MSW Programs in Virginia: Online & Campus
Navigating the myriad of Master of Social Work (MSW) programs available in Virginia can be both exciting and overwhelming for prospective students. With a rich array of options across universities in the state, individuals seeking to pursue advanced studies in social work are presented with a diverse landscape of academic offerings, each with its own unique strengths and specialties. Whether aspiring to specialize in clinical practice, policy advocacy, or community development, Virginia’s MSW programs provide a fertile ground for personal and professional growth. In this article, we explore the landscape of MSW programs in Virginia, shedding light on the distinct features, educational philosophies, and opportunities awaiting those embarking on this transformative educational journey.
2025 Best MSW Programs in Virginia
Looking for the best MSW programs in Virginia? counselingpsychology.org has ranked the top schools to help you decide. Our list focuses on quality, affordability, and student success. Find a program that fits your goals and start your journey in social work today. Learn how we rank schools here.
Norfolk State University
Norfolk, VA - Public 4-Year - nsu.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Advance your career with Norfolk State University's comprehensive Master of Social Work program. Designed for passionate change agents, this two-year degree prepares students to tackle complex social challenges through innovative practice. The program offers flexible learning formats, including in-person and online options, with specialized training in child welfare, mental health, and healthcare. Students benefit from hands-on field education, engaging with over 100 local agencies and developing critical skills in advocacy, mediation, and social justice. Graduates emerge as versatile professionals ready to make meaningful differences in diverse community settings.
- 2-year program, 60 credit hours
- In-person and online formats
- Over 100 field education agencies
- Advanced standing for BSW holders
- CSWE accredited program
- Specialized training areas
- Extended 3-year program option
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Clinical (Mental Health) - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Norfolk State University's Master of Social Work (MSW) program offers a transformative educational journey for aspiring social work professionals. Designed to prepare students as advocates and change agents, the program provides comprehensive training in social justice, human rights, and professional practice. With flexible formats including in-person and online options, students can complete the program in two years or choose advanced standing or extended three-year tracks. The curriculum covers critical areas like social welfare policy, trauma-informed clinical practice, and diverse practice methods, preparing graduates for roles in mental health, child welfare, healthcare, and community services.
- 2-year full-time program
- 60 total credit hours
- In-person and online formats
- Advanced standing available
- CSWE accredited program
- Over 100 field practicum agencies
- Specialized training options
- Concentrations in child welfare
- Expert faculty mentorship
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: School Social Work - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Elevate your social work career with Norfolk State University's comprehensive Master of Social Work (MSW) program. Designed for passionate change-makers, this two-year accredited degree prepares students to advocate for social justice across diverse settings. With flexible in-person and online formats, the program offers a minimum of 60 credit hours, advanced standing options, and specialized training in child welfare, mental health, and healthcare. Students gain practical experience through field education at over 100 local agencies, developing critical skills in clinical practice, policy analysis, and community intervention.
- 2-year program, 60 credit hours
- In-person and online formats
- Advanced standing available
- 100+ field education agencies
- CSWE accredited program
- Specialized training options
- Concentrate in various practice areas
- Experienced, expert faculty
George Mason University
Fairfax, VA - Public 4-Year - www2.gmu.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Children, Youth, and Families - Campus Based - Visit Website
George Mason University's Master of Social Work (MSW) program empowers aspiring social work professionals to become innovative leaders in human services. Specialized concentrations in Children, Youth & Families and Adults & Healthy Aging equip students with advanced interpersonal, behavioral, and research skills. The comprehensive curriculum emphasizes community strengthening, social justice advocacy, and transformative practice across diverse populations. Students gain expertise in direct clinical services, organizational leadership, and social policy, preparing them to address complex societal challenges with ethical, culturally competent approaches.
- On-campus and online formats
- Specializations in CYF, Aging
- Empowerment and systems focus
- Advanced professional practice
- Social justice leadership training
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Adults and Healthy Aging - Campus Based - Visit Website
George Mason University's Master of Social Work program prepares innovative leaders in social services through advanced professional training. With specialized concentrations in Adults and Healthy Aging, students develop superior interpersonal, research, and communication skills to address complex social challenges. The comprehensive curriculum emphasizes empowerment, systems transformation, and ethical practice across diverse populations. Graduates are equipped to strengthen communities, drive positive social change, and provide direct clinical services that promote social and economic justice.
