Best MSW Programs in Ohio 2025: Online & Campus
Navigating the myriad options available for pursuing a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree in Ohio can be challenging for prospective students. With a diverse range of programs offered by universities across the state, each with its unique features and specialties, finding the right fit requires careful consideration. From renowned institutions in bustling urban centers to smaller colleges nestled in picturesque towns, Ohio offers a rich tapestry of opportunities for those aspiring to advance their careers in social work. In this article, we’ll explore the landscape of MSW programs in Ohio, highlighting key aspects that can help individuals make informed decisions about their educational journey.
2025 Best MSW Programs in Ohio
Looking for the best MSW programs in Ohio? counselingpsychology.org has you covered. We ranked top schools to help you find the right fit. Our list considers quality, affordability, and student support. Whether you're starting or advancing your career, these programs stand out. Check out our rankings to see which Ohio schools made the cut. Learn more about how we chose them https://counselingpsychology.org/rankings-methodology/.
Mount Vernon Nazarene University
Mount Vernon, OH - Private 4-year - mvnu.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Behavioral Health - Online Learning - Visit Website
Mount Vernon Nazarene University's online Master of Social Work (MSW) prepares advanced practitioners to serve diverse populations through specialized knowledge and ethical practice. With flexible track options in Behavioral Health and School Social Work, students can complete the program in 31-62 credit hours. The affordable program costs $565 per credit hour and offers advanced standing for qualified BSW graduates. Graduates are prepared for clinical roles, administrative positions, and specialized social work careers in healthcare, education, and community settings.
- Online MSW program
- Two concentration tracks
- $565 per credit hour
- Next start date January 8, 2025
- Standard track: 62 credit hours
- Advanced track: 31 credit hours
- Advanced standing option available
- Pre-candidacy CSWE accreditation
- Behavioral Health concentration
- School Social Work concentration
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: School Social Work - Online Learning - Visit Website
Mount Vernon Nazarene University's online Master of Social Work program prepares advanced practitioners to excel in diverse social service settings. With flexible tracks in Behavioral Health and School Social Work, students can specialize in clinical therapies, medical support, or educational interventions. The program offers affordable tuition at $565 per credit hour, with standard and advanced track options ranging from 31-62 credit hours. Designed for working professionals, the curriculum emphasizes practical skills, ethical practice, and comprehensive social work competencies.
- Online Master of Social Work
- Next start date January 8, 2025
- $565 per credit hour
- Standard track: 62 credit hours
- Advanced track: 31 credit hours
- Two concentration options
- Pre-candidacy CSWE accreditation
- Advanced standing for BSW graduates
- Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
- Behavioral Health concentration
- School Social Work concentration
Master's - Master of Social Work
Online Learning - Visit Website
Mount Vernon Nazarene University's Master of Social Work (MSW) empowers students to become advanced social work practitioners. Designed for career-driven professionals, this flexible online program offers two dynamic concentrations: Behavioral Health and School Social Work. With competitive tuition at $565 per credit hour, students can choose between a standard 62-credit or advanced 31-credit track. The program provides comprehensive training in clinical skills, policy understanding, and ethical practice, preparing graduates for diverse roles in mental health, education, healthcare, and social services.
- Online MSW program
- Next start date January 8, 2025
- $565 per credit hour
- Standard track: 62 credit hours
- Advanced track: 31 credit hours
- Two concentration options
- Pre-candidacy CSWE accreditation
- Advanced standing for BSW holders
- Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA required
- Clinical and school social work tracks
Case Western Reserve University
Cleveland, OH - Private 4-year - case.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)
Concentration: Children, Youth and Families - Campus Based - Visit Website
Case Western Reserve University's Master of Social Work (MSW) program empowers students to become transformative change leaders in social services. This comprehensive graduate degree combines rigorous research, innovative theory, and hands-on practice across diverse specializations. Students can choose from multiple paths including Aging, Children/Youth, Community Practice, Health, Mental Health, School Social Work, and Substance Use Disorders. The program offers flexible full-time and part-time tracks, with advanced standing options for BSW graduates, enabling completion in 12-20 months.
