Verified September 2026

MSW Programs: Every CSWE Master of Social Work Program, Compared

What MSW Programs Are There, and How Do They Compare?

There are 530 MSW programs and program options at 404 schools across 53 states and territories, and 480 of them hold full CSWE accreditation. Most run about 60 credits with 900 field hours, and estimated tuition ranges from $11,070 at the University of Puerto Rico-Rio Piedras to $138,900 at Texas Christian University. Use the list below to sort by format, cost and advanced standing, or narrow it with the program matcher.

Researched and edited by · Updated

programs
530
schools
404
CSWE-accredited
480
offer advanced standing
474
median estimated tuition
$40,180
median credits
60
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Photo: Kampus Production / Pexels

How Many MSW Programs There Are

You have more choice than most searches suggest. There are 530 MSW programs and program options at 404 schools, spread across 53 states and territories, each checked on the school’s own site in September 2026. A school counts more than once when it runs genuinely different versions: USC, for example, has a campus and hybrid MSW in Los Angeles and San Diego plus a separate online MSW, and Fordham University runs campus programs at Lincoln Center, Westchester and Long Island alongside its online MSW.

Accreditation narrows the field first. 480 program options are CSWE-accredited, 49 are in candidacy and the rest are in pre-candidacy. CSWE’s own directory covers the same three statuses, and most state licensing rules require a degree from an accredited program. That makes status the first filter to set in the finder below.

What the Numbers Say About MSW Programs

A typical MSW looks like this: 60 semester credits, about two years full time, and 900 hours of supervised field education. The spread around that middle is where your choice lives.

  • Credits. Traditional programs cluster at 60, but some run longer. NYU, Simmons University and Boston University’s online MSW are 65 credits. The University of Denver’s Denver Campus MSW is 81 credits over 6 to 7 quarters.
  • Advanced standing. 474 programs offer it, with a median of 33 credits. That is the whole second year for most BSW holders.
  • Field hours. The median is 900. USC and Yeshiva University both require 1,200 hours, and the University of Maryland sets in-person practicum at 2 days a week in the first year and 3 days in the advanced year.
  • Tests. 151 programs say no GRE is required and 22 more will waive it. Only 7 require a test.
  • Estimated tuition. For the 349 programs with a published per-credit rate, estimated tuition (rate times credits, before fees) runs from $11,070 to $138,900, with a median of $40,180.

Which Type of MSW Program Fits You

The 530 options split into overlapping groups, each with its own ranked list:

Program type Programs Best for
Online MSW programs 261 Students who need to keep a job or live far from a campus
Part-time MSW programs 349 Working adults spreading the degree over 3 to 4 years
Advanced standing MSW programs 474 Recent BSW graduates
Accelerated MSW programs 19 Full-time students who want to finish faster than two years
MSW programs without the GRE 173 Applicants who don’t want to sit a graduate admissions test
Clinical and mental health MSW programs 256 Future therapists and LCSW candidates
Macro, policy and leadership MSW programs 142 Future program directors, organizers and policy staff

The 15 Largest MSW Programs

How this list is ranked: most master's degrees awarded in social work in 2022-23 first (U.S. Department of Education, IPEDS; CIP code 44.0701). Size tells you how established a program is and how many classmates and alumni you'll have, not how good it is for you. A few schools report their MSW under another code, so they don't appear here.

  1. Walden University: Master of Social Work (MSW), OnlineMaster of Social Work (MSW), Online

    1,060MSWs awarded, 2022-23

    Walden University (Minneapolis, MN, private for-profit) offers this online MSW in 92 quarter credits (traditional option: minimum 2.5 years (as few as 30 months); 5 years part time; Fast Track option available). At $570 per credit, estimated tuition is $52,440 before fees. BSW graduates can enter with advanced standing (52 quarter credits (57 with optional embedded certificate), 1-2 years; one-year Advanced Standing Fast Track option), about $29,640 in tuition at the same rate. A part-time plan is offered. No GRE required. Field education: 900 hours of field experience. CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $570 per quarter credit hour, plus $185 per quarter program fee

    Walden University MSW credits, field hours and tuition · Total cost of Walden University's MSW with loans

  2. Fordham University: Master of Social Work (on Campus: Lincoln Center, Westchester, Long Island)Master of Social Work (on Campus: Lincoln Center, Westchester, Long Island)

    911MSWs awarded, 2022-23

    Fordham University (Bronx, NY, private nonprofit) offers this on campus MSW in 62 credits (full-time: 2 years; part-time: 2.5 to 4 years). At $1,098 per credit, estimated tuition is $68,076 before fees. BSW graduates can enter with advanced standing (31 credits, full-time: 9 months; part-time: 1.5 to 2 years), about $34,038 in tuition at the same rate. A part-time plan is offered. No GRE required. Field education: 900 hours of practicum placements (500 hours for advanced standing). CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $1,098 per credit (2026-2027) (2026-27)

