MSW Programs in Arizona: Online & Campus Degrees

Exploring the realm of Social Work, primarily through Master of Social Work (MSW) programs, opens the doors to many opportunities for personal growth and professional impact. Arizona is a vibrant hub for MSW education, offering diverse programs tailored to individual needs and career aspirations. Whether you’re considering traditional pathways or embracing the flexibility of online learning, understanding the landscape of MSW programs in Arizona is pivotal.
Join us as we navigate through the nuances of MSW education in Arizona, empowering you to make informed decisions and chart your course toward a fulfilling career in social work. Discover the programs, weigh the options, and embark on a transformative educational journey in the heart of the Southwest.
2025 Best MSW Programs in Arizona
Looking for the best MSW programs in Arizona? counselingpsychology.org has ranked the top options to help you find the right fit. Our list focuses on quality, affordability, and student success. Whether you're starting your career or advancing it, these programs stand out. We've done the research so you can make an informed choice. Learn more about how we ranked these programs here.
Arizona State University Digital Immersion
Scottsdale, AZ - Public 4-Year - asu.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Advanced Generalist - Online Learning - Visit Website
Arizona State University's online Master of Social Work (MSW) empowers students to create meaningful social change by developing advanced skills in direct practice, policy development, and community organization. This comprehensive program prepares professionals to work with diverse populations, addressing complex social challenges through culturally-informed, ethical interventions. Students complete 960 hours of practical experience across two internships, gaining hands-on expertise in real-world settings. Competitive applicants typically need a 3.00 GPA and must submit academic transcripts, professional recommendations, and documented social service experience.
- Fully online MSW program
- 60 total credit hours
- 20 total classes
- 7.5 weeks per class
- Next start date: 08/21/2025
- CSWE accredited program
- 960 hours practical experience
- Advanced generalist curriculum
- Competitive GPA requirement: 3.00
- Three recommendation letters required
- Social work experience prerequisite
- Two-year standard program length
- Advanced standing option available
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Policy, Administration and Community Practice - Online Learning - Visit Website
Arizona State University's Master of Social Work (MSW) program offers a comprehensive, flexible pathway for aspiring social work professionals. Ranked No. 20 by U.S. News & World Report, this program prepares students to address complex social challenges through advanced practice, policy change, and community engagement. With options for campus immersion and digital learning, students can complete the program in two or three years. The curriculum covers foundational skills, specialized practice knowledge, and includes practicum experiences, making graduates competitive for diverse roles in social services, healthcare, and community organizations.
- MSW program ranked #20 nationally
- Two or three-year completion options
- CSWE accredited program
- Campus and online learning formats
- 51-60 credit hour paths available
- Multiple specialization tracks
- Advanced practice concentrations
- Minimum 3.00 GPA requirement
- Fall and spring application sessions
- Application deadline: June 1 (Fall)
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Advanced Direct Practice - Online Learning - Visit Website
Arizona State University's Master of Social Work (MSW) program offers a transformative educational experience for aspiring social work professionals. Ranked No. 20 for best graduate social work programs, the program provides comprehensive training in direct practice, policy, and community engagement. Students can complete the program in two or three years, choosing between standard and advanced generalist tracks. With a strong focus on social justice and professional licensure preparation, graduates are equipped to make meaningful impacts across diverse social service settings.
- MSW program ranked #20 nationally
- Two or three-year completion options
- Standard and advanced generalist tracks
- CSWE accredited program
- Multiple campus and online options
- Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
- Requires 51-60 credit hours
- Professional licensure preparation
- Multiple practicum placements
- Fall and spring application deadlines
Arizona State University Campus Immersion
Tempe, AZ - Public 4-Year - asu.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)
Concentration: Policy, Administration and Community Practice - Campus Based - Visit Website
Arizona State University's Master of Social Work (MSW) offers flexible pathways for aspiring social work professionals, including on-campus and online options. Students can choose between Advanced Standing and Standard programs with specializations in Policy, Administration, Community Practice, and Advanced Direct Practice. The comprehensive curriculum prepares graduates for meaningful careers, with robust internship experiences and strong accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education.
- Multiple campus locations: Phoenix, Tucson, Yuma
- Advanced Standing and Standard MSW options
- One-year and two-three year formats
- Online and on-campus learning
- CSWE Accredited Program
- Specializations: Policy, Direct Practice
- Two 480-hour internships required
- Minimum 3.2 GPA for Advanced Standing
- Concurrent degree options available
- Online asynchronous and synchronous formats
Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)
Concentration: Advanced Direct Practice - Campus Based - Visit Website
Arizona State University's Master of Social Work (MSW) offers flexible pathways for aspiring social work professionals, with on-campus and online options across multiple Arizona locations. Students can choose from Advanced Standing, Standard, and Concurrent programs, specializing in Policy, Administration, Community Practice, or Advanced Direct Practice. The comprehensive curriculum prepares graduates for advanced social work roles, with robust internship experiences and professional licensure preparation.
