Texas MSW Programs
Schools with MSW Programs
Social Work Licensure
Social Work Careers
Texas Social Worker Careers with an MSW Degree
Texas Social Work Licensure
Quick Facts About Texas MSW Programs
| Key Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Total CSWE-Accredited Programs | 23 MSW programs |
| Online Programs Available | 5+ fully online options |
| Program Duration | 1-3.5 years (varies by format) |
| Licensing Body | Texas State Board of Social Worker Examiners |
| Professional Association | NASW Texas Chapter |
| Average Starting Salary | $42,910 – $89,520 (varies by specialization) |
Overview of MSW Programs in Texas
Texas MSW programs combine rigorous academic training with practical field experience, preparing graduates for diverse roles in clinical practice, healthcare, school social work, and community advocacy. The state’s programs adhere to CSWE accreditation standards, ensuring a quality education that meets national benchmarks.
Most Texas MSW programs offer multiple pathways to accommodate different student needs:
- Traditional MSW: 60 credit hours over 2 years for students with non-BSW bachelor’s degrees
- Advanced Standing MSW: 30-39 credit hours over 1-1.5 years for BSW graduates
- Part-Time MSW: 60 credit hours over 3-4 years for working professionals
- Online/Hybrid MSW: Flexible formats with limited or no campus visits required
Featured Texas MSW Programs
University of Texas at Austin – Steve Hicks School of Social Work
UT Austin’s prestigious MSW program offers two concentrations: Clinical Social Work and Administration and Policy Practice. The flexible 60-credit program accommodates students with full-time (2 years), part-time (3.5 years), and advanced standing (1 year) schedules.
- Unique Features: DiNitto Center for Career Services, specialized certificates in aging, health, and substance use
- Field Education: 900+ hours of supervised practice
- Format Options: Campus-based with some hybrid courses
University of Houston Graduate College of Social Work
UH’s MSW program stands out for its 100% online option and specialization in Clinical Social Work with emphasis on Health and Behavioral Health. The program offers both part-time and advanced standing formats.
- Unique Features: No campus visits required for online students, dual degree options (MSW/MPH, MSW/JD)
- Specializations: Clinical Practice, Macro Practice, Political Social Work
- Format Options: Fully online, hybrid (1-2 campus visits monthly), or traditional campus
Texas State University School of Social Work
Texas State offers a comprehensive MSW program with full-time, part-time, and advanced standing options. Their online program provides flexibility while maintaining rigorous standards.
- Unique Features: Skill institutes for hands-on practice, international study opportunities
- Concentrations: Direct Practice, Administration, and Community Practice
- Format Options: Online with occasional skill institutes, campus-based
Additional Notable Programs
- Our Lady of the Lake University: Specializes in Direct Practice with Hispanic Children and Families
- University of North Texas: Recently expanded program with strong community partnerships
- Baylor University: Faith-integrated curriculum with clinical and community concentrations
- University of Texas at Arlington: Large program with multiple specialization tracks
- Texas A&M University-Commerce: Rural-focused program with telehealth training
Online MSW Programs in Texas
With the 100% online Master of Social Work at the University of Kentucky, you can earn a CSWE-accredited MSW that meets all requirements for licensure in Texas through a school that’s been preparing social workers for more than 80 years.