    Admission rules for Fordham University's MSW · Can federal loans cover Fordham University? · Compare Fordham University's other formats

  3. University of Kentucky: Master of Social Work (Online)Master of Social Work (Online)

    760MSWs awarded, 2022-23

    University of Kentucky (Lexington, KY, public) offers this online MSW in 60 credits (as few as 4 semesters (Regular Standing)). At $790 per credit, estimated tuition is $47,400 before fees. BSW graduates can enter with advanced standing (30 credits, as few as 2 semesters; 12 months full time), about $23,700 in tuition at the same rate. No GRE required. CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $790 per credit hour for students enrolled in 1-8 credit hours per semester; in-state rate for all online students; block tuition for 9+ credit hours (2025-26)

    How the University of Kentucky MSW is structured · Monthly payment on a University of Kentucky MSW · University of Kentucky school profile and CSWE status

  4. University of Denver: Denver Campus MSWDenver Campus MSW

    705MSWs awarded, 2022-23

    University of Denver (Denver, CO, private nonprofit) offers this on campus MSW in 81 credits (under two years full time (6-7 quarters); 3.5 years part time (14 quarters)). At $1,340 per credit, estimated tuition is $108,540 before fees. BSW graduates can enter with advanced standing (54 credit hours, one year full time (4 quarters); 2.5 years part time (10 quarters)), about $72,360 in tuition at the same rate. A part-time plan is offered. CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $1,340 per credit hour (Denver Campus MSW programs) (2025-26)

    University of Denver MSW format and advanced standing · University of Denver MSW cost with fees and living costs · All 4 MSW options at University of Denver

  5. UT Arlington: Master of Social Work (Arlington Campus and Online for Texas Residents)Master of Social Work (Arlington Campus and Online for Texas Residents)

    658MSWs awarded, 2022-23

    UT Arlington (Arlington, TX, public) offers this on campus and online MSW in 61 credits. That is the resident rate; the school publishes a different rate for nonresidents. BSW graduates can enter with advanced standing (38 credit hours). A part-time plan is offered. No GRE required. CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: AY 2026-27 general graduate rate, tuition and mandatory fees per semester: $5,383.50 at 9 SCH for Texas residents ($6,836.00 at 12 SCH); $12,957.50 at 9 SCH for nonresidents. College tuition differential and course fees are not included.

    What the UT Arlington MSW asks of applicants · Loan gap at UT Arlington under 2026 limits · Compare UT Arlington's other formats

  6. USC: Master of Social Work (on Campus and Hybrid; Los Angeles and San Diego Academic Center)Master of Social Work (on Campus and Hybrid; Los Angeles and San Diego Academic Center)

    649MSWs awarded, 2022-23

    USC (Los Angeles, CA, private nonprofit) offers this on campus and hybrid MSW in 48 credits (4 semesters full time; part time 28 months to 4 years). At $2,322 per credit, estimated tuition is $111,456 before fees. BSW graduates can enter with advanced standing (24 units, 12 months), about $55,728 in tuition at the same rate. A part-time plan is offered. Field education: 1,200 hours of practicum training. CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $2,322 per unit (1-14 units); $34,823 flat rate per semester (15-18 units); estimated total tuition $111,442 (2026-27)

    USC MSW credits, field hours and tuition · Total cost of USC's MSW with loans · USC school profile and CSWE status

  7. Rutgers University: Traditional On-Campus MSW ProgramTraditional On-Campus MSW Program

    616MSWs awarded, 2022-23

    Rutgers University (New Brunswick, NJ, public) offers this on campus MSW in 60 credits (2 years full time; 3 or 4 years part time). At $906 per credit, estimated tuition is $54,360 before fees. That is the resident rate; the school publishes a different rate for nonresidents. BSW graduates can enter with advanced standing (39 credits, one to two years, full time or part time), about $35,334 in tuition at the same rate. A part-time plan is offered. Field education: 900 hours in practicum (12 of 60 credits); advanced standing students complete 500 practicum learning hours. CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: 2026-2027: NJ residents $906 per credit part time or $10,872 per semester full time (12+ credits); non-residents $1,556 per credit part time or $18,672 per semester full time; plus fees (2026-27)

    Admission rules for Rutgers University's MSW · Can federal loans cover Rutgers University? · All 4 MSW options at Rutgers University

  8. Aurora University: Master of Social Work (on Campus; Traditional or Advanced Standing)Master of Social Work (on Campus; Traditional or Advanced Standing)

