MSW Programs in Maryland: Online & Campus
From renowned institutions in bustling urban centers to intimate campuses nestled in suburban communities, Maryland offers various MSW programs tailored to suit a spectrum of career aspirations and academic preferences. Whether one seeks specialization in clinical practice, policy advocacy, or community development, Maryland’s MSW offerings promise a rich tapestry of educational experiences to foster compassionate, competent, and socially conscious professionals. In this article, we delve into the landscape of MSW programs across Maryland, exploring their unique features, program structures, and the opportunities they afford to those eager to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
2025 Best MSW Programs in Maryland
Looking for the best MSW programs in Maryland? counselingpsychology.org has ranked the top options to help you find the right fit. Our list highlights schools with strong curricula, experienced faculty, and good field placement opportunities. We focus on what matters most to students. Whether you're starting your career or advancing it, these programs stand out. Check out our rankings to see which schools made the list. Learn more about how we rank programs https://counselingpsychology.org/rankings-methodology/.
Salisbury University
Salisbury, MD - Public 4-Year - salisbury.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Salisbury University's hybrid Master of Social Work (MSW) program is designed for students seeking a flexible yet rigorous education in social work. Accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, this program blends online and on-campus learning to accommodate diverse student needs. With a focus on advanced direct practice, the curriculum spans 62 credits for the regular track, or students with a BSW can opt for the 17-month advanced standing option. The program emphasizes practical experience through field education, preparing graduates for impactful careers in various settings. Highlights include a cohort model, 7-week course blocks, and a competitive tuition rate of $775 per credit.
- Accredited MSW Program
- Online and On-Campus Options
- 62-Credit Regular Curriculum
- Advanced Standing Available
- $775 per Credit Tuition
- Cohort Model (20 Students)
- Courses in 7-Week Blocks
- Field Education Included
- Multiple State Eligibility
- 3.0 GPA Recommended
- Minimum 24 Liberal Arts Hours
- Advanced Direct Practice Focus
- Good Neighbors Graduate Scholarship
Master's - Master of Social Work
Online Learning - Visit Website
The online Master of Social Work (MSW) at Salisbury University offers a dynamic and flexible path for aspiring social workers. This CSWE-accredited program allows students to specialize in Clinical Social Work and Advocacy or Social Change and Leadership, catering to diverse career goals. Designed for working professionals, it features evening and summer courses across five Maryland campuses, ensuring accessibility. The curriculum focuses on developing advanced clinical and leadership skills, supported by field education placements. With affordable tuition and a hybrid learning format, this program stands out for its commitment to social justice and community impact.
- Online and regional campus options
- Two specialization tracks available
- CSWE accredited program
- Affordable online MSW
- Evening and summer courses
- Five Maryland campus locations
- Advanced direct practice focus
- Field education placements
- Multiple state program availability
- Hybrid learning format
Morgan State University
Baltimore, MD - Public 4-Year - morgan.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Campus Based - Visit Website
Morgan State University's Master of Social Work program is designed for advanced practitioners aiming to make a significant impact in urban social work settings. It offers a rigorous curriculum that includes 12 credits of supervised internship, focusing on ethical practice, cultural competence, and social justice. The program is tailored for those looking to address complex community challenges, with a strong emphasis on urban populations and systemic change. Highlights include a 48-credit hour requirement, a comprehensive portfolio, and alignment with CSWE standards, preparing graduates for transformative careers in social work.
- 48 total academic credit hours
- 12 credits supervised internship
- Urban social work focus
- 11 core competency areas
- Comprehensive portfolio requirement
- Aligned with CSWE standards
- Advanced practice preparation
- Emphasis on social justice
- Diverse population engagement
- Ethical decision-making training
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Urban Children, Youth, and Families - Online Learning - Visit Website
The Online Master of Social Work program at Morgan State University specializes in Urban Children, Youth, and Families, offering a flexible learning format for working professionals. This CSWE-accredited program requires a 3.0 GPA and offers both a 60-credit standard and a 30-credit Advanced Standing option for BSW graduates. It focuses on addressing urban challenges like poverty and social injustice, with a curriculum designed to equip students with the skills needed for meaningful social impact. The program emphasizes urban practice and offers specialized tracks to cater to diverse professional goals.
