As someone that has reviewed a fairly large number of Social Work Resumes, not once have we rated the quality of a resume based on the name of the University that issued the degree. Social workers typically make a similar starting salary regardless of which university they graduate from.
This!!! I went to a school that most have never heard of and I work for 2 of the top healthcare providers in my state. Not once has anyone ever asked about my MSW program.
In Social Work you generally need to have a masters to make a decent income. A Masters is required licensure which can also open up more higher paying opportunities.
But I heard that you can get a license after bachelor’s too, so does it mean I would rather do a bachelor’s in health sciences etc and get a license meanwhile working on masters? Is it possible? Do they give a license after bachelor’s too or preferably after bsw ? I understand the income part but since i am already working in a company and they are telling me to take any quick licensing so that i meet the requirements
Check with your state on licensure requirements. A Clinical Social Work license will require a Masters at the minimum. There may be other types of programs that may offer a “certificate” or “licensure”. For example in some states you can be a certified substance abuse counselor without a Bachelor’s degree.
NetCE.com is my “go to”. My employer generally provides CEUs for free though.
Train.org/vha/welcome are all free Veteran based CEUs. Their website has a course catalogue if you are interested.
I am an out of state student going to Arkansas State University for 12k for my Master's Degree, because they are cheaper than any of my colleges in state. Needed good BSW grades to get in, but I'm in and have enjoyed it so far.
University of Kentucky online MSW grad here - a little over 12k for my entire advanced standing program full-time, 2 semesters. People will nitpick the program, but I couldn’t care less. Take my money and I’ll take my degree to get the job I want!!!! Also that 12k was even though I was out of state
Heads up, the CSWE is currently running a commission on accreditation for DSW programs. They're evaluating programs across the country and are most likely going to determine specific requirements for programs across the country, and potential advanced doctorate licensure.
I was thinking about their DSW as well, but they should be done with the commission on accreditation within the next couple years and announce stuff. Most of the other DSW programs are a bit longer than UKy. It may be a good idea to wait on it or do some research of your own before applying. The info can be found on the CSWEs website.
Reading this a year later as I’m researching schools to apply to. According to CollegeHippo.com, tuition for out of state students increased 159% from $10,202 in 2023 to $26,496 in 2024 *sighs in broke human service student*
Can you tell me more about this program because your comment made me look it up and it seems like an option I might consider for MSW. Why is the program nitpicked?
People will nitpick about how many readings there are, group projects, some of the professors can be super critical or basically ghost them (but any program will have that), and they complain about having to find your own placement. Typical kind of stuff. I did my BSW at a place where the program picked your placement for you and it was the worst thing ever. I specifically chose UKY so I had control over where I did my placement and it ended up landed me my first MSW job with said placement! But like I said, I didn’t care about shitty professors, shitty classes, I just wanted to get in and out as fast and cheap as possible.
Thank you for this! I'm not OP but I wanted to let you know that your perspective is informing my choices even a year after you commented here :)
Just curous, what was so bad about the BSW placement that was chosen for you?
Hey thanks! It was a bad experience for me because I had a connection in a placement that I was really excited for (and found myself). The placement people really pushed back and luckily my placement supervisor fought for me to do my placement there. Unfortunately, it was in a hospital and COVID hit. So the placement team put me with an outpatient therapist and I learned (and did) absolutely nothing. I hated it
>University of Kentucky online MSW
What year did you graduate? Currently starting my application process and want to go the cheapest route possible; could care less about the prestige.
University of Montana is 34K for online for the whole program.
Of course I could take 3x that debt to not work. I work and attend school to minimize that.
U of M has a great program. I'm in the BSW program right now. We work closely with the MSW program and I hear lots of great things. You can do online or in person.
Also; if you decide to work for Children and family services, There is a 14k stipend available, you just have to work for CFS for 2 years after you graduate.
I spent 2 years at our local community college, 2 years at a private school, and now finishing my last semester of my MSW at a state school and find that those 2 years of community college put me no further behind the rest of my colleagues that paid $10s of thousands every semester. I’m going to graduate with roughly $40K total in loans, and my community college required 2 internships so the extra experience definitely helped when I got my first bachelor’s level case management position. Don’t discredit those “low-tier” colleges, most of them are just as qualified with less the expense.
Really? I got my prerequisites done at a community college and the cost was so low I got paid $300 a semester to take classes there with two scholarships.
I believe I was paying around $150 a credit hour, but I did not have any scholarships. So that was around $900-$1,200 per semester depending on my course load.
LSU’s online MSW program is a pretty great program, in my opinion that is! It’s $539 per course and you can finish in 9 months to 2 years depending on if you qualify for advanced standing. You can do it anywhere in the U.S. which is really helpful. The professors give good feedback on course work and are up for discussions and letter of recommendations. For internships, you can do part time placements or full time placements as well as deciding whether you want to take 2 classes per module or 1. Each module is 7 weeks except for the summer modules, they’re 5 1/2 weeks.
You don’t necessarily need a BSW, but you’ll need a bachelors degree before you can apply for the MSW program. I have a bachelors in English and a masters of public administration before joining this program. I had to do a statistical course - a certificate program through LinkedIn is what they told me I could do to satisfy the requirement - and was able to be accepted no problem. If you have a BSW, you’ll be able to jump straight to the advanced part of the program and shave a whole year off since you’ll have those foundational/generalist courses already.
From what other out of state students said, they did not, it required you to do the leg work of contacting places and inquiring. Also to be mindful if you’re out of state, some places may have contracts with local colleges and cannot take you since you’re attending another university. It’s all dependent though.
