Best MSW Programs in Florida 2025: Online & Campus
Florida’s landscape of higher education is rich with opportunities for those pursuing Master of Social Work (MSW) degrees. Aspiring social workers seeking to make a tangible difference in communities across the Sunshine State have a plethora of programs to choose from. With its diverse population and array of social challenges, Florida serves as an ideal setting for MSW programs that offer specialized training, experiential learning, and pathways to impactful careers in social work. Whether students aim to address mental health issues, advocate for marginalized groups, or engage in policy reform, Florida’s MSW programs provide a robust platform for personal and professional growth in the field of social work.
2025 Best MSW Programs in Florida
Looking for the best MSW programs in Florida? counselingpsychology.org has ranked the top schools to help you decide. Our list focuses on quality, affordability, and student support. We know picking the right program matters for your future. Florida offers great options for social work students. Find out which programs made our list and why. Ready to see how we ranked them? Check out our rankings methodology for details.
University of West Florida
Pensacola, FL - Public 4-Year - uwf.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Online Learning - Visit Website
Advance your social work career with UWF's dynamic online Master of Social Work (MSW) program. Designed for both bachelor's-level social work graduates and career changers, this clinically-focused degree prepares professionals for licensure and diverse practice settings. Students can choose traditional or advanced standing tracks, with flexible online learning accommodating various schedules. The program offers comprehensive training in medical and behavioral healthcare, emphasizing clinical skills, social justice, and evidence-based interventions. With competitive tuition around $13,500-$27,000 and potential transfer credits, graduates can pursue rewarding careers in healthcare, mental health, substance abuse counseling, and community services.
- CSWE-accredited program
- Online and flexible format
- Traditional and advanced standing tracks
- 30-60 credit hours
- Clinical practice focus
- Meets Florida licensure requirements
- Tuition $450 per credit hour
- Minimum 3.0 GPA recommended
- GRE/MAT scores optional
- Multiple specialization options
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Traditional - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of West Florida's Master of Social Work (M.S.W.) program offers a dynamic clinical pathway for aspiring social work professionals. Designed to prepare advanced practitioners, the program focuses on military populations and behavioral health settings. Students can choose between a Traditional 60-credit or Advanced Standing 30-credit track, both emphasizing critical thinking and clinical skills. Accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, the program welcomes diverse students with a minimum 3.0 GPA and provides comprehensive field experience opportunities.
- Two MSW program tracks available
- CSWE accredited program
- 30-60 semester hours required
- Minimum 3.0 GPA recommended
- Clinical focus on military populations
- Advanced field experience placements
- Diverse elective course options
- Research and practice integrated curriculum
- Grade of B- or higher required
- Optional graduate admission tests
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Advanced Standing - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of West Florida's Master of Social Work (M.S.W.) program prepares advanced clinical practitioners for impactful careers serving individuals, families, and communities. With two program tracks—Traditional (60 credit hours) and Advanced Standing (30 credit hours)—students gain comprehensive skills in behavioral health, military populations, and social justice. The clinically-focused curriculum emphasizes critical thinking and professional development. Students complete extensive field experiences and can choose from diverse electives like cognitive behavioral therapy and integrated healthcare practice. Graduates are prepared for clinical social work licensure and meaningful professional opportunities.
- CSWE-accredited clinical MSW
- Traditional and Advanced Standing tracks
- 60 or 30 semester hours
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Focus on military populations
- 600 clinical field experience hours
- Diverse specialization electives
- Meets clinical licensure requirements
- BSW graduates eligible for Advanced Standing
- Two-year maximum program completion
University of South Florida
Tampa, FL - Public 4-Year - usf.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of South Florida offers a robust Master of Social Work (MSW) program designed for aspiring clinical social work professionals. Students can choose full-time or part-time options on Tampa and Sarasota-Manatee campuses, with advanced standing available for those holding a BSW. The comprehensive curriculum prepares graduates for clinical practice with individuals, families, and groups, emphasizing professional ethics, human growth, and diverse intervention methodologies. With accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education, the program provides extensive field practicum experiences to translate classroom learning into real-world skills.
- Full-time and part-time options
- Advanced standing for BSW holders
- Two campus locations
- 60 credit non-advanced program
- 35 credit advanced standing
- 900 field practice hours
- 600 field practice hours (advanced)
- CSWE fully accredited program
- Multiple program pathways
- Clinical practice focus
Master's - Online Master of Social Work (MSW)
Online Learning - Visit Website
University of South Florida offers a comprehensive Online Master of Social Work (MSW) designed for working professionals and recent graduates. With two flexible tracks—Traditional and Advanced Standing—students can advance their careers in social work without disrupting their current commitments. The fully online program provides specialized skills for diverse roles like therapy and veterans' services, with live-online sessions and in-person field experiences. Top-tier faculty and CSWE accreditation ensure high-quality education, preparing graduates to make meaningful community impact.
