MSW Programs in Kansas: Online & Campus
Kansas presents an array of opportunities for aspiring social work professionals. From bustling urban centers to serene rural communities, the state offers diverse environments for students to immerse themselves in the practice and theory of social work. With a focus on addressing the unique needs of Kansas communities, MSW programs in the state are tailored to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and experiences necessary to make a meaningful impact in the field.
Read on as we delve into the various MSW programs available in Kansas, exploring their distinctive features, curriculum offerings, and the opportunities they provide for future social workers. Whether you’re drawn to advocacy, clinical practice, or community development, Kansas has a program to suit your aspirations and propel you toward a fulfilling career in social work.
2025 Best MSW Programs in Kansas
Looking for the best MSW programs in Kansas? CounselingPsychology.org has you covered. Our rankings highlight top schools that offer quality education, strong faculty, and great student support. We focus on programs that prepare you for a successful career in social work. Whether you're starting out or advancing your skills, our list can help you find the right fit. Check out our rankings to see which Kansas MSW programs stand out. Learn more about how we rank programs here.
Fort Hays State University
Hays, KS - Public 4-Year - fhsu.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Clinical - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Fort Hays State University's Clinical MSW program stands out for its hybrid format, blending online coursework with essential in-person clinical training. Tailored for aspiring clinical social workers, this program offers both Regular and Advanced Standing tracks, accommodating students at different stages of their professional journey. Emphasizing practical skills, the curriculum includes synchronous Zoom sessions, three-day clinical intensives, and local practicum experiences, all designed to simulate real-world social work scenarios. Accredited by the CSWE, the program ensures graduates are well-prepared for licensure and diverse clinical settings. With rolling admissions and two application deadlines, it provides flexibility for working professionals. Requires GRE.
- Fully online Clinical MSW
- Two pathway options
- CSWE fully accredited
- Priority deadline January 15
- Final deadline April 15
- Applications reviewed monthly
- Three-day clinical intensives
- Synchronous zoom sessions
- Local practicum experiences
- Simulated real-world training
Kansas State University
Manhattan, KS - Public 4-Year - k-state.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Clinical Social Work Practice - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Kansas State University's Master of Social Work program, with a concentration in Clinical Social Work Practice, is designed for those aiming to excel in clinical settings. This hybrid program, in partnership with the University of Kansas School of Social Welfare, offers a blend of online and on-campus learning, including classes every other Saturday. It features Advanced Standing for BSW holders, full-time or part-time study options, and two specialization tracks. A notable highlight is the $10K scholarship for Integrated Health Scholars, emphasizing clinical practice with individuals, families, and groups. The program's flexible format is ideal for working professionals seeking to advance their careers in social work.
- Partnership with KU School of Social Welfare
- Advanced Standing option for BSW holders
- One-year full-time or two-year part-time
- Blended learning format
- Campus classes every other Saturday
- Two specialization tracks available
- $10K scholarship for Integrated Health Scholars
- Clinical and macro practice options
- Synchronous and asynchronous learning
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Social Work Macro Practice - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Master of Social Work program at Kansas State University, focusing on Social Work Macro Practice, prepares students for leadership roles in social service administration and policy development. Offered in a hybrid format with the University of Kansas School of Social Welfare, it combines online coursework with on-campus sessions every other Saturday. The program includes Advanced Standing options for BSW graduates, full-time and part-time study plans, and a $10K scholarship opportunity through the Integrated Health Scholars Program. This program is tailored for those looking to impact social work at a systemic level, with a curriculum that supports both immediate application and long-term career growth.
- Partnership with KU School of Social Welfare
- Advanced Standing option available
- One-year full-time or two-year part-time
- Blended learning format
- On-campus every other Saturday
- Two specialization tracks
- Clinical and macro practice focus
- $10K scholarship opportunity
- Integrated Health Scholars Program
- Distance learning alternative
Wichita State University
Wichita, KS - Public 4-Year - wichita.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Campus Based - Visit Website
Wichita State University offers a Master of Social Work (MSW) program tailored for those aiming to excel in urban social work environments. With options for both full-time and part-time study, the program features two distinct tracks: a comprehensive 63-credit regular program and a streamlined 37-credit advanced standing option for BSW degree holders. Emphasizing cultural competency, social justice, and empowerment, the curriculum equips students for a variety of roles, from therapy to policy advocacy. Highlights include no GRE requirement, a focus on urban practice, and CSWE accreditation, ensuring a quality education that meets professional standards.