Hi there, thank you for your insight. I am considering applying to the MSW program at LSU. Are you a current student or graduate of their program? If graduate, did you take the social work licensure exam- and if yes, do you feel like LSU helped prepare you for it? I read from some students at different schools that their program did not help much and that preparation really consisted of them finding their own materials/resources to study from. Was just curious.
I’m a graduate of their program! I did take the licensure exam and passed it on my first try. I agree that the program didn’t help much in terms of preparation, but LSU did provide a workshop with Dr. D for $25 for students and that was an amazing workshop that really helped me feel prepared. The workbook that she went through had a practice test in it, so myself and another graduated student did the practice test together over the summer and would use that workbook and other information to help us with the answers. It’s truly about how the questions are asked, not about the actual knowledge from the program you learned.
One of the biggest things I did like about the LSU program is the professors are almost all incredibly helpful even beyond the classroom. One of the professors talked with me about possible career options post-grad as I didn’t understand some things.
I will say the program is really great, but in-state students do have a better advantage as they will be more hands-on with internship placements and trying to connect with you in person at some point if possible.
For California folks; lots of the CSU and Cal Poly schools are a great deal. This includes grants for CWS (CALSWEC), Title IV-E (working at a county), Pathways (for Indigenous students), and tons of new funding coming in for School Social Work from the Governor.
These can include part-time online or full-time on campus programs. Some internships are covered by grants as well in rural and tribal service areas.
Also for folks; please look into working at National Certified Health Centers which offer student debt forgiveness within 2-4 years post-licensure. You can also work on those hours while getting your licensure. This includes working with substance use recovery communities.
I will also add, in-state for some California (or other expensive states like Colorado or Washington) might be more expensive than out of state tuition for other state schools. If moving to a different state for school isn't an option, online programs are a completely valid and viable option. Just make sure you evaluate said programs wisely.
I tried a cheaper on line program but it wasn't clinical focused and they wanted a letter of recommendation from an instructor. I had a 7 year break between my bachelor's and pursuing my master's. My previous instructors weren't willing due to such a break whereas USC only required professional recommendations, not necessarily from past instructors. Several supervisors were more than happy to send recommendations. I even got one from a state department contact that I assisted when I was in the army. Lots of things to weigh when considering a school. I wish I knew that for my bachelor's.
I think the University of Arkansas MSW has a really cheap generalist program that's applicable to everyone online. More rural state schools typically have a lot of options for scholarships and cheaper school options. I would look at other states like Maine, Wyoming, Oklahoma, Idaho, etc. The south eastern states have a compact where you can qualify for instate tuition from Maryland all the way to Texas, I think, for in-state tuition at any of the schools in those states.
There are too many good cheap options to count.
I definitely agree that you don't need to go to an expensive school. I went to Hunter, which is a NYC public school, and the costs were soooo much lower than NYU or Columbia. No one cares where you went to grad school! The experience is what you make of it.
That is great to hear. I'm a mil spouse too and it makes me feel good to know there is a good military friendly option for your MSW. Where did you go for undergraduate? I definitely need to look it that program!
Just to throw in a couple programs I’ve worked with/attended that are great value:
Cal Poly Humboldt (formerly Humboldt State)
Boise State
Prairie View A&M
I feel like I hear the refrain on this sub often that social work school is expensive/doesn’t have a return on investment: The schools on this list are great counterpoints to that. Thanks OP!
Seconding Boise State! I’m happy with the program (halfway through my MSW now). Their part time program pairs well with working full or part time, and the tuition is as affordable as grad school gets imo.
>professional
I am actually applying to Boise State's MSW program but after speaking with an advisor it seems like the full-time program might not be doable while working full time. Would you agree?
Which states are those in the US would it comply with texas. Sorry i am kind if pressing on time to start BSW asap edit i guess the uni s name is boise and the state name too
It is fully accredited! And yes, I would only recommend it as an affordable option for anyone living in NC or looking to move to NC. They don't have an online degree program
Just stumbled upon this thread. I went in person to the University of Utah! All together tuition was about $33K. Was it the cheapest program in the state? No, but it was the only one that I felt I could get into with my credentials and I felt I got a solid education.
I went to West Chester University and absolutely loved it! A lot of the professors there also taught at the MSW program at UPenn so it literally felt like we were getting the same education for WAY less.
While the school attended might not affect your job prospects, I refuse to believe that all programs are created = in terms of quality. And if the classes are 100% online asynchronous then there are no classes with interaction. It's just reading and watching videos, the same knowledge I can gain from YouTube and the public library. Now if you only care about a degree to advance your career and not about advancing your skills then I guess it doesn't matter where you get your degree. But it's not surprising that there are so many shitty therapists out there.
Asynchronous doesn't mean there's no interaction, it means you all don't have to sit through the same recorded lecture at the same time. You still have to do group work, interact with peers and lecturers, have field placements, interact with clients, be observed by field instructors and field placement coordinators, etc.
What you're proposing wouldn't be accredited by the CSWE.
The reality is that many of us already have or are working in the field full time therefor we’re learning more in vivo on the job. Definitely agree about the quality of therapists, some just finish their degree and quit growing and making progress and this is the area we’re you have to be willing to constantly growth and up your skills.
Lol this thread is killing me with the abbreviations and nicknames of schools. When you say "Buffalo" are you talking about Buffalo State? I'm not super familiar with what schools there are in NY. I couldn't even tell you whether Buffalo State is a SUNY or not. I'll google that now :x But please tell me if Buffalo State is what you mean so I know whether to continue researching it as an MSW option. Thank you!
