MSW Programs in Massachusetts: Online & Campus
As the demand for skilled professionals in the field of social work continues to grow, Massachusetts stands as a beacon for individuals seeking top-tier education and training through Master of Social Work (MSW) programs. With its rich history of progressive social policies and commitment to fostering inclusive communities, Massachusetts offers a diverse array of MSW programs tailored to meet the evolving needs of both students and society. From prestigious universities to specialized institutions, the Commonwealth provides a fertile ground for aspiring social workers to cultivate their passion, expertise, and dedication to effecting positive change in the lives of individuals and communities alike. In this article, we explore the landscape of MSW programs in Massachusetts, highlighting the unique offerings and opportunities that make them a cornerstone of social work education in the region.
2025 Best MSW Programs in Massachusetts
Looking for the best MSW programs in Massachusetts? counselingpsychology.org has ranked the top options to help you find the right fit. Our list focuses on quality, affordability, and student success. We consider key factors like accreditation, faculty expertise, and graduate outcomes. Whether you're starting your career or advancing it, our rankings guide you to make an informed choice. Learn more about how we rank these programs https://counselingpsychology.org/rankings-methodology/.
Simmons University
Boston, MA - Private 4-year - simmons.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)
Campus Based - Visit Website
Simmons University's Master of Social Work (MSW) program provides a transformative educational experience that prepares students for dynamic clinical social work careers. With flexible full-time, part-time, and online options, students can customize their learning path while gaining advanced skills in social justice, multicultural perspectives, and clinical practice. The 65-credit program integrates innovative clinical training, including social work simulation education, to equip graduates with practical expertise in addressing complex social challenges across diverse settings.
- 65 total credit hours
- Multiple program formats
- On-campus and online options
- Clinical practice focus
- Practicum education experiences
- Advanced clinical training
- Social justice emphasis
- Full-time and part-time tracks
- 16-month accelerated option
- Advanced Standing for BSW holders
Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)
Concentration: Clinical Practice with Active Service Members, Veterans, and Families - Campus Based - Visit Website
Simmons University's Master of Social Work (MSW) program provides comprehensive clinical social work education with exceptional preparation in scholarship and social action. Students gain transformative learning experiences through innovative clinical training, flexible study options, and a strong emphasis on social justice. The program offers versatile pathways including full-time, part-time, and online formats, with opportunities to specialize in areas like trauma practice, veteran services, and school social work. With a curriculum integrating multicultural perspectives and hands-on practicum experiences, graduates are equipped to become effective clinician activists addressing complex social challenges.
- 65 total credit hours
- Full-time and part-time options
- Online and on-campus formats
- Multiple certificate programs
- 24-hour weekly internships
- Advanced clinical training
- Simulation-based learning
- Flexible study sequences
- Specialized practice concentrations
- Advanced standing for BSW holders
Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)
Concentration: Trauma Practice Certificate - Campus Based - Visit Website
Simmons University's Master of Social Work (MSW) provides a transformative educational experience that prepares students for dynamic clinical social work careers. With flexible full-time, part-time, and online options, the program emphasizes social justice, multicultural perspectives, and innovative clinical training. Students benefit from hands-on practicum experiences, cutting-edge simulation learning, and specialized certificate opportunities in areas like trauma practice and veteran services. The comprehensive 65-credit curriculum equips graduates to address complex social challenges across diverse settings, from mental health and child welfare to public policy and community engagement.
- MSW requires 65 credit hours
- Full-time and part-time options
- Online and on-campus formats
- Multiple certificate opportunities
- Innovative clinical simulation training
- Advanced clinical practice focus
- Practicum education two years
- Accelerated 16-month program
- Advanced Standing for BSW holders
- School Social Work licensure available
Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Simmons University's online Master of Social Work (MSW) offers a transformative educational experience designed for aspiring clinical social workers. The CSWE-accredited program prepares students to pursue licensure and create meaningful societal change through innovative, justice-focused curriculum. With flexible study tracks ranging from 9 to 40 months, students can complete 34-65 graduate-level credits while gaining practical experience through 1,000+ hours of practicum education. Advanced certificate options in Mental Health, Trauma, and Military Practice enhance career readiness.
- CSWE-accredited online MSW program
- 9-40 months completion time
- Multiple program tracks available
- Advanced Standing for BSW graduates
- 1,000+ practicum hours
- No GRE required
- Three annual cohort start dates
- Scholarships available
- Optional certificate programs
- Interactive online classroom
Smith College
Northampton, MA - Private 4-year - smith.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work (M.S.W.)
