As the demand for skilled professionals in the field of social work continues to grow, Massachusetts stands as a beacon for individuals seeking top-tier education and training through Master of Social Work (MSW) programs. With its rich history of progressive social policies and commitment to fostering inclusive communities, Massachusetts offers a diverse array of MSW programs tailored to meet the evolving needs of both students and society. From prestigious universities to specialized institutions, the Commonwealth provides a fertile ground for aspiring social workers to cultivate their passion, expertise, and dedication to effecting positive change in the lives of individuals and communities alike. In this article, we explore the landscape of MSW programs in Massachusetts, highlighting the unique offerings and opportunities that make them a cornerstone of social work education in the region.

2025 Best MSW Programs in Massachusetts

Looking for the best MSW programs in Massachusetts? counselingpsychology.org has ranked the top options to help you find the right fit. Our list focuses on quality, affordability, and student success. We consider key factors like accreditation, faculty expertise, and graduate outcomes. Whether you're starting your career or advancing it, our rankings guide you to make an informed choice. Learn more about how we rank these programs https://counselingpsychology.org/rankings-methodology/.

#1

Simmons University

Boston, MA - Private 4-year - simmons.edu

Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)

Campus Based - Visit Website

Simmons University's MSW program delivers a comprehensive clinical social work education emphasizing social justice and multicultural perspectives. Students can choose from flexible full-time, part-time, and online formats, completing 65 credit hours of advanced training. The curriculum integrates innovative simulation-based learning and extensive practicum experiences, preparing graduates to address complex social challenges across diverse settings. With options for accelerated 16-month completion and advanced standing for BSW holders, the program equips students with the skills to become transformative clinical practitioners. Graduates emerge with robust theoretical knowledge and practical expertise in addressing systemic social inequities.

  • 65 total credit hours
  • Multiple program formats
  • On-campus and online options
  • Clinical practice focus
  • Practicum education experiences
  • Advanced clinical training
  • Social justice emphasis
  • Full-time and part-time tracks
  • 16-month accelerated option
  • Advanced Standing for BSW holders

Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)

Concentration: Clinical Practice with Active Service Members, Veterans, and Families - Campus Based - Visit Website

Simmons University's specialized MSW concentration in Clinical Practice with Active Service Members, Veterans, and Families offers a targeted approach to understanding military community needs. The program provides comprehensive training in trauma-informed care, veteran services, and culturally sensitive clinical interventions. Students engage in 24-hour weekly internships, developing specialized skills to support military personnel and their families through complex psychological and social challenges. With flexible study options and a strong emphasis on social action, graduates are uniquely positioned to provide critical mental health support within military and veteran communities.

  • 65 total credit hours
  • Full-time and part-time options
  • Online and on-campus formats
  • Multiple certificate programs
  • 24-hour weekly internships
  • Advanced clinical training
  • Simulation-based learning
  • Flexible study sequences
  • Specialized practice concentrations
  • Advanced standing for BSW holders

Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)

Concentration: Trauma Practice Certificate - Campus Based - Visit Website

Simmons University's MSW Trauma Practice Certificate program offers an intensive, specialized curriculum focusing on advanced trauma intervention strategies. Students gain comprehensive training in understanding, assessing, and treating trauma-related psychological conditions across diverse populations. The 65-credit program integrates cutting-edge simulation learning with extensive practicum experiences, preparing clinicians to address complex psychological impacts of traumatic experiences. With options for full-time, part-time, and online study, students can develop advanced clinical skills while maintaining professional flexibility. The program emphasizes evidence-based practices and social justice perspectives in trauma-informed care.

  • MSW requires 65 credit hours
  • Full-time and part-time options
  • Online and on-campus formats
  • Multiple certificate opportunities
  • Innovative clinical simulation training
  • Advanced clinical practice focus
  • Practicum education two years
  • Accelerated 16-month program
  • Advanced Standing for BSW holders
  • School Social Work licensure available

Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)

Online Learning - Visit Website

Simmons University's online MSW program offers a flexible, CSWE-accredited pathway to clinical social work licensure. Designed for working professionals, the program provides comprehensive training through innovative digital platforms. Students can complete 34-65 graduate credits within 9-40 months, with three annual cohort start dates. The curriculum emphasizes social justice, providing 1,000+ hours of practicum education and optional advanced certificates in Mental Health, Trauma, and Military Practice. With no GRE requirement and interactive online classrooms, the program ensures accessibility and comprehensive professional preparation for aspiring social work practitioners.

