Washington State boasts a rich tapestry of educational opportunities, particularly in social work, where its Master of Social Work (MSW) programs stand as pillars of excellence. Aspiring social workers seeking to make a meaningful impact in communities across the Evergreen State are met with a diverse array of MSW programs tailored to various career paths and specializations. From the bustling urban landscapes of Seattle to the serene corners of rural Washington, these programs offer a blend of academic rigor, practical experience, and a commitment to social justice. In this article, we delve into the landscape of MSW programs in Washington, exploring their unique features, esteemed faculties, and the transformative opportunities they offer for those dedicated to advancing the welfare of individuals and society as a whole.

2025 Best MSW Programs in Washington

Looking for the best MSW programs in Washington? counselingpsychology.org has ranked the top options to help you decide. Our list focuses on quality, affordability, and student support. We check each program carefully to ensure our rankings are trustworthy. Whether you're starting your career or advancing it, our guide can point you in the right direction. Learn more about how we rank these programs here.

#1

Eastern Washington University

Cheney, WA - Public 4-Year - ewu.edu

Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Eastern Washington University's Master of Social Work (MSW) program offers a versatile hybrid learning model, blending in-person and online coursework to suit diverse student needs. This 90-credit CSWE-accredited program is designed to cultivate advanced generalist social work practitioners, with a curriculum that spans generalist and specialized tracks. Emphasizing social justice and evidence-based practice, students engage in practicum experiences across various settings, preparing them for impactful careers. The program requires a minimum 3.0 GPA for admission and offers both full-time and part-time study options, making it accessible to working professionals and recent graduates alike.

  • 90-credit comprehensive MSW program
  • CSWE accredited curriculum
  • Full-time and part-time options
  • Hybrid and in-person delivery
  • Practicum in diverse settings
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
  • Generalist and specialized tracks

Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)

Concentration: Child Welfare - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Specializing in Child Welfare, Eastern Washington University's MSW program equips students with the skills to address the complexities of child and family services. This hybrid program, available full-time or part-time across multiple campuses, integrates a 90-credit curriculum with practical field experiences. Accredited by the CSWE, it focuses on social justice, evidence-based interventions, and advanced generalist practice. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA, with Advanced Standing options and scholarship opportunities available, ensuring a pathway for diverse learners to excel in child welfare and related fields.

  • 90-credit MSW program
  • Full and part-time options
  • CSWE accredited program
  • Multiple campus locations
  • Practicum field experience
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
  • Advanced Standing available
  • Diverse practice concentration
  • 16-20 hours weekly practicum
  • Scholarship opportunities available

Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)

Concentration: Mental Health - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Focusing on Mental Health, Eastern Washington University's MSW program trains students to become leaders in clinical and community settings. The hybrid format offers flexibility, with full-time and part-time options at several campuses. This 90-credit, CSWE-accredited program emphasizes clinical assessment, policy analysis, and ethical practice within a social justice framework. A minimum 3.0 GPA is required for admission, alongside practicum experiences that prepare graduates for the challenges of mental health practice, policy, and advocacy.

  • 90-credit comprehensive MSW degree
  • Full-time and part-time formats
  • Multiple campus locations
  • CSWE accredited program
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
  • Practicum field experience
  • Specialized practice concentrations
  • Advanced generalist curriculum
  • Social justice focused training
  • Three program options available
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#2

Pacific Lutheran University

Tacoma, WA - Private 4-year - plu.edu

Master's - Master of Social Work

Concentration: Healthcare and Behavioral Health - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Pacific Lutheran University's Master of Social Work (MSW) program, with a concentration in Healthcare and Behavioral Health, is designed for those aiming to make a significant impact in these critical areas. The hybrid program features a low-residency model, ideal for working professionals, and offers two pathways: a 14-month Advanced Standing and a 24-month Regular Standing track. Students engage in 900 practicum hours, focusing on anti-racist practices and social justice, preparing them for licensure and diverse careers in social work. The program emphasizes a global health perspective and is pending CSWE accreditation.