Concentration: Clinical Social Work - Campus Based - Visit Website
Smith College's Master of Social Work (M.S.W.) is an intensive, clinically-focused program dedicated to preparing compassionate social work professionals. Students dive deep into critical social justice approaches, developing expertise through comprehensive summer coursework and hands-on internships. The program offers over 100 diverse elective courses, enabling students to specialize in areas like neurobiology, interpersonal violence, and transgender studies. With a strong emphasis on multicultural understanding and social context, graduates are equipped to make meaningful impacts across various clinical settings.
- Clinical social work focus
- Intensive summer curriculum
- Over 100 elective courses
- September-April internships
- Emphasizes social justice
- Multi-gender, diverse cohorts
- Comprehensive student support
- Rigorous academic training
Gordon College
Wenham, MA - Private 4-year - gordon.edu
Master's - 4+1 Master of Social Work
Concentration: Clinical Practice, Child and Family Services, Community Practice and Administration, Advanced Generalist - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Gordon College offers an innovative 4+1 Master of Social Work (MSW) program designed for aspiring social work professionals seeking an integrated, faith-based educational experience. This accelerated program enables students to complete their master's degree in just five years, providing flexible online learning options and specialized concentrations in clinical practice, child and family services, community practice, and advanced generalist tracks. By partnering with Roberts Wesleyan University and Dordt University, the program offers a cost-effective pathway to licensure and career advancement in a rapidly growing field.
- 4+1 MSW partnership program
- Two track options available
- Online degree program
- Multiple concentration choices
- Prepares for LCSW licensure
- Faith-integrated curriculum
- Faster and cheaper option
- No relocation required
- Flexible course scheduling
- Christian institutional partnership
Master's - 4+1 Master of Social Work
Concentration: Child and Family Services - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Gordon College offers an innovative 4+1 Master of Social Work (MSW) program designed for ambitious students seeking a transformative career in social services. This collaborative online degree partners with Roberts Wesleyan University and Dordt University, allowing students to complete their master's in just five years. The program provides flexible learning options, cost-effective education, and prepares graduates for licensure in clinical social work through comprehensive concentrations in clinical practice, child and family services, community practice, and advanced generalist tracks.
- 4+1 MSW partnership program
- Online degree options
- Multiple concentration tracks
- Integrates faith and learning
- Prepares for LCSW licensure
- Accelerated five-year timeline
- Christian institutional partnership
- Flexible course scheduling
- Career-focused curriculum
- No relocation required
Master's - 4+1 Master of Social Work
Concentration: Community Practice and Administration - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Gordon College offers an innovative 4+1 Master of Social Work (MSW) program designed for students seeking to integrate faith with professional social work practice. This accelerated degree pathway allows students to complete their master's in just five years, providing cost-effective and flexible online learning options. The program prepares compassionate practitioners for diverse social welfare careers, with opportunities to specialize in clinical practice, child and family services, community practice, and administration.
- 4+1 Accelerated MSW Program
- Online and Flexible Learning
- Two Partnership Track Options
- Multiple Concentration Choices
- Christian Faith Integration
- Preparation for LCSW Licensure
- Partnered with Dordt/Roberts Wesleyan
- No Relocation Required
- Faster Degree Completion
- Lower Overall Program Cost
Boston College
Chestnut Hill, MA - Private 4-year - bc.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Campus Based - Visit Website
Boston College's top-ranked Master of Social Work (MSW) program provides a transformative educational experience for aspiring social work professionals. Students can choose between clinical and macro specializations, with six distinct fields of practice including Black Leadership, Children and Families, and Global Practice. The rigorous curriculum combines 12 required courses with 5 electives, offering unparalleled flexibility. With a 91.5% first-time licensure pass rate and scholarships available to 100% of accepted students, graduates are well-positioned to create meaningful social change in diverse professional settings.
