Missouri MSW Programs
Schools with MSW Programs
Social Work Licensure
Social Work Careers
Missouri Social Worker Careers with an MSW Degree
Missouri Social Work Licensure
This comprehensive guide covers all CSWE-accredited MSW programs in Missouri, including admission requirements, program formats, specializations, and career outcomes. With one fully online CSWE-accredited program available, Missouri provides flexible options for working professionals and traditional students alike.
Quick Facts: Missouri MSW Programs at a Glance
| Program Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total CSWE-Accredited Programs | 7 programs |
| Online Options | 1 fully online CSWE-accredited program |
| Major Cities with Programs | St. Louis, Kansas City, Columbia, Springfield |
| Average Program Duration | 2 years full-time, 3-4 years part-time |
| Advanced Standing Available | Yes, at select schools |
| Licensure Authority | Missouri Division of Professional Registration |
7 CSWE-Accredited MSW Programs in Missouri
Missouri’s MSW programs are strategically located across the state, with concentrations in major metropolitan areas. Each program offers unique specializations aligned with regional workforce needs and community priorities.
1. Washington University in St. Louis – Brown School
The George Warren Brown School of Social Work at Washington University stands as one of the nation’s top-ranked MSW programs. Located in St. Louis, this prestigious program offers both traditional and advanced standing MSW options.
Program Highlights:
- Concentrations: Clinical Practice, Social & Economic Development, Public Health
- Format: Full-time, part-time, and weekend options
- Duration: 2 years full-time; 1 year advanced standing
- Special Features: Dual degree options (MSW/MPH, MSW/MBA, MSW/JD)
- Field Education: 1,200+ hours of supervised practicum
The Brown School’s emphasis on evidence-based practice and policy innovation prepares graduates for leadership roles in clinical settings, nonprofit organizations, and policy advocacy. Learn more at the Brown School official website.
2. University of Missouri – Columbia
The University of Missouri’s School of Social Work offers a comprehensive MSW program with both campus-based and distance education options. As the state’s flagship university, Mizzou provides extensive resources and research opportunities.
Program Highlights:
- Concentrations: Clinical Practice, Policy Practice, Military Social Work
- Format: On-campus and hybrid options
- Duration: 2 years full-time; 3-4 years part-time
- Special Features: Title IV-E Child Welfare Stipend Program
- Field Education: Rural and urban placement options
The program’s military social work concentration is particularly notable, preparing students to serve veterans and military families. Students can also pursue a clinical MSW specialization with emphasis on mental health practice.
3. Saint Louis University
Saint Louis University’s School of Social Work integrates Jesuit values of social justice and service into its curriculum. The program emphasizes culturally responsive practice and community engagement.
Program Highlights:
- Concentrations: Clinical Practice, Community Practice
- Format: Traditional campus-based and evening programs
- Duration: 2 years full-time; advanced standing available
- Special Features: Gerontology certificate option
- Field Education: Partnerships with 200+ agencies
4. University of Missouri – Kansas City
UMKC’s School of Social Work serves the Kansas City metropolitan area with programs designed for both traditional students and working professionals. The school offers flexible scheduling options including a part-time online MSW format.
Program Highlights:
- Concentrations: Family & Children, Health/Mental Health, Community Practice
- Format: Full-time, part-time, and weekend options
- Duration: 2 years full-time; 3 years part-time
- Special Features: Emphasis on urban social work practice
- Field Education: Extensive Kansas City agency network
5. Missouri State University
Located in Springfield, Missouri State University offers an MSW program focused on integrated practice, combining micro and macro social work approaches. This program serves southwest Missouri and the surrounding regions.
Program Highlights:
- Concentration: Integrated Practice (micro and macro combined)
- Format: Full-time and part-time options
- Duration: 2 years full-time; 1 year advanced standing
- Special Features: Rural social work emphasis
- Field Education: Ozarks region placement opportunities
6. University of Central Missouri
UCM’s MSW program offers an innovative curriculum that prepares students for diverse social work roles. The program is designed for students seeking MSW without a BSW background.
Program Highlights:
- Concentrations: Advanced Generalist Practice
- Format: Hybrid and online options available
- Duration: 2 years full-time; part-time available
- Special Features: Small cohort sizes for personalized attention
- Field Education: Central Missouri agency partnerships
7. Southeast Missouri State University
Southeast Missouri State University’s MSW program serves the southeastern region of the state with a focus on rural and small-town social work practice.
