MSW Programs in Alabama: Online & Campus Degrees
If you want to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Alabama, you'll eventually need to pursue a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree. With a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) or related degree in hand, you will be eligible for some entry-level roles, but when you're ready for the next level, obtaining an MSW is vital for most social work roles in the state. To learn more about this rewarding degree type and why it's an important part of your education, read our guide to MSW programs in Alabama below.
2025 Best MSW Programs in Alabama
Looking for the best MSW programs in Alabama? CounselingPsychology.org has ranked the top schools to help you find the right fit. Our list focuses on quality, affordability, and student support. Whether you're starting your career or advancing it, these programs stand out. We've done the research so you can make an informed choice. Learn more about how we rank these programs here.
The University of Alabama
Tuscaloosa, AL - Public 4-Year - ua.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Alabama's primarily online Master of Social Work (MSW) program provides a flexible and comprehensive pathway for aspiring social work professionals. Designed to accommodate diverse student backgrounds, the program offers two dynamic tracks: a 42-credit Advanced Standing Program for BSW holders and a 60-credit program for those without a social work bachelor's degree. With a focus on advanced generalist practice and social justice, students gain cutting-edge skills through virtual coursework, synchronous skills labs, and essential field placements. Competitive tuition at $440 per credit hour makes this accredited program an accessible route to a meaningful career in social work.
- Primarily online MSW program
- Two program options: 42 and 60 credits
- CSWE accredited program
- Tuition: $440 per credit hour
- Advanced Generalist Concentration
- Virtual skills labs synchronous
- 500 hours practicum required
- Application deadline: April 1
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Dual degree options available
Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)
Concentration: MSW/MPH Dual Degree - Online Learning - Visit Website
Unlock your potential in social work with The University of Alabama's innovative primarily online Master of Social Work (MSW) program. Designed for working professionals and career changers, this flexible degree offers two pathways: a 42-credit Advanced Standing Program for BSW holders and a comprehensive 60-credit track for those without a social work background. With competitive tuition at $440 per credit hour, the program prepares students for advanced generalist practice through virtual skills labs, online coursework, and practical field placements. Emphasizing social justice and trauma-informed frameworks, graduates develop critical skills to address complex social challenges across multiple system levels.
- Primarily online MSW program
- 42-60 credit hours
- $440 per credit hour
- Two program options available
- Advanced Generalist Concentration
- CSWE accredited program
- 60-credit option: April 1 deadline
- Advanced Standing: March 1 deadline
- Virtual skills labs
- 500 practicum hours
- Dual degree options: MSW/JD, MSW/MPH
- Social justice framework
- Trauma-informed approach
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Begun in 1965
Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)
Concentration: MSW/JD Dual Degree - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Alabama's Master of Social Work (MSW) program offers a flexible, primarily online degree designed for working professionals. Prepare for a rewarding career by gaining advanced skills in social justice and trauma-informed practice. With two program options—42-credit Advanced Standing and 60-credit Traditional tracks—students can complete their degree in as little as three semesters. The program features virtual skills labs, comprehensive field placements, and an Advanced Generalist concentration that equips graduates to address complex social challenges across diverse systems and settings.
- Primarily online MSW program
- Two program tracks available
- 42-60 credit hours
- Tuition $440 per hour
- Advanced Generalist concentration
- Virtual skills labs
- CSWE accredited program
- Fall/Summer admission options
- Application deadline April 1
- 3.0 GPA requirement
- 500 hours practicum
- Optional dual degree programs
- Social justice framework
- Trauma-informed approach
Auburn University
Auburn, AL - Public 4-Year - auburn.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Health and Mental Health - Online Learning - Visit Website
Auburn University's Master of Social Work (MSW) program offers a transformative educational journey for aspiring social work professionals. With a strategic focus on health and mental health, the program provides comprehensive training in advanced clinical practice. Students benefit from experienced faculty, dynamic internships, and service-learning opportunities that address critical societal challenges. Designed for diverse undergraduate backgrounds, the program offers both traditional and advanced standing tracks, accommodating various student needs and career goals.
- Fully accredited MSW program
- Traditional and Advanced Standing tracks
- Campus and online options
- Traditional program: 61 credit hours
- Advanced Standing: 39 credit hours
- Health and mental health focus
- Accepts diverse undergraduate backgrounds
- Service-learning opportunities
- Clinical practice preparation
- Internship experiences available
Master's - Master of Social Work
Online Learning - Visit Website
Auburn University's Master of Social Work (MSW) program provides a comprehensive pathway for aspiring social work professionals to develop advanced clinical skills. With a specialized focus on health and mental health, students gain practical experience through internships and service-learning opportunities. The program offers flexible learning options, including traditional and advanced standing tracks, enabling students from diverse academic backgrounds to pursue their social work career goals effectively.
