MSW Programs in Arkansas: Online & Campus Degrees

Arkansas boasts a diverse landscape of Master of Social Work (MSW) programs, each offering unique opportunities for aspiring social work professionals. From bustling urban centers to tranquil rural communities, the state’s MSW programs cater to a spectrum of interests and career paths within the field of social work. As Arkansas grapples with evolving social challenges, these programs stand as pillars of education, equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and empathy necessary to address the complex needs of individuals and communities across the state. Below, we explore the landscape of MSW programs in Arkansas, highlighting their distinguishing features, academic rigor, and what you can expect in the application process.

2025 Best MSW Programs in Arkansas

Looking for the best MSW programs in Arkansas? CounselingPsychology.org has ranked the top schools to help you find the right fit. Our list focuses on quality, affordability, and student support. We know picking a program is a big decision. That's why we've done the research for you. Whether you're starting your career or advancing it, our rankings can guide your choice. Check out our detailed rankings to see which programs stand out. Learn how we rank the programs here.

#1

University of Arkansas

Fayetteville, AR - Public 4-Year - uark.edu

Master's - Master of Social Work

Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Arkansas MSW program delivers a dynamic, comprehensive educational experience focused on social justice and transformative practice. Designed to cultivate advanced leadership skills, the program offers diverse tracks including full-time, part-time, and campus-based options. Students engage with complex social challenges through a multi-system life course perspective, emphasizing evidence-based interventions and innovative technologies. The curriculum provides robust field internship experiences, enabling graduates to develop critical skills in addressing systemic inequalities, particularly surrounding poverty reduction and supporting vulnerable populations. CSWE-accredited and requiring a comprehensive capstone research project, this program prepares social work professionals for impactful careers.

• Multiple MSW program options
• 2-year, 3-year, and advanced standing tracks
• Online advanced standing available
• CSWE accredited program
• Multi-System Life Course perspective
• 63 credit hours for full program
• 39 credit hours for advanced standing
• Capstone research project required
• Focuses on social justice
• Poverty reduction emphasis

Master's - Master of Social Work

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Arkansas Online Advanced Standing MSW program offers a specialized, accelerated pathway for bachelor's-level social workers seeking rapid career advancement. This strategically designed 39-credit hour program enables students to complete their degree entirely online within one year, providing maximum flexibility for working professionals. Leveraging virtual classroom technologies and local internship placements, students gain advanced skills and leadership competencies. The program targets experienced social workers with a BSW, facilitating seamless professional development through comprehensive coursework and practical training. Graduates emerge prepared to take on elevated roles with enhanced professional qualifications and earning potential.

• 100% Online Program
• 39 Credit Hours
• 1 Year Completion Time
• GRE Exempt
• BSW Required
• Year-long 22-hour Internship
• CSWE Accredited
• 3.0 Undergraduate GPA
• Application Deadline Jan 15
• Per Credit Hour $446.29
• Professional References Required
• Full-time Option Only
• Virtual Classroom
• Local Internship Placement

Show 1 More Programs ˅

*Source: U.S. DOE National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2023 collection.

MSW Degree Program Requirements/Eligibility in Arkansas

Arkansas Traditional MSW Admissions Requirements

To complete an MSW in Arkansas, you must commit two years and complete an average of 60 credits to graduate. Most students entering a traditional MSW program don’t already have a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW). To be eligible to apply for this type of program, you’ll need:

• 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

Arkansas Advanced-Standing MSW Admissions Requirements

Advanced-standing MSW programs are geared towards students who already have a BSW, thus allowing them to complete their MSW in a shorter amount of time (typically one year). Apart from this requirement and the ones listed above, you’ll also need to maintain a GPA of at least 3.5.

The Advanced-Standing MSW degree typically requires around 38 credits and takes approximately one year to complete. Examples of Advanced-Standing MSW programs in Arkansas include:

• The University of Arkansas – visit site
• Arkansas State University – visit site

RELATED: Learn more about Social Work Salaries

Arkansas MSW Program Tuition and Costs

As you can see below, the tuition costs for MSW programs in Arkansas greatly depend on whether you are a resident of Arkansas, another state, or an online student. On average, you’ll pay a total tuition cost of $32,820. Currently, these are the only two MSW programs available in the state:

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

An online MSW program won’t always be the right choice for everyone, but it does offer a lot of flexibility. Find out if an online MSW suits you by looking at the table below.

Traditional MSW vs. Online MSW Programs in Arkansas

When researching MSW programs, ensure the programs you apply to are accredited by Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). This ensures that you meet all of the necessary licensure requirements 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 Arkansas Social Work License

Each state has different licensure requirements, but regardless of the requirements, you’ll need to apply for licensure once you graduate. Learn more about how to get your social worker license in Arkansas.