MSW Programs in Wisconsin: Online & Campus
In the heart of the Midwest, Wisconsin stands as a beacon of academic excellence, particularly in the realm of social work education. With its vibrant communities and commitment to social welfare, the state boasts a rich tapestry of Master of Social Work (MSW) programs designed to equip aspiring social workers with the skills and knowledge needed to tackle the complex challenges of today’s society.
From urban centers to rural landscapes, Wisconsin’s MSW programs offer a diverse array of specialized tracks and experiential learning opportunities. They nurture compassionate professionals poised to make a meaningful difference in individuals’ and communities’ lives. In this article, we delve into the landscape of MSW programs in Wisconsin, exploring their unique features, academic rigor, and invaluable contributions to the field of social work both locally and beyond.
2025 Best MSW Programs in Wisconsin
Looking for the best MSW programs in Wisconsin? counselingpsychology.org has ranked the top options to help you decide. Our list focuses on quality, affordability, and student success. Whether you're starting your career or advancing it, we've got you covered. Check out our rankings to find the right fit for your goals. https://counselingpsychology.org/rankings-methodology/
Concordia University-Wisconsin
Mequon, WI - Private 4-year - cuw.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Advanced Generalist - Online Learning - Visit Website
Concordia University-Wisconsin's 100% online Master of Social Work (MSW) prepares students for dynamic careers in social services. With flexible full- and part-time options, students can complete the program in 1-2 years, choosing between Regular and Advanced Standing pathways. The program offers an Advanced Generalist Specialization, enabling graduates to work across multiple practice levels. With a cost of $770 per credit, students gain comprehensive training, hands-on internships, and optional clinical licensure courses, positioning them for diverse professional opportunities in mental health, community services, and clinical settings.
- 100% Online Coursework
- Cost: $770 per credit
- Full and Part-Time Options
- Advanced Generalist Specialization
- Clinical Licensure Option
- CSWE Accredited Program
- Regular and Advanced Standing
- Diverse Field Placement Opportunities
- No GRE Required
- 16 Hours Weekly Field Placement
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, WI - Public 4-Year - wisc.edu
Master's - Full-Time Master of Social Work
Campus Based - Visit Website
Elevate your social work career with the University of Wisconsin-Madison's comprehensive Full-Time Master of Social Work (MSW) program. Designed for aspiring professionals, this two-year journey provides robust foundational and advanced generalist training. Students can specialize in critical focus areas like Aging, Child Welfare, Health, and Mental Health. The program offers extensive field education opportunities, with over 100 agencies providing practical experience. Advanced standing is available for BSW graduates, potentially reducing program duration to two semesters.
- Two-year full-time MSW program
- CSWE accredited program
- Four focus area options
- Advanced standing available
- Over 100 field education agencies
- Generalist and advanced practice years
- Optional dual/double degrees
- Direct and indirect practice emphasis
- Social justice framework
- Specialized elective courses
Master's - Part-Time Master of Social Work
Concentration: Child, Youth, and Family Welfare - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Wisconsin-Madison's Part-Time Master of Social Work (MSW) program prepares professionals to drive social change through advanced practice. Designed for working adults, this flexible Saturday-based hybrid program offers two specialized focus areas: Child, Youth, and Family Welfare and Mental Health. With an estimated market salary of $59,000 and a competitive 4-year format, students gain comprehensive skills in social work practice, policy, and research. The program requires a 3.0 GPA, 49 graduate credits, and costs $800 per credit, making it an accessible pathway for aspiring social work leaders.
- Part-time Saturday hybrid format
- Two focus area options
- 49 graduate credits total
- $800 per credit tuition
- Fall term admission
- Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
- Field internship included
- 4-year program duration
- Licensure requirement potential
Master's - Part-Time Master of Social Work
Concentration: Mental Health - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
UW-Madison's Part-Time Master of Social Work (MSW) empowers students to become advanced social work professionals with robust skills in addressing complex social challenges. The innovative hybrid program spans four years, offering Saturday-only classes and deep field internship experiences. Ideal for recent BSW graduates and career changers, the program provides two focused concentration areas: Child, Youth, and Family Welfare and Mental Health. With competitive tuition at $800 per credit and comprehensive admissions support, students gain practical knowledge to drive meaningful social change across diverse practice settings.
