Best MSW Programs in California 2025: Online & Campus
In the dynamic landscape of higher education, Master of Social Work (MSW) programs stand out as vital pathways for individuals aspiring to make impactful contributions to society. Among the diverse array of options available nationwide, California's MSW programs shine as beacons of innovation, social justice advocacy, and comprehensive training.
As the most populous state in the U.S., California’s MSW programs reflect the rich diversity of its communities and embody a commitment to addressing pressing social issues through rigorous education, practical experience, and a dedication to fostering compassionate leadership. Read on to explore the distinctive features, academic excellence, and professional opportunities offered by MSW programs across California, shedding light on the vibrant landscape that shapes the next generation of social work practitioners and scholars.
MSW Degree Program Requirements/Eligibility in California
California Traditional MSW Admissions Requirements
Traditional MSW programs are typically for students who already have a bachelor’s degree in another field (other than social work) and are looking to switch fields. You can expect an average of 60 credits and a two-year timeline for graduation. To apply to traditional MSW programs, you’ll need the following things for your application:
- 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
California Advanced-Standing MSW Admissions Requirements
You may be interested in the Advanced Standing MSW option if you already have a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree. This option allows students to complete their MSW in half the time and for half the cost. In addition to the application requirements just mentioned, you’ll also need to submit transcripts showing that you’ve maintained a 3.5 GPA.
Here are a few Advanced Standing MSW options in California:
- California State University, LA – visit site
- San Diego State University – visit site
- University of Southern California – visit site
RELATED: Learn more about Social Work Salaries
California MSW Program Tuition and Costs
Realistically speaking, the cost of an MSW program’s tuition is often a deciding factor in their choice of school. California’s MSW programs range drastically in tuition, with an average cost of $52,053. However, you can find options that are way below the average price by looking at state schools (if you’re a California resident) or online programs, which tend to be cheaper. Here are a few options to consider:
| School | Tuition (per credit hour) | Total Credits | Total Tuition |
| California State University, LA | $239.20 (Resident) $635.20 (Nonresident) | 60 | $14,352 (Resident) $38,112 (Nonresident) |
| University of Southern California | $1,495.90 | 60 | $89,754 |
| California Polytechnic State University | $510 (Online) $417.50 (Resident) $638.90 (Nonresident) | 60 | $30,600 (Online) $25,050 (Resident) $38,334 (Nonresident) |
Are Online MSW Programs in California as Good as Campus-Based?
Online MSW programs are becoming more and more popular. Take a look at the table below to find out the various pros and cons of these types of programs.
Traditional MSW vs. Online MSW Programs in California
| 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 |
Important tip: Make sure that all MSW programs you apply to are accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). This will ensure that you meet all California licensure requirements.
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 California Social Work License
California has unique licensure requirements that may differ from those of other states. Find out more about getting your social work license in California.
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 California
Arcata, CA
California State Polytechnic University-Humboldt
- Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling
Concentration: Marriage and Family Therapy - Campus Based - Website
- California MFT License Preparation
- Minimum 150 supervised hours
- Clinical theory and skills focus
- Supervised clinical practica
- Work directly with clients
- Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling
Concentration: Counseling Psychology - Campus Based - Website
- MFT License Track Preparation
- Minimum 150 hours supervised experience
- Clinical theory and research focus
- Supervised clinical work required
- Practical client interaction training
- Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling
Concentration: School Psychology - Campus Based - Website
- MFT concentration in Counseling Psychology
- Meets California MFT license requirements
- Minimum 150 supervised hours
- Clinical theory and research focus
- Practical clinical skills training
- Supervised clinical work/practica
- Work directly with clients
Azusa, CA
Azusa Pacific University
- Master's - Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology: Marriage and Family Therapy
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Master's with MFT emphasis
- Christ-centered counseling approach
- Interdisciplinary curriculum
- Theoretical and applied practice
- Focuses on individual/family counseling
- Professional counseling preparation
- Includes theology and ethics studies
- Master's - Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology: Marriage and Family Therapy
Concentration: Gottman Couples Therapy Level 1 Certificate - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Master's in Marriage & Family Therapy
