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.

1.

University of Georgia

Athens, GA

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.

2.

Georgia State University

Atlanta, GA

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.

3.

Clark Atlanta University

Atlanta, GA

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:

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:

SchoolTuition (per credit hour)Total CreditsTotal 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 ProgramsOnline MSW Programs
FormatIn-person classesOnline classes with some in-person requirements
FlexibilityLimited scheduling optionsMore flexibility in scheduling, often part-time options
LocationGeographically limitedAccessible from anywhere with internet connectivity
Learning EnvironmentClassroom-basedVirtual classroom, discussion boards, and online resources
NetworkingLocal networking opportunitiesNetworking with students and professionals from diverse locations
CostTuition, commuting, and relocation expensesGenerally lower tuition and flexibility to continue working
Hands-on ExperienceField placements and internshipsVirtual 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:

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.

Female social worker talking with elderly female woman

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

Master's Programs
Administration Building
Athens, GA 30602
(706) 542-3000

Atlanta, GA

Master's Programs
223 James P Brawley Drive, SW
Atlanta, GA 30314-4391
(404) 880-8000

Master's Programs
33 gilmer st
Atlanta, GA 30303-3083
(404) 413-2000

Kennesaw, GA

Master's Programs
1000 Chastain Rd
Kennesaw, GA 30144
(470) 578-6000

Savannah, GA

Master's Programs
709 Mall Blvd
Savannah, GA 31406
(888) 444-3404

Valdosta, GA

1500 N Patterson St
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.

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