Best Online & Affordable MSW Programs in Hawaii
As the demand for skilled professionals in social work continues to rise, pursuing Master of Social Work (MSW) programs becomes increasingly essential for those passionate about making a difference in their communities. Nestled amidst the Pacific Ocean, Hawaii offers a unique backdrop for individuals seeking to embark on their journey toward becoming licensed social workers. From its rich cultural diversity to its pressing social issues, Hawaii’s MSW programs provide rigorous academic training and offer a profound immersion into the complexities of social welfare within the island’s unique context. This page delves into the landscape of MSW programs in Hawaii, exploring their distinctive features, challenges, and opportunities for aspiring social work professionals.
2026 Best MSW Programs in Hawaii
Hawaii Pacific University
Honolulu, HI - Private 4-year - hpu.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Online Learning - Visit Website
Hawaii Pacific University's online Master of Social Work delivers a comprehensive educational experience for aspiring social work professionals. The program uniquely emphasizes Global and Indigenous Studies and Military and Veteran Affairs concentrations, providing students with specialized pathways to address complex social challenges. With flexible online learning spanning 12-36 months, students develop critical multicultural practice skills and social justice advocacy competencies. The curriculum integrates cultural perspectives and practical clinical experiences, preparing graduates for transformative roles in diverse community settings. Students can choose between a traditional 57-credit track or a 30-credit advanced standing track, accommodating varying professional backgrounds.
- Online MSW program available
- Two track options: Traditional and Advanced Standing
- 57-credit Traditional Track
- 30-credit Advanced Standing Track
- Multicultural learning environment
- Focus on Global/Indigenous Studies
- Military and Veteran Affairs concentration
- Flexible evening/weekend classes
- Practitioner-experienced faculty
- Prepares for social work licensure
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Global and Indigenous Focus - Online Learning - Visit Website
Hawaii Pacific University's MSW program offers an innovative online curriculum focused on Global and Indigenous perspectives, empowering students to become culturally responsive social work leaders. The program provides advanced training in multicultural practice and social justice advocacy, with flexible learning options for working professionals. Students can complete the program in 12-36 months, selecting between traditional and advanced standing tracks. The concentration explores complex global dynamics and indigenous community needs, preparing graduates to address intricate social challenges with nuanced, culturally informed approaches. Practitioner-experienced faculty guide students toward impactful careers in diverse social service environments.
- Online MSW program
- Two track options: Traditional and Advanced Standing
- 57-credit Traditional Track
- 30-credit Advanced Standing Track
- Two focus area concentrations
- Completion in 12-36 months
- Multicultural learning environment
- Flexible evening/weekend classes
- Veteran practitioner faculty
- Advanced generalist preparation
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Military and Veteran Affairs (MLVA) Focus - Online Learning - Visit Website
Hawaii Pacific University's Military and Veteran Affairs MSW concentration provides specialized training for social work professionals dedicated to serving military communities. The online program offers comprehensive preparation in advocacy, cultural competence, and veteran support strategies. Students choose between a 57-credit traditional or 30-credit advanced standing track, developing advanced skills in addressing complex military-related social challenges. The curriculum emphasizes multicultural perspectives and practical intervention techniques specific to veteran populations. Graduates emerge as culturally sensitive practitioners equipped to provide holistic support, navigating the unique psychological, social, and systemic needs of military personnel and their families.
- Online MSW program available
- Two track options: Traditional/Advanced Standing
- 57-credit traditional track
- 30-credit advanced standing track
- Two focus area options
- Military and Veteran Affairs concentration
- Global and Indigenous Focus
- Flexible evening/weekend classes
- Multicultural learning environment
- Practiced faculty practitioners
MSW Degree Program Requirements/Eligibility in Hawaii
Hawaii Traditional MSW Admissions Requirements
Students with a non-social work bachelor’s degree must enroll in a traditional MSW program instead of an advanced standing MSW program. Traditional MSWs require the completion of 60 credits and a two-year commitment along with the following:
- 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
Hawaii Advanced-Standing MSW Admissions Requirements
If you’ve graduated from a BSW program with a 3.5 GPA or higher, you’ll qualify for an advanced standing MSW. These programs allow you to get your MSW and become licensed in a year or less. You’ll need all of the above requirements as well as your BSW and transcripts to apply. Here are a few advanced-standing MSW programs based in Hawaii:
- University of Hawaii – visit site
- Hawaii Pacific University – visit site
RELATED: Learn more about Social Work Salaries
Hawaii MSW Program Tuition and Costs
Two MSW programs are available in the State of Hawaii–the University of Hawaii and Hawaii Pacific University. In terms of cost, the most and least affordable options are evident in the table below:
| School | Tuition (per credit hour) | Total Credits | Total Tuition |
| University of Hawaii | $547 (Residents) $1,181 (Non-residents) | 57 | $31,200 (Resident) $67,296 (Non-residents) |
| Hawaii Pacific University | $1,235 | 57 | $70,395 |
2026 Affordable MSW Program Options
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Hawaii Pacific University |
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Are Online MSW Programs in Hawaii as Good as Campus-Based?
Can’t afford to fly out to Hawaii for school, or is the distance too much for your specific lifestyle? An online MSW program might be the right option for you! These programs offer flexibility and convenience when a campus visit isn’t always available.
Traditional MSW vs. Online MSW Programs in Hawaii
| 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 |
To ensure that graduation from an MSW will lead to licensure, you’ll need to make sure all programs that you apply to are accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).
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 Hawaii Social Work License
Like all states, Hawaii requires you to receive licensure to practice as a social worker. Learn about the specific requirements of social work licensure in Hawaii.
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 Hawaii
Honolulu, HI
Hawaii Pacific University
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Online Learning - Website
- Online MSW program available
- Two track options: Traditional and Advanced Standing
- 57-credit Traditional Track
- 30-credit Advanced Standing Track
- Multicultural learning environment
- Focus on Global/Indigenous Studies
- Military and Veteran Affairs concentration
- Flexible evening/weekend classes
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Global and Indigenous Focus - Online Learning - Website
- Online MSW program
- Two track options: Traditional and Advanced Standing
- 57-credit Traditional Track
- 30-credit Advanced Standing Track
- Two focus area concentrations
- Completion in 12-36 months
- Multicultural learning environment
- Flexible evening/weekend classes
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Military and Veteran Affairs (MLVA) Focus - Online Learning - Website
- Online MSW program available
- Two track options: Traditional/Advanced Standing
- 57-credit traditional track
- 30-credit advanced standing track
- Two focus area options
- Military and Veteran Affairs concentration
- Global and Indigenous Focus
- Flexible evening/weekend classes