- Part-time Saturday hybrid format
- Two concentration areas
- 49 graduate credits total
- 4-year program commitment
- $800 per credit tuition
- Fall term admissions
- 3.0 undergraduate GPA required
- Field internship included
- Licensure requirement compatible
- Application deadline May 1st
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
Milwaukee, WI - Public 4-Year - uwm.edu
Master's - Social Work MSW
Campus Based - Visit Website
Unlock your potential in social work at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee's Master of Social Work program. This comprehensive MSW prepares advanced practitioners to drive positive societal change through innovative practice, advocacy, and leadership. With flexible curriculum options, students can specialize in areas like behavioral health, child welfare, and trauma-informed care. The program offers both traditional and advanced standing tracks, accommodating diverse academic backgrounds. Competitive admissions consider academic achievement, professional experience, and passion for social justice. Affordable and accredited, this program equips graduates with critical skills to address complex human service needs in Wisconsin and beyond.
- Online and on-campus MSW options
- Application deadline: April 15, 2025
- No GRE required for admission
- 2.75 GPA minimum requirement
- Advanced standing for BSW holders
- CSWE accredited program
- Multiple concentration areas
- School social work certification
- Substance abuse counseling track
- Fall semester admission only
Master's - Online Master of Social Work MSW
Online Learning - Visit Website
UW-Milwaukee's online Master of Social Work (MSW) prepares advanced practitioners for diverse social work careers. Designed for working professionals, the part-time program offers two tracks: Advanced Standing for BSW holders and Foundation for those with different undergraduate degrees. Students complete coursework asynchronously, meeting Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) credential requirements. The program costs $675 per credit, with total program costs ranging from $24,300 to $40,500, depending on the track.
- Online part-time MSW program
- Two program tracks available
- $675 per credit cost
- Advanced Standing: 36 credits
- Foundation Track: 60 credits
- CSWE accredited program
- No GRE required
- 2.75 minimum GPA
- Application deadline: April 15, 2025
- Limited to Wisconsin, bordering areas
Master's - Social Work MSW
Concentration: Child and Family Well-being - Campus Based - Visit Website
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee's Master of Social Work (MSW) program prepares advanced practitioners to drive social change through innovative practice, research, and leadership. Designed for flexibility, students can specialize in areas like behavioral health, child welfare, and gerontology. The program offers on-campus and online formats, with competitive admission requirements including a 2.75 GPA and 21 semester credits in social sciences. Advanced standing options exist for BSW graduates, reducing program completion time.
- On-campus and online MSW formats
- Advanced standing for BSW graduates
- Multiple concentration options
- No GRE/MAT required
- CSWE accredited program
- Fall semester admissions only
- Application opens October 1
- Application deadline April 15
- Minimum 2.75 undergraduate GPA
- Specialized certifications available
Master's - Social Work MSW
Concentration: Behavioral and Mental Health - Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee offers a comprehensive Master of Social Work (MSW) program designed to prepare advanced practitioners for transformative social work careers. Students can choose specialized concentrations like behavioral health, child welfare, or gerontology, with flexible curriculum options. The program provides robust training in social justice, policy, and evidence-based practice, preparing graduates to work across diverse ecological levels. With both on-campus and online formats available, students can complete their degree through advanced standing or professional foundation tracks, supported by experienced faculty and cutting-edge trauma-informed care research.
- On-campus and online MSW formats
- Advanced standing track available
- Multiple practice concentration options
- No GRE required for admission
- Fall semester admission only
- 2.75 undergraduate GPA minimum
- Application deadline April 15
- CSWE accredited program
- 34 credits for advanced standing
- Optional graduate certificates
Master's - Social Work MSW
Concentration: Gerontology - Campus Based - Visit Website
Unlock your potential in social work at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee's dynamic MSW program. Designed for aspiring change-makers, this comprehensive degree prepares advanced practitioners to tackle complex social challenges through innovative practice, research, and leadership. With flexible curriculum options, students can specialize in areas like behavioral health, child welfare, or gerontology. The program offers advanced standing for BSW graduates and boasts competitive admission with no mandatory entrance exam. Accredited by CSWE, this transformative degree equips students with the skills to promote social justice and drive meaningful community impact.
