online options provide flexibility but extend timeline and potentially limit networking.

5. Financial Considerations
Compare total program costs including tuition, fees, and opportunity costs of reduced employment. Evaluate financial aid packages, assistantship availability, and post-graduation earning potential in your chosen specialization.

6. Location and Community
Assess whether you prefer urban settings with diverse populations and resources or smaller communities offering close-knit cohorts and rural practice preparation. Consider proximity to family support systems and desired post-graduation employment markets.

Research Strategies

Attend virtual and in-person information sessions
Connect with current students and recent alumni
Review program websites and curriculum details
Visit campuses when possible
Evaluate faculty expertise in your interest areas
Research graduation rates and licensure exam pass rates
Investigate alumni career outcomes and employer partnerships

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to complete an MSW in Minnesota?

Program length depends on your educational background and enrollment status. Traditional programs for students without a BSW require 2 years of full-time study or 3-4 years part-time. BSW graduates from CSWE-accredited programs may qualify for Advanced Standing, completing their MSW in 12-15 months full-time or 2 years part-time.

What’s the difference between LGSW, LISW, and LICSW licensure in Minnesota?

The LGSW (Licensed Graduate Social Worker) is an entry-level license available immediately after MSW graduation, requiring only the ASWB Master’s exam. The LISW (Licensed Independent Social Worker) is a nonclinical master’s-level license. The LICSW (Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker) is required for independent clinical practice in Minnesota, requiring 4,000-8,000 hours of supervised clinical experience with at least 1,800 direct clinical hours, 200 hours of supervision (minimum 100 hours one-on-one), and passing the ASWB Clinical exam.

Can I get an MSW without a BSW in Minnesota?

Yes, all Minnesota MSW programs accept students with bachelor’s degrees in any field. These students enter traditional 2-year programs that include foundation coursework in social work theory and practice. Many successful social workers transition from careers in psychology, sociology, education, business, and other fields.

What are the field placement requirements for Minnesota MSW programs?

CSWE-accredited programs require minimum 900 hours of supervised field education. Traditional programs typically complete 400-500 hours in foundation placements and 500-600 hours in specialized placements. Advanced Standing students complete 500-600 hours focused on their specialization. Most programs structure field placements as 2-3 days per week during academic semesters.

How much do MSW programs cost in Minnesota?

Tuition varies significantly across institutions. Public universities charge Minnesota residents approximately $15,000-$25,000 annually, while private institutions range from $25,000-$45,000. Total program costs including fees, books, and materials typically range from $30,000-$90,000. Financial aid, assistantships, and employer support can substantially reduce out-of-pocket expenses.

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.