MSW Programs in New Jersey: Online & Campus

Navigating the realm of Master of Social Work (MSW) programs in New Jersey can be a daunting task, especially with the multitude of options available. Aspiring social workers seeking to make a meaningful impact in their communities must carefully weigh factors such as program accreditation, faculty expertise, specialization offerings, and field placement opportunities. In this article, we delve into the landscape of MSW programs across the Garden State, providing insights to aid prospective students in pursuing higher education and fulfilling careers in social work.

MSW Degree Program Requirements/Eligibility in New Jersey

New Jersey Traditional MSW Admissions Requirements

New Jersey MSW programs usually require around 60 total credits and take around two years to complete on a full-time basis. Traditional MSW degree programs are geared toward those who don't already hold a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree. While specific entry requirements vary from school to school, they typically include:

• 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

New Jersey Advanced-Standing MSW Admissions Requirements

An advanced-standing Master of Social Work (MSW) degree is an accelerated program for those with a BSW degree. Entry requirements routinely include:

• BSW degree from an accredited institution is typically awarded no longer than five years prior
• Minimum GPA of 3.5
• All other requirements from the Traditional MSW above

The Advanced Standing MSW typically requires around 38 credits and takes approximately one year to complete. Examples of Advanced-Standing MSW programs in NewJersey include:

• Montclair State University – visit site
• Rutgers University – visit site
• Seton Hall – visit site

RELATED: Learn more about Social Work Salaries

New Jersey MSW Program Tuition and Costs

The average range of tuition costs for a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree in New Jersey is approximately $644 to $809 per credit hour for in-state students and $809 to $1,096 per credit hour for out-of-state students. This can result in total tuition costs ranging from $38,688 to $65,760 or more for the entire program, depending on the school and residency status. Remember that students must also account for additional expenses such as textbooks and computers.

To get an idea of MSW tuition costs in New Jersey, check out some examples below:

Are Online MSW Programs in New Jersey 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. Luckily, both online and campus-based MSW programs offer the same comprehensive curriculum delivered by experienced faculty members, so rest assured that you’ll be getting a quality education either way. Still on the fence? Check out the comparison below for more information.

Traditional MSW vs. Online MSW Programs in New Jersey

Whether you choose a campus-based or online MSW program in New Jersey, you'll want to ensure that your degree program is properly accredited by a trusted agency such as the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).

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 New Jersey Social Work License

Getting licensed as a social worker in New Jersey is the next step once you earn your MSW degree. Each state has different requirements for licensure. Learn more about how to get your social worker license in New Jersey with our Guide to Social Work Licensure.