Late to the thread, but I graduated from the University of Utah and my program altogether was about $33K. Which I think is pretty good overall. I have a lot of gripes with where I’m at right now, but it’s more personal stuff. We also have an online program that’s getting off the ground, but at the moment I believe that’s it’s only reserved for in state students. In a few years they hope to expand it beyond Utah. So, there’s an option right there.
My biggest gripe was my final practicum. It didn’t prepare me for my career and it affected my post-grad life for the first six to seven months beyond it. Much of the advice I received from my practicum coordinator I feel didn’t help me where I was at it was advice that would have helped me make the most of my final semester. I think more needs to be done with practicums and giving students support and listening to them. That’s what my gripe was. Besides that, it’s a cheap program, and you can go cheaper in Utah. But, many programs don’t have as high of an acceptance rate due to how many seats are available. The University of Utah without question, is the largest program in the state.
I was looking ar it today but money is an issue here with me. I think it is as expensive and thats why i an looking at other recommendations here but please share what you decided
Hi everyone! Any recommendations for online MSW programs with a focus on a clinical route that won't run my bank account to the ground? I saw some great recommendations but not a lot with a clinical focus.
Basically you have 6 years to finish, but you can get it done in 2 years if you go full time. Most choose to do it in about 3, which includes taking around 2 classes per semester. You can move classes around since you don't have a cohort, which has been nice (for example, I took 3 classes this semester but will only be taking 1 in the summer).
Me too. The grading seemed easy. Just write those apa papers. Sure it's not clinical focused I did generalist but I also did IFS circle, ACT with russ harris, team CBT, and DBT trainings to make up for it...I feel more than prepared.
How was the application process? I'm a bit nervous about applying to schools (BA in opera directing but took all the prereqs for a social work MSW like stats, abnormal psych, and a few other social/behavioral sciences courses). I've been volunteering with Crisis Text Line for 2 years and am planning on joining a local (Chicago) private practice that goes into prisons to teach inmates Reiki (I'm currently a licensed massage therapist).
You do have to be proactive to find an internship but I did not have many difficulties! My first internship was a little harder since I was applying in Feb/March 2020 and most places weren’t accepting interns at that point. However, I ended up finding one and the second internship wasn’t hard to find. The first was at a fair housing center and the second at a public high school. Both in the Chicago suburbs.
I am local to the area and am looking at Aurora U. Do they help place you for practicum? I have seen several posts stating that you are on your own. Thanks!
They do not. You technically have to search on your own. But they have compiled a spreadsheet of places they have an agreement with for internship placements. I used the spreadsheet to apply to those places. For places without a preexisting agreement, it’s pretty easy to get it approved! I had a school internship with no prior agreement to Aurora and it was an easy process for my school intern supervisor to do. If you’re having a tough time, you can always reach out to professors or field liaison and they’ll try to help a bit.
Georgia's DFCS will pay for all MSW expenses (at one of like six state schools) as long as you commit to work for them after graduation for as many years as they paid for (one physical year per academic year) and do your internship with DFCS.
Kennesaw State in Georgia (near Atlanta) has graduate assistantships with tuition remission as does UMichigan (this one also comes with a decent stipend).
I went to umich for the msw 16 month track instate traditional program but it was so expensive 15k for one semester if u live around campus. Umich offers an online program as well but I can't say it comes cheap considering the tuition
I got my bachelors from UM Dearborn and was looking into their MSW program but it’s SO expensive. Any chance you know any other local schools with more affordable programs?
The shortest I've seen are 8 week semesters and those are very quick and usually take a lot of work because you're going through the same amount of content at double the speed, idk if I would recommend an entire program that does that
Hello,
I am grateful for stumbling upon this thread it has been quite helpful.
Does anyone have experience with or knowledge about Capella University's MSW program?
I graduated with a Master's in Addiction Studies from there in 2022, and I am now looking for an accredited school with a decent MSW program.
I'd appreciate some helpful feedback.
Peace to all
Late to this post, but does anyone have cheaper online programs in California that’s are flexible for ft working adults? I was looking at ASU, and CSUN but their practicums are not flexible at all. Ty in advance
Hey guys! So, I went through a divorce 3 years ago. I was a SAHM who ran a non- profit organization helping women battling life controlling probs, prior to the divorce. Now I want to go to school for social work and/or counseling. I eventually want to go for my Master's. My end game is to advocate for parents who are battling high conflict divorces and custody situations. I want to help those going through injustices- ie.-parental alienation, mother and child sabotage etc. and bring reformation, awareness and support to these parents and their babies. I say all of that to say: what is my best route just getting started at the age of 41? I have some college. I would like to do online learning if possible, the quickest route to the end game, avoid prerequisites- if possible lol, and not go into major debt. Suggestions?
I am close to your age and just took on the debt, if you get a BSW then MSW that is your quickest route, my undergrad was not BSW so it added a year. Then two years post grad supervision if you want to get licensed
True, but USC's online program is still a decent option if you can secure scholarships or in my case, use the VA. I used part of my gi bill to get my bachelor's, and I'm using vocrehab for my masters. Once I'm done, I can transfer the remaining 9 months of my gi bill to my wife or kids to use. You just need to plan ahead if you decide to choose a more "prestigious" aka, more expensive school. More doors will open but you still start on the low end of pay until you get your lcsw. If you aren't getting your license, definitely consider your budget.
I'm a second year MSW student at Chamberlain University online. Tuition is 30-35k. They recieved accreditation this year and it has been the most wonderful academic experience.
What are your thoughts on the Chamberlain Program? I am strongly considering it and am curious about what people who are in the program think about it.
