MSW Programs
Schools with MSW Programs
Social Work Licensure
Social Worker Careers with an MSW Degree
Social Work Licensure
Quick Program Finder
283 CSWE-accredited MSW programs are available across the United States. Use our guides to find the right program for your needs:
MSW Program Types Comparison
| Program Type | Duration | Requirements | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional MSW | 2-4 years | Bachelor’s degree (any field) | Career changers, first-time graduate students |
| Advanced Standing MSW | 1-2 years | BSW from CSWE-accredited program | BSW graduates seeking fast track |
| Online MSW | 2-4 years | Bachelor’s degree, reliable internet | Working professionals, remote learners |
| Hybrid MSW | 2-3 years | Bachelor’s degree, campus access | Those wanting flexibility with some in-person learning |
Why Choose an MSW Program?
Social work continues to be one of the fastest-growing professions in the United States. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of social workers is projected to grow 7% from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations. This growth translates to approximately 63,800 new job openings each year.
Post-Pandemic Demand for Social Workers
The COVID-19 pandemic has intensified the need for qualified social workers across all specializations. Mental health services, in particular, have seen unprecedented demand. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) reports that anxiety and depression rates have increased by over 30% since 2020, creating urgent need for clinical social workers.
The MSW degree opens doors to diverse career paths, from direct clinical practice to macro-level policy work. With proper licensure, MSW graduates can establish private practices, lead nonprofit organizations, or influence social policy at state and federal levels.
CSWE Accreditation: Your Key to Professional Practice
The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) is the sole accrediting body for social work programs in the United States. Choosing a CSWE-accredited MSW program is essential for:
- Eligibility for social work licensure in all 50 states
- Access to federal financial aid and scholarships
- Recognition by employers nationwide
- Quality assurance in curriculum and field education
As of 2024, there are 283 CSWE-accredited MSW programs available across the United States, with 103 programs (36%) offering fully online options. This represents significant growth from just five years ago, when online programs comprised only 20% of offerings.
CSWE Accredited Social Work Certificates
MSW Specializations and Career Tracks
Modern MSW programs offer specialized tracks aligned with evolving workforce needs:
Clinical Social Work
The most popular specialization, clinical social work, prepares graduates for direct practice with individuals, families, and groups. Graduates can pursue LCSW licensure to provide therapy and establish private practices. According to 2024 BLS data, clinical social workers earn a median salary of $56,750 annually.
Healthcare Social Work
Healthcare social workers coordinate patient care in hospitals, clinics, and rehabilitation centers. This rapidly growing field offers a median salary of $62,940 (2024 BLS data), with particularly high demand in geriatric and palliative care settings.
School Social Work
School social workers address barriers to academic success, working with students, families, and educators. The median salary for child, family, and school social workers is $53,880 (2024 BLS data), with excellent job security in public school systems.
Macro Social Work
For those interested in systems-level change, macro social work focuses on policy development, community organizing, and program administration. These professionals often lead nonprofits or work in government agencies.
Program Requirements and Admission
Standard MSW Admission Requirements
| Requirement | Traditional MSW | Advanced Standing |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum GPA | 3.0 (undergraduate) | 3.0 overall, 3.3 in BSW |
| Prior Degree | Bachelor’s (any field) | BSW from CSWE program |
| Experience | Recommended: 400+ hours | BSW field education counts |
| GRE | Varies by program | Often waived |
| References | 3 professional/academic | 3-4 including BSW faculty |
Many programs now offer MSW admission without GRE requirements , recognizing that standardized tests may not predict success in social work practice.
Top-Ranked MSW Programs for 2025
Based on factors including graduation rates, licensure pass rates, and faculty credentials, here are highly regarded MSW programs to consider:
University of Michigan – Ann Arbor
Consistently ranked #1 nationally, Michigan’s MSW program offers 5 pathways and 12 concentration options. The program emphasizes social justice and features extensive research opportunities. Graduates report a 95% job placement rate within 6 months.