- On-campus and online options
- Two concentration tracks available
- Empowerment-focused curriculum
- Advanced practice skills training
- Ethical leadership development
Mary Baldwin University
Staunton, VA - Private 4-year - marybaldwin.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Mary Baldwin University is launching an innovative Master of Social Work (MSW) program designed to prepare compassionate, skilled professionals for transformative social work practice. Set in the scenic Blue Ridge mountains, this program offers a comprehensive curriculum that emphasizes student success, community engagement, and professional development. Aspiring social workers will benefit from expert faculty, potential hybrid learning options, and a curriculum aligned with the highest educational standards, preparing graduates to make meaningful impacts in diverse social service settings.
- Inaugural MSW Program
- Seeking Program Director
- CSWE Accreditation Focus
- Leadership Driven Curriculum
- Doctoral Degree Preferred
- Minimum 5 Years Experience
- Social Work Licensure
- Staunton, Virginia Location
- Inclusive Academic Environment
- Fall 2025 Program Launch
Virginia Union University
Richmond, VA - Private 4-year - vuu.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Trauma-Focused Specialization - Campus Based - Visit Website
Virginia Union University's Master of Social Work program prepares trauma-informed advanced generalist social workers committed to social justice and professional excellence. Students can complete the degree in two years for a comprehensive 51-credit curriculum or pursue an accelerated 24-credit Advanced Standing track for those with a BSW. The program emphasizes research, advocacy, and anti-racist practices, preparing graduates to support marginalized communities and address complex social challenges through rigorous, nationally accredited training.
- Two-year, 51-credit MSW program
- Advanced Standing option available
- Trauma-informed generalist approach
- Nationally accredited curriculum
- Full-time and part-time enrollment
- 3.0 GPA program requirement
- Focuses on social justice advocacy
- Prepares micro, mezzo, macro practitioners
- Ethical practice emphasized
- Professional development focused
MSW Degree Program Requirements/Eligibility in Virginia
Virginia Traditional MSW Admissions Requirements
In most cases, students looking to become social workers must enter a traditional MSW program. These programs take around two years and 60 credits to complete and are usually geared toward individuals who don’t currently have a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW). Here’s what you’ll need to submit along with your application:
- 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
Virginia Advanced-Standing MSW Admissions Requirements
Advanced-standing MSW programs require the same admissions requirements as traditional MSW programs with two exceptions – you need to have a 3.5 GPA and a BSW to enroll. The benefit to these types of programs is that you can graduate in one year instead of two. Here are a few advanced-standing MSW programs available in Virginia:
- Virginia Commonwealth University – visit site
- Radford University – visit site
- George Mason University – visit site
RELATED: Learn more about Social Work Salaries
Virginia MSW Program Tuition and Costs
As the figures below show, Virginia MSW tuition costs are in line with national averages. Typically speaking, you can expect to pay between $26,808 and $38,040 for your total MSW tuition as a resident and $45,000 to $89,160 as a non-resident.
| School | Tuition (per credit hour) | Total Credits | Total Tuition |
| Virginia State University | $634 (Resident) $750 (Non-resident) | 60 | $38,040 (Resident) $45,000 (Non-resident) |
| Virginia Commonwealth University | $447 (Resident) $892 (Non-resident) | 60 | $26,808 (Resident) $53,496 (Non-resident) |
| George Mason University | $572 (Resident) $1,486 (Non-resident) | 60 | $34,320 (Resident) $89,160 (Non-resident) |
Are Online MSW Programs in Virginia as Good as Campus-Based?
There are obvious advantages to online MSW programs, such as the ability to get your education delivered straight to your living room or home office. However, many students are deciding to stick to on-campus programs. No matter which delivery method you choose, you will receive a comprehensive and high-quality social work education. Take a look at the pros and cons of each below.
Traditional MSW vs. Online MSW Programs in Virginia
| 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 |
The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) is responsible for accrediting all MSW programs in the US. As you apply to these programs, make sure that they’re all accredited by the CSWE, or else you won’t be eligible for licensure.
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 Virginia Social Work License
Licensure is the big draw to MSW programs among those who want to work in the rewarding field of social work. In order to get licensed in Virginia, it’s imperative to understand the state’s requirements, as each state will differ. Find out more in our Social Work Licensing 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 Virginia