- Ranked #12 Social Work School Nationally
- 39-60 Credit Program
- 7 Specialized Study Paths
- 500-900 Field Education Hours
- Advanced Standing Available
- Full-Time and Part-Time Options
- Study Abroad Opportunities
- Individualized Study Path Option
Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)
Concentration: Mental Health - Campus Based - Visit Website
Case Western Reserve University's Master of Social Work (MSW) program offers a transformative educational experience for aspiring social work professionals. Located at the prestigious Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences, ranked #12 nationally, the program prepares change leaders through innovative research, theory, and hands-on practice. Students can choose from diverse specialization paths like Aging, Mental Health, and Community Practice, completing 39-60 credits in 12-20 months. Advanced standing options are available for BSW graduates, enabling faster degree completion.
- Ranked #12 Social Work School
- 39-60 Credit Program
- 12-20 Months Duration
- Full-Time and Part-Time Tracks
- Advanced Standing Available
- 7 Specialized Study Paths
- 500-900 Field Education Hours
- Study Abroad Opportunities
- Expert Faculty Mentorship
- On-Campus Program Format
Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)
Concentration: Substance Use Disorders and Recovery - Campus Based - Visit Website
Case Western Reserve University's Master of Social Work (MSW) program is a transformative educational experience designed for aspiring change leaders. With flexible full-time and part-time tracks spanning 12-20 months, students can specialize in diverse paths like aging, mental health, and community practice. The program combines rigorous research, hands-on practice, and comprehensive field education, preparing graduates to address complex social challenges across individual, family, and community levels. Ranked #12 nationally, the MSW offers advanced standing for BSW holders and provides unique opportunities like international study experiences.
- 39-60 credit program
- Full-time and part-time options
- Advanced standing available
- 7 specialized paths of study
- 500-900 field education hours
- Study abroad opportunities
- Ranked #12 social work school
- One-year option for advanced standing
Cleveland State University
Cleveland, OH - Public 4-Year - csuohio.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Online Learning - Visit Website
Cleveland State University's Master of Social Work (MSW) empowers students to become advanced practitioners serving vulnerable populations. The rigorous program develops critical social work skills, research strategies, and professional intervention techniques. Students gain comprehensive knowledge to address complex social challenges through intellectual training and practical experience. The flexible program offers both online and on-campus options, accommodating diverse student needs and schedules.
- Online and On-campus Options
- Fall Admission Deadline: August 1
- Spring Admission Deadline: December 2
- Summer Admission Deadline: April 21
- Advanced Standing Option Available
- Focuses on Oppressed Populations
- Located in Rhodes Tower, Room 1417
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Clinical - Online Learning - Visit Website
Cleveland State University's online Master of Social Work provides a dynamic pathway for professionals seeking to make meaningful social impacts. This comprehensive CSWE-accredited program offers 100% online coursework with flexible full-time and part-time options, allowing students to balance academic and personal commitments. With 60 credit hours and 900 field practicum hours, students develop advanced clinical skills and social justice competencies. The program welcomes students from diverse academic backgrounds, requiring only a bachelor's degree with a 2.75 GPA. Competitive in-state tuition at $618.25 per credit enables accessible advanced education for aspiring social workers committed to addressing human needs and advancing social equity.