    584MSWs awarded, 2022-23

    Aurora University (Aurora, IL, private nonprofit) offers this on campus MSW in 60 credits (two-year and three-year options). At $650 per credit, estimated tuition is $39,000 before fees. BSW graduates can enter with advanced standing (30 semester hours, one-year and two-year options), about $19,500 in tuition at the same rate. A part-time plan is offered. Field education: generalist internship of at least 450 hours (500 in the addictions track) plus a specialist internship of at least 600 hours; advanced standing requires one internship of at least 600 hours. CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $650 per credit hour (Master of Social Work, 2026-2027 graduate tuition; same rate at all locations and online) (2026-27)

    How the Aurora University MSW is structured · Monthly payment on a Aurora University MSW · Compare Aurora University's other formats

  9. CUNY Hunter College: Master of Social WorkMaster of Social Work

    582MSWs awarded, 2022-23

    CUNY Hunter College (New York, NY, public) offers this on campus MSW in 60 credits (two-Year Full-Time Program: 2 years; One-Year Residency Program (work-study for social service employees): usually five semesters plus two intervening summers; Accelerated Full-Time Program: 18 months (five semesters)). At $620 per credit, estimated tuition is $37,200 before fees. That is the resident rate; the school publishes a different rate for nonresidents. BSW graduates can enter with advanced standing (36 credits, three semesters), about $22,320 in tuition at the same rate. No GRE required. CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: NYS residents: $620 per credit ($7,315 per semester full time); out-of-state: $1,000 per credit (2026-27)

    CUNY Hunter College MSW format and advanced standing · CUNY Hunter College MSW cost with fees and living costs

  10. Simmons University: Master of Social WorkMaster of Social Work

    564MSWs awarded, 2022-23

    Simmons University (Boston, MA, private nonprofit) offers this on campus and online MSW in 65 credits (2 years full time on campus or 6 terms online; 3 years extended on campus or 8 terms online; accelerated in 16 months on campus or 4 terms online). At $1,205 per credit, estimated tuition is $78,325 before fees. BSW graduates can enter with advanced standing. A part-time plan is offered. CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $1,205 per credit

    What the Simmons University MSW asks of applicants · Loan gap at Simmons University under 2026 limits

  11. NYU: Master of Social Work (on Campus in NYC and Online Nationwide)Master of Social Work (on Campus in NYC and Online Nationwide)

    532MSWs awarded, 2022-23

    NYU (New York, NY, private nonprofit) offers this on campus and online MSW in 65 credits (two-Year (full time, 4 semesters); 16-Month Accelerated (full time, spring start); 32-Month (evening/weekend, for applicants with 3+ years of experience); Extended (3 to 5 years); Extended One-Year Residence; Shanghai-New York). At $1,787 per credit, estimated tuition is $116,155 before fees. BSW graduates can enter with advanced standing (32 points (sample course of study on the tuition page), two semesters (fall-spring), full time only). A part-time plan is offered. No GRE required. Field education: 900 hours of practicum education (two 450-hour placements) for students beginning practicum Fall 2024 or later; 450 hours for Advanced Standing. CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $1,787 per point, per term (2026-2027), plus registration and services fees (2026-27)

    NYU MSW credits, field hours and tuition · Total cost of NYU's MSW with loans · Compare NYU's other formats

  12. Ohio State University: Master of Social Work (Traditional MSW, Columbus Campus and Online)Master of Social Work (Traditional MSW, Columbus Campus and Online)

    454MSWs awarded, 2022-23

    Ohio State University (Columbus, OH, public) offers this on campus and online MSW in 63 credits (2 years full time; 3 or 4 years part time). At $855 per credit, estimated tuition is $53,842 before fees. That is the resident rate; the school publishes a different rate for nonresidents. BSW graduates can enter with advanced standing (43 credits, 1 year (three semesters) full time; 2 years (six semesters) part time), about $36,749 in tuition at the same rate. A part-time plan is offered. No GRE required. Field education: 900 hours of practicum. CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: Online: instructional fee $854.63 per credit hour (charged up to 8 credit hours per semester), general fee $33.94 per credit hour (up to 8 per semester) and $100 distance learning fee per semester; non-resident surcharge $200 per semester. The college also lists in-state tuition of $6,570 per semester for full-time students (8-18 credit hours), with Ohio residents and all online students paying in-state rates; on-campus non-residents pay out-of-state rates. (2026-27)

    Admission rules for Ohio State University's MSW · Can federal loans cover Ohio State University?