- Top-ranked MSW program nationally
- Full-time and part-time options
- Two specialization tracks
- 100% scholarship availability
- 91.5% licensure pass rate
- 2-year full-time program
- 3-4 year part-time program
- Advanced Standing option
- 6 fields of practice
- Optional certificate programs
- $1,408 per credit
- 12 required courses
- 5 elective courses
- Ranked #8 nationally
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Clinical Social Work - Campus Based - Visit Website
Boston College's top-ranked Master of Social Work (MSW) program offers a rigorous, innovative curriculum designed to prepare transformative social work practitioners. Students can choose between clinical and macro specializations, with six dynamic fields of practice including Black Leadership, Children & Families, and Global Practice. The flexible two-year full-time or three-to-four-year part-time options accommodate diverse student needs. With 100% scholarship availability, advanced field education opportunities, and an impressive 91.5% first-time licensure pass rate, this program empowers students to drive meaningful social change across various professional settings.
- Top-ranked MSW in New England
- Full-time and part-time options
- Clinical and macro specializations
- 100% scholarship for accepted students
- 91.5% first-time licensure pass rate
- Six fields of practice
- 12 required courses, 5 electives
- Cost: $1,408 per credit
- Advanced Standing available
- Multiple application deadlines
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Macro Social Work - Campus Based - Visit Website
Boston College's Master of Social Work (MSW) program is a cutting-edge, nationally ranked educational experience designed to transform passionate students into skilled social work practitioners. With flexible full-time and part-time options, students can customize their degree through specialized clinical or macro practice tracks, diverse field placements, and optional certificates. Boasting a 91.5% first-time licensure pass rate, the program offers scholarships to 100% of accepted students and prepares graduates to make meaningful social impacts in just six weeks post-graduation.
- Full-time: 2 years
- Part-time: 3-4 years
- Advanced Standing: 12-16 months
- 12 required courses
- 5 elective courses
- Credit cost: $1,408 per credit
- #8 nationally ranked MSW
- 100% scholarship for accepted students
- 6 fields of practice options
- 12 optional certificate programs
Bridgewater State University
Bridgewater, MA - Public 4-Year - bridgew.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Campus Based - Visit Website
Bridgewater State University's Master of Social Work program equips students with advanced skills to drive meaningful social change. Designed for aspiring social work professionals, this comprehensive graduate degree prepares students to enhance lives across individuals, families, groups, and communities. The program emphasizes evidence-based practices and social justice principles, providing a robust foundation for transformative professional practice. Students gain critical analytical skills, practical experience, and a deep understanding of complex social dynamics, positioning them for impactful careers in diverse social service settings.
- Master of Social Work offered
- Evidence-based policy focus
- Social justice principles emphasized
- Advanced practice preparation
- Community-centered approach
MSW Degree Program Requirements/Eligibility in Massachusetts
Massachusetts Traditional MSW Admissions Requirements
Students enrolled in a traditional MSW program must complete 60 credit hours and two years of study. They will also need to have a bachelor’s degree; however, the field of study does not have to be social work. Here are a full range of admissions requirements to enroll:
- 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
Massachusetts Advanced-Standing MSW Admissions Requirements
An advanced-standing Master of Social Work (MSW) degree is an accelerated program for those with a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree. Entry requirements routinely include:
- A BSW degree from an accredited institution is typically awarded no longer than five years prior
- Minimum GPA of 3.5
- All other requirements from the Traditional MSW above
If you qualify for an advanced standing MSW and are looking for options in Massachusetts, take a look at these programs available in the state:
- Salem State University – visit site
- UMass Global – visit site
- Westfield State University – visit site
RELATED: Learn more about Social Work Salaries
Massachusetts MSW Program Tuition and Costs
MSW programs can range considerably in price; this is no less apparent than in Massachusetts, where some of the nation’s most expensive and affordable MSW programs co-exist together in one tiny state. Depending on the program, you can reasonably anticipate paying a total of $8,880 to $91,520 for your MSW tuition and anywhere in between. Check out these examples:
| School | Tuition (per credit hour) | Total Credits | Total Tuition |
| Merrimack College | $1,069 | 56 | $59,864 |
| Boston University | $1,408 | 65 | $91,520 |
| Salem State University | $140 (Resident) $230 (Non-resident) | 62 | $8,880 (Resident) $14,260 (Non-resident) |
Are Online MSW Programs in Massachusetts as Good as Campus-Based?
Online MSW programs are a great way to get your MSW without having to sacrifice family and work obligations and to gain access to programs that may not be available in your state. Check out the full range of pros and cons in the table below:
Traditional MSW vs. Online MSW Programs in Massachusetts
| 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 Massachusetts, 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 Massachusetts Social Work License
Getting licensed as a social worker in Alabama is the final 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 Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts
