Best MSW Programs in Pennsylvania 2025: Online & Campus

The University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus offers a Master of Social Work with a concentration in Direct Practice, designed to prepare students for roles as licensed clinicians, community leaders, and policymakers. This program emphasizes evidence-informed methodologies, multicultural engagement, and social justice advocacy, providing a comprehensive education to tackle complex social issues. With options for both in-person and part-time online study, students can tailor their learning to fit their schedules while benefiting from a nationally-ranked curriculum.

• Established in 1918
• In-person and online options
• Six generalist courses
• Multicultural society focus
• Advanced specialized practice
• Multiple specialization tracks
• Optional MSW certificates
• Dual degree opportunities
• Evidence-informed curriculum
• Social justice orientation
• Professional development focus

Focusing on Community, Organization, and Social Action, the Master of Social Work program at the University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus equips students with the skills to become effective change-makers. The program blends flexible learning options with a strong emphasis on multicultural understanding and social justice, preparing graduates to address societal challenges through evidence-based practices. This nationally-recognized program offers a pathway to leadership in social work.

• Established in 1918
• In-person and online options
• Six generalist courses
• Specialization opportunities
• MSW certificates available
• Dual degree programs
• Focus on multicultural practice
• Evidence-informed curriculum
• Social justice emphasis

The online Master of Social Work program at the University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus is designed for aspiring social workers seeking flexibility without compromising on quality. It prepares students for advanced practice in various settings, emphasizing cultural humility, social justice, and evidence-informed methodologies. This program stands out for its rigorous curriculum and the opportunity to specialize, making it ideal for those aiming to make a significant impact in the field of social work.

• In-person and online options
• Established in 1918
• Six generalist foundational courses
• Specialization opportunities available
• Multiple certificate options
• Dual/joint degree possibilities
• Multicultural society focus
• Evidence-informed practice approach
• Global perspective emphasis

With a concentration on Community, Organization, and Social Action, the Master of Social Work at the University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus is tailored for those looking to drive social change. The program offers a blend of in-person and online learning, focusing on human rights, professional ethics, and multicultural competence. It's a nationally-ranked program that prepares students for leadership roles in addressing complex social issues through advanced, specialized practice.

• In-person and online options
• Established in 1918
• Six generalist core courses
• Multiple specialization tracks
• Dual/joint degree opportunities
• Focus on social justice
• Evidence-informed practice approach
• Advanced standing available
• Multiple campus locations

Bryn Mawr College's Master of Social Service (M.S.S.) program stands out for its trauma-informed curriculum, designed to prepare students for the complexities of social work. Offering both full-time (two-year) and part-time (three-year) tracks, the program accommodates diverse student needs, including advanced standing for BSW graduates. With a requirement of 18 course units, the program blends theoretical knowledge with practical experience through practice seminars and a practicum. Evening and weekend classes enhance accessibility, making it an ideal choice for working professionals. The program's focus on research and practice ensures graduates are well-equipped to address societal challenges.

• Two and three-year study options
• Advanced standing for BSW graduates
• Trauma-informed curriculum approach
• 18 total course units required
• Evening and weekend course availability
• Research and practice emphasis
• Flexible full-time/part-time plans
• Practice seminars and practicum
• Minimum two courses per semester

Kutztown University of Pennsylvania's Master of Social Work with a concentration in Behavioral Health is a hybrid program designed for aspiring professionals seeking to specialize in mental health and behavioral interventions. The 60-credit curriculum blends theoretical knowledge with practical skills, offering flexible scheduling options including full-time, part-time, and executive tracks. A standout feature is the 900-hour agency-based practicum, providing real-world experience in diverse settings. The program emphasizes ethical practice and social justice, preparing graduates for leadership roles in behavioral health. Admission requires three recommendation letters, with deadlines on August 1st for fall and May 1st for summer sessions. No GRE Required.

• 60-credit MSW program
• Advanced standing option available
• Full and part-time formats
• Executive schedule option
• 900-hour agency practicum
• Fall semester deadline: August 1st
• Summer sessions deadline: May 1st
• Three recommendation letters required
• Multiple specialization paths
• Diverse practice settings

Focusing on Community Development, Kutztown University's Master of Social Work program adopts a hybrid learning model to cultivate leaders capable of fostering social change. The 60-credit program offers flexibility with full-time, part-time, and executive schedules, catering to working professionals. Students engage in a comprehensive 900-hour practicum, gaining hands-on experience in community organizing and development. The curriculum is designed to address contemporary social issues, equipping graduates with the skills to implement sustainable community solutions. Application deadlines are August 1st for fall and May 1st for summer, with no GRE requirement for admission.

• 60-credit MSW program
• Advanced standing option available
• Multiple schedule formats
• 900-hour agency practicum
• Fall semester deadline: August 1st
• Summer session deadline: May 1st
• Executive schedule available
• Full and part-time options
• Specialization opportunities
• Comprehensive admission requirements

The Leadership and Management concentration within Kutztown University's Master of Social Work program is tailored for those aiming to lead social service organizations effectively. This hybrid program combines 60 credits of coursework with a 900-hour practicum, offering full-time, part-time, and executive schedule options. It focuses on developing strategic management skills alongside clinical expertise, preparing students for high-level roles in social work administration. Advanced standing students can complete the program with 39 credits. The application deadlines are August 1st for fall and May 1st for summer, with no GRE needed for entry into this transformative program.

• 60-credit MSW program
• 39 credits for advanced standing
• Flexible full/part-time formats
• Executive schedule available
• 900-hour agency practicum
• Multiple specialization tracks
• Fall semester deadline: August 1st
• Summer sessions deadline: May 1st
• Multiple learning format options
• Concentration development in advanced year

Millersville University of Pennsylvania, in partnership with Shippensburg University, presents a Master of Social Work program tailored for both working professionals and full-time students. This hybrid program combines the convenience of online learning with the engagement of on-campus sessions, offering a flexible schedule that accommodates various student needs. With options for regular and advanced standing tracks, the program focuses on advanced generalist practice, equipping students with the skills needed for effective social work in diverse settings. Accredited by the CSWE, it emphasizes evidence-based practice and social justice, preparing graduates for impactful careers in human services. Field placements across Pennsylvania provide practical experience, enhancing the learning journey.

• Joint program with Shippensburg University
• On-campus and online delivery options
• Regular and Advanced Standing tracks
• CSWE accredited program
• Flexible full-time/part-time schedules
• Starting Summer 2025
• Application deadline April 15, 2025
• Advanced generalist practice focus
• Field placements across Pennsylvania

The University of Pennsylvania's Master of Social Work program stands out as a premier choice for students aiming to excel in the social work field. Recognized among the top 8 social work programs in the nation, it offers a rigorous curriculum focused on social justice, preparing students for impactful careers in various sectors. The program provides flexibility with full-time, part-time, and advanced standing options, alongside diverse concentration choices to tailor the educational experience. With a commitment to practical learning, students engage in practicum placements across Philadelphia, benefiting from the city's rich diversity. The program boasts a high financial aid availability, ensuring accessibility for all qualified students. CSWE accreditation underscores its quality and relevance in the social work profession.

• Top 8 Social Work Program
• Two-Year Full-Time Option
• Advanced Standing Available
• Part-Time Three-Year Track
• Multiple Concentration Options
• Practicum Placements Nationwide
• Social Justice Focused Curriculum
• 90% Financial Aid Availability
• CSWE Fully Accredited
• Philadelphia-Based Learning