- 60-credit standard program
- 30-credit Advanced Standing option
- Urban practice focus
- Two specialized practice areas
- CSWE-accredited curriculum
- 3.0 GPA minimum requirement
- Online learning platform
- Advanced Standing for BSW graduates
- Within five years BSW graduation
- No grade lower than B
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Addictions - Online Learning - Visit Website
Morgan State University's Online Master of Social Work with a concentration in Addictions prepares students to tackle urban challenges through systemic interventions. The program offers flexible 60-credit and 30-credit Advanced Standing options, focusing on issues such as poverty, social injustice, and mental health. It is CSWE-accredited and requires a 3.0 GPA, with a preference for BSW graduates. The curriculum is designed for those seeking to specialize in addictions, providing the skills necessary to create significant social change in urban communities, particularly among African American populations.
- Online and campus-based MSW
- 60-credit and 30-credit options
- Advanced Standing available
- 3.0 GPA required
- CSWE accredited program
- Urban practice focus
- Two practice specializations
- BSW graduates preferred
- Technology requirements exist
- Interview for Advanced Standing
University of Maryland, Baltimore
Baltimore, MD - Public 4-Year - umaryland.edu
Master's - MSW
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Maryland, Baltimore's online Master of Social Work (MSW) program stands out for its flexibility and comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare students for leadership roles in social work. Offering hybrid and online formats, the program allows students to balance their studies with personal commitments, completing the degree in three years. A standout feature is the in-person field practicum, providing real-world experience. Ranked #24 among social work programs, it emphasizes clinical practice, macro leadership, and policy development, with graduates earning significantly above the average salary for social workers.
- Multiple MSW program formats
- Hybrid and online options
- 3-year completion timeline
- In-person field practicum
- Multiple campus locations
- Baltimore and Shady Grove campuses
- Clinical and macro concentrations
- Graduates earn $12,275 above average
- Leadership and policy focus
Master's - MSW
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
At the University of Maryland, Baltimore, the hybrid Master of Social Work (MSW) program combines online coursework with in-person practicum experiences, offering flexibility without sacrificing hands-on learning. Students can choose between clinical and macro social work tracks, tailoring their education to their career goals. The program is designed for completion in three years and is recognized as the #24 best social work school. Graduates benefit from a curriculum focused on therapeutic services, leadership, and community engagement, leading to higher earning potential compared to standard college graduates.
- Three flexible MSW program formats
- Baltimore and Shady Grove campuses
- Hybrid and online options available
- Graduates earn $12,275 above average
- Clinical and macro social work tracks
- Comprehensive field practicum experience
- Three-year degree completion possible
- Remote learning with in-person practicum
- Advanced Standing MSW option
University of Maryland Global Campus
Adelphi, MD - Public 4-Year - umgc.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Maryland Global Campus offers a Master of Social Work program that stands out for its flexibility and affordability, tailored for those aiming to excel in social work. This 62-credit online program, with some hybrid options, is perfect for working professionals seeking to advance their careers without sacrificing their current job. Priced at $350 per credit hour, it includes an advanced standing option for BSW graduates, allowing for a quicker path to graduation. Accredited by the CSWE, the program emphasizes clinical practice and requires a 3.0 GPA for admission. Students will engage in a 12-credit field practicum, gaining hands-on experience in real-world settings.