- Online and on-campus MSW options
- Advanced standing available
- No GRE/MAT required
- Fall semester start only
- Application deadline: April 15
- Minimum 2.75 GPA required
- CSWE accredited program
- Multiple specialization tracks
- Field placement included
- Certification options available
University of Wisconsin-Whitewater
Whitewater, WI - Public 4-Year - uww.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
UW-Whitewater's Master of Social Work (MSW) program equips students with advanced skills to become transformative social work professionals. Designed for aspiring practitioners, the program focuses on evidence-based interventions and social justice. Students can choose between full-time face-to-face or online learning options, with flexible evening classes and synchronous virtual sessions. The curriculum covers comprehensive coursework in clinical practice, policy analysis, and specialized areas like trauma, substance abuse, and gerontology. With a minimum 2.75 GPA requirement and no GRE needed, the program offers accessible pathways to advanced standing and certificate options in school social work, gerontology, and substance abuse counseling.
- Full-time face-to-face and online options
- CSWE fully accredited program
- No GRE required for admission
- Minimum 2.75 GPA
- Optional certificate programs
- Evening class schedules
- Advanced generalist emphasis
- Application deadline: December 1
- Multiple financial aid options
University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point
Stevens Point, WI - Public 4-Year - uwsp.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Campus Based - Visit Website
Discover a transformative Master of Social Work designed to elevate your professional impact. This advanced generalist program empowers students to become collaborative leaders advocating for social justice and systemic change. You'll develop critical thinking and research skills while embodying the core values of social work, preparing to address complex societal challenges with competence and compassion.
- MSW program available
- Advanced generalist focus
- Social justice emphasis
- Career advancement opportunity
- Information sessions offered
- Contact Dr. Amy Zlimen Ticho
- Email: [email protected]
MSW Degree Program Requirements/Eligibility in Wisconsin
Wisconsin Traditional MSW Admissions Requirements
If you already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field but would like to branch out into social work, you’ll need to enter into a traditional MSW. The programs take about two years to complete and require 60 credit hours. To apply, check out these 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
Wisconsin Advanced-Standing MSW Admissions Requirements
For students who already have a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), there’s a faster option – advanced standing MSW programs. If you have a GPA of at least 3.5 and all of the additional requirements above, you can complete your MSW in as little as a year by completing 38 credits. Here are a few options for advanced-standing MSWs in Wisconsin:
- University of Wisconsin – visit site
- Concordia University – visit site
Wisconsin MSW Program Tuition and Costs
Wisconsin has some of the most affordable tuition costs in the nation, and this is especially true if you’re currently living in Wisconsin or even a neighboring state. On average, you’ll pay $275 to $401 per credit as a Wisconsin resident. If you’re moving to Wisconsin for school, the cost is still manageable at $597 to $839 per credit.
| School | Tuition (per credit hour) | Total Credits | Total Tuition |
| University of Wisconsin/Madison | $401 (Resident) $839 (Non-resident) | 61 | $24,504 (Resident) $51,156 (Non-resident) |
| University of Wisconsin/Whitewater | $275 (Resident) $597 (Non-resident) | 60 | $16,500 (Resident) $35,832 (Non-resident) |
| University of Wisconsin/Green Bay | $367 (Resident) $738 (Non-resident) | 54 | $19,862 (Resident) $39,832 (Non-resident) |
Are Online MSW Programs in Wisconsin as Good as Campus-Based?
There are plenty of advantages and disadvantages when it comes to both online MSW programs and campus-based MSW programs, but each will provide a rigorous education delivered by experienced faculty members. Take a look at the table below to see which program delivery method is right for you.
Traditional MSW vs. Online MSW Programs in Wisconsin
| 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 |
As you’re deciding on which type of program to enroll in, it’s a good idea to make sure that the programs you apply to are accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). This will ensure that you will be eligible for licensure upon graduation.
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 Wisconsin Social Work License
Getting licensed as a social worker in Wisconsin is the next step after earning your MSW degree. Each state has different licensure requirements. Learn more about how to get your social worker license in Wisconsin in our Guide to Social Work Licensure.
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 Wisconsin