- Fully online MSW program
- Two tracks: Traditional, Advanced Standing
- No GRE required for admission
- Field hours in-person
- Live online sessions twice weekly
- Traditional track: 8 semesters
- Advanced Standing: 3-5 semesters
- CSWE accredited program
- 350+ community partnerships
- Over 1,000 field instructors
Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW) - Concurrent Degree Option: Public Health and Social Work M.P.H./M.S.W.
Concentration: Public Health - Campus Based - Visit Website
University of South Florida's Master of Social Work (MSW) program offers flexible learning pathways for aspiring social work professionals. Students can choose between online and campus-based formats, with part-time and full-time options. The program supports both advanced standing for BSW holders and traditional tracks for those with bachelor's degrees in other fields. Designed to accommodate diverse student needs, the MSW prepares graduates for impactful careers in social services across various settings and specializations.
- Online and campus-based options
- Part-time and full-time tracks
- Advanced Standing available
- Traditional program option
- Offered across 50 states
- Tampa campus program
- Sarasota-Manatee campus option
- Concurrent MPH/MSW degree
- Multiple learning modalities
Florida Atlantic University
Boca Raton, FL - Public 4-Year - fau.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Online Learning - Visit Website
Florida Atlantic University's Master of Social Work (MSW) program delivers a transformative educational experience for aspiring social work professionals. With flexible online and on-campus blended tracks, students can earn their degree while maintaining personal and professional commitments. Graduates enjoy an impressive 93% job placement rate, developing advanced clinical skills and compassionate practice across diverse populations. The program accommodates students with various academic backgrounds, offering pathways for BSW holders and those from different disciplines.
- Top-ranked MSW program nationally
- Two pathway options: Online/Blended
- 93% job placement rate
- 3-5 semesters to complete
- Starts every summer/semester
- GPA requirement 3.0-3.5
- Advanced Standing option available
- Certificate specializations offered
- Practicum in local community
Master's - Master of Social Work
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Florida Atlantic University's Master of Social Work (MSW) program prepares compassionate and skilled professionals for advanced clinical practice. With two flexible pathways—online and on-campus blended—students can earn their degree while maintaining work and personal commitments. The program boasts a remarkable 93% job placement rate and offers specialized certificates in addictions, child welfare, and healthy aging. Designed for both BSW holders and those with bachelor's degrees in other disciplines, the MSW provides comprehensive training in evidence-based clinical techniques and critical thinking skills.
- Top-ranked MSW program nationally
- Online and on-campus options
- 93% job placement rate
- 3-5 semester completion time
- Advanced Standing available
- Summer, spring, fall start dates
- Multiple campus locations
- Specialized certificate options
- Clinical practice focus
- Practicum experience included
Barry University
Miami, FL - Private 4-year - barry.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)
Concentration: Clinical Social Work Practice - Online Learning - Visit Website
Barry University's Master of Social Work (MSW) program offers a flexible, clinically-focused online and in-person pathway for aspiring social work professionals. Designed for working adults and career changers, the program prepares students for advanced clinical licensure through a trauma-informed curriculum. Students can choose between a part-time traditional 63-credit track or an advanced standing 32-credit option, both featuring live virtual sessions and personalized faculty mentorship. The program emphasizes practical skills, professional development, and comprehensive fieldwork training.
- Fully online and part-time
- 63 or 32 credit options
- $675 per credit
- Priority application deadlines
- Live virtual sessions
- 1000 hours clinical training
- Trauma-informed curriculum
- Advanced clinical concentration
- Faculty mentorship included
- Professional development support
Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)
Campus Based - Visit Website
Barry University's Master of Social Work (MSW) program offers a transformative 63-credit traditional pathway for aspiring social workers. Designed for newcomers to the field, this clinical-focused curriculum equips students with advanced skills in trauma-informed practice, policy development, and social research. The program emphasizes critical thinking, communication, and leadership, preparing graduates for diverse roles in mental health, healthcare, and community services. With competitive tuition at $675 per credit and opportunities for financial aid, students gain hands-on experience through professional internships at respected agencies, setting the stage for meaningful careers that drive social change.
- 63-credit Traditional MSW Program
- CSWE-accredited Degree
- Clinical Trauma-Informed Curriculum
- 3.0 Minimum Undergraduate GPA
- $675 Per Credit Tuition
- Professional Internship Placements
- Two Recommendation Letters Required
- Personal Statement Mandatory
- Diverse Clinical Practice Sites
- Small Class Sizes
Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW) Advanced Standing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Barry University's Master of Social Work (MSW) Advanced Standing program offers a fast-track pathway for BSW degree holders to elevate their social work career. Designed for professionals with a recent CSWE-accredited bachelor's degree, this 32-credit clinical program provides comprehensive training in social work practice, policy, and leadership. Students gain hands-on experience through diverse clinical placements, developing critical skills in mental health, healthcare, and community services. With competitive tuition at $675 per credit and a trauma-informed curriculum, graduates are prepared for high-impact careers addressing complex social challenges.
