Pursuing a Master of Social Work (MSW) can be a transformative step toward making a difference in society. For aspiring social workers, financial constraints can pose significant challenges. Fortunately, many universities in the USA offer free scholarships for online MSW programs. Here’s a list of ten such institutions, detailing their history, charges, and scholarship opportunities.
1. University of Southern California (USC)
History
Founded in 1880, the University of Southern California is the oldest private research university in California. USC has a rich tradition of academic excellence, innovation, and community service, contributing significantly to the fields of social work, education, and research.
Charges
- Tuition: Approximately $1,733 per unit.
- Total Credits: 60-80 credits for the MSW.
Scholarships
USC offers various scholarships, including the USC Social Work Scholarship, which provides significant financial support to eligible students.
Contact Details
- Address: 3502 Watt Way, Los Angeles, CA 90089
- Phone: (213) 740-2013
- Website: USC School of Social Work
2. University of Michigan
History
Established in 1817, the University of Michigan is known for its commitment to academic excellence and research. Its School of Social Work, founded in 1921, has been a leader in social work education and community engagement.
Charges
- Tuition: Approximately $1,800 per credit hour.
- Total Credits: 60 credits for the MSW.
Scholarships
The university provides multiple scholarships, including the Michigan Social Work Scholarship, aimed at supporting students pursuing their MSW online.
Contact Details
- Address: 1080 S University Ave, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
- Phone: (734) 763-5990
- Website: University of Michigan School of Social Work
3. Boston University
History
Founded in 1839, Boston University has evolved into one of the largest independent universities in the United States. Its School of Social Work has a history of promoting social justice and community welfare through innovative programs.
Charges
- Tuition: Approximately $1,574 per credit hour.
- Total Credits: 60 credits for the MSW.
Scholarships
Boston University offers various scholarships, including the Social Work Scholarship, which provides financial aid to qualified online students.
Contact Details
- Address: 264 Bay State Rd, Boston, MA 02215
- Phone: (617) 353-3750
- Website: Boston University School of Social Work
4. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
History
Established in 1789, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is the oldest public university in the United States. The School of Social Work, founded in 1966, is dedicated to advancing the field through education, research, and community involvement.
Charges
- Tuition: Approximately $878 per credit hour for residents and $2,519 for non-residents.
- Total Credits: 60 credits for the MSW.
Scholarships
UNC offers the Social Work Graduate Scholarship for students enrolled in online programs, focusing on those with financial need.
Contact Details
- Address: 325 Pittsboro St, Chapel Hill, NC 27599
- Phone: (919) 966-5116
- Website: UNC School of Social Work
5. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
History
Founded in 1867, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is a prominent research university. Its School of Social Work has been at the forefront of social work education and practice since its establishment in 1965.
Charges
- Tuition: Approximately $1,125 per credit hour.
- Total Credits: 60 credits for the MSW.
Scholarships
The university offers the Illinois Social Work Scholarship, which assists students in covering tuition and other educational expenses.
Contact Details
- Address: 1207 W Oregon St, Urbana, IL 61801
- Phone: (217) 333-2261
- Website: UIUC School of Social Work
6. University of Washington
History
Founded in 1861, the University of Washington is one of the oldest universities on the West Coast. The School of Social Work, established in 1969, is known for its strong emphasis on community outreach and innovative research in social welfare.
Charges
- Tuition: Approximately $1,280 per credit hour.
- Total Credits: 60 credits for the MSW.
Scholarships
The university provides several scholarships, including the Washington Social Work Scholarship, aimed at supporting online students.
Contact Details
- Address: 4101 15th Ave NE, Seattle, WA 98195
- Phone: (206) 543-5686
- Website: UW School of Social Work
7. Fordham University
History
Founded in 1841, Fordham University is a private research university in New York City. The Graduate School of Social Service was established in 1965 and has been influential in advancing social work education and practice.
Charges
- Tuition: Approximately $1,130 per credit hour.
- Total Credits: 60 credits for the MSW.
Scholarships
Fordham offers various scholarships, including the Graduate School of Social Service Scholarships, which support students in need.
Contact Details
- Address: 113 W 60th St, New York, NY 10023
- Phone: (212) 636-6600
- Website: Fordham University Graduate School of Social Service
8. Arizona State University
History
Founded in 1885, Arizona State University has grown into one of the largest public universities in the U.S. Its School of Social Work has been committed to social justice and innovative education since its establishment.
Charges
- Tuition: Approximately $1,050 per credit hour.
- Total Credits: 60 credits for the MSW.
Scholarships
ASU provides multiple scholarship opportunities, including the Social Work Scholarship, which supports online MSW students.
Contact Details
- Address: 411 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85004
- Phone: (480) 965-5432
- Website: ASU School of Social Work
9. Simmons University
History
Simmons University, founded in 1899, is known for its commitment to women’s education and social responsibility. Its School of Social Work, established in 1904, has a long history of preparing students for impactful careers in social work.
Charges
- Tuition: Approximately $1,250 per credit hour.
- Total Credits: 60 credits for the MSW.
Scholarships
Simmons offers several scholarships, including the Simmons School of Social Work Scholarships, which assist eligible online students.
Contact Details
- Address: 300 The Fenway, Boston, MA 02115
- Phone: (617) 521-2000
- Website: Simmons School of Social Work
10. Columbia University
History
Columbia University, founded in 1754, is one of the oldest institutions of higher education in the U.S. Its School of Social Work, established in 1898, has been a pioneer in social work education and research, focusing on social justice and community service.
Charges
- Tuition: Approximately $1,740 per credit hour.
- Total Credits: 60 credits for the MSW.
Scholarships
Columbia provides numerous scholarships, including the Columbia Social Work Scholarships, designed to support online students in need.
Contact Details
- Address: 1255 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10027
- Phone: (212) 851-2400
- Website: Columbia School of Social Work