- Fully accredited MSW program
- Traditional & Advanced Standing options
- Campus and online formats
- Traditional Program: 61 credit hours
- Advanced Standing: 39 credit hours
- Focus on health/mental health practice
- Accepts diverse undergraduate backgrounds
- Service-learning opportunities available
- Clinical experience emphasized
- Internship programs integrated
Tuskegee University
Tuskegee, AL - Private 4-year - tuskegee.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Child Welfare Social Work Practice - Online Learning - Visit Website
Tuskegee University's innovative online Master of Social Work (MSW) program prepares advanced social work professionals to serve vulnerable populations with cutting-edge skills. The program focuses on trauma-informed practice, social justice, and technology integration, equipping students to work effectively with diverse communities. Students gain comprehensive training in clinical practice, telehealth, global social work opportunities, and evidence-based interventions. Designed for working professionals and career changers, the program offers flexible online learning that develops ethical, culturally competent practitioners ready to make meaningful societal impacts.
- Online MSW program
- Pre-candidacy CSWE accreditation
- Advanced generalist clinical practice
- Trauma-informed curriculum
- Technology integration focus
- Global social work perspective
- Diverse practice settings
- Telehealth training
- Social justice emphasis
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Behavioral Health Social Work Practice - Online Learning - Visit Website
Tuskegee University's online Master of Social Work (MSW) program prepares advanced generalist practitioners to work with traumatized children, families, and communities of color. Designed for aspiring social workers seeking to make meaningful impacts, the program focuses on developing culturally competent professionals who can address complex social challenges. Students gain comprehensive skills in trauma interventions, telehealth services, and global social work practices through a rigorous curriculum emphasizing ethical, empathetic practice. The program offers flexible online learning, preparing graduates to become innovative leaders in social work across diverse settings.
- Online MSW program
- Pre-candidacy CSWE accreditation
- Advanced generalist practice focus
- Trauma-informed curriculum
- Telehealth service preparation
- Global social work opportunities
- Diverse field placement options
- Technology-integrated learning
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Healthcare Social Work Practice - Online Learning - Visit Website
Tuskegee University's online Master of Social Work (MSW) program prepares advanced generalist social workers to address complex challenges facing vulnerable populations. Designed for professionals seeking to make meaningful community impact, the program emphasizes trauma-informed practice, technological integration, and social justice. Students gain comprehensive skills in clinical interventions, telehealth services, and global social work perspectives. The flexible online format accommodates working professionals, with opportunities for specialized fieldwork and interprofessional collaboration.
- 100% Online MSW Program
- Advanced Generalist Clinical Practice
- Trauma-Informed Practice Focus
- Pre-Candidacy CSWE Accreditation
- Diverse Internship Opportunities
- Telehealth Service Training
- Global Social Work Perspective
- Interprofessional Education
- IASSW Membership Program
- Evidence-Based Intervention Training
Troy University
Troy, AL - Public 4-Year - troy.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Direct Practice - Online Learning - Visit Website
Troy University's Master of Social Work (MSW) program equips students with advanced skills to make meaningful impacts in diverse communities. Specializing in Direct Practice with a unique focus on military families, the program offers flexible one-year and two-year pathways for BSW and non-BSW graduates. Students can complete the degree online or on campus, preparing for licensed clinical social work roles across mental health, disaster relief, and community services. No entrance exams are required, and the CSWE-accredited program meets professional licensure requirements nationwide.
- Direct Practice Specialization
- One and Two-Year Programs
- Online and Campus Options
- No Entrance Exams Required
- CSWE Accredited Program
- Military Family Focus
- Application Deadlines: May 15, Oct. 15
- Professional Licensure Preparation
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Organizational Leadership and Management - Online Learning - Visit Website
Troy University's Master of Social Work (MSW) degree offers a specialized Direct Practice track focusing on military families and community support. Designed for both BSW and non-BSW graduates, the program provides flexible one-year and two-year online and on-campus options. Students gain advanced skills in counseling, mental health, and social advocacy, preparing for diverse professional roles while meeting national licensure requirements.