- Interdisciplinary theological approach
- Professional counseling emphasis
- Comprehensive psychotherapy training
- Christ-centered counseling perspective
- Master's - Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology: Marriage and Family Therapy
Concentration: Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) Option - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Master's in Marriage & Family Therapy
- Christ-centered counseling approach
- Interdisciplinary theological studies
- Professional counseling techniques
- Holistic mental health training
Carson, CA
California State University-Dominguez Hills
- Master's - Master of Science in Marital and Family Therapy
Campus Based - Website
- 64-credit Master's degree program
- 3-year full-time program
- 300 client contact hours
- Evening courses available
- WSCUC accredited program
- Meets California MFT licensure requirements
- Cohort-based learning model
- Diverse and inclusive curriculum
Chico, CA
California State University-Chico
- Master's - MS in Psychology - Marriage and Family Therapy
Campus Based - Website
- Three-year full-time program
- 60-unit comprehensive curriculum
- Meets California MFT licensure requirements
- On-campus Counseling Training Clinic
- Community traineeship in third year
- Cohort learning model
- 400-500 clinical hours typical
- Minimum 225 face-to-face hours required
Costa Mesa, CA
Vanguard University of Southern California
- Master's - Master of Science in Clinical Psychology
Campus Based - Website
- Meets MFT/PCC licensure requirements
- Online and on-campus options
- 2-4 year program tracks
- 61-66 total units
- $840 per unit cost
- Christ-centered approach
- Small class sizes
- Practicum opportunities
Fresno, CA
California State University-Fresno
- Master's - Master of Science in Marriage, Family and Child Counseling
Campus Based - Website
- 60-unit program
- 5 semester completion time
- CACREP accredited program
- Prepares for state licensure
- Diverse student recruitment focus
- Practical experience at counseling center
- Meets California MFT license requirements
- Ethical standards aligned training
Fresno Pacific University
- Master's - Master of Divinity/Marriage and Family Therapy, M.A.
Campus Based - Website
- 105 total program units
- Prepare for California licensure exams
- Integrates theology and counseling
- Diverse practicum opportunities
- Published faculty with clinical experience
- Main campus in Fresno
- MFT and ministry combined courses
- Online course options available
Hayward, CA
California State University-East Bay
- Master's - MS in Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy Option
Campus Based - Website
- 72-unit comprehensive master's program
- Meets MFT licensure requirements
- Diverse clinical training settings
- Multicultural counseling focus
- Evening and day classes available
- 150 clinical experience hours
- Professional faculty with clinical expertise
- Preparation for doctoral studies
Irvine, CA
University of Massachusetts Global
- Master's - Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy
Concentration: Combined Marriage and Family Therapy and Professional Clinical Counseling - Online Learning - Website
- 60-credit comprehensive MFT program
- 400 practicum hours required
- Systemic therapy training focus
- 3.0 minimum GPA required
- Seven-year program completion timeline
- Advanced clinical competency development
- Dual emphasis option available
- Online and flexible learning
- Master's - Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy
Online Learning - Website
- Total program 60 credits
- 400 practicum hours required
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Seven-year completion timeline
- Systemic therapeutic approach
- Multiple practicum courses
- Advanced clinical assessment training
- Diverse therapeutic theories
La Mirada, CA
Biola University
- Master's - Master of Arts – Marriage and Family Therapy
Campus Based - Website
- On-campus, 67 total credits
- 3-year standard completion time
- Cost per credit: $866
- 300+ practicum hours
- Year-long clinical internship
- Prepare for CA licensure
- Christ-centered approach
- Cohort community learning
La Verne, CA
University of La Verne
- Master's - MS in Marriage and Family Therapy
Campus Based - Website
- 61-credit MS program
- 3 years full-time
- California LMFT licensure preparation
- Late afternoon/evening classes
- Minimum 225 hours fieldwork
- Starts Fall semester
- Application deadline February 1
- $915 per unit
Loma Linda, CA
Loma Linda University
- Master's - Marital and Family Therapy (MS) with Play Therapy Certificate
Concentration: Play Therapy - Campus Based - Website
- COAMFTE fully accredited program
- Online and on-campus options
- 90 quarter units total program
- 300 clinical contact hours required
- 2-2.5 years full-time completion
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Multiple admissions entry points
- Licensure preparation across states
- Master's - Marital and Family Therapy (MS) with Drug and Alcohol Counseling Certificate
Concentration: Drug and Alcohol Counseling - Campus Based - Website
- Full COAMFTE accreditation
- 90 quarter unit program
- Online and on-campus options
- Licensure preparation nationwide
- 300 clinical contact hours required
- GPA requirement: 3.0 or higher
- 2-2.5 years full-time completion
- Interview-based admissions process
- Master's - Marital and Family Therapy (MS)