Texas residents have access to several high-quality online CSWE-accredited MSW programs , both from in-state and out-of-state institutions:
| University | Format | Campus Visits | Specializations |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Houston | 100% Online | None required | Clinical, Health/Behavioral Health |
| Texas State University | Online | Skill institutes | Direct Practice, Administration |
| Our Lady of the Lake | Online | None required | Hispanic Children & Families |
| UT Arlington | Hybrid | Monthly | Multiple tracks available |
| Texas A&M-Commerce | Online | Limited | Rural Social Work |
Admission Requirements
While specific requirements vary by program, most Texas MSW programs share common admission criteria:
Academic Requirements
- Bachelor’s Degree: From an accredited institution (any major accepted)
- GPA: Minimum 3.0 (many programs prefer 3.2+)
- Prerequisites: Statistics and human biology/anatomy (varies by school)
- GRE: Many programs no longer require GRE scores
Application Components
- Personal Statement: 2-4 pages addressing career goals and fit with social work values
- Letters of Recommendation: Typically 3, preferably from academic or professional references
- Resume: Highlighting relevant experience in human services
- Background Check: Required for field placement eligibility
Advanced Standing Eligibility
Students with a BSW from a CSWE-accredited BSW program in Texas may qualify for advanced standing if they:
- Graduated within the past 5-7 years
- Earned a BSW GPA of 3.0 or higher
- Completed required field education hours
Costs and Financial Aid
| Institution Type | In-State Tuition (Annual) | Out-of-State Tuition (Annual) | Total Program Cost (Estimate) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Universities | $8,000 – $12,000 | $20,000 – $28,000 | $16,000 – $24,000 |
| Private Universities | $25,000 – $45,000 | $25,000 – $45,000 | $50,000 – $90,000 |
| Online Programs | $10,000 – $20,000 | $15,000 – $30,000 | $20,000 – $60,000 |
Financial Aid Opportunities
- Federal Aid: FAFSA-based loans and grants
- State Programs: Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board grants
- Stipends: Many programs offer field placement stipends ($5,000-$10,000/year)
- Assistantships: Teaching and research positions with tuition waivers
- Scholarships: Merit-based and need-based awards from individual schools
- Loan Forgiveness: Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) for qualifying employment
Texas Social Work Licensing Requirements (LCSW)
The Texas State Board of Social Worker Examiners oversees licensing for social workers. Understanding the pathway to licensure is crucial for MSW students planning their careers.
Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW)
The LMSW is the entry-level license for MSW graduates:
- Complete CSWE-accredited MSW program
- Pass the ASWB Master’s examination
- Submit application with documentation and fees ($111 application + $230 exam)
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
The LCSW credential allows independent clinical practice:
- Education: CSWE-accredited MSW or higher degree
- Clinical Experience: 3,000 supervised hours over a minimum 24 months
- At least 1,500 hours of direct client contact
- 100 hours of supervision by a Texas LCSW
- Completed within 5 years
- Examinations:
- ASWB Clinical exam
- Texas Jurisprudence exam
- Application: Submit with fees, supervision documentation, and official transcripts
Supervision Requirements
LCSW supervision in Texas must include:
- Minimum 1 hour individual or 2 hours group supervision weekly
- Supervisor must be a Texas LCSW with 3+ years of experience
- Supervision plan approved before starting hours
- Documentation on Board-approved forms
Career Outlook and Salaries in Texas
According to 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics data, Texas employs over 77,000 social workers across various specializations. The field continues to grow, with projected increases of 12% through 2032.
2024 Texas Social Worker Salaries by Specialization
| Specialization | Employment | Median Salary | Entry Level (10th %ile) | Experienced (90th %ile) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Healthcare Social Workers | 11,470 | $69,960 | $38,410 | $97,140 |
| Child, Family & School Social Workers | 26,490 | $42,910 | $30,240 | $59,520 |
| Mental Health & Substance Abuse | 36,990 | $59,040 | $35,890 | $88,940 |
| Social Workers, All Other | 2,700 | $89,520 | $50,720 | $135,990 |
Career Paths and Settings
Healthcare Social Workers work in hospitals, clinics, and medical facilities, helping patients navigate treatment decisions, insurance coverage, and discharge planning. They coordinate care between providers and connect patients with community resources.
Child, Family, and School Social Workers protect vulnerable children, strengthen families, and support student success. They conduct home visits, facilitate adoptions, investigate reports of abuse, and provide crisis intervention in schools.
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers provide therapy, develop treatment plans, and facilitate support groups. They work in rehabilitation centers, psychiatric hospitals, community mental health centers, and private practice settings.