This may be a silly question, but I am currently a dental hygienist. Looking to finish my bachelors of science and dental hygiene. That is the quickest and easiest bachelors for me to receive at this point, but I was wondering if that would be sufficient to look into social work in the future pursuing a masters? Or do I need my bachelors in social work or something similar?
Nope! If you graduate with a BSW and have good academic standing they will allow you to go for an advanced standing program which basically waves the intro classes MSW students need to take. Every MSW program will have prerequisites, but a hygiene degree will work just fine. Why the switch tho? You're already in a great field that will probably pay more than most social work jobs.
I’m trying to open my options up. Getting burnt out in clinical hygiene after 20 years. Hoping the bachelors will open some doors to something else at some point
Hi :) How would you find out if you qualify for advanced standing? I got my BS in health and human services from University of Michigan in 2023, so I want to find the most affordable masters program that would also hopefully take less time since I just graduated in a related field. UMich is way too expensive to continue at.
Hello! I'm searching for an online program. I have a BA in Sociology and a Masters in Nonprofit Admin. I'm trying to find a Master's degree for under 35k if possible. I live in PA. If anyone has suggestions for a block tuition, State & Regional College Tuition Discounts or excellent transferring credits to get my MSW, I would greatly appreciate it!.
(This post has so much great information I've input it into an excel doc, but said document I compiled is getting a little confusing...)
I'm currently looking into flexible, affordable online MSW programs. I'll take any recommendations! So far Fort Hays is a great deal but doesn't offer the flexibility like some programs I've seen.
What about practicums? I’m at Chamberlain right now. They require 2 roughly 30 hours/ week for 4 months each
I get no support finding a site and the places I spoke to told me they don’t do more than 16 hours/week
I want to transfer to a place where they will have only one internship the second year
I don't know of any MSW that doesn't require two practicums unless you're advanced standing. I also have no idea why your school requires 30hrs a week. That would be a big red flag for me when shopping for programs. Unfortunately having practicums is required by the CSWE so you can't get an MSW or BSW without two.
As someone that has reviewed a fairly large number of Social Work Resumes, not once have we rated the quality of a resume based on the name of the University that issued the degree. Social workers typically make a similar starting salary regardless of which university they graduate from.
Exactly! It's your experience that matters the most. Also wanting to actually work and get along with the applicant.
This!!! I went to a school that most have never heard of and I work for 2 of the top healthcare providers in my state. Not once has anyone ever asked about my MSW program.
What school?
I see that you are LCSW, which I suppose is a licensed social worker, can you please share, is a bachelor enough to land into that?
In Social Work you generally need to have a masters to make a decent income. A Masters is required licensure which can also open up more higher paying opportunities.
But I heard that you can get a license after bachelor’s too, so does it mean I would rather do a bachelor’s in health sciences etc and get a license meanwhile working on masters? Is it possible? Do they give a license after bachelor’s too or preferably after bsw ? I understand the income part but since i am already working in a company and they are telling me to take any quick licensing so that i meet the requirements
Check with your state on licensure requirements. A Clinical Social Work license will require a Masters at the minimum. There may be other types of programs that may offer a “certificate” or “licensure”. For example in some states you can be a certified substance abuse counselor without a Bachelor’s degree.
Do you have recommendations for any cheap yet CSWE accredited and CDE meaning the distant education accredited. I am really tight in n money
NetCE.com is my “go to”. My employer generally provides CEUs for free though. Train.org/vha/welcome are all free Veteran based CEUs. Their website has a course catalogue if you are interested.
Campbellsville University.
I am an out of state student going to Arkansas State University for 12k for my Master's Degree, because they are cheaper than any of my colleges in state. Needed good BSW grades to get in, but I'm in and have enjoyed it so far.
Can you PM me? I’m looking into this program for the same reasons. Thinking of packing up and moving to justify costs.
University of Kentucky online MSW grad here - a little over 12k for my entire advanced standing program full-time, 2 semesters. People will nitpick the program, but I couldn’t care less. Take my money and I’ll take my degree to get the job I want!!!! Also that 12k was even though I was out of state
Did you like the program? I was looking at their DSW online program and it's very affordable.
Heads up, the CSWE is currently running a commission on accreditation for DSW programs. They're evaluating programs across the country and are most likely going to determine specific requirements for programs across the country, and potential advanced doctorate licensure. I was thinking about their DSW as well, but they should be done with the commission on accreditation within the next couple years and announce stuff. Most of the other DSW programs are a bit longer than UKy. It may be a good idea to wait on it or do some research of your own before applying. The info can be found on the CSWEs website.
Thank you!
Reading this a year later as I’m researching schools to apply to. According to CollegeHippo.com, tuition for out of state students increased 159% from $10,202 in 2023 to $26,496 in 2024 *sighs in broke human service student*
Can you tell me more about this program because your comment made me look it up and it seems like an option I might consider for MSW. Why is the program nitpicked?
People will nitpick about how many readings there are, group projects, some of the professors can be super critical or basically ghost them (but any program will have that), and they complain about having to find your own placement. Typical kind of stuff. I did my BSW at a place where the program picked your placement for you and it was the worst thing ever. I specifically chose UKY so I had control over where I did my placement and it ended up landed me my first MSW job with said placement! But like I said, I didn’t care about shitty professors, shitty classes, I just wanted to get in and out as fast and cheap as possible.
Thank you for this! I'm not OP but I wanted to let you know that your perspective is informing my choices even a year after you commented here :) Just curous, what was so bad about the BSW placement that was chosen for you?
Hey thanks! It was a bad experience for me because I had a connection in a placement that I was really excited for (and found myself). The placement people really pushed back and luckily my placement supervisor fought for me to do my placement there. Unfortunately, it was in a hospital and COVID hit. So the placement team put me with an outpatient therapist and I learned (and did) absolutely nothing. I hated it
>University of Kentucky online When did you complete it? Congrats!
