From renowned institutions in bustling urban centers to intimate campuses nestled in suburban communities, Maryland offers various MSW programs tailored to suit a spectrum of career aspirations and academic preferences. Whether one seeks specialization in clinical practice, policy advocacy, or community development, Maryland’s MSW offerings promise a rich tapestry of educational experiences to foster compassionate, competent, and socially conscious professionals. In this article, we delve into the landscape of MSW programs across Maryland, exploring their unique features, program structures, and the opportunities they afford to those eager to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

MSW Degree Program Requirements/Eligibility in Maryland

Maryland Traditional MSW Admissions Requirements

Traditional MSW programs (as opposed to advanced standing MSW programs) are typically reserved for students who don’t have a bachelor’s degree in social work but want to get licensed as a social worker. They typically require 60 credits of studies and a two-year commitment. Here are some admissions requirements you’ll come across in your search:

  • 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

Maryland Advanced-Standing MSW Admissions Requirements

The main difference between advanced-standing MSW programs and traditional ones is the time it takes to complete. Advanced-standing MSW programs only require a year to complete and a courseload of 35 credits. To qualify, you’ll need a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree, a 3.5 (or higher) GPA, and the admissions requirements above. Here are a few advanced standing MSW programs in Maryland:

Maryland MSW Program Tuition and Costs

As you can see in the table below, how much you’ll actually pay for MSW tuition in Maryland will depend on whether you’re a Maryland resident and the quality of education you’ll receive. Many students looking to save money on MSW programs in Maryland will establish residency beforehand or enroll in an online program. You can generally expect to pay between $15,600 and $68,620 for your total MSW tuition in Maryland.

SchoolTuition (per credit hour)Total CreditsTotal Tuition
University of Maryland$525 (Resident)
$1,143 (Non-resident)
60$31,500 (Resident)
$68,620 (Non-resident)
Morgan State University$260 (Resident)
$930 (Non-resident)
60$15,600 (Resident)
$55,800 (Non-resident)
Salisbury University$775 (Online)62$48,050 (Online)

Are Online MSW Programs in Maryland as Good as Campus-Based?

While the face-to-face interaction of in-person programs is still a big draw for many, the flexibility and convenience of online MSW programs is a significant advantage.

Traditional MSW vs. Online MSW Programs in Maryland

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

MSW students looking to get licensed will need to make sure that their program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). If the program is not accredited, they will not be eligible for licensure.

Learn more about Social Work Degree Options:

Getting Your Maryland Social Work License

To become licensed in Maryland, you’ll need to make sure you follow the required trajectory. Check out Maryland’s specific social work licensure requirements in our Guide to Social Work Licensing.

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 Maryland

Baltimore, MD

Master's Programs
4501 N Charles St
Baltimore, MD 21210-2699
(410) 617-2000

Master's Programs
1700 East Cold Spring Lane
Baltimore, MD 21251-0001
(443) 885-3333

Master's Programs
1000 Hilltop Circle
Baltimore, MD 21250
(410) 455-1000

Salisbury, MD

Master's Programs
1101 Camden Ave
Salisbury, MD 21801-6862
(410) 543-6000

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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