  • CSWE-accredited online MSW program
  • 9-40 months completion time
  • Multiple program tracks available
  • Advanced Standing for BSW graduates
  • 1,000+ practicum hours
  • No GRE required
  • Three annual cohort start dates
  • Scholarships available
  • Optional certificate programs
  • Interactive online classroom
Show 3 More Programs ˅
#2

Smith College

Northampton, MA - Private 4-year - smith.edu

Master's - Master of Social Work (M.S.W.)

Concentration: Clinical Social Work - Campus Based - Visit Website

Smith College's Master of Social Work (M.S.W.) program stands out for its clinical social work concentration, designed to foster compassionate professionals adept in addressing complex social issues. The curriculum is rigorous, blending intensive summer coursework with practical internships from September to April, ensuring students gain real-world experience. With over 100 elective courses, learners can tailor their education to interests such as neurobiology and transgender studies. The program champions social justice and multicultural understanding, preparing graduates to excel in diverse clinical settings. Its commitment to creating a supportive, multi-gender learning environment further enhances the educational experience.

  • Clinical social work focus
  • Intensive summer curriculum
  • Over 100 elective courses
  • September-April internships
  • Emphasizes social justice
  • Multi-gender, diverse cohorts
  • Comprehensive student support
  • Rigorous academic training
#3

Gordon College

Wenham, MA - Private 4-year - gordon.edu

Master's - 4+1 Master of Social Work

Concentration: Clinical Practice, Child and Family Services, Community Practice and Administration, Advanced Generalist - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Gordon College's 4+1 Master of Social Work program stands out for its faith-based approach and accelerated timeline, allowing students to earn their MSW in just five years. With concentrations in Clinical Practice, Child and Family Services, Community Practice and Administration, and Advanced Generalist, the program caters to a wide range of interests. The hybrid format combines online learning with the flexibility to accommodate students' schedules, making it an ideal choice for those balancing other commitments. Partnering with Roberts Wesleyan University and Dordt University, this program not only offers a cost-effective path to licensure but also integrates Christian values into its curriculum, preparing graduates for meaningful careers in social work.

  • 4+1 MSW partnership program
  • Two track options available
  • Online degree program
  • Multiple concentration choices
  • Prepares for LCSW licensure
  • Faith-integrated curriculum
  • Faster and cheaper option
  • No relocation required
  • Flexible course scheduling
  • Christian institutional partnership

Master's - 4+1 Master of Social Work

Concentration: Child and Family Services - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Focusing on Child and Family Services, Gordon College's 4+1 MSW program is tailored for students passionate about making a difference in the lives of children and families. This hybrid program, completed in five years, emphasizes practical skills and theoretical knowledge, all within a faith-integrated framework. The collaboration with Roberts Wesleyan University and Dordt University enhances the program's accessibility and affordability, offering online coursework that doesn't require relocation. Graduates are well-prepared for licensure and careers that address the complex needs of children and families in various settings.

  • 4+1 MSW partnership program
  • Online degree options
  • Multiple concentration tracks
  • Integrates faith and learning
  • Prepares for LCSW licensure
  • Accelerated five-year timeline
  • Christian institutional partnership
  • Flexible course scheduling
  • Career-focused curriculum
  • No relocation required

Master's - 4+1 Master of Social Work

Concentration: Community Practice and Administration - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The 4+1 MSW program at Gordon College, with a concentration in Community Practice and Administration, is designed for students aiming to lead and administer social service programs. This hybrid program accelerates the path to a master's degree, combining online coursework with a faith-based perspective on social work. Through partnerships with Roberts Wesleyan University and Dordt University, students benefit from a curriculum that prepares them for leadership roles in community organizations, emphasizing social justice, program development, and administrative skills. The program's flexibility and cost-effectiveness make it a compelling option for aspiring social work administrators.