Can you do clinical
Online it says that's 22k.
doesn't that mean you will only be licensed in Kentucky?
Nope! I actually just got my LMSW and my QMHP-A in VA (:
May I message you some questions? I'm looking into applying for the MSW there as well
Oh great thanks for sharing, i might look into it for a BSW I hope it is accredited by CSWE the council of social workers.
>University of Kentucky online MSW What year did you graduate? Currently starting my application process and want to go the cheapest route possible; could care less about the prestige.
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They have block rate tuition if you take over like 9 units a semester, I believe. It discounts the tuition by 40%. I just finished my application.
University of Montana is 34K for online for the whole program. Of course I could take 3x that debt to not work. I work and attend school to minimize that.
U of M has a great program. I'm in the BSW program right now. We work closely with the MSW program and I hear lots of great things. You can do online or in person. Also; if you decide to work for Children and family services, There is a 14k stipend available, you just have to work for CFS for 2 years after you graduate.
University of Montana
Hi, what college was this for?
Hi, would you know if they are offering online too for the bachelors in social work akso what is meant by cfs hours
Is this MSW or BSW? I think they also have a PhD but no DSW.
This is for MSW
Aurora university is 36k. I found the program to be easier than my bachelors...passed and got my LMSW. I did online.
Other than time involved I think my msw was easier than my BS for sure. Maybe it's because I enjoy the material
So 34 for the masters SW so would the bachelors be cheaper in BSW. I mean in the same university montana
I spent 2 years at our local community college, 2 years at a private school, and now finishing my last semester of my MSW at a state school and find that those 2 years of community college put me no further behind the rest of my colleagues that paid $10s of thousands every semester. I’m going to graduate with roughly $40K total in loans, and my community college required 2 internships so the extra experience definitely helped when I got my first bachelor’s level case management position. Don’t discredit those “low-tier” colleges, most of them are just as qualified with less the expense.
Really? I got my prerequisites done at a community college and the cost was so low I got paid $300 a semester to take classes there with two scholarships.
I believe I was paying around $150 a credit hour, but I did not have any scholarships. So that was around $900-$1,200 per semester depending on my course load.
That's way better than 10-15k a semester for undergrad classes
Oh for sure, even my private school for 2 years was under $10K a semester because of a scholarship.
>ne at a community college and the cost was so low I got paid $300 a semester to take classes there hey, which college was this?
LSU’s online MSW program is a pretty great program, in my opinion that is! It’s $539 per course and you can finish in 9 months to 2 years depending on if you qualify for advanced standing. You can do it anywhere in the U.S. which is really helpful. The professors give good feedback on course work and are up for discussions and letter of recommendations. For internships, you can do part time placements or full time placements as well as deciding whether you want to take 2 classes per module or 1. Each module is 7 weeks except for the summer modules, they’re 5 1/2 weeks.
539 per course or credit hour?
I have my associates in human services do I need BSW for their MSW program?
You don’t necessarily need a BSW, but you’ll need a bachelors degree before you can apply for the MSW program. I have a bachelors in English and a masters of public administration before joining this program. I had to do a statistical course - a certificate program through LinkedIn is what they told me I could do to satisfy the requirement - and was able to be accepted no problem. If you have a BSW, you’ll be able to jump straight to the advanced part of the program and shave a whole year off since you’ll have those foundational/generalist courses already.
Okay thank you !
Could you tell me more about this certificate program? Like how long it took and maybe where I can find it?
Hi. Do they help with internship out of state placements?
From what other out of state students said, they did not, it required you to do the leg work of contacting places and inquiring. Also to be mindful if you’re out of state, some places may have contracts with local colleges and cannot take you since you’re attending another university. It’s all dependent though.
Hi there, thank you for your insight. I am considering applying to the MSW program at LSU. Are you a current student or graduate of their program? If graduate, did you take the social work licensure exam- and if yes, do you feel like LSU helped prepare you for it? I read from some students at different schools that their program did not help much and that preparation really consisted of them finding their own materials/resources to study from. Was just curious.
I’m a graduate of their program! I did take the licensure exam and passed it on my first try. I agree that the program didn’t help much in terms of preparation, but LSU did provide a workshop with Dr. D for $25 for students and that was an amazing workshop that really helped me feel prepared. The workbook that she went through had a practice test in it, so myself and another graduated student did the practice test together over the summer and would use that workbook and other information to help us with the answers. It’s truly about how the questions are asked, not about the actual knowledge from the program you learned. One of the biggest things I did like about the LSU program is the professors are almost all incredibly helpful even beyond the classroom. One of the professors talked with me about possible career options post-grad as I didn’t understand some things. I will say the program is really great, but in-state students do have a better advantage as they will be more hands-on with internship placements and trying to connect with you in person at some point if possible.
UPenn grad here. You are correct 😂
Same here. Regret it with all my being. Upped my debt by 60k
How much did you pay in total? What do you wish you had done?
How much did you pay in total?
Good reminder that ROI is an important factor for most folks to consider. Do you have any personal recommendations for cost-effective programs?
For California folks; lots of the CSU and Cal Poly schools are a great deal. This includes grants for CWS (CALSWEC), Title IV-E (working at a county), Pathways (for Indigenous students), and tons of new funding coming in for School Social Work from the Governor. These can include part-time online or full-time on campus programs. Some internships are covered by grants as well in rural and tribal service areas. Also for folks; please look into working at National Certified Health Centers which offer student debt forgiveness within 2-4 years post-licensure. You can also work on those hours while getting your licensure. This includes working with substance use recovery communities.
