Exploring the realm of Social Work, primarily through Master of Social Work (MSW) programs, opens the doors to many opportunities for personal growth and professional impact. Arizona is a vibrant hub for MSW education, offering diverse programs tailored to individual needs and career aspirations. Whether you’re considering traditional pathways or embracing the flexibility of online learning, understanding the landscape of MSW programs in Arizona is pivotal.

Join us as we navigate through the nuances of MSW education in Arizona, empowering you to make informed decisions and chart your course toward a fulfilling career in social work. Discover the programs, weigh the options, and embark on a transformative educational journey in the heart of the Southwest.

2025 Best MSW Programs in Arizona

Looking for the best MSW programs in Arizona? counselingpsychology.org has ranked the top options to help you find the right fit. Our list focuses on quality, affordability, and student success. Whether you're starting your career or advancing it, these programs stand out. We've done the research so you can make an informed choice. Learn more about how we ranked these programs here.

#1

Arizona State University Digital Immersion

Scottsdale, AZ - Public 4-Year - asu.edu

Master's - Master of Social Work

Concentration: Advanced Generalist - Online Learning - Visit Website

Arizona State University Digital Immersion offers an online Master of Social Work with an Advanced Generalist concentration, designed for those aiming to lead in diverse social work settings. This CSWE-accredited program emphasizes direct practice, policy development, and community organization, requiring 60 credit hours over 20 classes. Students engage in 960 hours of practical experience, preparing them for complex social challenges. Admission requires a 3.00 GPA, three recommendation letters, and prior social work experience. Highlights include a fully online format, 7.5-week classes, and an advanced standing option.

  • Fully online MSW program
  • 60 total credit hours
  • 20 total classes
  • 7.5 weeks per class
  • Next start date: 08/21/2025
  • CSWE accredited program
  • 960 hours practical experience
  • Advanced generalist curriculum
  • Competitive GPA requirement: 3.00
  • Three recommendation letters required
  • Social work experience prerequisite
  • Two-year standard program length
  • Advanced standing option available

Master's - Master of Social Work

Concentration: Policy, Administration and Community Practice - Online Learning - Visit Website

Ranked No. 20 nationally, Arizona State University Digital Immersion's Master of Social Work program focuses on Policy, Administration, and Community Practice. This flexible, CSWE-accredited program offers both campus and online formats, with completion in two or three years. Students can choose from multiple specialization tracks, requiring 51-60 credit hours. The curriculum prepares graduates for leadership roles in social services and community organizations, with a minimum 3.00 GPA requirement for admission. Application deadlines are in fall and spring.

  • Two or three-year completion options
  • CSWE accredited program
  • Campus and online learning formats
  • 51-60 credit hour paths available
  • Multiple specialization tracks
  • Advanced practice concentrations
  • Minimum 3.00 GPA requirement
  • Fall and spring application sessions
  • Application deadline: June 1 (Fall)

Master's - Master of Social Work

Concentration: Advanced Direct Practice - Online Learning - Visit Website

Arizona State University Digital Immersion's Master of Social Work, ranked No. 20, specializes in Advanced Direct Practice. This program blends direct practice, policy, and community engagement, offering standard and advanced generalist tracks. Available in multiple formats, it requires 51-60 credit hours and a 3.0 GPA for admission. The curriculum focuses on social justice and licensure preparation, with practicum placements enhancing real-world skills. Options for two or three-year completion cater to diverse student needs, with fall and spring application deadlines.

  • Two or three-year completion options
  • Standard and advanced generalist tracks
  • CSWE accredited program
  • Multiple campus and online options
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
  • Requires 51-60 credit hours
  • Professional licensure preparation
  • Multiple practicum placements
  • Fall and spring application deadlines
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#2

Arizona State University Campus Immersion

Tempe, AZ - Public 4-Year - asu.edu

Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)

Concentration: Policy, Administration and Community Practice - Campus Based - Visit Website

Arizona State University's Policy, Administration and Community Practice MSW concentration offers a dynamic pathway for students seeking to transform social systems and communities. This specialized track equips graduates with advanced skills in organizational leadership, policy development, and community engagement strategies. Students explore complex social challenges through a comprehensive curriculum that emphasizes systemic interventions, leveraging multiple campus locations and flexible learning formats including on-campus and online options. The program's rigorous training prepares professionals to drive meaningful social change across various organizational and community settings.