Campus Based - Website
- COAMFTE Accredited Program
- Online and On-Campus Options
- 90 Quarter Units Required
- 2-2.5 Years Program Length
- 300 Clinical Contact Hours
- 3.0 GPA Minimum Requirement
- Multiple Letters of Recommendation
- Interview-Based Admissions
Long Beach, CA
California State University-Long Beach
- Master's - Master of Science in Counseling Psychology
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 65-unit comprehensive program
- LMFT and LPCC licensure preparation
- No GRE required
- 2-2.5 year track options
- WASC fully accredited
- On-site clinical training
- Multicultural clinical faculty
- Live supervision experience
Los Alamitos, CA
Touro University Worldwide
- Doctorate - Doctor of Marriage and Family Therapy (DMFT)
Concentration: Organizational Systems in MFT - Online Learning - Website
- 100% online doctoral program
- $700 per semester credit
- 60 total credit hours
- No GMAT/GRE required
- 3-year typical completion time
- Transfer up to 6 credits
- 6 program starts annually
- 8-week course sessions
Los Angeles, CA
Loyola Marymount University
- Master's - Marital and Family Therapy with specialized training in art therapy
Concentration: clinical art therapy - Campus Based - Website
- Two-year full-time or three-year part-time
- 60 semester hours required
- 840 clinical traineeship hours
- Minimum 350 art therapy hours
- California MFT licensure preparation
- Studio arts or psychology backgrounds
- Personal psychotherapy recommended
- Two clinical supervision hours weekly
- Master's - Marital and Family Therapy with specialized training in art therapy
Campus Based - Website
- Full-time two-year MA program
- Modified three-year option available
- 60 semester hours required
- Two clinical traineeships
- 840 total clinical hours
- Minimum 350 art therapy hours
- Weekly supervision provided
- California MFT licensure preparation
The Chicago School at Los Angeles
- Master's - M.A. Marriage, Couples, and Family Therapy
Campus Based - Website
- COAMFTE Accredited Program
- Two or Three Year Options
- No GRE Required
- Per Credit Tuition: $1,409
- Anaheim, LA, Online Campuses
- 300 Clinical Training Hours
- Multiple Career Settings
- Bachelor's Degree Flexible
- Doctorate - Psy.D. Marital and Family Therapy
Campus Based - Website
- Post-Master's Doctoral Program
- 60 credit hours total
- Practitioner-scholar model
- Culturally competent training
- Comprehensive dissertation required
- Requires license-eligible master's
- Graduate GPA 3.0+ recommended
- Los Angeles - Anaheim campus
University of Southern California
- Master's - Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy
Online Learning - Website
- Fully online MFT program
- 2-year full-time enrollment
- California licensure pathway
- Field work in residence state
- Holistic mental health approach
- Telehealth and in-person skills
- Cultural humility focus
- Supervised clinical work
Moraga, CA
Saint Mary's College of California
- Master's - MA in Counseling, with a specialization in Marriage & Family Therapy/Professional Clinical Counselor
Concentration: Marriage & Family Therapy/Professional Clinical Counselor - Campus Based - Website
- 68-unit comprehensive program
- MFT/PCC specialization track
- Prepares for California licensure
- Multiple study plan options
- Fieldwork in clinical settings
- 40 core course units
- Specialized counseling courses
- Community mental health focus
- Master's - MA in Counseling, with a specialization in Marriage & Family Therapy/Professional Clinical Counselor
Concentration: Dual School Counseling + Marriage and Family Counseling - Campus Based - Website
- 68-unit comprehensive program
- Prepares for MFT/PCC licensure
- Multiple study plan options
- 40 core course units
- Clinical field experience included
- Courses in family systems
- Trauma intervention training
- Psychopathology coursework
Northridge, CA
California State University-Northridge
- Master's - Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy
- Accredited by COAMFTE and IACSTE
- One course at a time
- Less than two years completion
- Prepares for LMFT and LPCC licenses
- Year-round scheduling
- Diverse career settings available
- State-of-the-art curriculum
Orange, CA
Chapman University
- Master's - MA in Marriage and Family Therapy
Campus Based - Website
- COAMFTE accredited program
- 60 total program units
- 3-year full-time option
- 20-30% admission rate
- Classes Monday-Thursday evening
- Small 25-30 student classes
- Onsite MFT training clinic
- Optional part-time enrollment
Redding, CA
Simpson University
- Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Two-year cohort-based program
- 68 total program units
- BBS-approved licensure track
- In-class 2 nights weekly
- Clinical training opportunities
- Christian university perspective
- Trauma and crisis intervention
- Evidence-based practice focus
Riverside, CA
California Baptist University
- Master's - Master of Science in Counseling Psychology and Master of Arts in Counseling Ministry
Concentration: Dual Degree - Campus Based - Website
- Dual master's degree option
- 92 total program units
- Prepares for MFT licensure
- Clinical and spiritual training
- Comprehensive practicum experience
- Psychology or ministry background accepted
- Includes comprehensive examination
- Diverse counseling course offerings
- Master's - Master of Science in Counseling Psychology
Concentration: Forensic Psychology - Campus Based - Website