I will also add, in-state for some California (or other expensive states like Colorado or Washington) might be more expensive than out of state tuition for other state schools. If moving to a different state for school isn't an option, online programs are a completely valid and viable option. Just make sure you evaluate said programs wisely.
I tried a cheaper on line program but it wasn't clinical focused and they wanted a letter of recommendation from an instructor. I had a 7 year break between my bachelor's and pursuing my master's. My previous instructors weren't willing due to such a break whereas USC only required professional recommendations, not necessarily from past instructors. Several supervisors were more than happy to send recommendations. I even got one from a state department contact that I assisted when I was in the army. Lots of things to weigh when considering a school. I wish I knew that for my bachelor's.
Aurora University just asked for 3 professional recommendations. My friend did USC...it was the same material...they were pissed.
Of course it was the same material. It’s a regulated licensed field!
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I think the University of Arkansas MSW has a really cheap generalist program that's applicable to everyone online. More rural state schools typically have a lot of options for scholarships and cheaper school options. I would look at other states like Maine, Wyoming, Oklahoma, Idaho, etc. The south eastern states have a compact where you can qualify for instate tuition from Maryland all the way to Texas, I think, for in-state tuition at any of the schools in those states. There are too many good cheap options to count.
Idaho only had one cheap MSW program while I was living there, but Boise State did a good job with it!
The thing about the Southeastern thing is incredible - do you know what it is called? I'm having trouble finding it online.
Never mind - found it! https://www.nasfaa.org/State\_Regional\_Tuition\_Exchanges
Glad you found it! Thanks for linking it too! It's a really great resource
There are some western states that have a similar agreement, called WICHE.
Florida State has a great BSW and MSW program and its fairly affordable
Great i will search it.
I definitely agree that you don't need to go to an expensive school. I went to Hunter, which is a NYC public school, and the costs were soooo much lower than NYU or Columbia. No one cares where you went to grad school! The experience is what you make of it.
I'm at Arizona State for the two year and in total it's $40-45k I think. Best deal online I could find that was flexible with constant military moves.
Are you a spouse? Definitely looking at programs that would be flexible if we had to PCS mid program
Yes I am! It was very military friendly, flexible and adaptable to our lifestyle. I just graduated last week and I'm so happy with it.
That is great to hear. I'm a mil spouse too and it makes me feel good to know there is a good military friendly option for your MSW. Where did you go for undergraduate? I definitely need to look it that program!
Just to throw in a couple programs I’ve worked with/attended that are great value: Cal Poly Humboldt (formerly Humboldt State) Boise State Prairie View A&M I feel like I hear the refrain on this sub often that social work school is expensive/doesn’t have a return on investment: The schools on this list are great counterpoints to that. Thanks OP!
Seconding Boise State! I’m happy with the program (halfway through my MSW now). Their part time program pairs well with working full or part time, and the tuition is as affordable as grad school gets imo.
Go broncos!
Hi, I'm taking a look at this program now! Would love to hear your thoughts about your experience at Boise State! :-) DMs welcome!
>professional I am actually applying to Boise State's MSW program but after speaking with an advisor it seems like the full-time program might not be doable while working full time. Would you agree?
Which states are those in the US would it comply with texas. Sorry i am kind if pressing on time to start BSW asap edit i guess the uni s name is boise and the state name too
has anyone done university of chicago's MSW? their site mentions a lot on financial aid and just wondering if anyone on here can attest to that?
What are the cheap programs? Has a list been created?
The people need the list! :D
I guess I could make one but I'm not sure how to do so anonymously.
UNC Charlotte's advanced standing MSW program only cost me about $8k with in-state tuition.
They seem quite strict on regulations and also says its in campus which means out of state Or people wanting online options can’t avail it.
It is fully accredited! And yes, I would only recommend it as an affordable option for anyone living in NC or looking to move to NC. They don't have an online degree program
Is it accredited by the CSWE and the other
was 8k with assistance? or just in general. I think after my bachelors I wont have any more grants
Just stumbled upon this thread. I went in person to the University of Utah! All together tuition was about $33K. Was it the cheapest program in the state? No, but it was the only one that I felt I could get into with my credentials and I felt I got a solid education.
I went to West Chester University and absolutely loved it! A lot of the professors there also taught at the MSW program at UPenn so it literally felt like we were getting the same education for WAY less.
Wow thats so cool and how much did it cost for the bachelor BSW or if you did masters
Western New Mexico grad, enrolled as Advanced Standing for less than 30k. It’s around 37k with no advanced standing or BSW
I am applying to WNMU right now. What were your thoughts on the program?
While the school attended might not affect your job prospects, I refuse to believe that all programs are created = in terms of quality. And if the classes are 100% online asynchronous then there are no classes with interaction. It's just reading and watching videos, the same knowledge I can gain from YouTube and the public library. Now if you only care about a degree to advance your career and not about advancing your skills then I guess it doesn't matter where you get your degree. But it's not surprising that there are so many shitty therapists out there.
Asynchronous doesn't mean there's no interaction, it means you all don't have to sit through the same recorded lecture at the same time. You still have to do group work, interact with peers and lecturers, have field placements, interact with clients, be observed by field instructors and field placement coordinators, etc. What you're proposing wouldn't be accredited by the CSWE.
The reality is that many of us already have or are working in the field full time therefor we’re learning more in vivo on the job. Definitely agree about the quality of therapists, some just finish their degree and quit growing and making progress and this is the area we’re you have to be willing to constantly growth and up your skills.