  • 4+1 Accelerated MSW Program
  • Online and Flexible Learning
  • Two Partnership Track Options
  • Multiple Concentration Choices
  • Christian Faith Integration
  • Preparation for LCSW Licensure
  • Partnered with Dordt/Roberts Wesleyan
  • No Relocation Required
  • Faster Degree Completion
  • Lower Overall Program Cost
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#4

Boston College

Chestnut Hill, MA - Private 4-year - bc.edu

Master's - Master of Social Work

Campus Based - Visit Website

Boston College's Master of Social Work (MSW) program stands out for its national ranking and comprehensive curriculum, offering both clinical and macro specializations. With six fields of practice, including Black Leadership and Global Practice, students gain a broad perspective on social work. The program boasts a 91.5% first-time licensure pass rate and offers scholarships to all accepted students, making it a financially accessible option for many. Flexible full-time and part-time schedules cater to diverse student needs, alongside advanced standing and optional certificate programs for further specialization.

  • Full-time and part-time options
  • Two specialization tracks
  • 100% scholarship availability
  • 91.5% licensure pass rate
  • 2-year full-time program
  • 3-4 year part-time program
  • Advanced Standing option
  • 6 fields of practice
  • Optional certificate programs
  • $1,408 per credit
  • 12 required courses
  • 5 elective courses

Master's - Master of Social Work

Concentration: Clinical Social Work - Campus Based - Visit Website

Focusing on Clinical Social Work, Boston College's MSW program is designed for those aiming to make a direct impact in individuals' lives. The program offers a blend of rigorous coursework and practical field education, with specializations in areas like Children & Families. Notably, it provides 100% scholarship availability to accepted students and maintains a high licensure pass rate of 91.5%. The flexibility of full-time or part-time study options ensures that students can balance their education with other commitments.

  • Full-time and part-time options
  • Clinical and macro specializations
  • 100% scholarship for accepted students
  • 91.5% first-time licensure pass rate
  • Six fields of practice
  • 12 required courses, 5 electives
  • Cost: $1,408 per credit
  • Advanced Standing available
  • Multiple application deadlines

Master's - Master of Social Work

Concentration: Macro Social Work - Campus Based - Visit Website

The Macro Social Work concentration at Boston College prepares students for leadership roles in social work, emphasizing systemic change. This program combines a strong theoretical foundation with practical experience, offering six fields of practice to explore. With a 91.5% licensure pass rate and scholarships available to all admitted students, it's an attractive option for aspiring macro social workers. The program's flexibility, including full-time, part-time, and advanced standing options, accommodates a wide range of student schedules and goals.

  • Full-time: 2 years
  • Part-time: 3-4 years
  • Advanced Standing: 12-16 months
  • 12 required courses
  • 5 elective courses
  • Credit cost: $1,408 per credit
  • 100% scholarship for accepted students
  • 6 fields of practice options
  • 12 optional certificate programs
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#5

Bridgewater State University

Bridgewater, MA - Public 4-Year - bridgew.edu

Master's - Master of Social Work

Campus Based - Visit Website

Bridgewater State University's Master of Social Work program stands out for its commitment to fostering social change through advanced education. Tailored for future leaders in social work, the program delves into evidence-based practices and social justice, preparing graduates to address complex societal issues. With a curriculum that balances theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience, students are equipped to serve diverse populations effectively. The program's community-centered approach ensures that graduates are ready to make a significant impact in various social service environments. Highlights include a focus on social justice principles and a strong emphasis on preparing students for advanced practice in the field.

  • Master of Social Work offered
  • Evidence-based policy focus
  • Social justice principles emphasized
  • Advanced practice preparation
  • Community-centered approach
*Source: IPEDS 2023, National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

MSW Degree Program Requirements/Eligibility in Massachusetts

Massachusetts Traditional MSW Admissions Requirements

Students enrolled in a traditional MSW program must complete 60 credit hours and two years of study. They will also need to have a bachelor’s degree; however, the field of study does not have to be social work. Here are a full range of admissions requirements to enroll:

  • 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

Massachusetts Advanced-Standing MSW Admissions Requirements

An advanced-standing Master of Social Work (MSW) degree is an accelerated program for those with a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree. Entry requirements routinely include:

  • A BSW degree from an accredited institution is typically awarded no longer than five years prior
  • Minimum GPA of 3.5
  • All other requirements from the Traditional MSW above

If you qualify for an advanced standing MSW and are looking for options in Massachusetts, take a look at these programs available in the state:

RELATED: Learn more about Social Work Salaries

Massachusetts MSW Program Tuition and Costs

MSW programs can range considerably in price; this is no less apparent than in Massachusetts, where some of the nation’s most expensive and affordable MSW programs co-exist together in one tiny state. Depending on the program, you can reasonably anticipate paying a total of $8,880 to $91,520 for your MSW tuition and anywhere in between. Check out these examples:

SchoolTuition (per credit hour)Total CreditsTotal Tuition
Merrimack College$1,06956$59,864
Boston University$1,40865$91,520
Salem State University$140 (Resident)
$230 (Non-resident)
62$8,880 (Resident)
$14,260 (Non-resident)

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

Online MSW programs are a great way to get your MSW without having to sacrifice family and work obligations and to gain access to programs that may not be available in your state. Check out the full range of pros and cons in the table below:

Traditional MSW vs. Online MSW Programs in Massachusetts

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

Whether you choose a campus-based or online MSW program in Massachusetts, you'll want to ensure that your degree program is properly accredited by a trusted agency such as the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).

Learn more about Social Work Degree Options:

Getting Your Massachusetts Social Work License

Getting licensed as a social worker in Alabama is the final step once you earn your MSW degree. Each state has different requirements for licensure. Learn more about how to get your social worker license in Massachusetts in our Social Work Licensure Guide.

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 Massachusetts

Jump to City:

Boston, MA

Simmons University

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

    Online Learning - Website

    • CSWE-accredited online MSW program
    • 9-40 months completion time
    • Multiple program tracks available
    • Advanced Standing for BSW graduates
    • 1,000+ practicum hours
    • No GRE required
    • Three annual cohort start dates
    • Scholarships available
  • Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)

    Concentration: Trauma Practice Certificate - Campus Based - Website

    • MSW requires 65 credit hours
    • Full-time and part-time options
    • Online and on-campus formats
    • Multiple certificate opportunities
    • Innovative clinical simulation training
    • Advanced clinical practice focus
    • Practicum education two years
    • Accelerated 16-month program
  • Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)

    Concentration: Clinical Practice with Active Service Members, Veterans, and Families - Campus Based - Website

    • 65 total credit hours
    • Full-time and part-time options
    • Online and on-campus formats
    • Multiple certificate programs
    • 24-hour weekly internships
    • Advanced clinical training
    • Simulation-based learning
    • Flexible study sequences
  • Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)

    Campus Based - Website

    • 65 total credit hours
    • Multiple program formats
    • On-campus and online options
    • Clinical practice focus
    • Practicum education experiences
    • Advanced clinical training
    • Social justice emphasis
    • Full-time and part-time tracks

Bridgewater, MA

Bridgewater State University

  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Campus Based - Website

    • Master of Social Work offered
    • Evidence-based policy focus
    • Social justice principles emphasized
    • Advanced practice preparation
    • Community-centered approach

Cambridge, MA

Lesley University

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

    Campus Based - Website

    • 60-credit MSW program
    • Full or part-time options
    • 900 hours field experience
    • CSWE accredited through 2030
    • Evening classes start 5pm
    • Cambridge/Boston location
    • Advanced standing available
    • HY-FLEX learning format

Chestnut Hill, MA

Boston College

  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Campus Based - Website

    • Top-ranked MSW program nationally
    • Full-time and part-time options
    • Two specialization tracks
    • 100% scholarship availability
    • 91.5% licensure pass rate
    • 2-year full-time program
    • 3-4 year part-time program
    • Advanced Standing option
  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Macro Social Work - Campus Based - Website

    • Full-time: 2 years
    • Part-time: 3-4 years
    • Advanced Standing: 12-16 months
    • 12 required courses
    • 5 elective courses
    • Credit cost: $1,408 per credit
    • #8 nationally ranked MSW
    • 100% scholarship for accepted students
  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Clinical Social Work - Campus Based - Website

    • Top-ranked MSW in New England
    • Full-time and part-time options
    • Clinical and macro specializations
    • 100% scholarship for accepted students
    • 91.5% first-time licensure pass rate
    • Six fields of practice
    • 12 required courses, 5 electives
    • Cost: $1,408 per credit

Chicopee, MA

College of Our Lady of the Elms

  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Macro Social Work - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Two specialization tracks available
    • No GRE required
    • 900 hours practicum experience
    • Advanced standing for BSW graduates
    • Weeknight and Saturday classes
    • 3.0 minimum undergraduate GPA
    • Pre-candidacy CSWE accreditation
    • Tuition discounts for partners
  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Primary Care Clinical Social Work - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Flexible Saturday/weeknight classes
    • Two specialized practice tracks
    • 900 hours practicum experience
    • No GRE required
    • 3.0 undergraduate GPA minimum
    • Advanced standing for BSW graduates
    • Elective options across graduate programs
    • Pre-candidacy CSWE accreditation

