Best MSW Programs in Georgia 2024: Online & Campus
Navigating the realm of Master of Social Work (MSW) programs in Georgia offers prospective students a spectrum of opportunities for academic and professional growth. As one of the dynamic states in the United States, Georgia boasts a diverse landscape of educational institutions, each offering unique curricula, specializations, and experiential learning opportunities tailored to meet the evolving demands of the field. From the vibrant city life of Atlanta to the serene landscapes of its countryside, Georgia’s MSW programs cater to many interests and career aspirations within the realm of social work. Embarking on a journey to explore these programs unveils a tapestry of possibilities, empowering individuals to pursue their passion for social justice and community advocacy in one of the South’s most dynamic states.
2024 - Best MSW Programs in Georgia
Discover CounselingPsychology.org's rankings of the top MSW programs in Georgia, meticulously crafted to showcase excellence. Our methodology considers completion rates, cost of living, institutional competitiveness, program diversity, and faculty experience, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation. Explore our ranking process on our methodology page for a detailed understanding. Learn more about our methodology.
University of Georgia
University of Georgia's Master of Social Work (MSW) program offers specialized tracks in Clinical Practice and Community Empowerment and Program Development. With options for both on-campus and online study, students engage in hands-on field experiences and research opportunities. Prepare for impactful careers in social work with UGA's comprehensive curriculum.
Georgia State University
Georgia State University's Master of Social Work (MSW) program is designed to prepare students for impactful careers in social work. With a focus on clinical practice and community partnerships, students engage in hands-on field experiences and research opportunities. They also benefit from flexible scheduling options and personalized mentorship. Prepare to make a difference with GSU's comprehensive curriculum.
Clark Atlanta University
Clark Atlanta University's Graduate Program in Social Work offers a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree. With a focus on clinical practice and community development, students engage in hands-on field experiences and research opportunities. Benefit from small class sizes and personalized mentorship. Prepare for impactful careers in social work with CAU's comprehensive curriculum.
MSW Degree Program Requirements/Eligibility in Georgia
Georgia Traditional MSW Admissions Requirements
Traditional MSW degrees typically span over two years and require the completion of 60 credits. Unless they already have a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), most social work majors must enroll in a traditional MSW program. To apply, schools will typically require the following:
- Bachelor’s degree, typically in psychology or a related area, from a regionally accredited institution
- Minimum GPA requirement (typically around 3.0)
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement or essay
- Resume or CV outlining relevant experience
- Completion of prerequisite courses (such as psychology, sociology, or human services)
- GRE scores (some programs may waive this requirement)
- Interview (some programs may require an interview as part of the application process)
- Background check and/or fingerprinting
Georgia Advanced-Standing MSW Admissions Requirements
If you do have a BSW already and you have a GPA of 3.5 or higher, you’ll want to apply for an advanced standing MSW program, which takes about half the time and requires significantly fewer credits. All the application requirements listed above will also be required when applying to these programs. Here are a few advanced standing MSW programs available in Georgia:
- University of Georgia – visit site
- Georgia State University – visit site
- Valdosta State University — visit site
RELATED: Learn more about Social Work Salaries
Georgia MSW Program Tuition and Costs
Georgia is home to some of the country’s most expensive and most affordable social work degree programs. For those residing in the state, you will be eligible to enroll in many decent programs at a reasonable price, such as the $9,372 MSW program offered at Savannah State University. For those looking to invest, you could be looking at upwards of $62,000 or more. Take a look at a few examples of MSW tuition costs in the State of Georgia below:
School | Tuition (per credit hour) | Total Credits | Total Tuition |
University of Georgia | $289 (Resident) $821 (Non-resident) | 60 | $17,364 (Resident) $49,260 (Non-resident) |
Georgia State University | $362 (Resident) $1,048 (Non-resident) | 60 | $21,744 (Resident) $62,864 (Non-resident) |
Savannah State University | $156 (Resident) $581 (Non-resident) | 60 | $9,372 (Resident) $34,836 (Non-resident) |
Are Online MSW Programs in Georgia as Good as Campus-Based?
Many students have come to appreciate the flexibility offered by online MSW programs, but that doesn’t mean they’re right for everyone. Consider the various factors below.
Traditional MSW vs. Online MSW Programs in Georgia
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 |
When you apply to MSW programs, ensure that it’s accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). This is required of all MSW programs that lead to licensure.
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 Georgia Social Work License
All social workers working in a clinical setting will need to become licensed. Georgia has its own specific requirements for licensure. Learn more about how to get your social worker license in Georgia.
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.
List of MSW Degree Programs in Georgia
Athens, GA
University of Georgia
- Master of Social Work (MSW) Online
Athens, GA 30602
(706) 542-3000
Atlanta, GA
Clark Atlanta University
- Master of Social Work (MSW) Campus
Atlanta, GA 30314-4391
(404) 880-8000
Georgia State University
- Master of Social Work (MSW) Online
Atlanta, GA 30303-3083
(404) 413-2000
Kennesaw, GA
Kennesaw State University
- Master of Social Work (MSW) Campus
Kennesaw, GA 30144
(470) 578-6000
Savannah, GA
South University-Savannah Online
- Master of Social Work (MSW) Campus
Savannah, GA 31406
(888) 444-3404
Valdosta, GA
Valdosta State University
Valdosta, GA 31698
(229) 333-5800
Are we missing your school's program or need to update information listed? Please contact us so we can make the necessary changes.