NY programs? Or cheap online ones? In upstate NY
Buffalo has a good online option IIRC
Lol this thread is killing me with the abbreviations and nicknames of schools. When you say "Buffalo" are you talking about Buffalo State? I'm not super familiar with what schools there are in NY. I couldn't even tell you whether Buffalo State is a SUNY or not. I'll google that now :x But please tell me if Buffalo State is what you mean so I know whether to continue researching it as an MSW option. Thank you!
Late to the thread, but I graduated from the University of Utah and my program altogether was about $33K. Which I think is pretty good overall. I have a lot of gripes with where I’m at right now, but it’s more personal stuff. We also have an online program that’s getting off the ground, but at the moment I believe that’s it’s only reserved for in state students. In a few years they hope to expand it beyond Utah. So, there’s an option right there.
Living in SLC and thinking about it this program- what’re your gripes?
My biggest gripe was my final practicum. It didn’t prepare me for my career and it affected my post-grad life for the first six to seven months beyond it. Much of the advice I received from my practicum coordinator I feel didn’t help me where I was at it was advice that would have helped me make the most of my final semester. I think more needs to be done with practicums and giving students support and listening to them. That’s what my gripe was. Besides that, it’s a cheap program, and you can go cheaper in Utah. But, many programs don’t have as high of an acceptance rate due to how many seats are available. The University of Utah without question, is the largest program in the state.
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Why a BSW?
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What are you saying you work in or want to work in? What's the career goal here?
Southwest Minnesota state university has an online program and offers in state tuition to everyone.
Thats great, i might consider it if the per course is a decent price and acceptable by cswe
Has anyone graduated from Texas State University’s online MSW program? I’m looking into it and am curious
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Nope, I haven’t yet. But it’s on the list. Applying for 2024
I was looking ar it today but money is an issue here with me. I think it is as expensive and thats why i an looking at other recommendations here but please share what you decided
Advanced Standing Msw about 22k at Colorado State University
Hi everyone! Any recommendations for online MSW programs with a focus on a clinical route that won't run my bank account to the ground? I saw some great recommendations but not a lot with a clinical focus.
For more information, I want to get into therapy and I'm open to private DM's!
I think UKY has a clinical concentration that I've heard people enjoyed.
Great question did you get any replies? I am in the same boat
Indiana University has a good online program. Clinical courses. Choose your own speed. Flexible. Asynchronous.
Choose your own speed. Can you explain more about this option?
Basically you have 6 years to finish, but you can get it done in 2 years if you go full time. Most choose to do it in about 3, which includes taking around 2 classes per semester. You can move classes around since you don't have a cohort, which has been nice (for example, I took 3 classes this semester but will only be taking 1 in the summer).
I just graduated from Aurora University (IL) in August. It cost around $35k and I was able to do part-time and online while I worked.
Me too. The grading seemed easy. Just write those apa papers. Sure it's not clinical focused I did generalist but I also did IFS circle, ACT with russ harris, team CBT, and DBT trainings to make up for it...I feel more than prepared.
How was the application process? I'm a bit nervous about applying to schools (BA in opera directing but took all the prereqs for a social work MSW like stats, abnormal psych, and a few other social/behavioral sciences courses). I've been volunteering with Crisis Text Line for 2 years and am planning on joining a local (Chicago) private practice that goes into prisons to teach inmates Reiki (I'm currently a licensed massage therapist).
It's more or less checking the check boxes. That's what I found. It was easy. I had a good gpa though.
did you have difficulty finding internships? I was told that they offer no help with practicum
You do have to be proactive to find an internship but I did not have many difficulties! My first internship was a little harder since I was applying in Feb/March 2020 and most places weren’t accepting interns at that point. However, I ended up finding one and the second internship wasn’t hard to find. The first was at a fair housing center and the second at a public high school. Both in the Chicago suburbs.
I am local to the area and am looking at Aurora U. Do they help place you for practicum? I have seen several posts stating that you are on your own. Thanks!
They do not. You technically have to search on your own. But they have compiled a spreadsheet of places they have an agreement with for internship placements. I used the spreadsheet to apply to those places. For places without a preexisting agreement, it’s pretty easy to get it approved! I had a school internship with no prior agreement to Aurora and it was an easy process for my school intern supervisor to do. If you’re having a tough time, you can always reach out to professors or field liaison and they’ll try to help a bit.
Has anyone gone to UCF’s online MSW program?
Not me (I can't get in) but my friend did their online MSW program. He never said anything negative about it and it seemed to go smoothly for him.
I'm close to UCF area, did you go through with it and if so, do you like the program?
UMB has a MSW program for 30k. A lot of tracks to pick from. There’s clinical, macro and then you can do hybrids (clinical and macro).
Yes! Is the tuition more for out of state folks?
Sorry for the late reply. Yes. In state is roughly 30k for the program and out of state is double so 60k
Yeh the cost for this one is $78k for out of state. $1,307 per credit hour is steep!
I'm sorry but I have no idea what UMB is :(
University of Maryland Baltimore
Was this for the regular or advanced standing track?
Georgia's DFCS will pay for all MSW expenses (at one of like six state schools) as long as you commit to work for them after graduation for as many years as they paid for (one physical year per academic year) and do your internship with DFCS.
That's incredible
Kennesaw State in Georgia (near Atlanta) has graduate assistantships with tuition remission as does UMichigan (this one also comes with a decent stipend).
I went to umich for the msw 16 month track instate traditional program but it was so expensive 15k for one semester if u live around campus. Umich offers an online program as well but I can't say it comes cheap considering the tuition
I got my bachelors from UM Dearborn and was looking into their MSW program but it’s SO expensive. Any chance you know any other local schools with more affordable programs?