- 100% online asynchronous coursework
- No campus visits required
- 60 credit hours total
- 900 field practicum hours
- Full-time: 1.7-2 years
- Part-time: 2.7-3.3 years
- CSWE accredited program
- Certificates in Chemical Dependency
- Certificates in Gerontology
- Certificates in Veterinary Social Work
- 2.75 GPA requirement
- No GRE required
- Three annual intake periods
- In-state tuition $618.25/credit
- Out-of-state tuition $619.25/credit
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Advanced Generalist - Online Learning - Visit Website
Cleveland State University's online Master of Social Work (MSW) empowers aspiring social workers to drive meaningful change through a comprehensive, flexible program. Designed for professionals from diverse backgrounds, this CSWE-accredited degree prepares students to become Licensed Independent Social Workers with advanced clinical skills. The 100% online, asynchronous curriculum allows full-time and part-time study, balancing professional and personal commitments. Students gain 900 field practicum hours, develop critical policy practice abilities, and explore specialized certificates in Chemical Dependency, Gerontology, and Veterinary Social Work.
- 100% online coursework
- No campus visits required
- 60 credit hours total
- 900 field practicum hours
- In-state tuition $618.25/credit
- CSWE-accredited program
- Full-time or part-time options
- No GRE required
- 2.75 minimum GPA
- 3 annual intake periods
- Certificates available
- Complimentary field placement services
University of Akron Main Campus
Akron, OH - Public 4-Year - uakron.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Micro - Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Akron's Master of Social Work (MSW) degree offers transformative training for aspiring social work professionals. Students can specialize in micro or macro practice, gaining advanced clinical skills to create meaningful societal changes. The flexible program accommodates full- and part-time students, with a convenient 100% online asynchronous option. Graduates develop expertise in areas like mental health, child welfare, healthcare, and community development, preparing them for diverse professional opportunities.
- No GRE required
- Full and part-time options
- 100% online classes
- Advanced Standing in 11 months
- Two concentration tracks
- CSWE accredited program
- Agency-based internships
- Cognitive behavioral therapy certificate
- Expert faculty guidance
- Diverse practice specializations
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Macro - Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Akron's Master of Social Work (MSW) empowers students to create meaningful societal changes through advanced specialized clinical practice and leadership. With flexible full-time and part-time options, including a 100% online asynchronous program, students can tailor their learning to diverse professional goals. The CSWE-accredited program offers two concentrations: Micro and Macro practice, enabling graduates to excel in mental health, child welfare, community organizing, and policy development.
- No GRE required
- Full and part-time options
- 100% online asynchronous classes
- Advanced Standing program
- CSWE accredited program
- Two practice concentrations
- Agency-based internships
- Certificate in CBT available
- Expert faculty
- Can obtain LICDC
Master's - Master of Social Work
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Akron offers a comprehensive Online Master of Social Work (MSW) program designed for aspiring social work professionals seeking advanced clinical skills. Students can choose between Micro and Macro concentrations, gaining expertise in direct practice or administrative roles. The flexible, 100% asynchronous online format allows completion in 22 months, with an accelerated 11-month option for those with a BSW. Accredited by CSWE, the program provides affordable education at $463.50 per credit hour, with no GRE requirement and over 100 scholarship opportunities.
- Online MSW program
- 60 credit hours total
- Advanced Standing option
- No GRE required
- 100% asynchronous classes
- Two concentrations available
- Micro and Macro tracks
- CSWE accredited program
- $463.50 per credit hour
- 22-month program length
- Advanced Standing 11 months
- Summer 2025 start date
- Fall 2025 start date
- March 31 Advanced Standing deadline
- May 31 Regular admission deadline
Ohio University-Main Campus
Athens, OH - Public 4-Year - ohio.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Campus Based - Visit Website
Ohio University offers a comprehensive Master of Social Work (MSW) program designed to prepare clinical social workers for impactful practice in rural environments. Students can choose from flexible on-campus hybrid and online learning formats, with options for advanced standing and part-time study. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, advanced clinical skills, and community-focused interventions, providing a robust educational pathway for those committed to improving social services and community well-being.