- One-year and two-year MSW paths
- Direct Practice specialization
- Online and campus options
- No entrance exam required
- CSWE accredited program
- Application deadlines: May 15, Oct 15
- Military family focus
- Prepares for professional licensure
- Multiple career opportunities
- Diverse practice settings
University of North Alabama
Florence, AL - Public 4-Year - una.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of North Alabama offers a comprehensive online Master of Social Work (MSW) program designed for working professionals seeking career advancement. Students can choose between a one-year accelerated track for those with a BSW or a traditional two-year program. The fully online, CSWE-accredited degree prepares graduates for advanced social work practice across micro, mezzo, and macro settings. With affordable tuition at $495 per credit hour and flexible learning options, students gain critical skills through professional internships and personalized mentorship, positioning themselves for impactful careers in mental health, child welfare, medical settings, and community organizations.
- Fully online MSW program
- CSWE accredited degree
- One-year advanced standing option
- $495 per credit hour
- Advanced Standing: $16,650 total
- Traditional MSW: $33,300 total
- No GRE required
- 2.85 GPA minimum requirement
- Application deadline: March 1, 2025
- Professional internship opportunities
MSW Degree Program Requirements/Eligibility in Alabama
Alabama Traditional MSW Admissions Requirements
Alabama 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 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
Alabama 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:
- A BSW degree from an accredited institution 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 degree typically requires around 38 credits and takes approximately one year to complete. Examples of Advanced-Standing MSW programs in Alabama include:
- University of Alabama – visit site
- University of North Alabama – visit site
- Auburn University – visit site
RELATED: Learn more about Social Work Salaries
Alabama MSW Program Tuition and Costs
The average range of tuition costs for a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree in Alabama is approximately $400 to $800 per credit hour for in-state students and $800 to $1,200 per credit hour for out-of-state students. This can result in total tuition costs ranging from $20,000 to $50,000 or more for the entire program, depending on the school and residency status. Keep in mind that students must also account for additional expenses such as textbooks and computers.
To get an idea of MSW tuition costs in Alabama, check out some examples below:
| School | Tuition (per credit hour) | Total Credits | Total Tuition |
| University of Alabama at Birmingham | $468 for in-state students $1,109 for out-of-state students | 61 | $27,450 – in-state $62,830 – out-of-state |
| University of North Alabama | $495 for in-state students $990 for out-of-state students | 60 | $29,700 – in-state $59,400 – out-of-state |
Are Online MSW Programs in Alabama 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 Alabama
| Traditional MSW Programs | Online MSW Programs | |
| Format | In-person classes | Online classes with some in-person requirements |
| Flexibility | Limited scheduling options | More flexibility in scheduling, often part-time options |
| Location | Geographically limited | Accessible from anywhere with internet connectivity |
| Learning Environment | Classroom-based | Virtual classroom, discussion boards, and online resources |
| Networking | Local networking opportunities | Networking with students and professionals from diverse locations |
| Cost | Tuition, commuting, and relocation expenses | Generally lower tuition and flexibility to continue working |
| Hands-on Experience | Field placements and internships | Virtual or field placements and internships arranged in the student's local area |
Whether you choose a campus-based or online MSW program in Alabama, 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 Alabama Social Work License
Getting licensed as a social worker in Alabama 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 Alabama.
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.