Program Highlights:
- Concentration: Advanced Generalist Practice
- Format: Traditional campus-based
- Duration: 2 years full-time
- Special Features: Rural social work emphasis
- Field Education: Boothheel region placements
Online MSW Programs in Missouri
Missouri offers one fully entirely online MSW program that maintains CSWE accreditation. This option provides flexibility for working professionals, rural residents, and those with family obligations who cannot attend traditional campus programs.
Online MSW programs in Missouri typically feature:
- Asynchronous coursework allows for flexible scheduling
- Virtual classroom sessions for real-time interaction
- Local field placement arrangements
- Same curriculum and faculty as campus programs
- Access to university resources and support services
Students interested in online options should also explore hybrid MSW programs that combine online learning with occasional campus visits.
Admission Requirements for Missouri MSW Programs
While specific requirements vary by institution, Missouri MSW programs generally require the following for admission:
Standard Admission Requirements
| Requirement | Typical Standards |
|---|---|
| Bachelor’s Degree | From accredited institution (any major accepted) |
| Minimum GPA | 3.0 overall or 3.2 in last 60 credit hours |
| Prerequisites | Statistics, research methods, liberal arts courses |
| Letters of Recommendation | 3 letters (academic and/or professional) |
| Personal Statement | 2-4 pages addressing career goals and fit |
| Resume/CV | Highlighting relevant experience |
| GRE Scores | Some programs offer MSW with no GRE requirement |
Advanced Standing Eligibility
Students with a BSW from a CSWE-accredited program may qualify for advanced standing, allowing them to complete the MSW in one year. Requirements typically include:
- BSW earned within the past 5-7 years
- Minimum 3.0 GPA in BSW coursework
- Field education evaluation demonstrating competence
- Letter of recommendation from BSW program
Specializations and Concentrations
Missouri MSW programs offer diverse specializations to prepare students for specific practice areas:
Clinical Social Work
The most popular concentration, clinical social work prepares students for direct practice with individuals, families, and groups. Students learn assessment, diagnosis, treatment planning, and therapeutic interventions. Graduates often pursue licensure as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW).
Macro Social Work
Some Missouri programs offer macro social work MSW concentrations focusing on policy, administration, and community practice. Students learn program development, grant writing, policy analysis, and organizational leadership.
Specialized Populations
Several programs offer concentrations or certificates in:
- Child Welfare and Family Services
- Gerontology and Aging Services
- Military Social Work and Veterans Affairs
- School Social Work
- Healthcare and Medical Social Work
- Mental Health and Substance Abuse
Field Education Requirements
Field education is the signature pedagogy of social work education. Missouri MSW programs require:
- Foundation Field Placement: 400-500 hours in the first year
- Advanced Field Placement: 500-600 hours in the second year
- Total Field Hours: Minimum 900 hours (most programs require 1,000+)
- Supervision: Weekly supervision by MSW-credentialed field instructor
- Seminar: Concurrent field seminar course for integration
Field placements occur in diverse settings, including hospitals, schools, mental health centers, child welfare agencies, and community organizations throughout Missouri.
Missouri Social Work Licensure
The Missouri Division of Professional Registration oversees social work licensure in the state. Missouri offers several levels of licensure:
License Types and Requirements
| License Type | Education Required | Experience Required |
|---|---|---|
| LBSW (Bachelor’s) | BSW from CSWE program | None |
| LMSW (Master’s) | MSW from CSWE program | None |
| LCSW (Clinical) | MSW from CSWE program | 3,000 hours supervised experience |
All license levels require passing the appropriate Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) examination. For detailed information, visit the Missouri Division of Professional Registration.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Missouri MSW students have access to various funding sources:
Federal and State Aid
- Federal Student Loans: Direct Unsubsidized and Graduate PLUS loans
- Missouri State Grant: Need-based aid for Missouri residents
- Access Missouri Grant: Financial assistance program for state residents
- Bright Flight Scholarship: Merit-based award for high achievers
Specialized Funding
- Title IV-E Child Welfare Stipends: Full tuition plus stipend for child welfare commitment
- HRSA Behavioral Health Workforce Grants: For students entering mental health fields
- AmeriCorps Education Awards: For alums of AmeriCorps programs
- Veterans Benefits: GI Bill and Yellow Ribbon programs
Many schools offer assistantships providing tuition remission and stipends in exchange for research or teaching duties. Students should explore financial social work career paths that may offer loan forgiveness programs.