Columbia University School of Social Work
Located in New York City, Columbia offers unparalleled field placement opportunities in diverse urban settings. The program features specialized tracks in advanced clinical practice and policy practice. Notable for its strong alumni network of over 20,000 professionals.
University of California, Berkeley
UC Berkeley’s MSW program is renowned for its macro practice emphasis and social justice orientation. The program offers unique dual degrees, including MSW/MPH and MSW/JD options. California residents benefit from lower tuition rates at this public institution.
Understanding MSW Program Structure
Foundation Year (30-35 credits)
All MSW programs begin with foundational coursework covering:
- Human behavior and the social environment
- Social welfare policy and services
- Research methods for social work
- Generalist practice with individuals, families, and groups
- Field education (400-500 hours)
Specialization Year (25-35 credits)
The second year focuses on advanced practice in your chosen concentration:
- Advanced clinical or macro practice methods
- Specialized electives in your focus area
- Advanced field education (500-600 hours)
- Capstone project or thesis
Micro, Macro, and Mezzo Social Work Explained
Understanding these practice levels helps you choose the right MSW specialization:
- Micro Social Work: Direct practice with individuals and families
- Mezzo Social Work: Work with groups and communities
- Macro Social Work: Systems-level policy and advocacy work
Financial Investment and Return
MSW Program Costs (2025 Averages)
| Institution Type | In-State Annual Tuition | Out-of-State Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Public Universities | $12,000 – $18,000 | $25,000 – $35,000 |
| Private Universities | $30,000 – $45,000 | $30,000 – $45,000 |
| Online Programs | $15,000 – $25,000 | $15,000 – $25,000 |
The average MSW graduate carries $47,965 in student loan debt, according to the most recent CSWE data. However, numerous funding opportunities exist:
- Title IV-E Stipends: Up to $20,000 annually for child welfare specialization
- HRSA Behavioral Health Workforce Programs: Full tuition coverage for underserved area commitment
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness: Complete loan forgiveness after 10 years in qualifying employment
- State-specific programs: Many states offer loan repayment for social workers in high-need areas
2025 Social Worker Salary Data by Specialization
Based on the most recent Bureau of Labor Statistics data (2024), here are median annual salaries for MSW-level positions:
| Specialization | Median Salary | Top 10% Earn | Growth Outlook |
|---|---|---|---|
| Healthcare Social Workers | $62,940 | $94,910 | 9% (2022-2032) |
| Clinical Social Workers | $56,750 | $89,920 | 11% (2022-2032) |
| Child & Family Social Workers | $53,880 | $80,790 | 5% (2022-2032) |
| Mental Health Social Workers | $55,350 | $87,450 | 11% (2022-2032) |
Geographic location significantly impacts earning potential. States with the highest social worker salaries include California ($79,620), Connecticut ($72,980), and Nevada ($72,800).
Online vs. Campus MSW Programs
The expansion of online MSW programs has transformed social work education accessibility:
Benefits of Online MSW Programs
- Flexibility for working professionals
- Access to top programs regardless of location
- Often lower total costs (no relocation/commuting)
- Same CSWE accreditation and degree as campus programs
- Growing acceptance among employers
Campus Program Advantages
- Face-to-face networking opportunities
- Immediate access to campus resources
- Traditional classroom learning environment
- On-site research opportunities
- Structured schedule for full-time students
Field Education: The Heart of MSW Training
Field education comprises approximately 30% of MSW curriculum, requiring:
- Foundation Field Education: 400-500 hours (16-20 hours/week)
- Specialized Field Education: 500-600 hours (20-24 hours/week)
- Total Field Hours: 900-1,100 hours minimum
Quality programs maintain partnerships with diverse field placement sites, including hospitals, schools, government agencies, and community organizations. Students receive supervision from licensed social workers and connect classroom theory with real-world practice.