- Online and on-campus delivery
- 62-unit comprehensive program
- Christian worldview integration
- MFT licensure preparation
- 24 hours individual psychotherapy required
- Comprehensive final examination
- Bachelor's in Psychology preferred
- Professional ethics coursework
- Master's - Master of Science in Counseling Psychology
Online Learning - Website
- Online and on-campus delivery
- 62-68 total program units
- MFT licensure preparation
- Christian worldview integrated
- Comprehensive clinical training
- Professional ethics emphasis
- Psychotherapy requirement included
- Forensic psychology concentration
Rocklin, CA
William Jessup University
- Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 63 total program units
- 26 months program length
- Rocklin campus & remote options
- California state licensure preparation
- Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
- 280 clinical practice hours
- Bachelor's degree prerequisite
- Two reference letters needed
San Diego, CA
Northcentral University
- Master's - Master of Arts Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy
Online Learning - Website
- Online, 33-month completion time
- No application fee required
- COAMFTE and IACSTE accredited
- Multiple specialized tracks available
- Minimum 45 credit hours
- 300 direct client contact hours
- Start every Monday
- Year-round enrollment
- Master's - Master of Arts Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy
Concentration: Couple Therapy - Online Learning - Website
- Online, flexible 33-month program
- COAMFTE and IACSTE accredited
- No application fee
- Start every Monday
- Total Credit Hours: 45-60
- 300 hours direct client contact
- 100 hours clinical supervision
- Multiple specialization tracks
San Francisco, CA
University of San Francisco
- Master's - M.A. in Counseling Psychology with a concentration in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT)
Concentration: Marriage and Family Therapy - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 60-credit graduate program
- Silicon Valley location
- Evening and Saturday classes
- Cohort-based learning model
- Fall semester entry
- Social justice focused curriculum
- Community mental health emphasis
- Working adult-friendly schedule
- Master's - M.A. in Counseling Psychology with a concentration in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT)
Concentration: Marriage and Family Therapy - Campus Based - Website
- BBS accredited program
- Meets California licensure requirements
- Part of School of Education
- Professional Clinical Counselor License track
- Specialized mental health training
San Jose, CA
San Jose State University
- Master's - MS in Clinical Psychology
Campus Based - Website
- California MFT Licensure Preparation
- Evidence-Based Psychotherapy Training
- Diverse Therapeutic Approaches
- Multiple Clinical Settings Preparation
- Strong Ethical Standards Focus
San Luis Obispo, CA
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo
- Master's - Master of Science in Psychology
Campus Based - Website
- 90-quarter unit professional degree
- Fulfills California MFT license requirements
- Approximately 40 students enrolled
- Two-year program completion timeline
- On-campus practicum training clinic
- Day and evening course scheduling
- Diverse faculty backgrounds
- Community traineeship opportunities
Stockton, CA
University of the Pacific
- Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy
Campus Based - Website
- Master's in Counseling Psychology
- Marriage and Family Therapy emphasis
- Experiential learning approach
- Two-year program duration
- Licensure preparation track
- Small class sizes
- Flexible hybrid program
- Culturally diverse curriculum
Thousand Oaks, CA
California Lutheran University
- Master's - MS in Counseling Psychology (MFT)
Online & Campus Based - Website
- AAMFT core competency focused
- Board of Behavioral Sciences approved
- Meets state licensure requirements
- Professional mental health preparation
- Comprehensive therapeutic training
- Doctorate - Marital and Family Therapy
Concentration: Family Court Mediation - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Systemic understanding approach
- 12-month practicum placement
- Two community counseling centers
- Clinical specialization options
- High licensing exam pass rates
- Cohort-based learning model
- Multiple location options
- Diverse theoretical training
- Master's - Master of Science in Counseling Psychology with an emphasis in Marital and Family Therapy
Concentration: Attachment Theory - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Cohort-based learning model
- Two community counseling centers
- 12-month clinical practicum
- Multiple clinical specializations
- High licensing exam pass rates
- Diverse theoretical training
- Up to 750 clinical hours
- Systemic therapy approach
- Master's - Master of Science in Counseling Psychology with an emphasis in Marital and Family Therapy
Concentration: Psychological Trauma - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 12-month practicum placement
- Two community counseling centers
- 750 clinical training hours
- Cohort-based learning model
- Multiple clinical specializations
- High licensure exam pass rates
- Systemic therapy approach
- Diversity and cultural competence
What Colleges Offer Online Advanced Standing MSW Programs in California?
Currently, there are three available online advanced-standing MSW offerings located within California:
