Vermont MSW Programs
Schools with MSW Programs
Social Work Licensure
Social Work Careers
Residents of Vermont interested in pursuing their Masters in Social Work should consider looking within their very own state for the right program. The most well-known social work program in the state may be found at the University of Vermont. Located in Burlington, Vermont, this program can be a great gateway for new entrants to the field of social work, as well as BSW holders looking for lifestyle advancement.
One important aspect of this program to consider may be its CSWE accreditation. It is this seal of approval that can help determine whether or not you can become licensed in the field of social work after completing this degree.
If You Do Not Yet Have a Bachelors: View BSW programs in Vermont(includes online).
Social Work Agencies and Accreditation in Vermont
In order to be a licensed social worker, you must first complete a few steps through the Vermont Office of the Secretary Of State. This agency states that upcoming students interested in social work licensure must first complete an accredited degree program, take part in a supervised internship experience, and successfully pass an examination in social work. Once you have met all of these standards, you may be eligible for masters-level licensure in social work. If you would like to learn more about convenient degree options for you to pursue, read more below.
Vermont Social Worker Careers with an MSW Degree
Healthcare, Family Welfare, and Mental Health are some of the most popular areas for Social Workers in Vermont. The amount of money you make and the population you serve can vary depending on which type of career you plan to pursue after completing your MSW and licensing.
- Child, Family, and School Social Workers: $49,340 median salary per year. Family and School Social Workers can focus on specific treatment areas like family unity or education depending on where they are employed. Coordinating family and team meetings, organizing services, and working with school systems for optimum service provisions can be main priorities in these work areas.
- Healthcare Social Workers: $49,720 median salary per year. The Healthcare Social Worker can be a guide for individuals diagnosed with various health-related illnesses and disorders. These professionals can help patients understand their diagnosis and treatment options, as well as help clients identify follow-up services for longterm success.
- Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers: $47,750 median salary per year. Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers can provide clients with emotional and vocational guidance as they progress to treatment programs. Regular meetings, home visits, and family involvement can help Social Workers create successful programs for their clients.
- Social Workers, All Other: $58,390 median salary per year. In addition to the Social Work positions listed above, graduates of MSW programs can pursue alternative Social Work positions in clinical fields, as well as those in non-profit and legal settings.
Social Worker Salaries in Vermont
- Burlington, South Burlington: $60,880 median salary per year
- Northern Vermont nonmetropolitan area: $38,850 median salary per year
- Southern Vermont nonmetropolitan area: $76,490 median salary per year
2021 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; Social Workers, All other, reflect national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed March 2023.
Vermont Social Work Licensure
The Vermont Office of Professional Regulation allows master's degree holders within the state to apply for Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) licensing after completion of an accredited degree program.
In addition to educational transcripts and records, applicants must also submit test scores from the ASWB examination for master's learners. If you are interested in pursuing clinical licensing, you must earn supervised experience under a LICSW and complete the ASWB clinical examination prior to licensing.
Quick Navigation
Quick Answer:
Vermont offers one CSWE-accredited MSW program at the University of Vermont in Burlington, with a single concentration in Transformative Social Work, plus four focus courses to tailor study toward populations or fields of practice. The program requires 60 credits over 2 years (or 39 credits over Summer-Spring for Advanced Standing students), costs approximately $692 per credit for Vermont residents (as of 2025-26), and prepares graduates for LMSW licensure through Vermont’s Office of Professional Regulation.
Vermont MSW Education Overview
The Green Mountain State presents a distinctive environment for social work education. Vermont’s MSW program combines rigorous academic preparation with hands-on experience in diverse settings, from Burlington’s urban center to rural communities throughout the state. The state’s focus on integrated healthcare, community mental health, and substance abuse treatment creates abundant learning opportunities for MSW students.
Vermont consistently ranks among the top states for quality of life, access to healthcare, and social services infrastructure. This progressive environment means MSW graduates enter a job market that values their expertise and offers competitive compensation. According to May 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics data, Vermont’s social workers earn salaries that often exceed regional averages, particularly in specialized fields.
The state’s compact size and collaborative professional community enable students to have direct access to agency directors, policymakers, and leading practitioners. This connectivity translates into valuable networking opportunities, mentorship relationships, and potential job placements upon graduation.