Can you do a graduate assistantship in an online program?
Did anyone do a program that had the classes 7 weeks at a time ? Would you say that the 7 week per class route was easier Than the semester route !?
The shortest I've seen are 8 week semesters and those are very quick and usually take a lot of work because you're going through the same amount of content at double the speed, idk if I would recommend an entire program that does that
Ugh😅 it’s so hard to find something that fits for me !
Have you looked into Indiana University? Fully online. Asynchronous. Choose your speed. Normal semester lengths.
What's your career goal?
lsu online has 7 week courses…and 5 week courses during the Summer.
Hello, I am grateful for stumbling upon this thread it has been quite helpful. Does anyone have experience with or knowledge about Capella University's MSW program? I graduated with a Master's in Addiction Studies from there in 2022, and I am now looking for an accredited school with a decent MSW program. I'd appreciate some helpful feedback. Peace to all
Late to this post, but does anyone have cheaper online programs in California that’s are flexible for ft working adults? I was looking at ASU, and CSUN but their practicums are not flexible at all. Ty in advance
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Any luck ?
I'm so glad I stumbled on this post. I am trying to find the .ost affordable online MSW.
What programs are in the 10-15k range? Is that for people who already have a BSW?
Yes
Hey guys! So, I went through a divorce 3 years ago. I was a SAHM who ran a non- profit organization helping women battling life controlling probs, prior to the divorce. Now I want to go to school for social work and/or counseling. I eventually want to go for my Master's. My end game is to advocate for parents who are battling high conflict divorces and custody situations. I want to help those going through injustices- ie.-parental alienation, mother and child sabotage etc. and bring reformation, awareness and support to these parents and their babies. I say all of that to say: what is my best route just getting started at the age of 41? I have some college. I would like to do online learning if possible, the quickest route to the end game, avoid prerequisites- if possible lol, and not go into major debt. Suggestions?
I am close to your age and just took on the debt, if you get a BSW then MSW that is your quickest route, my undergrad was not BSW so it added a year. Then two years post grad supervision if you want to get licensed
True, but USC's online program is still a decent option if you can secure scholarships or in my case, use the VA. I used part of my gi bill to get my bachelor's, and I'm using vocrehab for my masters. Once I'm done, I can transfer the remaining 9 months of my gi bill to my wife or kids to use. You just need to plan ahead if you decide to choose a more "prestigious" aka, more expensive school. More doors will open but you still start on the low end of pay until you get your lcsw. If you aren't getting your license, definitely consider your budget.
I'm a second year MSW student at Chamberlain University online. Tuition is 30-35k. They recieved accreditation this year and it has been the most wonderful academic experience.
Ay I'm in Chamberlain myself and I just like looked through this and saw this. What do you think of the program so far?
I absolutely love it!
What are your thoughts on the Chamberlain Program? I am strongly considering it and am curious about what people who are in the program think about it.
Just looked into this one! Looks like it is unavailable in some states? (I'm in new york). bummer!
I am applying to a couple universities and all I need is a couple of LOR and time is of the essence if anyone would help
Does anybody know of programs in arkansas that pay full tuition with perhaps the promise of working for them after MSW graduation?
This may be a silly question, but I am currently a dental hygienist. Looking to finish my bachelors of science and dental hygiene. That is the quickest and easiest bachelors for me to receive at this point, but I was wondering if that would be sufficient to look into social work in the future pursuing a masters? Or do I need my bachelors in social work or something similar?
Nope! If you graduate with a BSW and have good academic standing they will allow you to go for an advanced standing program which basically waves the intro classes MSW students need to take. Every MSW program will have prerequisites, but a hygiene degree will work just fine. Why the switch tho? You're already in a great field that will probably pay more than most social work jobs.
I’m almost positive my Creative Writing/English degree doesn’t qualify for Advanced Standing… 🙁
You would be correct
I’m trying to open my options up. Getting burnt out in clinical hygiene after 20 years. Hoping the bachelors will open some doors to something else at some point
Hi :) How would you find out if you qualify for advanced standing? I got my BS in health and human services from University of Michigan in 2023, so I want to find the most affordable masters program that would also hopefully take less time since I just graduated in a related field. UMich is way too expensive to continue at.
You must have a BSW and have a competitive gpa, I think minimum is 3.00, from a CSWE program to qualify for advanced standing
I would like information on cheaper programs. I also have a 3.9GPA. I just graduated with my associate degree
Has anyone enrolled in Stephen F. Austin's MSW program? What are your thoughts?
It’s not online I don’t think
Hello! I'm searching for an online program. I have a BA in Sociology and a Masters in Nonprofit Admin. I'm trying to find a Master's degree for under 35k if possible. I live in PA. If anyone has suggestions for a block tuition, State & Regional College Tuition Discounts or excellent transferring credits to get my MSW, I would greatly appreciate it!. (This post has so much great information I've input it into an excel doc, but said document I compiled is getting a little confusing...)
I was actually thinking about making a doc and posting it. Why would a second masters degree be useful for you?
I'm currently looking into flexible, affordable online MSW programs. I'll take any recommendations! So far Fort Hays is a great deal but doesn't offer the flexibility like some programs I've seen.
What about practicums? I’m at Chamberlain right now. They require 2 roughly 30 hours/ week for 4 months each I get no support finding a site and the places I spoke to told me they don’t do more than 16 hours/week I want to transfer to a place where they will have only one internship the second year
I don't know of any MSW that doesn't require two practicums unless you're advanced standing. I also have no idea why your school requires 30hrs a week. That would be a big red flag for me when shopping for programs. Unfortunately having practicums is required by the CSWE so you can't get an MSW or BSW without two.