Clinical Social Workers (LCSW) diagnose and treat mental health conditions, provide psychotherapy, and may establish private practices. Texas LCSWs can bill insurance independently and often earn higher salaries than non-clinical social workers.
How to Choose the Right MSW Program
Selecting an MSW program requires careful consideration of multiple factors:
Key Considerations
- Accreditation: Ensure CSWE accreditation for licensure eligibility
- Specialization Match: Align concentrations with career goals
- Format Flexibility: Balance work/life with program demands
- Field Placement Quality: Research agency partnerships and placement support
- Cost vs. Value: Consider total cost, financial aid, and earning potential
- Location: Proximity to field placements and post-graduation job market
Questions to Ask Programs
- What percentage of graduates pass the LMSW exam on the first attempt?
- How does the program support the selection of field placements?
- What specialization tracks or certificates are available?
- Is the curriculum focused on clinical practice, macro practice, or an integrated approach?
- What student support services are available (academic advising, career services)?
- How does the program incorporate cultural competency and diversity training?
Comparing Texas with Neighboring States
Consider exploring programs in neighboring states that may offer unique advantages:
- Oklahoma MSW programs – Often lower tuition for border residents
- Louisiana MSW programs – Strong programs in disaster response and community organizing
- New Mexico MSW programs – Emphasis on indigenous and multicultural practice
- Arkansas MSW programs – Rural social work focus with a lower cost of living
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a BSW to apply for MSW programs in Texas?
No, you don’t need a BSW. Most MSW programs accept students with bachelor’s degrees in any field of study. However, BSW graduates from CSWE-accredited programs may qualify for advanced standing, completing the MSW in 1-1.5 years instead of 2 years.
Can I work while completing my MSW in Texas?
Yes, many programs offer part-time and evening/weekend options for working professionals. Online programs provide additional flexibility. However, all programs require field placement hours (900+ total), which may require schedule adjustments.
How long does it take to become an LCSW in Texas after earning my MSW?
After earning your MSW and obtaining LMSW licensure, you need a minimum of 2 years (3,000 supervised hours) of clinical experience. Most social workers complete requirements in 2-3 years, making the total timeline from MSW to LCSW approximately 2-4 years.
What’s the difference between LMSW and LCSW in Texas?
LMSWs can practice social work under supervision in various settings. LCSWs can practice independently, diagnose mental health conditions, provide psychotherapy, establish private practices, and bill insurance directly. LCSWs typically earn higher salaries due to the expanded scope of practice.
Are online MSW programs respected by Texas employers?
Yes, CSWE-accredited online MSW programs are equally valid for licensure and employment. Employers focus on accreditation, quality of field experience, and individual competencies rather than the delivery format. Many Texas universities offer their own online programs with strong local reputations.
What financial aid is available specifically for Texas MSW students?
Beyond federal aid, Texas offers several state-specific programs, including the TEXAS Grant, Hazlewood Act benefits for veterans, and loan forgiveness programs for those working in underserved areas. Many MSW programs also offer stipends through Title IV-E child welfare training partnerships.
Should I consider a DSW or PhD in Social Work after my MSW?
Consider doctoral programs if you’re interested in research, university teaching, or senior leadership roles. DSW programs focus on advanced clinical practice and leadership, while PhD programs emphasize research and academia. Most clinical and direct practice roles only require an MSW/LCSW.
Next Steps: Start Your MSW Journey in Texas
Ready to advance your social work career? Here’s your action plan:
- Research Programs: Use this guide to identify 3-5 programs matching your needs
- Attend Information Sessions: Most schools offer virtual sessions monthly
- Connect with Admissions: Discuss your background and goals with counselors
- Prepare Applications: Start 6-12 months before intended enrollment
- Apply for Financial Aid: Complete FAFSA by priority deadlines
- Plan for Licensure: Understand requirements from program start
For students who have not yet earned a bachelor’s degree, consider exploring BSW programs in Texas as a foundation for graduate study.
2023 US 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 national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed August 2025.