  13. Indiana University: Master of Social Work (Indianapolis Campus)Master of Social Work (Indianapolis Campus)

    394MSWs awarded, 2022-23

    Indiana University (Indianapolis, IN, public) offers this on campus MSW in 60 credits (varies by full-time or part-time enrollment; two-semester accelerated path for advanced standing). At $529 per credit, estimated tuition is $31,755 before fees. That is the resident rate; the school publishes a different rate for nonresidents. BSW graduates can enter with advanced standing (30 credit hours, two-semester accelerated path; full-time or part-time), about $15,878 in tuition at the same rate. A part-time plan is offered. No GRE required. CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: Fall 2026 Social Work Graduate Tuition (Indianapolis): $529.25 per credit hour in-state, $793.88 Indiana Partner, $1,137.00 out-of-state (2026-27)

    How the Indiana University MSW is structured · Monthly payment on a Indiana University MSW · All 3 MSW options at Indiana University

  14. Yeshiva University: Master of Social Work (on Campus in NYC or Live Virtual)Master of Social Work (on Campus in NYC or Live Virtual)

    374MSWs awarded, 2022-23

    Yeshiva University (New York, NY, private nonprofit) offers this on campus and online MSW in 60 credits. At $1,250 per credit, estimated tuition is $75,000 before fees. BSW graduates can enter with advanced standing (30 credits), about $37,500 in tuition at the same rate. A part-time plan is offered. No GRE required. Field education: 1,200 hours of supervised training. CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: Master's program: $1,250 per credit (2026-2027), plus registration and technology fees (2026-27)

    Yeshiva University MSW format and advanced standing · Yeshiva University MSW cost with fees and living costs · Compare Yeshiva University's other formats

  15. University of Maryland School of Social Work: 60-Credit Hybrid MSW (Baltimore or Universities at Shady Grove)60-Credit Hybrid MSW (Baltimore or Universities at Shady Grove)

    358MSWs awarded, 2022-23

    University of Maryland School of Social Work (Baltimore, MD, public) offers this hybrid MSW in 60 credits (2 to 4 years (full time 4 semesters; part time 5-8 semesters)). At $753 per credit, estimated tuition is $45,160 before fees. That is the resident rate; the school publishes a different rate for nonresidents. BSW graduates can enter with advanced standing (36 credits, 11 months to 2 years (3-4 semesters)), about $27,096 in tuition at the same rate. A part-time plan is offered. Field education: in-person practicum 2 days per week in the first year and 3 days per week in the advanced year (16 to 24 hours per week). CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: MSW $752.66 per credit (resident); $1,374.96 per credit (non-resident) (2026-27)

    What the University of Maryland School of Social Work MSW asks of applicants · Loan gap at University of Maryland School of Social Work under 2026 limits · University of Maryland School of Social Work school profile and CSWE status

15 Most Affordable MSW Programs, Any Format

How this list is ranked: lowest estimated tuition first. Estimated tuition is the school's published per-credit rate times the credits it states, before fees, or the school's own published program total, for programs that publish those figures (one program per school). General graduate rates and cost-of-attendance figures are left out. Rates were read on each school's site in September 2026.

  1. University of Puerto Rico-Rio Piedras: Maestría En Trabajo SocialMaestría En Trabajo Social

    $11,070estimated tuition

    University of Puerto Rico-Rio Piedras (San Juan, PR, public) offers this on campus Social work master's in 54 credits (two consecutive years full time; about 3.5 years part time (regular); 1.5 years full time or 2 years part time (accelerated)). At $205 per credit, estimated tuition is $11,070 before fees. BSW graduates can enter with advanced standing (42 credits (Programa Acelerado), 1.5 years full time; 2 years part time), about $8,610 in tuition at the same rate. A part-time plan is offered. Field education: 900 hours of supervised practicum (600 hours in the accelerated program). CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $205 per credit (master's level, 2024-25 cost schedule linked from the UPRRP admissions page)

    University of Puerto Rico-Rio Piedras MSW credits, field hours and tuition · Total cost of University of Puerto Rico-Rio Piedras's MSW with loans

  2. Florida Atlantic University: Master of Social Work - 100% Online Advanced StandingMaster of Social Work - 100% Online Advanced Standing

    $11,155estimated tuition

    Florida Atlantic University (Boca Raton, FL, public) offers this online MSW in 30 credits (as few as 3 semesters (full time only)). At $372 per credit, estimated tuition is $11,155 before fees. BSW graduates can enter with advanced standing. No GRE required. CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $371.82 per credit hour for Florida residents (graduate tuition and fees, 2026-2027; online courses add a $30 per credit distance learning fee) (2026-27)

    Admission rules for Florida Atlantic University's MSW · Can federal loans cover Florida Atlantic University? · Compare Florida Atlantic University's other formats

  3. Appalachian State University: Master of Social Work, Advanced Standing (App State Online)Master of Social Work, Advanced Standing (App State Online)