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 Alabama
Auburn, AL
Auburn University
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Health and Mental Health - Online Learning - Website
- Fully accredited MSW program
- Traditional and Advanced Standing tracks
- Campus and online options
- Traditional program: 61 credit hours
- Advanced Standing: 39 credit hours
- Health and mental health focus
- Accepts diverse undergraduate backgrounds
- Service-learning opportunities
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Online Learning - Website
- Fully accredited MSW program
- Traditional & Advanced Standing options
- Campus and online formats
- Traditional Program: 61 credit hours
- Advanced Standing: 39 credit hours
- Focus on health/mental health practice
- Accepts diverse undergraduate backgrounds
- Service-learning opportunities available
Birmingham, AL
Samford University
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Online Learning - Website
- Online and face-to-face options
- Full and part-time study paths
- Advanced Clinical Practice Concentration
- CSWE fully accredited program
- Application opens Aug. 1, 2024
- Early action deadline Nov. 1, 2024
- Fast-track 5-year bachelor's + MSW
- Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Advanced Clinical Social Work - Online Learning - Website
- Online and in-person options
- Advanced Clinical Practice Concentration
- CSWE fully accredited program
- Full-time and part-time tracks
- Advanced Standing available
- Application opens Aug. 1, 2024
- Early Action Deadline Nov. 1, 2024
- Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Clinical/Medical Social Work - Campus Based - Website
- Clinical/Medical MSW specialization
- Traditional face-to-face program
- Monday-Tuesday class schedule
- Part-time option available
- Accredited by CSWE
- Health and behavioral focus
- World-class medical training
- Advanced clinical competencies
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Campus Based - Website
- Clinical/Medical Social Work MSW
- Fall 2017 program launch
- CSWE accredited in 2019
- Face-to-face traditional program
- Full-time and part-time options
- Day and evening classes
- Field placements Wednesday-Friday
- Advanced health setting training
Florence, AL
University of North Alabama
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Online Learning - Website
- Fully online MSW program
- CSWE accredited degree
- One-year advanced standing option
- $495 per credit hour
- Advanced Standing: $16,650 total
- Traditional MSW: $33,300 total
- No GRE required
- 2.85 GPA minimum requirement
Huntsville, AL
Oakwood University
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Clinical Social Work - Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Program
- 12-24 Month Completion
- Generalist: 60 Credit Hours
- Advanced Standing: 30 Credit Hours
- Open to All Undergraduate Majors
- Biblical Principles Integration
- Culturally Responsive Curriculum
- Accreditation Candidacy Pathway
Normal, AL
Alabama A & M University
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Community Mental Health - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Fully accredited MSW program
- Three program track options
- Two concentration choices
- Field experience included
- CSWE accredited curriculum
- Rural and urban focus
- Advanced generalist competencies
- Independent licensure potential
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Fully accredited MSW program
- Two concentration options
- Advanced standing available
- 2-year and part-time tracks
- Lawson State Community College option
- Prepares Licensed Independent Clinical Social Workers
- Ecological perspective framework
- Focuses on rural and urban communities
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Family & Child Welfare - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Fully CSWE accredited program
- Two concentration options
- Advanced standing available
- 2-year and part-time tracks
- Multiple campus options
- Prepares Licensed Clinical Social Workers
- Rural and urban community focus
- 60 credit hour traditional program
Troy, AL
Troy University
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Organizational Leadership and Management - Online Learning - Website
- One-year and two-year MSW paths
- Direct Practice specialization
- Online and campus options
- No entrance exam required
- CSWE accredited program
- Application deadlines: May 15, Oct 15
- Military family focus
- Prepares for professional licensure
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Direct Practice - Online Learning - Website
- Direct Practice Specialization
- One and Two-Year Programs
- Online and Campus Options
- No Entrance Exams Required
- CSWE Accredited Program
- Military Family Focus
- Application Deadlines: May 15, Oct. 15
- Professional Licensure Preparation
Tuscaloosa, AL
The University of Alabama
- Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)
Concentration: MSW/MPH Dual Degree - Online Learning - Website
- Primarily online MSW program
- 42-60 credit hours
- $440 per credit hour
- Two program options available
- Advanced Generalist Concentration
- CSWE accredited program
- 60-credit option: April 1 deadline
- Advanced Standing: March 1 deadline
- Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)
Concentration: MSW/JD Dual Degree - Online Learning - Website
- Primarily online MSW program
- Two program tracks available
- 42-60 credit hours
- Tuition $440 per hour
- Advanced Generalist concentration
- Virtual skills labs
- CSWE accredited program
- Fall/Summer admission options
- Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)
Online Learning - Website
- Primarily online MSW program
- Two program options: 42 and 60 credits
- CSWE accredited program
- Tuition: $440 per credit hour
- Advanced Generalist Concentration
- Virtual skills labs synchronous
- 500 hours practicum required
- Application deadline: April 1
Tuskegee, AL
Tuskegee University
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Healthcare Social Work Practice - Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online MSW Program
- Advanced Generalist Clinical Practice
- Trauma-Informed Practice Focus
- Pre-Candidacy CSWE Accreditation
- Diverse Internship Opportunities
- Telehealth Service Training
- Global Social Work Perspective
- Interprofessional Education
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Behavioral Health Social Work Practice - Online Learning - Website
- Online MSW program
- Pre-candidacy CSWE accreditation
- Advanced generalist practice focus
- Trauma-informed curriculum
- Telehealth service preparation
- Global social work opportunities
- Diverse field placement options
- Technology-integrated learning
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Child Welfare Social Work Practice - Online Learning - Website
- Online MSW program
- Pre-candidacy CSWE accreditation
- Advanced generalist clinical practice
- Trauma-informed curriculum
- Technology integration focus
- Global social work perspective
- Diverse practice settings
- Telehealth training
