Below is a curated list of 10 prominent universities in the USA offering online Master of Social Work (MSW) programs. These programs are accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) and cater to both traditional and advanced-standing students. Each entry includes an overview of the university, contact details, website links, tuition fees, and a brief history.
1. University of Southern California (USC)
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Tuition: $85,000 (approx.)
Website: USC MSW
Contact: +1 (213) 740-2013
USC’s MSW program is known for its small faculty-student ratio and robust alumni support. Established in 1880, USC has grown into a leader in professional education, offering multiple tracks for MSW students.
2. Columbia University
Location: New York, NY
Tuition: $66,943 to $78,491
Website: Columbia MSW
Contact: +1 (212) 851-2300
Founded in 1898, Columbia’s School of Social Work offers multiple paths for MSW students, including full-time and part-time options. It provides students access to dual-degree programs and concentrations like Policy Practice.
3. Fordham University
Location: New York, NY
Tuition: $32,000 – $50,000 (varies by track)
Website: Fordham MSW
Contact: +1 (212) 636-6600
Fordham was founded in 1841 as a Jesuit university. Its MSW program emphasizes social change, preparing students for careers in advocacy and clinical practice with an online learning structure that suits working professionals.
4. University at Buffalo (SUNY)
Location: Buffalo, NY
Tuition: $25,000 – $30,000
Website: Buffalo MSW
Contact: +1 (716) 645-3381
Established in 1846, this public university offers online MSW tracks tailored for part-time students. The program emphasizes field placements and social justice education.
5. Arizona State University (ASU)
Location: Tempe, AZ
Tuition: $35,000
Website: ASU MSW
Contact: +1 (480) 965-6666
Founded in 1885, ASU offers an online MSW program with a focus on behavioral health and community practice. It features an advanced standing track for students with prior social work education.
6. University of Denver
Location: Denver, CO
Tuition: $57,000
Website: Denver MSW
Contact: +1 (303) 871-2886
The University of Denver, established in 1864, provides an MSW program with various concentrations. Students can select full-time or part-time schedules and participate in virtual practicums.
7. Simmons University
Location: Boston, MA
Tuition: $67,000
Website: Simmons MSW
Contact: +1 (617) 521-2001
Simmons, founded in 1899, offers an MSW program focusing on clinical social work. It allows students to complete the degree entirely online with support for licensure preparation.
8. University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Location: Knoxville, TN
Tuition: $39,000
Website: Tennessee MSW
Contact: +1 (865) 974-3351
Founded in 1794, this university offers online MSW tracks with a strong emphasis on trauma-informed care. The flexible structure suits working professionals across the U.S.
9. University of New Hampshire (UNH)
Location: Durham, NH
Tuition: $29,000 – $33,000
Website: UNH MSW
Contact: +1 (603) 862-1234
UNH, established in 1866, provides fully online MSW programs with concentrations in macro and micro social work practice. It is particularly known for community-engaged learning.
10. Fort Hays State University
Location: Hays, KS
Tuition: $15,000 – $20,000
Website: FHSU MSW
Contact: +1 (785) 628-4000
Founded in 1902, FHSU offers an affordable MSW program. The online degree includes both traditional and advanced standing tracks, with a focus on rural social work practice.