From Albany to New York City, New York state has several universities that offer MSW programs, many of which offer concentrations for students interested in specialty areas. This resource provides information on MSW programs in New York that are accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) and offer advanced-standing enrollment opportunities to Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) graduates. Learn more about selecting an MSW program to help prepare you for a career in social work as a licensed master social worker (LMSW) or licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in New York.

Prospective social work students can choose from a range of degree programs throughout the state. From well-known schools in New York City to flexible programs in upstate New York, individuals have the choice to stay local or move to a different part of the state to pursue their degree online and in person. They may have to complete prerequisites and/or send in recommendations and GRE test scores as part of their application.

In addition to learning organizational theory and leadership skills, social work students can specialize in topics like addiction, child welfare and geriatrics. Students can earn an associate, bachelor’s, master’s or doctorate degree in social work from programs in New York.

Online social work degree programs often provide greater flexibility compared to traditional on-campus learning options. To complete supervised clinical training, your school may require you to live within a certain distance of campus, so keep that in mind when you apply.

A CSWE-accredited university with an MSW program in New York can help you develop the skills you need to become a social worker in New York. You will also complete the required clinical training and prepare for your Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) test to obtain a license. Programs include:

With an online MSW program, students may take classes at certain times of the week. For example, some schools may offer classes in the evenings to accommodate students working full-time jobs. Flexible social work programs allow you to complete your MSW coursework from anywhere, but usually require candidates to complete in-person clinical hours which are essential for licensure.

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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Learn more about MSW programs:

Applicants for advanced standing social work programs at New York universities must have earned a BSW from a program accredited by the CSWE.

Similar to other graduate degree programs, many MSW programs in New York may require letters of recommendation, a personal statement or essay, field experience, official transcripts and a minimum GPA. To learn more about an MSW program and its prerequisites, visit the school’s website or reach out to an admissions advisor.

Some MSW programs in New York offer specializations or concentrations in one or more facets of social work. MSW students typically complete a foundational year or curriculum, regardless of their chosen specialization. Requirements for traditional programs may include coursework in:

If you choose to specialize when earning your MSW degree, you can expect coursework in your second year to hone in on your chosen area of expertise, along with field internships. Curriculum can vary, so be sure to check with your preferred university for more information.

What Can I Do With an MSW Degree in New York?

As of May 2022, there are more than 63,000 social workers in New York. This includes child, family and school social workers; healthcare social workers; mental health and substance abuse social workers; and others, as defined by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). In addition, there are also 1,730 post-secondary social work teachers, or professors of social work.

By earning an MSW degree in New York, you can pursue licensure as an LMSW or prepare to become an LCSW. The CSWE reports that in 2021, New York accounted for 11% of all MSW students (PDF, 3.1 MB), second highest of all states, and it had the highest number of graduates in the country with 44.4%.

MSW graduates in New York may pursue social work careers such as a school social worker in the New York State Education Department (NYSED) or a military social worker at one of the state’s military bases or with the Veterans Mental Health Training Initiative. Learn how to become a social worker and the various opportunities in the field. More specifically, learn about how to become a social worker in New York, as well as pursuing social work licensure.

Last updated October 2023.