North Andover, MA

Merrimack College

  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Substance Use Disorders - Campus Based - Website

    • CSWE-accredited MSW program
    • 2-year, 56-credit program
    • 900 hours field experience
    • Multiple concentration options
    • Evening classes available
    • Advanced standing option
    • Presidential Fellowships offered
    • On-campus learning mode
  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Criminology - Campus Based - Website

    • CSWE-accredited MSW program
    • 2-year, 56 credit program
    • Advanced standing option available
    • Multiple practice concentrations
    • On-campus study mode
    • 900 hours field experience
    • Presidential fellowships available
    • No application fee
  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Community Engagement - Campus Based - Website

    • Two-year, 56-credit MSW program
    • CSWE-accredited curriculum
    • 900 hours field experience
    • $1,100 per credit tuition
    • Multiple concentration options
    • Evening classes available
    • Advanced standing option
    • Presidential Fellowships offered

Northampton, MA

Smith College

  • Master's - Master of Social Work (M.S.W.)

    Concentration: Clinical Social Work - Campus Based - Website

    • Clinical social work focus
    • Intensive summer curriculum
    • Over 100 elective courses
    • September-April internships
    • Emphasizes social justice
    • Multi-gender, diverse cohorts
    • Comprehensive student support
    • Rigorous academic training

Paxton, MA

Anna Maria College

  • Master's - MSW

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • CSWE Accredited Program
    • On-campus and online options
    • Full-time: 62 credits, 2 years
    • Part-time: 62 credits, 4 years
    • Advanced Standing available
    • 1,070 total field education hours
    • Advanced Generalist Practice Model
    • Concurrent classwork and fieldwork

Salem, MA

Salem State University

  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Integrated Health and Behavioral Health - Campus Based - Website

    • First public social work program in Massachusetts
    • Top 100 national social work program
    • Integrated health/behavioral health focus
    • Online and on-campus options
    • Advanced standing available
    • Two to four-year completion options
    • Diverse practicum placement opportunities
    • Electives in specialized areas

Springfield, MA

Springfield College

  • Master's - Master of Social Work: Advanced Standing Program

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 33-credit advanced standing MSW
    • 100% online and on-campus options
    • CSWE accredited program
    • Fall and summer start dates
    • 500-hour practicum internship
    • BSW required within five years
    • Weekday and weekend programs
    • Evidence-based curriculum
  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Advanced Generalist Practice - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 60-credit MSW program
    • 100% online and on-campus options
    • Advanced generalist practice concentration
    • CSWE accredited program
    • Flexible start dates: Fall, Spring, Summer
    • Complete in 2-3 years
    • Practicum required for four semesters
    • Classes weekday/evening options
  • Master's - Master of Social Work/Juris Doctor Dual-Degree

    Campus Based - Website

    • 122-125 total credit program
    • 4-year dual degree option
    • 100% online asynchronous classes
    • Weekday and evening classes
    • First internship: 400 hours
    • Second internship: 500 hours
    • Start in September (fall semester)
    • On-campus and online delivery

Wenham, MA

Gordon College

  • Master's - 4+1 Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Child and Family Services - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 4+1 MSW partnership program
    • Online degree options
    • Multiple concentration tracks
    • Integrates faith and learning
    • Prepares for LCSW licensure
    • Accelerated five-year timeline
    • Christian institutional partnership
    • Flexible course scheduling
  • Master's - 4+1 Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Community Practice and Administration - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 4+1 Accelerated MSW Program
    • Online and Flexible Learning
    • Two Partnership Track Options
    • Multiple Concentration Choices
    • Christian Faith Integration
    • Preparation for LCSW Licensure
    • Partnered with Dordt/Roberts Wesleyan
    • No Relocation Required
  • Master's - 4+1 Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Clinical Practice, Child and Family Services, Community Practice and Administration, Advanced Generalist - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 4+1 MSW partnership program
    • Two track options available
    • Online degree program
    • Multiple concentration choices
    • Prepares for LCSW licensure
    • Faith-integrated curriculum
    • Faster and cheaper option
    • No relocation required
*NCES IPEDS database, 2023 release. Available at: https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

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