    $11,359estimated tuition

    Appalachian State University (Boone, NC, public) offers this online MSW in 33 credits (1 year full time; 2 years part time). At $344 per credit, estimated tuition is $11,359 before fees. BSW graduates can enter with advanced standing (33 credit hours, 1 year full time; 2 years part time), about $11,359 in tuition at the same rate. A part-time plan is offered. GRE: GRE scores required unless waived. Field education: face-to-face practicum with an online seminar. CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: App State Online graduate, Fall 2026/Spring 2027: NC resident $306.95 tuition plus $37.33 fees ($344.21 per credit hour); non-NC resident $1,291.00 tuition plus $37.33 fees ($1,328.33 per credit hour) (2026-27)

    How the Appalachian State University MSW is structured · Monthly payment on a Appalachian State University MSW · Appalachian State University school profile and CSWE status

  4. Savannah State University: Master of Social WorkMaster of Social Work

    $12,180estimated tuition

    Savannah State University (Savannah, GA, public) offers this on campus MSW in 60 credits (two years (minimum 15 credit hours per semester)). At $203 per credit, estimated tuition is $12,180 before fees. That is the resident rate; the school publishes a different rate for nonresidents. BSW graduates can enter with advanced standing (33 credit hours, 12 months), about $6,699 in tuition at the same rate. No GRE required. Field education: 900 clock hours of field practicum (400 hours foundation year, 500 hours advanced year). CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $203 per credit hour in-state; $800 per credit hour out-of-state (graduate tuition) (2026-27)

    Savannah State University MSW format and advanced standing · Savannah State University MSW cost with fees and living costs

  5. Universidad Ana G. Mendez-Gurabo Campus: Maestría En Trabajo Social Con Especialidad En Trabajo Social Con Familias (Master in Social Work, Specialization in Social Work With Families)Maestría En Trabajo Social Con Especialidad En Trabajo Social Con Familias (Master in Social Work, Specialization in Social Work With Families)

    $12,420estimated tuition

    Universidad Ana G. Mendez-Gurabo Campus (Gurabo, PR, private nonprofit) offers this on campus MSW in 54 credits. At $230 per credit, estimated tuition is $12,420 before fees. BSW graduates can enter with advanced standing (27 credits of the specialization (programa avanzado)), about $6,210 in tuition at the same rate. Field education: 300 contact hours per supervised practicum course (SOWO 515, FASW 682, FASW 683). CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $230 per credit hour (master's degree, School of Liberal Arts) (2026-27)

    What the Universidad Ana G. Mendez-Gurabo Campus MSW asks of applicants · Loan gap at Universidad Ana G. Mendez-Gurabo Campus under 2026 limits · Compare Universidad Ana G. Mendez-Gurabo Campus's other formats

  6. Fort Valley State University: Master of Social Work (Online)Master of Social Work (Online)

    $12,474estimated tuition

    Fort Valley State University (Fort Valley, GA, public) offers this online MSW in 54 credits (2 years full time; 3 years part time). At $231 per credit, estimated tuition is $12,474 before fees. BSW graduates can enter with advanced standing (30 credit hours, 1 year), about $6,930 in tuition at the same rate. A part-time plan is offered. In CSWE candidacy (not yet accredited).

    School's tuition wording: $231 per credit hour (FVSU Online graduate rate) plus an Online Learning Fee of $380 for students in all-online classes (2026-27)

    Fort Valley State University MSW credits, field hours and tuition · Total cost of Fort Valley State University's MSW with loans

  7. Inter American University of Puerto Rico-Metro: Maestría En Trabajo Social (MSW), Especialidad En Trabajo Social Clínico - Online / PresencialMaestría En Trabajo Social (MSW), Especialidad En Trabajo Social Clínico - Online / Presencial

    $12,939estimated tuition

    Inter American University of Puerto Rico-Metro (San Juan, PR, private nonprofit) offers this online and on campus MSW in 57 credits. At $227 per credit, estimated tuition is $12,939 before fees. BSW graduates can enter with advanced standing (33 credits), about $7,491 in tuition at the same rate. CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $227 per credit hour (graduate) (2026-27)

    Admission rules for Inter American University of Puerto Rico-Metro's MSW · Can federal loans cover Inter American University of Puerto Rico-Metro? · All 2 MSW options at Inter American University of Puerto Rico-Metro

  8. University of North Alabama: Master of Social Work (Online)Master of Social Work (Online)

    $14,850estimated tuition

    University of North Alabama (Florence, AL, public) offers this online MSW in 30 credits (24 months (two-year MSW); 12 months (Advanced Standing)). At $495 per credit, estimated tuition is $14,850 before fees. BSW graduates can enter with advanced standing (30 credit hours, 12 months), about $14,850 in tuition at the same rate. No GRE required. Field education: 900 hours (400 foundation and 500 advanced); 500 hours for the one-year Advanced Standing program. CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $495 per credit hour plus fees (2025-26)

