Are you interested in earning your Master of Social Work (MSW) in Massachusetts? Understanding the variety of programs and their delivery formats, curricula, cost, and requirements can help you narrow down your educational options.

This guide can help you navigate through MSW programs in Massachusetts and explore different career paths you can pursue as an MSW graduate.

The program cards/tables featured on this page were last updated in November 2022. For the most current program information, please refer to the official website of the respective school.   

Programs accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) meet the rigorous educational standards set forth by the association. CSWE-accredited programs in Massachusetts may provide opportunities to study full-time or part-time. Advanced standing programs may also be available for students who currently hold their Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree.

Learning online provides students with the flexibility to maintain jobs or other responsibilities while studying from a convenient location. Some virtual MSW programs may require students to visit campus, however, it is possible to earn a clinical MSW online without meeting in person. All programs listed below are accredited by the CSWE.

Below are online MSW programs in Massachusetts that are not included in the CSWE listings. 

Sponsored online social work programs

University of Denver

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Master of Social Work (MSW)

The University of Denver’s Online MSW Program is delivered by its top-ranked school of social work and offers two programs. Students can earn their degree in as few as 12 months for the Online Advanced-Standing MSW or 27 months for the Online MSW.

• Complete the Online Advanced-Standing MSW in as few as 12 months if you have a BSW; if you do not have a BSW, the Online MSW Program may be completed in as few as 27 months.
• No GRE Required
• Customizable pathway options include Mental Health and Trauma or Health, Equity and Wellness concentrations

Request more info from the University of Denver.

Fordham University

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Master of Social Work (MSW)

Fordham’s skills-based, online MSW program integrates advanced relevant social work competencies, preparing students to serve individuals and communities while moving the profession forward. This program includes advanced standing and traditional MSW options.

•  Traditional and advanced standing online MSW options are available.
• There are four areas of focus: Individuals and Families, Organizations and Community, Evaluation, and Policy Practice and Advocacy.
• Pursue the degree on a full-time or part-time track.

Request more info from Fordham University.

Hawaii Pacific University

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Master of Social Work

The online Master of Social Work prepares aspiring social work leaders to develop a multicultural social work practice, advocate for social and economic justice, and empower diverse communities affected by systemic inequities within civilian and military-focused areas. 

• Learn how to develop a multicultural social work practice.  
• Pending accreditation by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).
• Complete in 18 months full time, or in 36 months part time on the traditional track.
• Complete in 12 months full time or 24 months part time on the Advanced Standing Track. 

Request more info from Hawaii Pacific University.

Simmons University

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Master of Social Work (MSW)

Aspiring direct practitioners can earn their MSW online from Simmons University in as few as 9 months. GRE scores are not required, and the program offers full-time, part-time, accelerated, and advanced standing tracks.

• Prepares students to pursue licensure, including LCSW 
• Full-time, part-time, and accelerated tracks 
• Minimum completion time: 9 months

Request more info from Simmons University.

Howard University

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Master of Social Work (MSW)

The online Master of Social Work program from Howard University School of Social Work prepares students for advanced direct or macro practice in culturally diverse communities. Two concentrations available: Direct Practice and Community, Administration, and Policy Practice. No GRE. Complete in as few as 12 months.

• Concentrations: Direct Practice and Community, Administration, and Policy Practice
• Complete at least 777-1,000 hours of agency-based field education
• Earn your degree in as few as 12 months

Request more info from Howard University.

Syracuse University

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Master of Social Work (MSW)

Syracuse University’s online Master of Social Work program does not require GRE scores to apply and is focused on preparing social workers who embrace technology as an important part of the future of the profession. Traditional and Advanced Standing tracks are available.

• Traditional and Advanced Standing tracks
• No GRE required
• Concentrate your degree in integrated practice or clinical practice

Request more info from Syracuse University.

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Choosing a social work program starts with determining the type of degree you want to pursue. There are three main degrees in social work: a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), Master of Social Work (MSW) and doctoral degree in social work, which can be earned through a DSW Program. Advanced standing MSW programs provide an accelerated educational experience for students with their BSW degree.

In an undergraduate social work program, students might study research methods, social welfare policy, and social work practices. Graduate students can expand their knowledge through courses that cover specialized topics such as leadership, child welfare, organizational theory, and social influences. 

Master’s programs may also require students to participate in supervised clinical work to fulfill state social work licensure requirements. This is an important component of the steps you’ll take to become a social worker in Massachusetts.

Each MSW program will have its own admission requirements. Applicants may need to hold a BSW prior to the program, however, a bachelor’s degree in an unrelated field may be accepted for certain programs. The best place to find a full list of program requirements is the specific program website.

What can I do with an MSW degree in MA?

When you decide to earn your MSW and become a social worker, you open up a wide range of rewarding career opportunities. For instance, you may aspire to become a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and provide resources to clients with mental health or emotional conditions. 

Other social work career paths for MSW holders include:

• Military social workers: Provide support to members of the armed forces and their families.
• Medical social workers: Provide support to clients as part of a larger healthcare team.
• School social workers: Provide support to students.
• Psychiatric social workers: Provide support to clients with mental health or substance use disorder in tandem with a psychiatric team.

Social work salaries vary by employer, location, and several other factors. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for social workers was $55,350 in May 2022.

As you kick off or progress in your search for MSW programs in Massachusetts, you may have some questions. Below, we answer some common questions about MSW degree programs and careers. 

Last updated: January 2024