Career Outlook for Missouri MSW Graduates
Missouri offers strong employment prospects for MSW graduates across various settings and specializations.
Employment Settings
MSW graduates in Missouri find employment in:
- Healthcare systems (BJC HealthCare, Mercy, SSM Health)
- Mental health centers and psychiatric facilities
- School districts across the state
- State agencies (Children’s Division, Department of Mental Health)
- Veterans Affairs medical centers
- Private practice (with LCSW licensure)
- Nonprofit organizations and community agencies
Salary Information
According to 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics data, social workers in Missouri earn competitive salaries:
| Social Work Category | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Healthcare Social Workers | $58,280 |
| Child, Family, and School Social Workers | $47,920 |
| Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers | $52,310 |
| All Other Social Workers | $55,140 |
Major metropolitan areas like St. Louis and Kansas City typically offer higher salaries, while rural areas may provide loan forgiveness incentives and lower cost-of-living benefits.
Professional Organizations and Resources
Missouri social workers benefit from strong professional networks and resources:
State Organizations
- NASW Missouri Chapter: The state chapter of the National Association of Social Workers provides advocacy, continuing education, and networking opportunities
- Missouri Association for Social Welfare: Focuses on policy advocacy and social justice
- Missouri Coalition of Children’s Agencies: Supports child welfare professionals
Continuing Education
Missouri requires 48 hours of continuing education every two years for LCSW renewal. Universities and professional organizations offer workshops, conferences, and online courses to meet these requirements.
Choosing the Right Missouri MSW Program
Selecting an MSW program requires careful consideration of multiple factors:
Location and Format
Consider whether you prefer urban or rural settings, campus-based or online learning, and proximity to field placement opportunities. Students seeking flexibility should explore one-year MSW advanced standing options.
Specialization Alignment
Select programs that offer concentrations aligned with your career goals. Those interested in therapy should prioritize clinical programs, while aspiring administrators should seek macro practice options.
Cost and Financial Aid
Compare tuition rates, fees, and available financial aid. Public universities typically offer lower rates for Missouri residents. Consider the return on investment based on your career goals.
Accreditation and Reputation
Ensure the program maintains CSWE accreditation, which is required for licensure: research program rankings, graduation rates, and licensure exam pass rates.
Application Timeline
Most Missouri MSW programs follow similar application timelines:
| Timeline | Action Items |
|---|---|
| August-September | Research programs, attend information sessions |
| October-November | Prepare application materials, request transcripts |
| December-February | Submit applications (deadlines vary by school) |
| February-March | Complete interviews if required |
| March-April | Receive admission decisions |
| April-May | Accept offer, submit deposits |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get my MSW in Missouri without a BSW?
Yes, all Missouri MSW programs accept students from any undergraduate major. However, students without a BSW typically complete a two-year program rather than the one-year advanced standing option available to BSW graduates.
Which Missouri MSW program is fully online?
Currently, one Missouri MSW program offers a fully online, CSWE-accredited option. Several other schools offer hybrid formats that combine online coursework with limited on-campus requirements. Please check with individual programs for the most up-to-date online offerings.
How long does it take to become an LCSW in Missouri?
After completing your MSW, Missouri requires 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience (approximately 2 years full-time) before you can sit for the LCSW exam. The total timeline from starting your MSW to LCSW licensure is typically 4-5 years.
What’s the difference between macro and clinical social work?
Clinical social work focuses on direct practice with individuals, families, and groups, including therapy and counseling. Macro social work emphasizes systems-level change through policy, administration, community organizing, and program development. Some Missouri programs offer integrated approaches combining both.
Do Missouri MSW programs require the GRE?
GRE requirements vary by program. Several Missouri schools have eliminated the GRE requirement or made it optional. Check with specific programs for their current admissions requirements.
Next Steps
Ready to begin your MSW journey in Missouri? Start by:
- Researching specific programs that align with your career goals
- Attending virtual or in-person information sessions
- Connecting with current students or alumni
- Preparing application materials well in advance of deadlines
- Exploring financial aid options and scholarship opportunities
For comprehensive information about MSW programs nationwide, explore our comprehensive guide to master’s in social work programs. Missouri’s MSW programs offer excellent preparation for meaningful careers in social work, combining rigorous academics with practical field experience to develop competent, ethical practitioners ready to serve Missouri communities.
20234US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary and employment figures for Healthcare Social Workers, Child, Family, and School Social Workers, Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers, and Social Workers, All Other reflect state data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed August 2025.
