In recent years, Mississippi has witnessed a burgeoning interest in Master of Social Work (MSW) programs, reflecting a growing recognition of social workers’ pivotal role in addressing the diverse and complex needs of individuals, families, and communities. As the state grapples with various social, economic, and health disparities, MSW programs have emerged as vital conduits for preparing compassionate and skilled professionals equipped to effect positive change. Against this backdrop, exploring the landscape of MSW programs in Mississippi unveils a rich tapestry of educational opportunities, each uniquely tailored to meet the evolving demands of the field while nurturing the next generation of empathetic and competent social work practitioners.

MSW Degree Program Requirements/Eligibility in Mississippi

Mississippi Traditional MSW Admissions Requirements

If you want to enter the social work field for the first time, you’ll need to enroll in a traditional MSW. These programs are geared toward students who have a bachelor’s degree, but not a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW). Traditional MSW programs take around two years to complete and require the completion of approximately 60 credits. Here is a general list of admissions requirements:

  • 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

Mississippi Advanced-Standing MSW Admissions Requirements

Advanced-standing students can complete their MSW in as little as one year and 35 credits. To take advantage of these types of programs, you’ll need to have a BSW and a GPA of 3.5 or higher. Here are a few advanced-standing MSW programs available in Mississippi:

RELATED: Learn more about Social Work Salaries

Mississippi MSW Program Tuition and Costs

SchoolTuition (per credit hour)Total CreditsTotal Tuition
University of Mississippi$484.25 (Resident)
$1,388.25 (Non-resident)
60$29,055 (Resident)
$83,295 (Non-resident)
University of Southern Mississippi$38761$23,248
Jackson State University$32957$18,753

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

Some students value the flexibility of an online MSW program, while others prefer face-to-face interaction. See a full list of the pros and cons of an online below.

Traditional MSW vs. Online MSW Programs in Mississippi

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

The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) is responsible for accrediting all MSW programs. As you’re looking through the options available online, make sure that they’re accredited by the CSWE; otherwise, you won’t be able to get licensed.

Learn more about Social Work Degree Options:

Getting Your Mississippi Social Work License

Most MSW programs will allow students to become licensed, as long as they’re accredited. All states have slightly different requirements in order to gain social work licensure. Learn about Mississippi’s requirements for licensure in our Guide to Getting a Social Work License.

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 Mississippi

Hattiesburg, MS

Master's Programs
118 College Drive # 0001
Hattiesburg, MS 39406-0001
(601) 266-1000

University, MS

Master's Programs
Oxford, Mississippi
University, MS 38677-1848
(662) 915-7211

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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