Embarking on a career in social work is a noble pursuit, driven by a passion to effect positive change in individuals, families, and communities. With its rich history and diverse population, Tennessee offers a fertile ground for aspiring social workers to hone their skills and make a meaningful impact. In this article, we delve into the landscape of Master of Social Work (MSW) programs across the state, exploring the institutions, specialties, and opportunities that shape the educational journey for those dedicated to serving the needs of others in the Volunteer State.

2025 Best MSW Programs in Tennessee

Looking for the best MSW programs in Tennessee? counselingpsychology.org has ranked the top schools to help you find the right fit. Our list focuses on quality, affordability, and student support. Whether you're starting your career or advancing it, these programs offer great opportunities. We've done the research so you can make an informed choice. Check out our full rankings and see which schools made the cut. Learn more about how we ranked these programs https://counselingpsychology.org/rankings-methodology/.

#1

The University of Tennessee-Knoxville

Knoxville, TN - Public 4-Year - utk.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Social Work

Concentration: Clinical Practice - Online Learning - Visit Website

Unlock your potential with the University of Tennessee's Online Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW), a flexible and comprehensive program designed for working professionals. Fully accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, this innovative degree offers part-time and full-time options without GRE requirements. Students enjoy a dynamic learning experience with synchronous and asynchronous courses, taught by expert faculty, and gain invaluable real-world experience through mandatory field placements. The program accommodates diverse schedules, allowing students to balance work, family, and academic goals seamlessly.

  • Fully online MSSW program
  • No GRE required
  • Multiple study options
  • Synchronous and asynchronous courses
  • CSWE accredited program
  • Flexible evening class times
  • Mandatory field placement
  • Part-time and full-time paths
  • Advanced standing available

Master's - Master of Science in Social Work

Concentration: Organizational Leadership - Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Tennessee-Knoxville's Online Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW) provides a flexible, high-quality graduate education for working professionals. Fully accredited by CSWE, the program offers part-time and full-time tracks with synchronous and asynchronous courses designed to accommodate diverse student schedules. No GRE is required, and students complete comprehensive field placements that allow practical application of social work skills in real-world settings. The program ensures the same rigorous academic standards as on-campus courses, making advanced social work education accessible regardless of geographical constraints.

  • Fully online MSSW program
  • No GRE required
  • CSWE accredited program
  • Synchronous and asynchronous courses
  • Part-time and full-time options
  • Field placement included
  • Evening course schedules
  • Same professors as on-campus
  • Advanced standing available
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#2

Union University

Jackson, TN - Private 4-year - uu.edu

Master's - Master of Social Work

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Union University's Master of Social Work provides a comprehensive pathway for aspiring social work professionals seeking advanced practice leadership. Students can choose between an Advanced Standing 33-credit hour program for BSW graduates and a Traditional 60-credit hour program for those with diverse undergraduate backgrounds. The program emphasizes a Christian-centered approach to social justice, evidence-based practice, and comprehensive intervention strategies across individual, family, and community levels. With flexible online and face-to-face learning options, competitive tuition rates, and a focus on trauma-informed care, students gain the skills needed to excel in complex social work environments.

  • Online and in-person options
  • Advanced Generalist Concentration
  • $655 per credit hour
  • No GRE required
  • CSWE Accredited Program
  • Advanced Standing for BSW graduates
  • Two campus locations
  • Trauma Studies Certificate available
  • Minimum 2.65 GPA requirement
  • Fall and Spring start terms
#3

Austin Peay State University

Clarksville, TN - Public 4-Year - apsu.edu

Master's - Master of Social Work

Campus Based - Visit Website

Austin Peay State University's Master of Social Work (MSW) program provides a comprehensive, flexible educational pathway for aspiring social work professionals. Accredited by the Council on Social Work Education through October 2029, the program offers a hybrid learning model with online and in-person courses. Students can pursue an advanced generalist concentration that prepares them for diverse practice levels, from individual to community interventions. The program supports career changers and welcomes students from various academic backgrounds, with no specific undergraduate prerequisites.

  • CSWE Accredited Program
  • Hybrid Learning Model
  • Advanced Generalist Concentration
  • No GRE Required
  • August 2025 Admission
  • Application Review Begins February 2025
  • 2.75 Minimum GPA
  • Part-time and Full-time Options
  • Exemption Exams Available
  • Advanced Standing Option

Master's - Master of Social Work

Concentration: Advanced Generalist - Campus Based - Visit Website

Austin Peay State University's Master of Social Work program provides a comprehensive, flexible educational pathway for aspiring social work professionals. With an advanced generalist concentration, students gain versatile skills across micro, mezzo, and macro practice levels. The hybrid learning model accommodates working professionals, offering evening classes and online coursework. Accredited by the Council on Social Work Education through 2029, the program welcomes students from diverse academic backgrounds, requiring only a 2.75 GPA and no specific prerequisites.