- 32-credit MSW Advanced Standing
- CSWE-accredited program
- Clinical practice focus
- Diverse internship settings
- $675 per credit tuition
- BSW degree requirement
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Two recommendation letters
- Personal statement required
- Trauma-informed curriculum
Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University
Tallahassee, FL - Public 4-Year - famu.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work (M.S.W)
Concentration: Community, Administration, and Policy (CAP) - Campus Based - Visit Website
Florida A&M University's Master of Social Work (MSW) program offers a comprehensive, advanced education for aspiring social work professionals. Designed for students seeking macro-level practice, the program prepares graduates to address complex social challenges through community development, administration, and policy-focused approaches. With a rigorous curriculum spanning 79 semester hours, students gain critical skills in social justice, cultural competence, and evidence-based intervention strategies. The program features full-time and part-time options, providing flexibility for diverse student needs. Accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, this MSW equips students with the knowledge and tools to create meaningful social change.
- 79 total semester hours
- CSWE accredited program
- Full-time and part-time options
- Macro social work focus
- 12 credit hours field placement
- 67 professional curriculum hours
- Advanced concentration in administration
- Community development emphasis
- Two-year program structure
- Policy and research oriented
MSW Degree Program Requirements/Eligibility in Florida
Florida Traditional MSW Admissions Requirements
If you already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field but would like to branch out into social work, you’ll need to enter into a traditional MSW. The programs take about two years to complete and require 60 credit hours. To apply, check out these typical 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
Florida Advanced-Standing MSW Admissions Requirements
For students who have a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), there’s a faster option — advanced standing. If you have a GPA of at least 3.5 and all of the additional requirements above, you can complete your MSW in as little as a year by completing 38 credits. Here are a few options for advanced-standing MSW degrees in Florida:
- University of South Florida – visit site
- Florida International University – visit site
- Florida State University – visit site
RELATED: Learn more about Social Work Salaries
Florida MSW Program Tuition and Costs
Like any other state, the cost of tuition will vary greatly depending on many factors, including the level of education you’ll receive and whether or not you’re considered a Florida resident. Generally speaking, you can expect to pay anywhere from $348 to $1,027 per credit. Take a look at the options below to get a better idea of how to factor tuition into your decision.
| School | Tuition (per credit hour) | Total Credits | Total Tuition |
| University Of South Florida | $347.91 (Resident) $855.95 (Non-resident) | 60 | $20,874.60 (Resident) $51,357 (Non-resident) |
| Florida State University | $444 (Resident) $625 (Non-resident) | 61 | $27,084 (Resident) $38,125 (Non-resident) |
| Florida Atlantic University | $371.82 (Resident) $1,026.81 (Non-resident) | 60 | $22,309.20 (Resident) $61,608.60 (Non-resident) |
Are Online MSW Programs in Florida 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 Florida
| 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 Florida, 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 Florida Social Work License
Becoming licensed as a social worker in Florida is the next step after earning your MSW degree. Each state has different licensure requirements. Learn more about how to get your social worker license in Florida.
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 Florida
DeLand, FL
Stetson University
- Master's - Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling
Campus Based - Website
- Master of Science degree
- CACREP accredited program
- State licensure preparation
- Holistic relational approach
- Diverse career opportunities
- Active practitioner faculty
- Individual and systemic training
- Multiple employment settings
Jacksonville, FL
Jacksonville University
- Master's - Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Concentration: Couples, Marriage, and Family Counseling - Online & Campus Based - Website
- CACREP accredited program
- Full-time, 2-year 60-credit program
- Hybrid learning format
- Florida licensure preparation
- Marriage and Family Counseling emphasis
- 800-hour clinical experience
- Application deadline: February 15, 2025
- Requires 3 recommendation letters
- Master's - Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Website
- CACREP accredited program
- Two-year, 60-credit program
- Hybrid learning format
- Marriage and Family Counseling emphasis
- Meets Florida LMHC/LMFT licensure requirements
- 800-hour clinical field experience
- Final application deadline: February 15, 2025
- Applicants need transcripts, recommendations
Orlando, FL
University of Central Florida
- Master's - Marriage, Couple, and Family Therapy (MA)
Campus Based - Website
- CACREP accredited program
- 63 credit hours minimum
- In-state tuition $369/credit
- Fall application deadline: Feb 1
- 800 total clinical hours
- On-campus and field experiences
- Prepare for MFT licensure
- Serve 1400+ community clients
Tallahassee, FL
Florida State University
- Doctorate - Marriage and Family Therapy (Ph.D.)
Campus Based - Website
- COAMFTE Accredited Program
- 4-year program length
- Minimum 83 credit hours
- Clinical Master's prerequisite
- 21 clinical supervision credits
- 24 dissertation credits
- December 1 application deadline
- 3.0 undergraduate GPA required
