MSW Programs in Oregon: Online & Campus
As the demand for skilled professionals in social work continues to rise, prospective students are increasingly turning their attention to Master of Social Work (MSW) programs in Oregon. Nestled in the picturesque Pacific Northwest, Oregon offers a diverse array of MSW programs tailored to meet the evolving needs of individuals passionate about making a positive impact on society. From urban hubs to rural communities, these programs are designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and practical experiences necessary to address complex social issues and advocate for marginalized populations. In this article, we delve into the landscape of MSW programs in Oregon, exploring their unique features, academic offerings, and the enriching opportunities they provide for aspiring social workers.
2025 Best MSW Programs in Oregon
Looking for the best MSW programs in Oregon? CounselingPsychology.org has ranked the top options to help you find the right fit. Our list highlights programs that stand out for their quality, affordability, and student support. Whether you're starting your career or advancing it, these schools offer the tools you need to succeed. Learn more about how we picked these programs at https://counselingpsychology.org/rankings-methodology/.
Pacific University
Forest Grove, OR - Private 4-year - pacificu.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Pacific University's Master of Social Work program stands out for its commitment to social justice and human rights, preparing students to serve marginalized communities effectively. The hybrid program combines rigorous academic coursework with practical field experiences, emphasizing trauma-informed care and anti-oppressive practices. With options for both rural and urban practice settings, students receive personalized mentorship and benefit from a curriculum that values diversity and scientific inquiry. The program is CSWE accredited and offers an Advanced Standing option for BSW graduates, making it a versatile choice for aspiring social workers.
- Advanced practice social work degree
- Individualized professor mentoring
- Focuses on social justice
- Rural and urban practice opportunities
- Advanced Standing option for BSW graduates
- CSWE accredited program
- Trauma-informed practitioner preparation
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Advanced Standing - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Advanced Standing MSW track at Pacific University is tailored for BSW graduates seeking to fast-track their social work education. This CSWE-accredited program emphasizes advanced practice skills, preparing students for leadership roles in social services. Unique features include guaranteed graduate school admission for eligible undergraduates and a dual admission program, facilitating a seamless transition from bachelor's to master's level studies. With a focus on professional preparation and a minimum GPA requirement of 3.0, this program is designed for students committed to making a difference in the field of social work.
- CSWE-accredited MSW program
- Two-year and advanced standing tracks
- Guaranteed grad school admission
- Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
- Apply during junior year
- Professional preparation focus
- Dual admission program available
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Generalist - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Pacific University offers a Generalist MSW program that blends innovative coursework with extensive fieldwork, catering to both full-time and part-time students. The 64-credit, CSWE-accredited curriculum is enriched with international travel courses and online class options, providing a flexible and comprehensive education. Students can take advantage of tuition assistance and stipends through state workforce development grants. Located on the Forest Grove campus, the program serves Oregon and southwest Washington, offering advanced standing for BSW graduates and embedding fieldwork experiences to prepare students for diverse social work challenges.
- 64-credit generalist curriculum
- CSWE-accredited program since 2014
- Forest Grove campus location
- Online class options available
- International travel course opportunities
- Advanced standing track available
- Two-year full-time or part-time options
- Fieldwork experiences embedded
- Tuition assistance grants
- Serves Oregon and southwest Washington
Portland State University
Portland, OR - Public 4-Year - pdx.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Portland State University's Master of Social Work (MSW) Eugene Option is a three-year hybrid program blending online and in-person learning, ideal for those seeking flexibility. It focuses on Advanced Clinical Practice, offering a robust curriculum of 78 credits that covers social justice, research methods, and mental health. Students engage in a two-year practicum within their communities, gaining invaluable hands-on experience. The program is set in downtown Eugene, serving various Oregon counties, with the next cohort starting fall 2025.
- Three-year hybrid MSW program
- Advanced Clinical Practice concentration
- 78 total program credits
- Flexible in-person/online learning
- Two-year community-based practicum
- Next cohort begins fall 2025
- Located in downtown Eugene
- Serves multiple Oregon counties
Master's - Master of Social Work
Online Learning - Visit Website
Portland State University's MSW program stands out for its online and campus options, including locations in Portland, Eugene, and Central Oregon. Recognized as the #1 Online MSW Macro Degree, it integrates a racial equity-focused curriculum with over 280,000 community service hours annually. The program offers $250,000 in scholarships, flexible learning formats, and extensive field education opportunities, preparing students for impactful careers in social work without the need for a GRE.