  • CSWE Accredited Program
  • Advanced Generalist Concentration
  • Hybrid Learning Model
  • No GRE Required
  • Application Deadline February 1st
  • Part-time and Full-time Options
  • Late Applications Accepted
  • Flexible Career Preparation
  • Online Course Components
  • Transfer Credit Possibilities

Master's - Master of Social Work

Concentration: Administration - Campus Based - Visit Website

Austin Peay State University's Master of Social Work (MSW) program offers a comprehensive advanced generalist concentration that prepares students for versatile social work practice across micro, mezzo, and macro levels. The hybrid learning model provides flexibility for working professionals, with evening classes and online coursework. Students can pursue various career paths and licensure options, with no specific undergraduate prerequisites required. The program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education through October 2029, ensuring high-quality educational standards and professional preparation.

  • CSWE Accredited Program
  • Hybrid Learning Model
  • Advanced Generalist Concentration
  • No Specific Undergraduate Prerequisites
  • Application Deadline February 1st
  • No GRE Required
  • Part-time and Full-time Options
  • August 2025 Admission Available
  • Flexible Career Licensure Paths
  • Online and In-class Courses

Master's - Master of Social Work

Concentration: Clinical - Campus Based - Visit Website

Austin Peay State University's Master of Social Work program offers a dynamic, flexible path for aspiring social work professionals. With an accredited curriculum through October 2029, students can pursue an advanced generalist concentration that prepares them for versatile practice across micro, mezzo, and macro levels. The hybrid model allows part-time and full-time students to balance education with professional commitments, featuring both online and in-class components. The program does not require GRE scores and welcomes career changers from diverse academic backgrounds.

  • CSWE Accredited through 2029
  • Hybrid Learning Model
  • Advanced Generalist Concentration
  • No GRE Required
  • Application Deadline February 2025
  • Part-time and Full-time Options
  • 2.75 Minimum GPA
  • Advanced Standing Available
  • Exemption Exams Offered
  • Multiple Licensure Pathways
Show 3 More Programs ˅
#4

King University

Bristol, TN - Private 4-year - king.edu

Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)

Concentration: Clinical Advocacy - Online Learning - Visit Website

King University's online Master of Social Work (MSW) program empowers passionate professionals to become transformative change agents in diverse communities. With flexible learning options, students can complete the foundational program in 22 months or the advanced standing track in just 12 months. The CSWE-accredited curriculum prepares graduates for clinical practice across micro, mezzo, and macro levels, focusing on clinical advocacy and ethical intervention strategies. With competitive per-credit costs and comprehensive field education, students develop advanced skills to address complex social challenges and pursue licensure in various professional settings.

  • CSWE-accredited online MSW
  • Advanced Standing option available
  • 30-33 credit hours advanced
  • 57-60 credit hours foundational
  • Cost per credit: $610
  • Next start date: August 25, 2025
  • 1000 hours total fieldwork
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
  • Multiple admission pathways
  • Clinical advocacy focus
#5

The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga

Chattanooga, TN - Public 4-Year - utc.edu

Master's - Master of Social Work

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga offers a professionally oriented Master of Social Work (MSW) evening program designed to prepare advanced social work practitioners. Students gain refined training in social work knowledge, values, and skills for specialized practice areas. The fully CSWE-accredited program enables graduates to pursue diverse career paths including medical, clinical, hospice, and specialized social work roles across various demographic settings.

  • CSWE fully accredited program
  • Evening program format
  • Advanced practice focus
  • Licensure preparation
  • Multiple career path options
  • Life course practice emphasis
  • Practice across demographics
  • Independent learning approach
*Data source: NCES IPEDS survey, 2023.

MSW Degree Program Requirements/Eligibility in Tennessee

Tennessee Traditional MSW Admissions Requirements

Traditional MSW programs are a little longer than advanced-standing MSW options, but they provide the necessary training a new social worker needs to enter the field. These programs take two years to complete and require 60 credits to graduate. Here are the typical admissions requirements:

  • 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

Tennessee Advanced-Standing MSW Admissions Requirements

Advanced-standing programs, on the other hand, can be completed in only a year. However, to enroll in this program, you’ll need at least a 3.5 GPA and a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree in hand, along with the admissions requirements listed above. Here are a few advanced-standing MSW programs available in Tennessee:

RELATED: Learn more about Social Work Salaries

Tennessee MSW Program Tuition and Costs

Tennessee’s tuition costs are slightly below the national average, which makes it a perfect state to relocate to for your MSW program. However, if you’re already a resident of Tennessee, you’ll save money on MSW programs considerably. Take a look at the ranges below for some well-known examples:

SchoolTuition (per credit hour)Total CreditsTotal Tuition
University of Tennessee$454 (Resident)
$606 (Non-resident)
60$27,240 (Resident)
$36,376 (Non-resident)
Tennessee State University$336 (Resident)
$427 (Non-resident)
60$20,140 (Resident)
$25,600 (Non-resident)
East Tennessee State University$525 (Resident)
$1,327 (Non-resident)
63$33,103 (Resident)
$83,644 (Non-resident)

Are Online MSW Programs in Tennessee as Good as Campus-Based?