  • Multiple campus locations: Phoenix, Tucson, Yuma
  • Advanced Standing and Standard MSW options
  • One-year and two-three year formats
  • Online and on-campus learning
  • CSWE Accredited Program
  • Specializations: Policy, Direct Practice
  • Two 480-hour internships required
  • Minimum 3.2 GPA for Advanced Standing
  • Concurrent degree options available
  • Online asynchronous and synchronous formats

Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)

Concentration: Advanced Direct Practice - Campus Based - Visit Website

Arizona State University's Advanced Direct Practice MSW concentration provides intensive clinical training for social work professionals seeking to deliver sophisticated therapeutic interventions. This specialized pathway focuses on advanced assessment, intervention techniques, and evidence-based practice methodologies for addressing complex individual and family mental health challenges. Students benefit from comprehensive clinical preparation, practical internship experiences, and comprehensive licensure preparation across multiple Arizona campuses, ensuring graduates are equipped with cutting-edge clinical skills and professional competencies.

  • Multiple MSW program formats
  • On-campus and online options
  • Advanced Standing, Standard, Concurrent programs
  • Two to three-year completion time
  • CSWE accredited program
  • 480-hour internship requirements
  • Three specialization tracks
  • Campus locations: Phoenix, Tucson, Yuma
  • Advanced Standing requires 3.2 GPA
  • Licensure through Arizona Board

Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)

Concentration: Advanced Generalist - Campus Based - Visit Website

Arizona State University's Advanced Generalist MSW concentration offers a comprehensive approach to social work practice, integrating theoretical knowledge with practical skills across multiple practice domains. This versatile program prepares students to address complex social challenges through broad-based intervention strategies, emphasizing adaptable professional skills applicable in diverse practice settings. Students explore interdisciplinary approaches to social work, developing advanced competencies in assessment, intervention, and systemic change while benefiting from flexible learning formats and extensive internship experiences.

  • CSWE Accredited Program
  • On-campus and online options
  • Multiple campus locations
  • Advanced Standing Program
  • Two-year or three-year formats
  • Specialization options available
  • Synchronous and asynchronous online
  • Concurrent degree opportunities
  • 480-hour internship requirements
  • May and August start dates
  • 3.2 GPA minimum requirement
  • Downtown Phoenix campus
  • Tucson and Yuma locations
  • Licensure preparation
Show 2 More Programs ˅
*Higher education data sourced from: IPEDS 2023, National Center for Education Statistics.

MSW Degree Program Requirements/Eligibility in Arizona

Arizona Traditional MSW Admissions Requirements

Arizona’s traditional MSW programs typically include 60 credits and require about two years of full-time study. Many students who apply to these programs don’t have a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) but rather a bachelor’s degree in other subjects. Admission requirements may vary among institutions but commonly include:

  • Completion of a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution, often in psychology or a related field.
  • Minimum GPA requirement, typically around 3.0.
  • Submission of letters of recommendation.
  • Personal statement or essay.
  • Resume or CV highlighting relevant experience.
  • Completion of prerequisite coursework (e.g., psychology, sociology, human services).
  • GRE scores (some programs may waive this requirement).
  • Interview (part of the application process for select programs).
  • Background check and/or fingerprinting.

Arizona Advanced-Standing MSW Admissions Requirements:

If you do have a BSW, you’ve probably heard of Advanced-Standing MSW degrees. These programs allow students who already have their BSW to get their MSW in as little as a year. In addition to your BSW, the only other requirement these programs will ask for is a GPA of 3.5 or higher. Here are a few schools in Arizona that offer them:

RELATED: Learn more about Social Work Salaries

Arizona MSW Program Tuition and Costs

Arizona MSW programs’ average per credit hour cost is $607, translating to an average of $41,184 for the total tuition paid. While this may seem a little high at first glance, it can be a great idea to look into online MSW programs or state schools if you’re looking to reduce costs. Take a look at the full range of tuition costs below:

SchoolTuition (per credit hour)Total CreditsTotal Tuition
Arizona State University$819 (Online)
60$37,918
Northern Arizona University$395 (Resident)
$977 (Nonresident)
$610 (Online)
60$23,692 (Resident)
$58,676 (Nonresident)
$36,600 (Online)
Grand Canyon University$575 (Online)
$550 (On-Campus)
62$34,500 (Online)
$33,000 (On-Campus)

2025 Affordable MSW Program Options

Finding affordable MSW program options in Arizona for 2025 is key for students aiming for a Master's degree without high costs. The table lists schools by their tuition range and program highlights, focusing on low-cost and economical choices. It helps compare what each offers, making it easier to pick a program that fits both career goals and budget. Affordable education opens doors for more students, ensuring financial barriers don't block paths to advanced degrees. This guide simplifies the search for quality, cost-effective programs across Arizona.