    How the University of North Alabama MSW is structured · Monthly payment on a University of North Alabama MSW

  9. University of Arkansas: Online Advanced Standing Master of Social WorkOnline Advanced Standing Master of Social Work

    $15,151estimated tuition

    University of Arkansas (Fayetteville, AR, public) offers this online MSW in 32 credits (12 months full time). At $473 per credit, estimated tuition is $15,151 before fees. BSW graduates can enter with advanced standing (32 credit hours, 1 year), about $15,151 in tuition at the same rate. No GRE required. Field education: year-long internship at 22 hours per week. CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $473.47 per credit hour plus online fees (library $5.38, network and data systems $18, off-campus $30, online facilities $2 per credit hour) (Fall 2026)

    University of Arkansas MSW format and advanced standing · University of Arkansas MSW cost with fees and living costs · University of Arkansas school profile and CSWE status

  10. Valdosta State University: Master of Social Work (Hybrid)Master of Social Work (Hybrid)

    $16,380estimated tuition

    Valdosta State University (Valdosta, GA, public) offers this hybrid MSW in 60 credits (2-year or 3-year option). At $273 per credit, estimated tuition is $16,380 before fees. That is the resident rate; the school publishes a different rate for nonresidents. BSW graduates can enter with advanced standing (33 semester hours plus one field practicum, 1 year), about $9,009 in tuition at the same rate. A part-time plan is offered. CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: MSW Professional Program rate: $273 per credit hour in-state; $1,044 per credit hour out-of-state (on-campus); MSW online tuition $273 per credit hour; mandatory fees extra (effective Fall 2026) (2026-27)

    What the Valdosta State University MSW asks of applicants · Loan gap at Valdosta State University under 2026 limits

  11. East Carolina University: Master of Social Work, Part-Time Online (Regular Pathway and Advanced Standing)Master of Social Work, Part-Time Online (Regular Pathway and Advanced Standing)

    $16,624estimated tuition

    East Carolina University (Greenville, NC, public) offers this online MSW in 60 credits (3 years part time). At $277 per credit, estimated tuition is $16,624 before fees. That is the resident rate; the school publishes a different rate for nonresidents. BSW graduates can enter with advanced standing (42 credit hours, 3 years part time), about $11,637 in tuition at the same rate. A part-time plan is offered. Field education: 1,032 hours of field education (regular pathway); 672 hours (advanced standing). CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: Fall 2026 distance education graduate tuition: resident $277.06 per credit hour; non-resident $1,044.06 per credit hour; plus $45.00 per credit hour additional tuition for all MS of Social Work programs and DE fees (2026-27)

    East Carolina University MSW credits, field hours and tuition · Total cost of East Carolina University's MSW with loans · Compare East Carolina University's other formats

  12. Malone University: Master of Social Work (MSW), OnlineMaster of Social Work (MSW), Online

    $16,950estimated tuition

    Malone University (Canton, OH, private nonprofit) offers this online MSW in 30 credits (1-3 years). At $565 per credit, estimated tuition is $16,950 before fees. BSW graduates can enter with advanced standing. Field education: 400 practicum hours in the generalist year and 500 in the specialization year. In CSWE pre-candidacy (not yet accredited).

    School's tuition wording: $565 per credit hour

    Admission rules for Malone University's MSW · Can federal loans cover Malone University?

  13. University of Alaska Anchorage: Master of Social Work (Distance-Delivered)Master of Social Work (Distance-Delivered)

    $17,019estimated tuition

    University of Alaska Anchorage (Anchorage, AK, public) offers this online MSW in 31 credits (as little as 12 months (advanced standing)). At $549 per credit, estimated tuition is $17,019 before fees. BSW graduates can enter with advanced standing. A part-time plan is offered. CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $549 per credit resident graduate tuition (600-level courses); all admitted online MSW students qualify for the resident rate (2026-27)

    How the University of Alaska Anchorage MSW is structured · Monthly payment on a University of Alaska Anchorage MSW

  14. Kennesaw State University: Master of Social WorkMaster of Social Work

    $18,360estimated tuition

    Kennesaw State University (Kennesaw, GA, public) offers this on campus MSW in 60 credits (two years (four academic semesters)). At $306 per credit, estimated tuition is $18,360 before fees. That is the resident rate; the school publishes a different rate for nonresidents. BSW graduates can enter with advanced standing (36 credit hours, 3 semesters (Summer-Fall-Spring)), about $11,016 in tuition at the same rate. CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $306 per credit hour in-state; $1,175 per credit hour out-of-state; student fees billed separately (graduate tuition, Fall 2026-Summer 2027) (2026-27)

