In the mountainous terrain of West Virginia, where rugged landscapes meet vibrant communities, lies a burgeoning hub of education and opportunity for aspiring social workers. With a rich history of resilience and a deep commitment to community well-being, West Virginia has seen the rise of exceptional Master of Social Work (MSW) programs. These programs equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate the complexities of social work practice and foster a profound understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities within the state’s diverse communities. As the demand for skilled social workers continues to grow, these MSW programs stand as pillars of empowerment, shaping the future of social welfare in the Mountain State.

MSW Degree Program Requirements/Eligibility in West Virginia

West Virginia Traditional MSW Admissions Requirements

Students with a non-social work bachelor’s degree will need to enroll in a traditional MSW program as opposed to an advanced standing MSW program. Traditional MSWs require the completion of 60 credits and a two-year commitment along with:

  • 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

West Virginia Advanced-Standing MSW Admissions Requirements

For students with a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree and at least a 3.5 GPA, there is a fast-tracked option that allows them to get their MSW in as little as a year. All of the other admissions requirements apply, but there’s currently only one advanced-standing MSW program in West Virginia to choose from at the University of West Virginia.

RELATED: Learn more about Social Work Salaries

West Virginia MSW Program Tuition and Costs

If you’re looking for a scenic and beautiful state with affordable MSW programs, West Virginia is a viable option. Take a look at the table below to get a sense of how much you’ll pay for your MSW in the state.

SchoolTuition (per credit hour)Total CreditsTotal Tuition
West Virginia University$67660$40,560
Marshall University$41866$27,588
Concord University$543 (Resident)
$947 (Non-resident)
60$32,580 (Resident)
$56,820 (Non-resident)

Are Online MSW Programs in West Virginia as Good as Campus-Based?

If West Virginia is too isolated for you, or you have commitments in your current state of residence, an online MSW program might be the right option for you! These programs offer flexibility as well as convenience when a campus visit isn’t always available. They provide the same quality education as their campus-based counterparts as well. Check out the key information below.

Traditional MSW vs. Online MSW Programs in West Virginia

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

To ensure that graduation from an MSW will lead to licensure, you’ll need to make sure all programs that you apply to are accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).

Learn more about Social Work Degree options:

Getting Your West Virginia Social Work License

West Virginia, like all states, requires that you receive licensure to practice as a social worker. Learn about the specific requirements that come with social work licensure in West Virginia 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 West Virginia

Huntington, WV

1 John Marshall Dr
Huntington, WV 25755
(304) 696-3170

Morgantown, WV

Master's Programs
PO Box 6201
Morgantown, WV 26506
(304) 293-0111

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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