- Multiple MSW program formats
- Rural environment focus
- Online and hybrid options
- CSWE fully accredited
- Advanced Standing available
- One-day weekly on-campus
- Two entry point tracks
- Foundation and Advanced tracks
- No thesis requirement
- Research study component
- Field internship included
- Multiple part-time options
- 62-credit foundation track
- Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
Master's - Master of Social Work
Online Learning - Visit Website
Ohio University's Online Master of Social Work program provides a transformative educational pathway for aspiring social work professionals. Designed for flexibility, the program offers two entry points: a comprehensive 62-credit Foundation track and an accelerated 36-credit Advanced Standing track. Students can complete the degree entirely online, with no GRE requirement and multiple start dates annually. The CSWE-accredited curriculum prepares graduates to address critical social challenges, offering advanced clinical practice skills and comprehensive knowledge across various practice levels.
- 100% Online Program
- Graduate in 24 months
- No GRE Required
- Three Annual Start Dates
- CSWE Accredited
- Foundation & Advanced Tracks
- 500+ Nationwide Field Agencies
- Two Program Options
- Competitive State University Tuition
- Lifelong Career Support
Master's - Master of Social Work
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Ohio University's Master of Social Work (MSW) program prepares clinical social workers to excel in rural environments. Designed for career changers and recent graduates, the program offers flexible learning paths through on-campus hybrid and online formats. Students develop advanced skills to improve community well-being, with a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary practice and addressing complex social issues across diverse practice levels.
- Online and on-campus options
- Rural environment focus
- CSWE fully accredited program
- Advanced Standing available
- Two entry points for students
- Foundation program: 62 credits
- One-day weekly hybrid option
- Multiple program pace options
- No thesis requirement
- Two-semester research study
MSW Degree Program Requirements/Eligibility in Ohio
Ohio Traditional MSW Admissions Requirements
Traditional MSW programs typically take two years and 60 credits to graduate. If you don’t have a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree already, you’ll need to enroll in this traditional MSW program option (see below for advanced-standing MSW options). To apply, make sure you have the following:
- 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
Ohio Advanced-Standing MSW Admissions Requirements
Advanced-standing MSW programs are available to all students with a BSW and a 3.5 GPA or higher. These programs allow students to graduate faster (in a year) and allow for a smoother transition into the social work profession. To apply, you’ll need all of the typical admissions requirements as listed above.
Ohio has several advanced-standing MSW programs available; here are just a few examples:
- Cleveland State University – visit site
- Ohio State University – visit site
- Ohio University – visit site
RELATED: Learn more about Social Work Salaries
Ohio MSW Program Tuition and Costs
Ohio is home to many popular MSW programs, some notably affordable and some requiring a little more financial investment. Generally speaking, you can expect to pay anywhere between $305 and $1,733.13 per credit depending on if you’re an Ohio resident and the type of program you enroll in. Here are a few examples of the tuition ranges you can expect in Ohio.
| School | Tuition (per credit hour) | Total Credits | Total Tuition |
| Ohio State University | $777.88 (Resident) $1,733.13 (Non-resident) | 63 | $49,006.44 (Resident) $109,187.19 (Non-resident) |
| Ohio University | $305 (Resident) $562 (Non-resident) | 62 | $18,888 (Resident) $34,872 (Non-resident) |
| University of Akron | $462.50 (Resident) $782.50 (Non-resident) | 60 | $462.50 (Resident) $782.50 (Non-residentt) |
Are Online MSW Programs in Ohio as Good as Campus-Based?
It’s easy to see why many students are flocking to online MSW programs, but there are still many reasons why some students might prefer on-campus MSW programs. It’s important to remember that both online and on-campus MSW programs will provide the same comprehensive curriculum delivered by experienced faculty. Take a look at the full reasons why an online program might (or might not) be the right choice for you.
Traditional MSW vs. Online MSW Programs in Ohio
| 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 |
To become licensed, all MSW programs that you apply to will need to be accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), the primary accrediting body for all social work programs.
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 Ohio Social Work License
Getting licensed as a social worker in Ohio is the next step once you earn your MSW degree. Each state has different requirements for licensure. Learn more about Getting Your Social Work License in Ohio.
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 Ohio