- Online and campus options
- #1 Online MSW Macro Degree
- Top 12% Social Work Schools
- 280,000 community service hours
- $250,000 annual scholarships
- Racial equity focused curriculum
- Multiple campus locations
- Field education opportunities
- Flexible learning formats
Master's - Master of Social Work
Campus Based - Visit Website
The MSW Eugene Option at Portland State University is a three-year hybrid program offering a blend of synchronous and asynchronous courses, primarily on Fridays. It emphasizes Advanced Clinical Practice through a 78-credit curriculum and a two-year practicum in local agencies. Located in downtown Eugene, the program serves multiple Oregon counties and is perfect for students aiming for clinical social work roles, with the next cohort commencing fall 2025.
- Three-year hybrid MSW program
- Advanced Clinical Practice concentration
- Downtown Eugene location
- 78 total credit program
- Two-year practicum experience
- Synchronous and asynchronous courses
- Next cohort begins fall 2025
- Course availability on Fridays
- Serves multiple Oregon counties
George Fox University
Newberg, OR - Private 4-year - georgefox.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Campus Based - Visit Website
George Fox University's Master of Social Work program is a CSWE-accredited initiative designed to mold students into advocates for social justice. Offering both traditional and advanced standing tracks, this program caters to a wide range of students, from recent graduates to working professionals. With a focus on micro, mezzo, and macro social work practices, the program boasts a 90.5% first-time clinical licensure exam pass rate. The curriculum integrates cutting-edge research, cultural sensitivity, and spiritual elements, preparing graduates for impactful roles in various community settings. The program is available online with in-person practicum requirements, spanning 2-4 years depending on the track chosen.
- CSWE-accredited program
- Traditional and Advanced Standing options
- Online with in-person practicum
- 2-4 years program length
- 62 credit hours traditional track
- 32 credit hours advanced standing
- Per semester credit hour: $794
- Total program cost: $49,228
- Advanced Standing cost: $25,408
- Optional School Social Work Licensure
- 448-560 practicum hours yearly
- 12-18 students per class
- School social work concentration available
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: School Social Work - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Specializing in School Social Work, George Fox University's hybrid-online MSW program prepares students to address mental health challenges within educational settings. This CSWE-accredited program meets Oregon licensure requirements, emphasizing multicultural understanding and social-emotional interventions. With a duration of 8-15 months, the program offers flexibility for students, combining online coursework with practical experiences. Graduates are equipped to make significant differences in students' lives, supported by over 400 hours of practicum experience and the option for school social work licensure.
- CSWE Accredited Program
- 8-15 Month Duration
- $794 per Credit Hour
- Hybrid-Online Format
- School Social Work Licensure
- 400+ Hours Practicum Experience
- Portland Center Location
- Online Courses Starting Fall 2025
- Two Program Paths Available
- Integrated MSW Option
Master's - Master of Social Work Advanced Standing
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Advanced Standing Master of Social Work program at George Fox University is tailored for BSW graduates aiming for rapid career progression. This CSWE-accredited program can be completed in 8-20 months, focusing on practical skills and professional growth. Applicants need a minimum 3.0 GPA, a BSW degree, and professional references. The program welcomes both new graduates and experienced professionals, offering a comprehensive education in social work with a requirement for field experience evaluation. Located at the Portland Center, it provides an accelerated pathway for those committed to advancing in the social work field.
- Advanced Standing MSW Program
- 8-20 months completion time
- CSWE accredited program
- 3.0 minimum GPA required
- BSW degree prerequisite
- International students welcome
- Professional reference needed
- Field experience evaluation
- Portland Center location
MSW Degree Program Requirements/Eligibility in Oregon
Oregon Traditional MSW Admissions Requirements
Unless you have already completed a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree program, you’ll need to enroll in a traditional MSW program to get licensed. To graduate, you must finish 60 credits and commit two years to your education. To apply, collect 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
Oregon Advanced-Standing MSW Admissions Requirements
Students with a BSW can enter into a fast-tracked MSW program as long as they have a GPA of 3.5 or higher; all of the same admissions requirements above still stand. Here are a few advanced-standing MSW programs available in Oregon:
- George Fox University – visit site
- Portland State University – visit site
- Pacific University – visit site
RELATED: Learn more about Social Work Salaries
Oregon MSW Program Tuition and Costs
As you can see, Oregon MSW programs aren’t particularly affordable compared to the rest of the country, but they are fairly consistent in their costs. To get a better idea, here are a few of the state’s MSW programs and their respective costs. Keep in mind that there are often lots of hidden expenses involved with the cost of your education, such as room and board and assorted fees.