    Kennesaw State University MSW format and advanced standing · Kennesaw State University MSW cost with fees and living costs

  15. Purdue University Northwest: Master of Social WorkMaster of Social Work

    $18,810estimated tuition

    Purdue University Northwest (Hammond, IN, public) offers this on campus MSW in 57 credits (two years (traditional); one year (advanced standing)). At $330 per credit, estimated tuition is $18,810 before fees. That is the resident rate; the school publishes a different rate for nonresidents. BSW graduates can enter with advanced standing (36 credits, one year), about $11,880 in tuition at the same rate. A part-time plan is offered. In CSWE candidacy (not yet accredited).

    School's tuition wording: $330 per credit hour (Indiana resident); $526.50 (non-resident); $773.75 (international); includes composite fee (2026-27)

    What the Purdue University Northwest MSW asks of applicants · Loan gap at Purdue University Northwest under 2026 limits

All 530 Programs

Filter by format, schedule, advanced standing, specialization, the GRE and state; tick up to three programs to compare them side by side.

530 programs

Program facts come from each school's own pages, reviewed September 2026. Estimated tuition is the published per-credit rate times the stated credits, before fees, or the school's published program total; "resident rate" means the school charges nonresidents more. CSWE status comes from CSWE's directory of accredited programs.

The Largest MSW Programs and What They Share

The largest programs are a mix of online-first schools and large urban universities. What they share is choice: several start dates, many tracks and both full-time and part-time plans.

Program Format Credits Estimated tuition Specializations offered
Walden University online MSW Online 92 quarter credits $52,440 Addictions, Child and Family, Healthcare, Military, Trauma
Fordham University campus MSW Campus 62 $68,076 Individuals and families, Organizations and communities, Evaluation, Policy practice and advocacy
University of Kentucky online MSW Online 60 $47,400 Certificates in Child Welfare, Clinical, Military Behavioral Health, School, Substance Use, Trauma-Responsive Practice, Rural Health
Rutgers University traditional MSW Campus 60 $54,360 (NJ resident) Clinical Social Work, Management and Policy
Ohio State University MSW Campus and online 63 $53,842 Aging and health, Child and youth services, Community and social justice, Mental health and substance abuse
University of Denver campus MSW Campus 81 $108,540 Eight concentrations, including Ecological Justice and Family Systems Practice

Two details stand out. The University of Kentucky charges the in-state rate to all online students, and Ohio State charges in-state rates to Ohio residents and all online students. At both, an out-of-state student pays the same as a local one by choosing the online version.

Most Affordable MSW Programs, Any Format

The lowest estimated tuition sits mostly at public universities in the South and at Puerto Rico schools. Beyond the programs at the very bottom of the list, a few campus programs are worth knowing:

Residency matters more than the sticker rate. Savannah State University charges $203 per credit in state and $800 out of state, so its $12,180 estimate applies only to Georgia residents. The most affordable online MSW list and the MSW cost guide go deeper.

CSWE-Accredited MSW Programs vs Programs in Candidacy

Candidacy programs are not accredited yet, and 49 of the 530 options sit in that status. CSWE describes candidacy as typically a three-year process that does not guarantee initial accreditation. Its rule for students is specific: if you enter a program that reached candidacy in or before your first academic year, you are retroactively treated as a graduate of an accredited program once it earns initial accreditation.

Here is how a few of them compare:

Program Format Credits Candidacy detail
Oakwood University clinical MSW Online 60 $580 per credit; 30-credit advanced standing
Tuskegee University online MSW Online 44 (advanced standing track) Child welfare, behavioral health and healthcare tracks
Palo Alto University online MSW Online 88 quarter credits Accepts BSWs earned in the last 15 years for advanced standing
University of Delaware MSW Campus 60 $908 per credit; no GRE
Pittsburg State University MSW Campus 64 Flat $4,842 per semester in state

If licensure is your goal, the safest choice is a fully accredited program. If a candidacy program wins on location or price, confirm the year it reached candidacy before you enroll. The CSWE-accredited MSW programs list filters out everything else.

MSW Programs in New York, Including CUNY

New York has a dense set of large programs, with very different price points. CUNY Hunter College charges New York residents $620 per credit, for an estimated $37,200 over 60 credits, and offers three tracks: Clinical Practice with Individuals, Families, and Groups; Community Organizing, Planning and Development; and Organizational Management and Leadership. It also runs an 18-month accelerated program and a One-Year Residency Program for social service employees.