- 62 total credit hours
- Online and hybrid courses
- $350 per credit hour
- Advanced standing option
- Accredited by CSWE
- 12 credits field practicum
- Two program tracks
- Full-time completion in 12 sessions
- 3.0 minimum GPA required
- Specialized clinical practice focus
MSW Degree Program Requirements/Eligibility in Maryland
Maryland Traditional MSW Admissions Requirements
Traditional MSW programs (as opposed to advanced standing MSW programs) are typically reserved for students who don’t have a bachelor’s degree in social work but want to get licensed as a social worker. They typically require 60 credits of studies and a two-year commitment. Here are some admissions requirements you’ll come across in your search:
- 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
Maryland Advanced-Standing MSW Admissions Requirements
The main difference between advanced-standing MSW programs and traditional ones is the time it takes to complete. Advanced-standing MSW programs only require a year to complete and a courseload of 35 credits. To qualify, you’ll need a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree, a 3.5 (or higher) GPA, and the admissions requirements above. Here are a few advanced standing MSW programs in Maryland:
- University of Maryland – visit site
- Morgan State University – visit site
Maryland MSW Program Tuition and Costs
As you can see in the table below, how much you’ll actually pay for MSW tuition in Maryland will depend on whether you’re a Maryland resident and the quality of education you’ll receive. Many students looking to save money on MSW programs in Maryland will establish residency beforehand or enroll in an online program. You can generally expect to pay between $15,600 and $68,620 for your total MSW tuition in Maryland.
| School | Tuition (per credit hour) | Total Credits | Total Tuition |
| University of Maryland | $525 (Resident) $1,143 (Non-resident) | 60 | $31,500 (Resident) $68,620 (Non-resident) |
| Morgan State University | $260 (Resident) $930 (Non-resident) | 60 | $15,600 (Resident) $55,800 (Non-resident) |
| Salisbury University | $775 (Online) | 62 | $48,050 (Online) |
Are Online MSW Programs in Maryland as Good as Campus-Based?
While the face-to-face interaction of in-person programs is still a big draw for many, the flexibility and convenience of online MSW programs is a significant advantage.
Traditional MSW vs. Online MSW Programs in Maryland
| 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 |
MSW students looking to get licensed will need to make sure that their program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). If the program is not accredited, they will not be eligible for licensure.
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 Maryland Social Work License
To become licensed in Maryland, you’ll need to make sure you follow the required trajectory. Check out Maryland’s specific social work licensure requirements in our Guide to Social Work Licensing.
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 Maryland
Adelphi, MD
University of Maryland Global Campus
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Online Learning - Website
- 62 total credit hours
- Online and hybrid courses
- $350 per credit hour
- Advanced standing option
- Accredited by CSWE
- 12 credits field practicum
- Two program tracks
- Full-time completion in 12 sessions
Baltimore, MD
Morgan State University
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Campus Based - Website
- 48 total academic credit hours
- 12 credits supervised internship
- Urban social work focus
- 11 core competency areas
- Comprehensive portfolio requirement
- Aligned with CSWE standards
- Advanced practice preparation
- Emphasis on social justice
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Addictions - Online Learning - Website
- Online and campus-based MSW
- 60-credit and 30-credit options
- Advanced Standing available
- 3.0 GPA required
- CSWE accredited program
- Urban practice focus
- Two practice specializations
- BSW graduates preferred
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Urban Children, Youth, and Families - Online Learning - Website
- 60-credit standard program
- 30-credit Advanced Standing option
- Urban practice focus
- Two specialized practice areas
- CSWE-accredited curriculum
- 3.0 GPA minimum requirement
- Online learning platform
- Advanced Standing for BSW graduates
University of Maryland, Baltimore
- Master's - MSW
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Three flexible MSW program formats
- Baltimore and Shady Grove campuses
- Hybrid and online options available
- Ranked #24 Best Social Work School
- Graduates earn $12,275 above average
- Clinical and macro social work tracks
- Comprehensive field practicum experience
- Three-year degree completion possible
- Master's - MSW
Online Learning - Website
- Multiple MSW program formats
- Hybrid and online options
- 3-year completion timeline
- In-person field practicum
- Ranked #24 Social Work Program
- Multiple campus locations
- Baltimore and Shady Grove campuses
- Clinical and macro concentrations
Salisbury, MD
Salisbury University
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Accredited MSW Program
- Online and On-Campus Options
- 62-Credit Regular Curriculum
- Advanced Standing Available
- $775 per Credit Tuition
- Cohort Model (20 Students)
- Courses in 7-Week Blocks
- Field Education Included
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Online Learning - Website
- Online and regional campus options
- Two specialization tracks available
- CSWE accredited program
- Affordable online MSW
- Evening and summer courses
- Five Maryland campus locations
- Advanced direct practice focus
- Field education placements