  • Two program entry pathways
  • Low-residency hybrid model
  • 900 hours practicum work
  • Healthcare/behavioral health focus
  • Anti-racist practice emphasis
  • Small cohort model (10-18 students)
  • Licensure preparation tracks
  • Global health perspective option
  • Evening/online course options
  • CSWE accreditation pending

Master's - Master of Social Work

Concentration: Anti-Racist Practices - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Focusing on Anti-Racist Practices, Pacific Lutheran University's MSW program equips students with the skills to address systemic racism within social work. The hybrid format combines online and evening classes, catering to working students. With two pathways—Advanced Standing (14 months) and Regular Standing (24 months)—the program includes 900 practicum hours and a curriculum centered on healthcare, behavioral health, and social justice. Small cohorts ensure personalized learning, preparing graduates for licensure and impactful roles in advocating for equity and justice.

  • Two MSW program pathways
  • Hybrid/low-residency model
  • Healthcare and behavioral focus
  • 900 hours practicum required
  • CSWE accreditation pending
  • Anti-racist practice emphasis
  • Small cohort learning
  • Global health perspective
  • Licensure preparation included
  • Late afternoon/evening classes

Master's - Master of Social Work

Concentration: Global Focus on Health and Behavioral Health - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Pacific Lutheran University's MSW program with a Global Focus on Health and Behavioral Health prepares students for leadership in addressing global health disparities. The hybrid model offers flexibility with online and in-person options, alongside two program pathways. A 900-hour practicum and a curriculum emphasizing anti-racist practices and diversity equip graduates for licensure and careers in healthcare and community settings. The program's small cohort size fosters a supportive learning environment, with a pending CSWE accreditation highlighting its commitment to quality education.

  • Advanced & Regular Standing pathways
  • Hybrid/low-residency learning model
  • Healthcare and behavioral focus
  • 900 hours practicum required
  • CSWE accreditation pending
  • Small cohort sizes (10-18 students)
  • Global health perspective included
  • Licensure preparation track
  • Late afternoon/evening classes
  • Online and in-person options
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#3

University of Washington-Seattle Campus

Seattle, WA - Public 4-Year - washington.edu

Master's - Master of Social Work

Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Washington-Seattle Campus offers a prestigious Master of Social Work (MSW) program, recognized nationally for its excellence. This program is designed for those aiming to make a significant impact in social work, offering various pathways including a two-year full-time, one-year advanced-standing, and a three-year part-time option to accommodate different professional schedules. Students engage in a curriculum that emphasizes culturally diverse and at-risk populations, blending academic rigor with practical field experiences. The program also features specializations in Clinical Social Work, Community-Centered Integrative Practice, and Administrative and Policy Practice, preparing graduates for leadership roles in the field.

  • Multiple MSW program options
  • Two-year full-time program
  • One-year advanced standing option
  • Three-year part-time extended degree
  • Advanced practice specializations
  • Clinical Social Work track
  • Community-Centered Integrative Practice
  • Administrative and Policy Practice
  • 17-credit advanced practicum
  • Minimum 48-75 total credits
  • Human biology prerequisite required
  • Basic statistics prerequisite
  • Advanced curriculum 9-12 credits
  • Elective coursework available
#4

University of Washington-Tacoma Campus

Tacoma, WA - Public 4-Year - tacoma.uw.edu

Master's - Master of Social Work

Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Washington-Tacoma Campus offers a Master of Social Work (MSW) program designed to equip students with the skills necessary for impactful social work careers. This CSWE-accredited program stands out for its community-focused approach, integrating academic coursework with practical field education placements across the South Puget Sound region. Students are prepared to address diverse social issues in settings such as healthcare, child welfare, and criminal justice. The program's emphasis on real-world experience ensures graduates are ready to meet the challenges of today's social services landscape. Highlights include a curriculum tailored to multiple professional tracks and a strong focus on community engagement.

  • CSWE Accredited Program
  • Community-Focused Learning
  • Field Education Placements
  • Multiple Professional Tracks
  • South Puget Sound Focus
*IPEDS 2023 data files, National Center for Education Statistics.