- Two program tracks available
- Regular program: 63 credit hours
- Advanced standing: 37 credit hours
- Full-time or part-time options
- No GRE required
- 2.75 GPA minimum
- Priority deadline: January's 2nd Friday
- CSWE accredited program
- Focuses on social justice
- Urban practice emphasis
MSW Degree Program Requirements/Eligibility in Kansas
KansasTraditional MSW Admissions Requirements
Traditional MSW programs are typically reserved for students with bachelor’s degrees but not Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degrees. These programs take two years to complete as a full-time student and require the completion of an average of 60 credits. Check out the admissions requirements below:
- 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
Kansas Advanced-Standing MSW Admissions Requirements
Advanced-standing MSW programs are fast-tracked options for students with a BSW and a 3.5 (or higher) GPA. In addition to these requirements, you’ll also need the admissions requirements listed above. Advanced-standing MSW programs usually only take a year to complete. Here are a few examples in Kansas:
- University of Kansas – visit site
- Fort Hayes State University – visit site
- Washburn University – visit site
RELATED: Learn more about Social Work Salaries
Kansas MSW Program Tuition and Costs
As you can see below, there’s a considerable range in terms of Kansas MSW program tuition cost. MSW programs in Kansas start at $260 per credit and exceed $907 per credit. You can expect to pay in this range, but you may be able to find a more affordable option depending on the state you reside in, as well as your eligibility for financial aid. Check out a few examples below:
| School | Tuition (per credit hour) | Total Credits | Total Tuition |
| University of Kansas | $437.00 (Residents) $1,048 (Non-residents) | 64 | $30,386 (Residents) $69,466 (Non-residents) |
| Fort Hays State University | $260.96 (Resident) $669.57 (Non-resident) $319.45 (Online) | 66 | $17,160 (Residents) $44,191.62 (Non-residents) $21,083.70 (Online) |
| Washburn University | $467 (Resident) $907 (Non-resident) $595 (Online) | 66 | $30,822 (Resident) $59,862 (Non-resident) $39,270 (Online) |
Are Online MSW Programs in Kansas as Good as Campus-Based?
Many students in Kansas have come around to the convenience and flexibility that online MSW programs offer, however, some prefer a more intimate experience at on-campus locations. Take a look at the table below to see a full list of pros and cons.
Traditional MSW vs. Online MSW Programs in Kansas
| 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 |
The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredits MSW programs that lead to licensure. When applying, make sure that the programs you apply to are accredited by the CSWE; otherwise, you won’t be eligible for licensure.
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 Kansas Social Work License
One of the many benefits of getting an MSW is that you’ll be eligible for licensure. Learn about Kansas’ licensure requirements and the process you’ll need to complete in order to get licensed in our Social Work Licensure Guide.
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 Kansas
Hays, KS
Fort Hays State University
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Clinical - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Fully online Clinical MSW
- Two pathway options
- CSWE fully accredited
- Priority deadline January 15
- Final deadline April 15
- Applications reviewed monthly
- Three-day clinical intensives
- Synchronous zoom sessions
Manhattan, KS
Kansas State University
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Clinical Social Work Practice - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Partnership with KU School of Social Welfare
- Advanced Standing option for BSW holders
- One-year full-time or two-year part-time
- Blended learning format
- Campus classes every other Saturday
- Two specialization tracks available
- $10K scholarship for Integrated Health Scholars
- Clinical and macro practice options
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Social Work Macro Practice - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Partnership with KU School of Social Welfare
- Advanced Standing option available
- One-year full-time or two-year part-time
- Blended learning format
- On-campus every other Saturday
- Two specialization tracks
- Clinical and macro practice focus
- $10K scholarship opportunity
Wichita, KS
Wichita State University
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Campus Based - Website
- Two program tracks available
- Regular program: 63 credit hours
- Advanced standing: 37 credit hours
- Full-time or part-time options
- No GRE required
- 2.75 GPA minimum
- Priority deadline: January's 2nd Friday
- CSWE accredited program