- Multiple MSW program formats
- On-campus and online options
- Advanced Standing, Standard, Concurrent programs
- Two to three-year completion time
- CSWE accredited program
- 480-hour internship requirements
- Three specialization tracks
- Campus locations: Phoenix, Tucson, Yuma
- Advanced Standing requires 3.2 GPA
- Licensure through Arizona Board
Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)
Concentration: Advanced Generalist - Campus Based - Visit Website
Arizona State University's Master of Social Work (MSW) offers flexible pathways for aspiring social work professionals, with on-campus and online options. Students can choose from Advanced Standing, Standard, and concurrent programs across multiple campuses. The curriculum provides specialized concentrations in Policy, Administration, Community Practice, and Advanced Direct Practice, preparing graduates for impactful careers in social services with comprehensive training and professional credentials.
- CSWE Accredited Program
- On-campus and online options
- Multiple campus locations
- Advanced Standing Program
- Two-year or three-year formats
- Specialization options available
- Synchronous and asynchronous online
- Concurrent degree opportunities
- 480-hour internship requirements
- May and August start dates
- 3.2 GPA minimum requirement
- Downtown Phoenix campus
- Tucson and Yuma locations
- Licensure preparation
MSW Degree Program Requirements/Eligibility in Arizona
Arizona Traditional MSW Admissions Requirements
Arizona’s traditional MSW programs typically include 60 credits and require about two years of full-time study. Many students who apply to these programs don’t have a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) but rather a bachelor’s degree in other subjects. Admission requirements may vary among institutions but commonly include:
- Completion of a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution, often in psychology or a related field.
- Minimum GPA requirement, typically around 3.0.
- Submission of letters of recommendation.
- Personal statement or essay.
- Resume or CV highlighting relevant experience.
- Completion of prerequisite coursework (e.g., psychology, sociology, human services).
- GRE scores (some programs may waive this requirement).
- Interview (part of the application process for select programs).
- Background check and/or fingerprinting.
Arizona Advanced-Standing MSW Admissions Requirements:
If you do have a BSW, you’ve probably heard of Advanced-Standing MSW degrees. These programs allow students who already have their BSW to get their MSW in as little as a year. In addition to your BSW, the only other requirement these programs will ask for is a GPA of 3.5 or higher. Here are a few schools in Arizona that offer them:
- Arizona State Univerisity – visit site
- Northern Arizona University – visit site
- Grand Canyon University – visit site
RELATED: Learn more about Social Work Salaries
Arizona MSW Program Tuition and Costs
Arizona MSW programs’ average per credit hour cost is $607, translating to an average of $41,184 for the total tuition paid. While this may seem a little high at first glance, it can be a great idea to look into online MSW programs or state schools if you’re looking to reduce costs. Take a look at the full range of tuition costs below:
School | Tuition (per credit hour) | Total Credits | Total Tuition |
Arizona State University | $819 (Online) | 60 | $37,918 |
Northern Arizona University | $395 (Resident) $977 (Nonresident) $610 (Online) | 60 | $23,692 (Resident) $58,676 (Nonresident) $36,600 (Online) |
Grand Canyon University | $575 (Online) $550 (On-Campus) | 62 | $34,500 (Online) $33,000 (On-Campus) |
Are Online MSW Programs in Arizona as Good as Campus-Based?
Whether or not an online program is right for you depends entirely on your specific needs. Take a look at the table below to find out if an online MSW is suitable for you.
Traditional MSW vs. Online MSW Programs in Arizona
Traditional MSW Programs | Online MSW Programs | |
Format | In-person classes | Online classes with some in-person requirements |
Flexibility | Limited scheduling options | More flexibility in scheduling, often part-time options |
Location | Geographically limited | Accessible from anywhere with internet connectivity |
Learning Environment | Classroom-based | Virtual classroom, discussion boards, and online resources |
Networking | Local networking opportunities | Networking with students and professionals from diverse locations |
Cost | Tuition, commuting, and relocation expenses | Generally lower tuition and flexibility to continue working |
Hands-on Experience | Field placements and internships | Virtual or field placements and internships arranged in the student's local area |
Regardless of your decision, you’ll want to ensure that your MSW program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). If an MSW program isn’t accredited, you won’t be eligible for licensure upon graduation.
Learn more about Social Work Degree Options:
- Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)
- Master of Social Work (MSW)
- Graduate Certificate in Social Work
- Doctorate of Social Work (DSW)
Getting Your Arizona Social Work License
One of the many perks of obtaining an MSW is that you’ll be able to get licensed. Learn more about how to get your social worker license in Arizona.
Popular Social Work Careers
Discover the specializations available to you within social work. These social work careers can help you work with diverse populations in a variety of environments.

School Social Worker
School social workers provide counseling, support, and advocacy for students facing social, emotional, or behavioral challenges. They collaborate with teachers, parents, and other professionals to develop student success strategies, provide crisis intervention, and facilitate support groups.
Healthcare Social Worker
Healthcare social workers assess patients' social, emotional, and practical needs. They provide counseling and support, coordinate care with healthcare providers, advocate for patients' rights, and connect patients and their families with community resources to ensure holistic and comprehensive care.
Court Social Worker
Court social workers assess the needs of individuals involved in court cases. They develop intervention plans, provide counseling and support, monitor progress in court-ordered programs, collaborate with legal professionals, and advocate for clients' best interests in legal proceedings.