School NameHighlightsAnnual Estimated Tuition & Fees
Arizona State University Campus Immersion
  • CSWE Accredited Program
  • On-campus and online options
  • Multiple campus locations
  • Advanced Standing Program
  • Two-year or three-year formats
  • Specialization options available
  • Synchronous and asynchronous online
  • Concurrent degree opportunities
  • $10,700 - $16,100 (Graduate In-State)
  • $21,400 - $32,100 (Graduate Non-Resident)
Arizona State University Digital Immersion
  • MSW program ranked #20 nationally
  • Two or three-year completion options
  • Standard and advanced generalist tracks
  • CSWE accredited program
  • Multiple campus and online options
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
  • Requires 51-60 credit hours
  • Professional licensure preparation
  • $8,500 - $12,700 (Graduate)
*Based on data from: IPEDS 2023, provided by the National Center for Education Statistics.

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

Whether or not an online program is right for you depends entirely on your specific needs. Take a look at the table below to find out if an online MSW is suitable for you.

Traditional MSW vs. Online MSW Programs in Arizona

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

Regardless of your decision, you’ll want to ensure that your MSW program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). If an MSW program isn’t accredited, you won’t be eligible for licensure upon graduation.

Learn more about Social Work Degree Options:

Getting Your Arizona Social Work License

One of the many perks of obtaining an MSW is that you’ll be able to get licensed. Learn more about how to get your social worker license in Arizona.

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 Arizona

Jump to City:

Scottsdale, AZ

Arizona State University Digital Immersion

  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Advanced Direct Practice - Online Learning - Website

    • MSW program ranked #20 nationally
    • Two or three-year completion options
    • Standard and advanced generalist tracks
    • CSWE accredited program
    • Multiple campus and online options
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
    • Requires 51-60 credit hours
    • Professional licensure preparation
  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Advanced Generalist - Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online MSW program
    • 60 total credit hours
    • 20 total classes
    • 7.5 weeks per class
    • Next start date: 08/21/2025
    • CSWE accredited program
    • 960 hours practical experience
    • Advanced generalist curriculum
  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Policy, Administration and Community Practice - Online Learning - Website

    • MSW program ranked #20 nationally
    • Two or three-year completion options
    • CSWE accredited program
    • Campus and online learning formats
    • 51-60 credit hour paths available
    • Multiple specialization tracks
    • Advanced practice concentrations
    • Minimum 3.00 GPA requirement

Tempe, AZ

Arizona State University Campus Immersion

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

    Concentration: Advanced Direct Practice - Campus Based - Website

    • Multiple MSW program formats
    • On-campus and online options
    • Advanced Standing, Standard, Concurrent programs
    • Two to three-year completion time
    • CSWE accredited program
    • 480-hour internship requirements
    • Three specialization tracks
    • Campus locations: Phoenix, Tucson, Yuma
  • Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)

    Concentration: Advanced Generalist - Campus Based - Website

    • CSWE Accredited Program
    • On-campus and online options
    • Multiple campus locations
    • Advanced Standing Program
    • Two-year or three-year formats
    • Specialization options available
    • Synchronous and asynchronous online
    • Concurrent degree opportunities
  • Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)

    Concentration: Policy, Administration and Community Practice - Campus Based - Website

    • Multiple campus locations: Phoenix, Tucson, Yuma
    • Advanced Standing and Standard MSW options
    • One-year and two-three year formats
    • Online and on-campus learning
    • CSWE Accredited Program
    • Specializations: Policy, Direct Practice
    • Two 480-hour internships required
    • Minimum 3.2 GPA for Advanced Standing
*Original data: IPEDS 2023, NCES, U.S. Department of Education.

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