University of Vermont MSW Program Deep Dive
The University of Vermont’s Department of Social Work houses the state’s only CSWE-accredited MSW program. The MSW program was launched in 1989 (with the BSW established in 1974), and UVM’s program has earned recognition for its commitment to social justice, evidence-based practice, and rural social work expertise.
Program Highlights
Location: Burlington, Vermont’s largest city, provides an ideal setting for social work education. The city’s diverse population, progressive policies, and concentration of social service agencies offer rich field placement opportunities. Burlington’s vibrant downtown, proximity to Lake Champlain, and access to outdoor recreation enhance the graduate student experience.
Accreditation: Full accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) ensures your degree meets national standards and prepares you for licensure anywhere in the United States. UVM’s program underwent its most recent reaffirmation in 2020, maintaining its strong standing.
Program Formats: UVM offers flexibility to accommodate different student needs:
- Traditional 2-Year Program: Full-time study over four semesters plus summer session (60 credits)
- Advanced Standing Program: 39 credits completed over Summer-Spring (one calendar year) for BSW holders from CSWE-accredited programs
- Part-Time Option: Extended timeline for working professionals (3-4 years)
- Summer Start: Begin coursework in May to accelerate completion
Faculty Expertise: UVM’s social work faculty bring specialized knowledge in areas including trauma-informed practice, substance abuse treatment, child welfare, aging services, and policy advocacy. Many maintain active practices or consulting relationships, bringing real-world insights to the classroom.
Admission Requirements & Application Process
UVM’s MSW program maintains selective admission standards while valuing diverse backgrounds and experiences. Understanding these requirements helps you prepare a competitive application.
Educational Prerequisites
| Requirement | Traditional Program | Advanced Standing |
|---|---|---|
| Degree Required | Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution | BSW from a CSWE-accredited program |
| GPA Requirements | No minimum GPA required; applications reviewed holistically | No minimum GPA required; applications reviewed holistically |
| Prerequisite Courses | Statistics, liberal arts foundation | Completed BSW curriculum |
| Experience | Prior social services experience preferred | BSW field placement completed |
| GRE Requirement | Not required | Not required |
Application Components
A complete application includes several elements that help the admissions committee understand your readiness for graduate social work education:
- Personal Statement: 3-5 pages addressing your motivation for social work, relevant experiences, career goals, and alignment with UVM’s mission
- References: Three letters of recommendation (academic and/or professional)
- Resume: Detailed work, volunteer, and educational experiences
- Transcripts: Official transcripts from all colleges attended
- Application Fee: $65 for domestic applicants
Application Timeline (Check current cycle for exact dates)
Priority Deadline: February 1 for fall admission (recommended for scholarship consideration)
Final Deadline: March 15 for fall admission
Advanced Standing Deadline: Early January (e.g., January 4) for summer start – check the current cycle for exact date
Notification: Rolling admissions beginning in March
Transformative Social Work Concentration
UVM’s MSW program offers a single concentration in Transformative Social Work, along with four focus courses that allow students to tailor their studies toward specific populations or fields of practice. This innovative approach will enable students to develop both broad competencies and specialized expertise aligned with their career goals.
Core Transformative Social Work Curriculum
The Transformative Social Work concentration emphasizes systemic change, social justice, and evidence-based practice across all levels of intervention. Students learn to work effectively with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities while maintaining a critical perspective on social systems and structures.
Foundation Courses Include:
- Social Work Practice Methods
- Human Behavior and the Social Environment
- Social Welfare Policy and Services
- Research Methods for Social Work
- Field Education and Practicum
Focus Course Options
Students select four focus courses to develop expertise in specific populations or practice areas. Options may include:
- Clinical Mental Health: Advanced therapeutic interventions, psychopathology, trauma-informed care
- Child and Family Services: Child welfare, family dynamics, protective services
- Aging and Gerontology: Elder care, aging policy, end-of-life issues
- Substance Use and Addiction: Treatment modalities, recovery support, harm reduction
- Community Practice: Organizing, advocacy, program development
- Health and Integrated Care: Medical social work, integrated behavioral health
Certificate Programs
UVM offers specialized certificate programs that complement the MSW degree:
- Integrative Health Care Certificate: Prepares students for practice in integrated healthcare settings
- Leadership Certificate: Develops advanced management and leadership competencies
Program Costs & Financial Aid
Understanding the financial investment required for your MSW education helps you plan effectively for your educational expenses. UVM offers various financial aid options to make graduate education accessible. (Tuition rates as of 2025-26 academic year; verify current rates with UVM)
Tuition & Fees (2025-26 Per Credit)
| Student Type | Per Credit Hour | Estimated Annual (30 credits) |
|---|---|---|
| Vermont Resident | $692 | $20,760 |
| Out-of-State | $1,860 | $55,800 |
Note: Rates subject to change. Visit UVM’s website for current tuition information and additional fees.
