MSW Programs in Oklahoma: Online & Campus

Embarking on a journey toward a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree is a significant step for aspiring social workers, offering a pathway to deepen their understanding of human behavior, societal issues, and intervention strategies. In Oklahoma, a state rich in cultural diversity and unique social challenges, the pursuit of an MSW is not only a professional aspiration but also a commitment to serving communities in need. With a myriad of options available, from traditional university programs to online platforms, prospective students face a landscape ripe with possibilities and considerations. In this article, we delve into the realm of MSW programs in Oklahoma, examining the diverse offerings, accreditation standards, and the vibrant tapestry of opportunities awaiting those ready to embark on this fulfilling educational journey.
2025 Best MSW Programs in Oklahoma
Looking for the best MSW programs in Oklahoma? CounselingPsychology.org has ranked the top schools to help you find the right fit. Our list highlights programs that stand out for quality, affordability, and student support. Whether you're starting your career or advancing it, these schools offer the tools you need to succeed. We've done the research so you can make an informed choice. Learn more about how we rank programs at https://counselingpsychology.org/rankings-methodology/.
University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus
Norman, OK - Public 4-Year - ou.edu
Master's - Online Master of Social Work
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Oklahoma's Online Master of Social Work offers a transformative 60-credit hour program designed for working professionals seeking to advance their careers in social service. Graduates become Advanced Integrative Practitioners equipped to promote social, economic, and environmental justice across diverse communities. The flexible online format accommodates busy schedules, allowing students to complete the program in approximately 2.5 years. With a competitive tuition of $625 per credit hour and CSWE accreditation, this program prepares students for licensure and career growth in a field projected to expand rapidly.
- 60-credit hour MSW program
- Online with synchronous sessions
- CSWE fully accredited
- Rolling admissions process
- Start terms: Fall, Spring, Summer
- 30+ months program length
- 18 total courses
- $625 per credit hour
- No application fee
- Requires undergraduate degree
- Two field education opportunities
- Advanced Integrative Practice concentration
- Career demand growing 16% annually
- Licensure preparation in all 50 states
- Elective course options available
Master's - Online Master of Social Work - Advanced Standing
Online Learning - Visit Website
Elevate your social work career with the University of Oklahoma's accelerated online Master of Social Work (Advanced Standing) program. Designed for BSW graduates within the last seven years, this 15-month, 33-credit-hour degree prepares advanced integrative practitioners to drive social justice. With competitive tuition at $625 per credit hour and a total program cost of $20,625, students gain practical skills through field education, synchronous online learning, and a CSWE-accredited curriculum that opens doors to diverse career opportunities.
- Online Master of Social Work
- 15+ Months Program Length
- 33 Total Credit Hours
- $625 Per Credit Hour
- CSWE Fully Accredited
- Advanced Standing Option
- Start Terms: Fall, Spring, Summer
- Rolling Admissions Process
- No Application Fee
- Requires BSW from CSWE-accredited Program
MSW Degree Program Requirements/Eligibility in Oklahoma
Oklahoma Traditional MSW Admissions Requirements
If your goal is to become a social worker but you don’t have a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) already, you’ll need to enroll in a traditional MSW program versus an advanced-standing program. These programs require a two-year commitment and the completion of 60 credits. To apply you’ll need:
- 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
Oklahoma Advanced-Standing MSW Admissions Requirements
If you currently have a BSW, you can finish your MSW in half the time through an advanced-standing MSW program. You’ll also need a 3.5 GPA and all of the admissions requirements listed above. Currently, there’s only one advanced-standing-MSW programs available in Oklahoma offered by the University of Oklahoma.
RELATED: Learn more about Social Work Salaries
Oklahoma MSW Program Tuition and Costs
School | Tuition (per credit hour) | Total Credits | Total Tuition |
The University of Oklahoma | $378.40 (Resident) $1055.90 (Non-resident) | 60 | $22,704 (Resident) $63,354 (Non-resident) |
Northwestern Oklahoma State University | $273.75 (Resident) $551.75 (Non-resident) | 60 | $16,425 (Resident) $33,105 (Non-resident) |
Oklahoma State University | $479 (Resident) $1,136 (Non-resident) | 63 | $30,200 (Resident) $71,560 (Non-resident) |
Are Online MSW Programs in Oklahoma as Good as Campus-Based?
If you’re looking for a convenient educational tract, you might want to check out online MSW programs. These types of programs allow students to complete their program within the comfort of their own homes and often in their own time, and the coursework is identical to on-campus options. Take a look at the full list of pros and cons here:
Traditional MSW vs. Online MSW Programs in Oklahoma
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 get licensed, you’ll need to ensure that your MSW program (whether online or on-campus) is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), the primary accrediting body for social work programs in the US.
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 Oklahoma Social Work License
Getting licensed is an essential step to becoming a social worker. Each state has a different set of requirements and guidelines for social work licensure. Find out how to get licensed as a social worker in Oklahoma 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.