If you're interested in earning a master of social work (MSW) degree, the costs may seem daunting. Graduate programs are notoriously expensive, even before considering potential downstream costs like moving expenses.
Fortunately, an MSW degree can still be affordable. Some programs offer lower-than-average tuition, substantial financial aid, accelerated tracks, and other advantages designed to minimize costs. Explore our ranking of the nation's best affordable MSW programs.
Popular Online MSW Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
The Most Affordable MSW Degree Programs
Paying for Your MSW Degree: Resources That Can Help
Tuition is not the only factor to consider when comparing affordable MSW programs. Instead, focus on total cost of attendance, including fees, cost of living, and transportation requirements. Financial aid can reduce the total price you end up paying.
Full-time graduate students received an average of $28,420 in financial aid in the 2023-24 academic year, according to The College Board.
Along with needs-based grants, other forms of financial aid include:
Scholarships: Typically merit-based, scholarships can come from schools, government agencies, industry organizations, and more. Each award has its own requirements.
Loans: Loans are available from public and private lenders. Loan type and provider determine interest rates and repayment timelines.
Fellowships: Fellowships typically offer financial support in exchange for professional or academic work.
Assistantships: Assistantships provide financial assistance in return for teaching and research.
Work-Study Programs: These programs offer part-time work to students on or near campus.
Financial aid can help you cover educational costs, but special programs can further reduce costs:
Advanced-Standing: Advanced-standing MSW programs require about half the credits (and, in some cases, costs) of traditional MSW programs. To qualify for these programs, you usually need a BSW degree.
Accelerated: Some programs allow you to fast-track your way through your studies, which can cut down on tuition, housing, and transportation costs.
Dual Degree: Dual-degree programs combine multiple degrees, such as a bachelor's of social work (BSW) degree and an MSW. Combining degrees can result in fewer required credits, shorter timelines, and lower costs.
Online: These programs can save on materials, transportation, and tuition. Out-of-state learners may benefit, as many online programs offer in-state rates to all students.
Select MSW programs and partner agencies — particularly in areas like child welfare — may also offer stipends or funding support in exchange for completing your fieldwork in high-need settings.
For more information, here's a list of financial aid resources that might help you find the right type of support for your needs:
Studentaid.gov: This website provides all the necessary information on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) and federal grants and loans.
Consumer Financial Protection Bureau: The information and helpful tools found here can help you understand your options for financial aid and repaying student loans.
National Health Service Corps: Discover information and resources for scholarships and loan repayment programs for health providers across the country.
National Association of Social Workers: The NASW provides current and aspiring social workers with access to important information for students and practicing professionals alike.
Council on Social Work Education: The CSWE is more than an accreditation body. CSWE supports students, training, and loan forgiveness programs.
Master's Degree in Social Work: Common Admission Requirements
The admission requirements for MSW programs vary, but many require these components:
Undergraduate degree (a BSW may sometimes be required)
Personal statement
Application fee
Undergraduate transcripts (minimum GPA may be required)
Resume (professional experience may be required)
Even when not required, a BSW and relevant professional experience can improve your chances of admission. Once accepted, you'll typically spend 2-4 years completing 42-62 credits.
Social Worker Salary Outlook for MSW Degree Holders
MSW graduates earn an average of $13,000 more than BSW graduates annually, according to the NASW.
An MSW program provides students with advanced research skills, leadership capabilities, and licensure eligibility. These qualifications let you pursue jobs in some of the highest-paying social work fields, including those in research organizations and government agencies.
All salary and job outlook data is from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Mental Health and Substance Use Social Workers
These professionals help people struggling with addiction and a range of other mental health disorders. Social workers with master's degrees and required postgraduate experience can become licensed clinical social workers.
Required Education: Master's degree
Minimum License Requirements: Licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or equivalent
Job Outlook (2024-2034): +17%
Median Annual Salary (2024): $59,190
Social and Community Service Managers
Social and community service managers improve the health of entire communities. These professionals spearhead and manage outreach programs, research their effectiveness, and develop funding plans. A master's degree may be preferred for managerial positions.
Required Education: Bachelor's degree plus social work experience and/or master's degree
Job Outlook (2023-33): +6%
Median Annual Salary (2024): $78,240
Healthcare Social Workers
Healthcare social workers support patients with acute, chronic, and terminal illnesses. They help clients understand their diseases and assist them with everything from housing to healthcare. Licensed clinical healthcare social workers can diagnose health conditions and offer psychotherapy.
Required Education: Bachelor's degree in social work for entry-level positions; master's degree for managerial and clinical positions
Minimum License Requirements: Licensed master social worker (LMSW) or equivalent
Job Outlook (2023-33): +8%
Median Annual Salary (2024): $61,330
Child, Family, and School Social Workers
Child, family, and school social workers connect families to resources like food stamps and counseling services. With a master's degree and clinical licensure, social workers can provide therapy and create treatment plans.
Required Education: Bachelor's degree in social work for entry-level positions; master's degree for managerial and clinical positions
Minimum License Requirements: LMSW or equivalent
Job Outlook (2023-33): +3%
Median Annual Salary (2024): $58,570
Choosing the Right Master's Degree in Social Work Program
Cost and location often play a substantial role in finding the right MSW program. Other factors might also affect your decision-making, such as:
Accreditation: Accreditation shows that a school meets high academic standards. To become a clinical social worker, you'll need an MSW program with the right accreditation, such as CSWE accreditation.
Internship Opportunities: Explore each school's internship programs and ensure they provide the appropriate work and time commitments.
Networking Opportunities: In an MSW program, you can build networks that last your entire career. Review what each school provides, including special events and mentorship programs.
Should You Attend a Social Work School Online?
Online programs offer more flexibility than in-person programs. Even more structured online programs may offer flexible evening and weekend classes.
Online programs can also be more affordable because of reduced transportation and tuition. Since clinical components tend to occur in person, ask your program how they select clinical sites. Many programs allow online learners to choose sites near them, making longer-distance learning more realistic.
Frequently Asked Questions About Getting Your MSW
MSW degree costs vary based on several factors. In 2021-22, annual graduate tuition and fees averaged $12,596 at public colleges and universities, $28,017 at private non-profit schools, and $14,161 at private for-profit institutions, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.