Financial Aid Opportunities
Graduate Assistantships: UVM offers teaching and research assistantships that provide tuition remission and monthly stipends. These competitive positions require 10-20 hours of work per week.
Scholarships: The Department of Social Work awards several merit-based scholarships annually, ranging from $1,000 to $5,000. Priority consideration goes to early applicants.
Federal Aid: MSW students qualify for federal loans and work-study programs. Complete the FAFSA by March 1 for maximum consideration.
Field Education Stipends: Some field placement sites offer stipends or hourly wages, particularly in settings such as child welfare and integrated healthcare. The Vermont Department for Children and Families gives Title IV-E stipends for students committed to child welfare practice.
Loan Forgiveness Programs: Graduates working in qualifying public service positions may be eligible for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program and Vermont-specific loan repayment programs for healthcare professionals serving underserved areas.
Vermont Social Work Licensure Requirements
The Vermont Office of Professional Regulation oversees the licensure of social workers in the state. Vermont licenses LMSW and LICSW levels (no LBSW licensure available). Understanding licensure pathways helps you plan your career trajectory. Always verify current requirements with Vermont OPR before applying or testing.
License Types & Requirements
Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW)
- MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
- Pass the ASWB Master’s examination
- No post-degree experience required
- Allows for general social work practice
Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW)
- LMSW license prerequisite
- 3,000 hours supervised clinical experience over 2-5 years under supervision, meeting OPR rule requirements
- Pass the ASWB Clinical examination
- Enables independent clinical practice and insurance billing
Examination Preparation
The Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) administers licensing examinations. UVM provides exam preparation resources, including:
- Review courses and study groups
- Practice exams and study materials
- Faculty mentoring and support
- Access to online preparation platforms
For current pass-rate data by school and state, consult the ASWB website directly. UVM offers comprehensive exam preparation support to help students succeed on licensing examinations.
Career Opportunities & Vermont Social Work Salaries
Vermont’s commitment to social services creates diverse career opportunities for MSW graduates. The state’s emphasis on community-based care, integrated healthcare, and progressive social policies drives demand for qualified social workers.
Top Employers in Vermont
- University of Vermont Medical Center: The State’s extensive hospital system
- Vermont Department for Children and Families: Child welfare and family services
- Howard Center: Burlington area’s community mental health agency
- Brattleboro Retreat: Psychiatric and addiction treatment facility
- Vermont Department of Mental Health: State psychiatric services
- Community Health Centers of Burlington: Federally qualified health center
- Vermont Legal Aid: Social justice and advocacy
Vermont Social Work Salaries (May 2024 BLS Data)
According to May 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics data, these are statewide median salaries for social workers in Vermont (not program-specific):
| Specialization | Employment | Median Hourly | Median Annual* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Healthcare Social Workers | 300 | $37.69 | $78,390 |
| Mental Health & Substance Abuse | 520 | $38.87 | $80,850 |
| Child, Family & School | 540 | $28.25 | $58,760 |
| All Other Social Workers | 120 | $33.94 | $70,590 |
*Annual salary estimates calculated as hourly wage × 2,080 hours. Actual salaries vary based on experience, employer, and location. The data represent statewide medians from the May 2024 BLS Occupational Employment Statistics.
Career Growth Outlook
Vermont’s aging population, rural healthcare initiatives, and focus on mental health services drive steady demand for social workers. The state projects continued growth in healthcare social work positions, particularly in integrated care settings. Rural communities offer unique opportunities for social workers willing to serve underserved populations, often with loan forgiveness incentives.
MSW graduates with clinical licensure (LICSW) command the highest salaries and have opportunities for private practice. Those interested in macro practice find opportunities in Vermont’s robust nonprofit sector and state government agencies.