MSW Degree Program Requirements/Eligibility in Washington

Washington Traditional MSW Admissions Requirements

If you want to become licensed as a social worker and don’t currently have a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), you’ll need to enroll in one of Washington’s traditional MSW programs. These two-year programs offer a comprehensive curriculum, typically through an average of 60 credits, though Washington’s MSW programs tend to be a bit longer (see more below). You’ll need the following to apply:

  • 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

Washington Advanced-Standing MSW Admissions Requirements

If you already have a BSW and a 3.5 GPA, you can apply for advanced-standing MSW programs. These types of programs allow students to obtain their MSW in as little as one year and have a typical 35-credit courseload. All of the admissions requirements listed above will apply. Below are a few advanced-standing MSW programs available in Washington:

RELATED: Learn more about Social Work Salaries

Washington MSW Program Tuition and Costs

The most significant difference you’ll notice among Washington MSW programs is that they tend to be extensive. Because of the longer programs, the cost tends to be higher. Here are a few tuition cost ranges as reference:

SchoolTuition (per credit hour)Total CreditsTotal Tuition
University of Washinton$621 (Resident)
$1,062 (Non-resident)
75$47,340 (Resident)
$79,722 (Non-resident)
Seattle University$84966$56,034
Eastern Washington University$564 (Resident)
$935 (Non-resident)
90$50,794 (Resident)
$84,129 (Non-resident)

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

Both online and campus-based MSW programs offer a high-quality education. Flexibility and convenience are often two words that describe online MSW programs, but for some, there are drawbacks. Take a look at the table below to see if enrolling in an MSW program is the right choice for you.

Traditional MSW vs. Online MSW Programs in Washington

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

One of the most important factors to remember when applying for MSW programs in Washington is accreditation. The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) is the accrediting body for all MSW programs leading to licensure. Look for the CSWE seal on MSW program websites when applying.

Learn more about Social Work Degree options:

Getting Your Washington Social Work License

Social workers in Washington will need to get licensed. Licensing requirements will vary from state to state. To find out the details of Washington’s process, check out 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 Washington

Jump to City:

Cheney, WA

Eastern Washington University

  • Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 90-credit comprehensive MSW program
    • CSWE accredited curriculum
    • Full-time and part-time options
    • Hybrid and in-person delivery
    • Practicum in diverse settings
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
    • Generalist and specialized tracks
  • Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)

    Concentration: Child Welfare - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 90-credit MSW program
    • Full and part-time options
    • CSWE accredited program
    • Multiple campus locations
    • Practicum field experience
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
    • Advanced Standing available
    • Diverse practice concentration
  • Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)

    Concentration: Mental Health - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 90-credit comprehensive MSW degree
    • Full-time and part-time formats
    • Multiple campus locations
    • CSWE accredited program
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
    • Practicum field experience
    • Specialized practice concentrations
    • Advanced generalist curriculum

Seattle, WA

University of Washington-Seattle Campus

  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Campus Based - Website

    • Nationally ranked School of Social Work
    • Multiple MSW program options
    • Two-year full-time program
    • One-year advanced standing option
    • Three-year part-time extended degree
    • Advanced practice specializations
    • Clinical Social Work track
    • Community-Centered Integrative Practice

Tacoma, WA

Pacific Lutheran University

  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Healthcare and Behavioral Health - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Two program entry pathways
    • Low-residency hybrid model
    • 900 hours practicum work
    • Healthcare/behavioral health focus
    • Anti-racist practice emphasis
    • Small cohort model (10-18 students)
    • Licensure preparation tracks
    • Global health perspective option
  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Anti-Racist Practices - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Two MSW program pathways
    • Hybrid/low-residency model
    • Healthcare and behavioral focus
    • 900 hours practicum required
    • CSWE accreditation pending
    • Anti-racist practice emphasis
    • Small cohort learning
    • Global health perspective
  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Global Focus on Health and Behavioral Health - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Advanced & Regular Standing pathways
    • Hybrid/low-residency learning model
    • Healthcare and behavioral focus
    • 900 hours practicum required
    • CSWE accreditation pending
    • Small cohort sizes (10-18 students)
    • Global health perspective included
    • Licensure preparation track

University of Washington-Tacoma Campus

  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Campus Based - Website

    • CSWE Accredited Program
    • Community-Focused Learning
    • Field Education Placements
    • Multiple Professional Tracks
    • South Puget Sound Focus
*Official IPEDS 2023 data from the National Center for Education Statistics.

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