Path to Licensure After Your MSW
The MSW degree is your first step toward professional licensure. Most states follow this progression:
- Master’s Level Licensure (LMSW/LSW): Available immediately after graduation and passing the ASWB Master’s exam
- Clinical Licensure (LCSW/LICSW): Requires 2-3 years (3,000-4,000 hours) of supervised clinical experience plus clinical exam
- Continuing Education: Most states require 20-40 hours of continuing education every 2 years
For detailed information about clinical practice, explore our guide to clinical social work programs.
MSW Program Statistics (2025)
Based on the latest CSWE Annual Statistics, here’s the current landscape of MSW education:
Total Enrollment: 78,234 students
Online Programs: 103 (36%)
Average Debt: $47,965
Part-Time Enrollment: 37%
Graduation Rate: 89%
Licensure Pass Rate: 81%
Most Popular MSW Specializations
- Clinical/Direct Practice (42%)
- Children and Families (18%)
- Mental Health (15%)
- Healthcare (12%)
- Administration/Management (8%)
- Community Practice (5%)
Choosing the Right MSW Program for You
Selecting an MSW program requires careful consideration of multiple factors:
Essential Questions to Ask
- Is the program CSWE-accredited?
- What specializations align with my career goals?
- Can I manage full-time or need part-time options?
- What field placement opportunities are available?
- What are the total costs, including fees and materials?
- What support services exist for students?
- What are graduation and licensure pass rates?
Red Flags to Avoid
- Programs lacking CSWE accreditation
- Unusually low tuition without clear funding sources
- Limited or unclear field placement arrangements
- No published outcome data
- Promises of guaranteed employment or unrealistic timelines
MSW Programs by State
Every state offers MSW programs, though availability varies significantly. Explore programs in your area:
MSW Programs by State
Alaska
Arizona
Arkansas
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Delaware
DC
Florida
Georgia
Hawaii
Idaho
Illinois
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Popular state programs include:
- California MSW Programs – 32 programs
- Texas MSW Programs – 24 programs
- New York MSW Programs – 28 programs
- Illinois MSW Programs – 15 programs
Frequently Asked Questions About MSW Programs
Can I get an MSW without a BSW?
Yes, most MSW programs accept students with bachelor’s degrees in any field. You’ll complete the full two-year program including foundation courses. Only BSW graduates from CSWE-accredited programs qualify for advanced standing.
How long does an MSW program take?
Traditional MSW programs require 2 years full-time or 3-4 years part-time. Advanced standing programs for BSW holders take 1 year full-time or 2 years part-time. Some accelerated programs offer completion in 16 months.
Is an online MSW as valuable as a campus degree?
Yes, CSWE-accredited online MSW programs provide identical degrees to campus programs. Employers and licensing boards make no distinction between online and on-campus degrees from accredited institutions.
What’s the difference between an MSW and LCSW?
The MSW is an academic degree, while LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) is a professional license. After earning your MSW, you need 2-3 years of supervised clinical experience and must pass a clinical exam to earn LCSW licensure.
Can I work while completing an MSW?
Part-time MSW programs are designed for working professionals. Even some full-time programs offer evening and weekend courses. However, field placement requirements (16-24 hours weekly) require schedule flexibility.
What GPA do I need for MSW admission?
Most programs require a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA, though competitive programs may have higher averages (3.3-3.5). Some programs consider the last 60 credits or offer conditional admission for strong candidates with lower GPAs.
How much can I earn with an MSW?
MSW salaries vary by specialization and location. According to 2024 BLS data, the median ranges from $53,880 (child and family) to $62,940 (healthcare). With clinical licensure and experience, salaries often exceed $70,000, with private practice potential for higher earnings.
Are there MSW programs without GRE requirements?
Yes, increasingly more programs are eliminating GRE requirements. Approximately 40% of MSW programs now offer admission without GRE scores , focusing instead on experience, GPA, and personal statements.
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.