Online MSW Alternatives for Vermont Residents
While UVM provides excellent on-campus education, Vermont residents seeking additional flexibility might consider CSWE-accredited online MSW programs. These programs offer:
- Schedule Flexibility: Complete coursework around work and family obligations
- Geographic Access: No relocation required for rural Vermont residents
- Specialization Options: Access to concentrations not available at UVM
- Cost Considerations: Potential savings on housing and commuting
Popular online MSW programs that accept students from Vermont include Boston University, Simmons University, and the University of New England. These programs arrange field placements in Vermont communities, allowing students to gain local experience while completing online coursework.
When considering online programs, verify CSWE accreditation, confirm eligibility for Vermont licensure, and understand the field placement requirements. Check state authorization and field placement availability in Vermont before applying to any online program. Some programs offer synchronous (live) classes while others provide asynchronous (self-paced) options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Vermont offer Bachelor-level social work licensure?
No, Vermont licenses social workers at the LMSW (Licensed Master’s Social Worker) and LICSW (Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker) levels only. BSW graduates must complete an MSW to obtain licensure in Vermont, though a BSW from a CSWE-accredited program qualifies you for Advanced Standing MSW admission.
How competitive is admission to UVM’s MSW program?
UVM maintains a selective admissions process, with a holistic review of each application. No minimum GPA is required; however, strong applications typically demonstrate relevant experience, clear career goals, and academic readiness. The program values diversity and considers multiple factors beyond academic metrics.
Does UVM offer any online or hybrid MSW options?
Currently, UVM’s MSW program requires on-campus attendance with traditional classroom instruction. Some electives may offer online components, but the core curriculum requires in-person participation. Vermont residents seeking fully online options may want to explore other CSWE-accredited MSW programs.
What field placement opportunities exist in Vermont?
UVM partners with over 100 agencies throughout Vermont and neighboring states. Students complete over 900 hours of supervised field education in settings that include hospitals, schools, mental health centers, state agencies, and nonprofit organizations. The Field Education Office works individually with students to secure appropriate placements.
How long does it take to become an LICSW in Vermont after graduating?
After earning your MSW and obtaining LMSW licensure, you need 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience over a minimum of two years (maximum five years) under supervision meeting Vermont OPR requirements. Most social workers achieve LICSW licensure within -3 years after graduation, depending on their employment setting and the availability of supervision.
Are there exceptional opportunities for veterans pursuing an MSW at UVM?
UVM participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program, offering additional financial support to veterans utilizing GI Bill benefits. The university’s Office of Veterans Services offers dedicated support, and the White River Junction VA Medical Center provides field placement opportunities specifically for students interested in veteran services.
Taking the Next Steps
Pursuing your MSW in Vermont opens doors to meaningful career opportunities in a state that values social services and community welfare. Whether you choose UVM’s established program or explore online alternatives, your journey toward becoming a social worker starts with careful planning and informed decision-making.
Action Steps for Prospective Students
- Attend Information Sessions: UVM hosts virtual and in-person information sessions throughout the fall. Register through their website to learn about program specifics and meet faculty.
- Connect with Current Students: Request to speak with current MSW students or recent alumni through the admissions office. Their insights provide a valuable perspective on program culture and opportunities.
- Gain Relevant Experience: If you lack experience in social services, consider volunteering with local organizations. Vermont’s robust nonprofit sector offers numerous volunteer opportunities that can strengthen your application.
- Prepare Application Materials: Begin drafting your personal statement early, identifying specific aspects of UVM’s program that align with your goal—request recommendations from supervisors or professors who can speak to your potential for graduate study.
- Explore Financial Aid: Complete the FAFSA by March 1 and research external scholarships through professional organizations, such as the National Association of Social Workers’ Vermont Chapter.
- Visit Campus: If possible, visit the Burlington and UVM campuses. Tour the facilities, sit in on a class, and explore the community where you’ll spend the next two years.
Vermont’s MSW program at UVM represents more than just an educational credential—it’s an investment in your professional future and a commitment to serving Vermont communities with strong employment prospects, competitive salaries, and the opportunity to make a real difference in people’s lives. Earning your MSW in Vermont positions you for a rewarding career in social work.
The combination of UVM’s academic excellence, Vermont’s progressive social policies, and the state’s commitment to community welfare creates an ideal environment for social work education. Whether you’re drawn to clinical practice with individuals or macro-level systems change, Vermont’s MSW program provides the foundation for professional success and personal fulfillment.
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 September 2025.