While the face-to-face interaction of in-person programs is still a big draw for many, the flexibility and convenience of online MSW programs is a significant advantage. Both program delivery formats offer a quality educational experience with access to qualified faculty. Check out the grid below to see which program version might be best for you.

Traditional MSW vs. Online MSW Programs in Tennessee

Traditional MSW ProgramsOnline MSW Programs
FormatIn-person classesOnline classes with some in-person requirements
FlexibilityLimited scheduling optionsMore flexibility in scheduling, often part-time options
LocationGeographically limitedAccessible from anywhere with internet connectivity
Learning EnvironmentClassroom-basedVirtual classroom, discussion boards, and online resources
NetworkingLocal networking opportunitiesNetworking with students and professionals from diverse locations
CostTuition, commuting, and relocation expensesGenerally lower tuition and flexibility to continue working
Hands-on ExperienceField placements and internshipsVirtual or field placements and internships arranged in the student's local area

Whether you choose a campus-based or online MSW program in Tennessee, 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). Unaccredited programs may leave you ineligible for social work licensure.

Learn more about Social Work Degree options:

Getting Your Tennessee Social Work License

Getting licensed as a social worker in Tennessee is the next step after earning your MSW degree. Each state has different licensure requirements, so it’s important that you familiarize yourself with Tennessee’s regulations. Learn more 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.

Female social worker talking with elderly female woman

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 Tennessee

Jump to City:

Cleveland, TN

Lee University

  • Master's - Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy

    Campus Based - Website

    • Two/three-year tracks available
    • Minimum 60 semester hours
    • 500 hours direct client services
    • 100 hours professional supervision
    • AAMFT conference attendance required
    • Comprehensive exam mandatory
    • Christian perspective integrated
    • Diverse clinical placements
  • Doctorate - Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Marriage and Family Therapy

    Campus Based - Website

    • First MFT doctoral graduates
    • Christian organizational focus
    • Launched fall 2020
    • Serves underserved communities
    • Develops innovative clinicians
  • Doctorate - Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Marriage and Family Therapy

    Concentration: Racial trauma and cultural competence - Campus Based - Website

    • First MFT doctoral graduates
    • Christian organizational focus
    • Launched fall 2020
    • Clinical leadership training
    • Trauma and systemic approach
  • Doctorate - Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Marriage and Family Therapy

    Concentration: Trauma and PTSD - Campus Based - Website

    • First MFT doctoral graduates
    • Christian-centered approach
    • Launched fall 2020
    • Focus on serving underserved communities
    • Develops innovative clinicians
    • Prepares systemic supervisors
    • Trains pragmatic researchers
    • Community-focused program

Jefferson City, TN

Carson-Newman University

  • Master's - Master of Science in Counseling

    Concentration: Clinical Mental Health Counseling - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 60 credit hour program
    • Hybrid online/onsite format
    • CACREP accredited program
    • $475 per credit hour
    • Fall/Spring enrollment
    • 3.0 undergraduate GPA required
    • Professional licensure preparation
    • Nearly 100% post-graduation placement

Johnson City, TN

East Tennessee State University

  • Master's - Counseling

    Concentration: Marriage and Family Therapy - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • CACREP-accredited counseling program
    • Courses capped at 20 students
    • Multiple licensure pathways
    • Full and part-time study options
    • Community Counseling Clinic available
    • Summer courses offered
    • National Counseling Exam preparation

Nashville, TN

Lipscomb University

  • Master's - Master of Marriage and Family Therapy

    Campus Based - Website

    • 60-credit hour comprehensive curriculum
    • COAMFTE accredited program
    • 300 hours clinical training
    • Two-year cohort model
    • $962 per credit hour
    • Nashville, Tennessee location
    • Specialization options available
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA required

Trevecca Nazarene University

  • Master's - Master of Marriage and Family Counseling

    Campus Based - Website

    • 60-credit CACREP accredited program
    • Prepares for LPC-MHSP/LMFT licensure
    • $775 per credit hour
    • Total tuition: $46,500
    • On-campus face-to-face format
    • 60+ internship agency partners
    • Small class collaborative learning
    • 2.7 GPA minimum requirement
*Source: https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/ (IPEDS 2023).

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