| School | Tuition (per credit hour) | Total Credits | Total Tuition |
| Pacific University | $854 | 64 | $54,592 |
| Portland State University | $528 (Resident) $755 (Non-resident) | 78 | $41,128 (Resident) $58,890 (Non-resident) |
| George Fox University | $794 | 62 | $49,228 |
Are Online MSW Programs in Oregon as Good as Campus-Based?
Online MSW programs are great for those who have busy schedules and don’t have time to commute to classes. But for some, in-person courses and access to on-campus resources are important. Either choice will provide the same rigorous coursework delivered by respected faculty. Take a look at the full range of benefits (and drawbacks) of online MSW programs here:
Traditional MSW vs. Online MSW Programs in Oregon
| 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 in Oregon, you must ensure that the program you enroll in is accredited. The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) is responsible for accrediting all MSW programs in the US. Look for their seal on all program websites, and contact the school’s program director if you have any questions about accreditation.
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 Oregon Social Work License
The final step to becoming a social worker is to get licensed. Each state has different requirements for state licensure. Learn about what you’ll need to get licensed in Oregon 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 Oregon
Forest Grove, OR
Pacific University
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Advanced practice social work degree
- Individualized professor mentoring
- Focuses on social justice
- Rural and urban practice opportunities
- Advanced Standing option for BSW graduates
- CSWE accredited program
- Trauma-informed practitioner preparation
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Advanced Standing - Online & Campus Based - Website
- CSWE-accredited MSW program
- Two-year and advanced standing tracks
- Guaranteed grad school admission
- Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
- Apply during junior year
- Professional preparation focus
- Dual admission program available
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Generalist - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 64-credit generalist curriculum
- CSWE-accredited program since 2014
- Forest Grove campus location
- Online class options available
- International travel course opportunities
- Advanced standing track available
- Two-year full-time or part-time options
- Fieldwork experiences embedded
Newberg, OR
George Fox University
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Campus Based - Website
- CSWE-accredited program
- Traditional and Advanced Standing options
- Online with in-person practicum
- 2-4 years program length
- 62 credit hours traditional track
- 32 credit hours advanced standing
- Per semester credit hour: $794
- Total program cost: $49,228
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: School Social Work - Online & Campus Based - Website
- CSWE Accredited Program
- 8-15 Month Duration
- $794 per Credit Hour
- Hybrid-Online Format
- School Social Work Licensure
- 400+ Hours Practicum Experience
- Portland Center Location
- Online Courses Starting Fall 2025
- Master's - Master of Social Work Advanced Standing
Campus Based - Website
- Advanced Standing MSW Program
- 8-20 months completion time
- CSWE accredited program
- 3.0 minimum GPA required
- BSW degree prerequisite
- International students welcome
- Professional reference needed
- Field experience evaluation
Portland, OR
Portland State University
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Three-year hybrid MSW program
- Advanced Clinical Practice concentration
- 78 total program credits
- Flexible in-person/online learning
- Two-year community-based practicum
- Next cohort begins fall 2025
- Located in downtown Eugene
- Serves multiple Oregon counties
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Online Learning - Website
- Online and campus options
- #1 Online MSW Macro Degree
- Top 12% Social Work Schools
- 280,000 community service hours
- $250,000 annual scholarships
- Racial equity focused curriculum
- Multiple campus locations
- Field education opportunities
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Campus Based - Website
- Three-year hybrid MSW program
- Advanced Clinical Practice concentration
- Downtown Eugene location
- 78 total credit program
- Two-year practicum experience
- Synchronous and asynchronous courses
- Next cohort begins fall 2025
- Course availability on Fridays