The private schools cost more but offer more schedule shapes. NYU’s campus and online MSW lists a Two-Year, a 16-Month Accelerated, a 32-Month evening and weekend track and an Extended option of 3 to 5 years. Yeshiva’s campus or live virtual MSW offers its MSW on campus or live virtual at $1,250 per credit. Syracuse’s residential MSW charges $1,226 per credit and accepts BSWs from the past 10 years for advanced standing. See every option on the New York state page, and read CUNY Hunter College’s profile for its full tracks.

Full-Time, Accelerated and Part-Time Schedules

Most students pick a schedule before a school. Full time usually means two years and four semesters. Accelerated programs compress that: Simmons University offers 16 months on campus or 4 terms online, and CUNY Hunter’s accelerated track takes five semesters over 18 months. Only 19 programs are built as accelerated tracks.

Part time is far more common. Rutgers lists 3 or 4 years part time, Ohio State the same, and the University of Maryland 5 to 8 semesters. The catch is field education, which rarely shrinks: Maryland’s practicum still runs 16 to 24 hours a week, so part-time students need an employer that can flex around placement days.

Which Specializations MSW Programs Offer

The second half of an MSW is where programs split by practice area. Clinical and mental health tracks are the most common, offered by 256 programs. Macro, policy and leadership tracks follow at 142, then child and family practice at 112, health care at 67, school social work at 39, aging at 35, substance use at 29 and military social work at 14.

The track names tell you how a school thinks about practice. Ohio State pairs mental health and substance abuse in one track. Loyola University Chicago builds micro practice tracks around school social work licensure and alcohol and drug counselor training. The University of Denver lists Ecological Justice among its eight concentrations. If you are unsure, an advanced generalist program such as Valdosta State University’s keeps both clinical and macro options open. The clinical MSW programs and child and family MSW programs lists rank the two largest groups.

How to Choose From 530 MSW Programs

Use these filters in the finder, in this order:

  • CSWE status. Accredited unless you accept candidacy risk knowingly.
  • Your degree. With a BSW, filter for advanced standing and check the school’s time limit on your degree. Syracuse accepts 10 years and Palo Alto University 15.
  • Format. Online and hybrid programs still require in-person field hours, so check where placements happen.
  • Specialization. Pick a program that offers your practice area by name. The MSW specializations guide compares them.
  • Cost at your residency. Compare the resident and nonresident rates, or check whether online students pay in-state rates, as at the University of Kentucky and Ohio State.
  • License path. Clinical licensure needs a master’s degree, supervised clinical experience and a state license. Map your state’s steps with the license pathway tool before you commit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Best MSW Programs?

The best program is the accredited one that fits your degree, schedule and budget. If you hold a BSW, a one-year advanced standing program such as the University of Arkansas online option ($15,151 estimated) beats a two-year program on both time and cost. If you want breadth, schools such as Aurora University and the University of Denver list eight or more specializations.

How Many CSWE-Accredited MSW Programs Are There?

Of the 530 program options compared here, 480 are CSWE-accredited, 49 are in candidacy and the rest are in pre-candidacy. By school, 354 schools hold accredited MSW programs, 36 are in candidacy and 13 are in pre-candidacy.

Which MSW Programs Accept Applicants Without a Social Work Degree?

Every traditional MSW does. The roughly 60-credit track starts with generalist coursework built for applicants from any bachelor's field, and the BSW only matters for advanced standing.

Are There MSW Programs That Don't Require the GRE?

Most don't ask for it. 151 programs state that no GRE is required and 22 more waive it, while only 7 require a test. Inter American University of Puerto Rico-Metro is one of the few that requires a standardized graduate admission test.

How Many MSW Programs Are in New York?

New York has some of the largest programs in the country, including Fordham University, NYU, CUNY Hunter College and Yeshiva University. The New York state page lists every program there with its CSWE status and tuition.

Can You Work While Earning an MSW?

Many students do. 349 of the 530 options have a part-time plan, and some are built for working adults: CUNY Hunter College's One-Year Residency Program is a work-study track for social service employees, and NYU runs a 32-month evening and weekend option for applicants with three or more years of experience.

Related Program Lists

Sources

  1. Official program, tuition and admissions pages of each school listed, reviewed September 2026
  2. Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), directory of accredited programs, captured September 30, 2026
  3. U.S. Department of Education, IPEDS 2022-23 completions and institutional characteristics
  4. CSWE: directory of accredited programs
  5. CSWE: accreditation overview
  6. CSWE: accreditation FAQs
  7. ASWB: the social work licensing exams
  8. BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook: social workers

Every program on this site was checked against the school's own website. Accreditation status comes only from the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) directory, license rules from each state's social work board, and graduate counts from the U.S. Department of Education (IPEDS). Sponsored listings are labeled and never change which programs we list or how we rank them. How we verify programs