Master of Social Work (MSW) programs in Texas (TX) – online and on-campus

Do you want to provide support to communities and people in need? Social workers help people overcome challenges, address trauma or significant life changes, and improve their quality of life through mental and emotional support.

To obtain any of the three social work licenses offered by the Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council, applicants must have at least a Bachelor’s of Social Work (BSW). However, gaining licensure as a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) or Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) requires a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree.

With your MSW, you can find work in education, healthcare, substance abuse, child and family services, or the clinical sector. Ready to start or advance your social work career? This guide highlights both online and in-person MSW programs in Texas that can help you prepare to start or advance your social work career.

Master of Social Work (MSW) programs in Texas 

Attending an MSW program in Texas can help students fulfill the educational requirements associated with social work licensure. Schools that offer in-person instruction include:

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.

Online MSW programs in Texas

Looking for a more flexible MSW option? Online master’s in social work programs allow students to learn from anywhere. Some programs may offer advanced standing MSW tracks, which are designed for individuals who have obtained their bachelor of social work (BSW) degree. You can also explore MSW programs with no GRE requirement.

Deciding on the right online MSW program will depend on your current experience and professional goals. For instance, students interested in becoming an LCSW and working in a mental health setting can attend an LCSW program that meets the educational requirements for licensure.

Schools offering online MSW programs in Texas include: 

Sponsored Online MSW Programs

University of Denver

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Master of Social Work (MSW)

The University of Denver’s online Master of Social Work program is CSWE-accredited and allowing students to customize their own MSW Pathways. GRE scores are not required.

  • Complete the online MSW program in as few as 12 months if you have a BSW; if you do not have a BSW, the program may be completed in as few as 21 months.
  • GRE scores are not required to apply.
  • Customize your own Pathway to your interests.

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

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 
  • Accredited by the CSWE
  • No GRE scores required for admission
  • Minimum completion time: 9 months

Howard University

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Master of Social Work (MSW)

Earn your Master of Social Work (MSW) from the #2-ranked HBCU (U.S. News & World Report, 2025) and the #12- ranked social work school (U.S. News & World Report, 2024). The Howard University School of Social Work offers an online MSW for aspiring advanced-practice social workers. Attend live, online classes and complete field education in your community. No GRE required.

  • Traditional MSW (60 credits): Complete part-time in as few as 36 months. Complete full-time in as few as 16 months.
  • Advanced Standing MSW (45 credits): Complete part-time in as few as 24 months. Complete full-time in as few as 12 months.
  • 777–1,000 field education hours.
  • Two start dates (January and September).

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.  
  • Accredited 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. 

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Social work degree programs in Texas

The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) is the national accrediting body for on-campus and online social work programs. This includes both social work bachelor’s degree programs, as well as more advanced options for students interested in social work master’s degrees.

During undergraduate social work studies, students may explore research strategies, social welfare policy, and general social work practices. From there, they can deepen their knowledge in an MSW program, which may offer courses in leadership, child welfare, organizational theory, and social influences. These advanced programs may also offer opportunities to specialize in various social work areas.

Obtaining social work licensure in Texas may involve completing a set number of clinical hours, where you can demonstrate your knowledge in a real-world setting. A social work master’s degree program may build these opportunities into their curricula. Be sure to check with the programs you’re interested in to understand the requirements.

Educational requirements

Before you pursue your Master of Social Work and become a social worker in Texas, you’ll need to complete an undergraduate degree. While many MSW programs accept applicants with a bachelor’s degree in any discipline, students with their Bachelor of Social Work may be eligible for advanced standing master’s programs, which allows them to earn their degree more quickly.

Curriculum

MSW programs may offer both generalist and specialist options. The track that you choose will dictate the full curriculum you can expect, however, foundational courses may cover:

  • Human behavior and the social environment
  • Clinical social work practice
  • Community organizing and development
  • Trauma-informed care
  • Leadership in social work organizations

MSW programs might also require students to complete a considerable number of field work hours. Field work gives students the opportunity to bridge the gap between knowledge and experience and put what they have learned into practice.

What can I do with an MSW degree in TX?

The social work career opportunities available to those with an MSW are vast, with several specializations to choose from. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for social workers was $61,330 in May 2024. 

While your day-to-day duties will vary depending on your role and industry, many social work careers blend office and field work. Some common social work roles include:

By becoming a social worker, you’ll be entering a field poised for growth. Between 2024 and 2034, the BLS projects that social work employment will increase by 6%. This growth will vary between specializations:

  • Child, family, and school social workers: 3%
  • Healthcare social workers: 8% 
  • Mental health and substance abuse social workers: 10%

FAQs

Which school has the best MSW program in Texas (TX)?

Choosing the right program depends on your goals and needs as a student. Consider factors such as whether you prefer in-person or online learning, how much time you can commit to a program, and your existing undergraduate degree. Once you define your criteria, you can narrow your options and select a program that meets your needs.

What is the typical cost of an MSW program in TX?

The cost of an MST program in Texas will vary depending on the program length, modality, and institution. Students seeking financial assistance can explore online resources or visit their program’s website to learn more about social work scholarships and payment plan options.

Is a career in social work worth it?

You may find that becoming a social worker after obtaining an MSW is worth it if you have an interest in helping others through challenging circumstances. There are many social work career paths to choose from, including clinical, administrative, and leadership roles.

How long does it take to become a social worker in Texas?

To become a social worker in Texas, you will need to first obtain an undergraduate degree, such as your bachelor’s in social work (BSW). This can take between two and four years to complete, however, timelines can vary. While it is possible to be hired as a social worker with your BSW, you can expand your professional options by earning your MSW. Completing your program and required clinical hours, obtaining work experience, and earning state licensure may take eight years or longer.

Information last updated: January 2026