Accredited MSW Programs in Chicago, IL: Advanced Standing, Clinical Tracks, and More
Chicago’s diverse urban landscape creates unprecedented opportunities for social workers to make meaningful impact across communities. From the bustling downtown medical district to neighborhood community centers, the Windy City offers Master of Social Work (MSW) graduates a rich environment to launch and advance their careers. Whether you’re interested in clinical practice, macro-level policy work, or specialized fields like school social work, Chicago’s accredited MSW programs provide the foundation you need to succeed in this rewarding profession.
This comprehensive guide explores everything prospective students need to know about pursuing an MSW degree in the Chicago metropolitan area. We’ll cover program formats, specialization tracks, admission requirements, financial considerations, and career outcomes specific to the Illinois market.
Quick Stats: Chicago MSW Market:
- Illinois has over 15,000 licensed social workers
- Average social worker salary in Illinois ranges between $54,870 and $65,630
- Child, family, and school social workers in Illinois make an average of $63,590
- Growing demand in healthcare, mental health, and community services
Learn more about MSW schools in Illinois.
2026 Best MSW Programs Near Chicago, IL
Aurora University
Aurora, IL - Private 4-year - aurora.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)
Concentration: Addictions - Online Learning - Visit Website
Aurora University's online Master of Social Work (MSW) program with a concentration in Addictions prepares students for specialized roles in substance abuse treatment and recovery. This CSWE-accredited program offers flexible tracks, including traditional 60-semester-hour and advanced standing 30-semester-hour options, with starts in fall, spring, and summer. It features employment-based internships, expert faculty guidance, and leads to state licensure, emphasizing clinical skills for high-demand careers without requiring an entrance exam. Graduates can pursue roles with a median salary of $58,380, focusing on transformative impacts in diverse populations.
- 60 semester hours traditional MSW
- 30 semester hours advanced standing
- Multiple track options
- CSWE accredited program
- Fall, spring, summer starts
- Online and on-campus options
- Employment-based internships
- Leads to state licensure
- Tracks include addictions, forensics
- Median salary $58,380
Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)
Concentration: Child Welfare - Online Learning - Visit Website
Focused on Child Welfare, Aurora University's online MSW program equips students to protect and support vulnerable children and families through specialized training. Accredited by CSWE, it includes traditional and advanced standing tracks of 60 and 30 semester hours, with flexible start dates and online or on-campus options. The program offers employment-based internships, diverse career pathways, and preparation for state licensure, all without an entrance exam requirement. Graduates are prepared for roles with a median annual salary of $58,380, emphasizing practical experience and theoretical knowledge.
- 60 semester hour traditional program
- 30 semester hour advanced standing
- Multiple track options available
- CSWE accredited program
- Online and on-campus options
- Two and three-year formats
- Employment-based internships
- Leads to state licensure
- Diverse career pathways
- Median salary $58,380 annually
Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Aurora University's online Master of Social Work (MSW) program provides a broad foundation for social work careers, with concentrations available in areas like child welfare and forensics. This CSWE-accredited program includes traditional 60-credit and advanced standing 30-credit options, flexible formats, and starts in fall, spring, and summer. It features employment-based internships, leads to state licensure, and does not require an entrance exam. Graduates can expect a median salary of $58,380, with the program emphasizing comprehensive training for diverse professional roles.
- 60 credit traditional MSW program
- 30 credit advanced standing option
- Multiple specialization tracks
- CSWE accredited program
- Fall, spring, summer starts
- Online and on-campus options
- Employment-based internships
- Prepares for state licensure
- Tracks lead to external certifications
- Median salary $58,380 annually
Loyola University Chicago
Chicago, IL - Private 4-year - luc.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)
Concentration: Micro Practice - Online Learning - Visit Website
Loyola University Chicago's online MSW program with a Micro Practice concentration focuses on developing skills in clinical assessment and advocacy for individual and family-level interventions. This 49-credit, part-time program requires 1,000 internship hours and costs $55,370 in total tuition, with no entrance exam required. It offers a flexible, synchronous online format starting in the fall, and is nationally ranked #28, emphasizing cultural competence and social justice.
- 49 credit hours total program
- Fully online synchronous format
- Two specialization tracks available
- Advanced Standing option
- 1,000 internship hours required
- Total estimated tuition: $55,370
- Fall semester start
- Part-time study only
- Application deadline: June 1
Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)
Concentration: Leadership, Mezzo, & Macro Practice (LMMP) - Online Learning - Visit Website
The online MSW program at Loyola University Chicago, specializing in Leadership, Mezzo, & Macro Practice, trains students for broader societal impacts through leadership and organizational skills. This part-time, 49-credit program includes 1,000 internship hours and costs $55,370, with no entrance exam needed. It features synchronous online classes, an Advanced Standing option, and prepares graduates for the LCSW exam, leveraging its CSWE accreditation and Jesuit values.
- Online MSW, 49 credit hours
- Part-time program format
- Two specialization tracks
- 1,000 total internship hours
- Fall semester start
- Application deadline June 1
- Advanced Standing option
- Total tuition $55,370
- Two internship requirements
- Synchronous online classes
Master's - Master of Social Work Online Bilingual
Concentration: Migration Studies - Online Learning - Visit Website
Loyola University Chicago's online Bilingual MSW program, with a concentration in Migration Studies, prepares social workers to serve Latinx and immigrant communities through culturally sensitive clinical training. This three-year, part-time program requires 49 credits and 1,000 internship hours, costing $38,465 in total tuition, and does not require an entrance exam. It offers a bilingual Spanish/English focus, performance-based scholarships, and a fall start, emphasizing mental health interventions for diverse populations.
- Part-time online program
- 3-year traditional MSW
- 1,000 hours internship required
- Micro Practice Specialization
- Migration Studies track
- Bilingual (Spanish/English) focus
- Fall start term
- Application deadline June 1
- 49 credit hours
- Performance-based scholarships available
Dominican University
River Forest, IL - Private 4-year - dom.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Dominican University's Master of Social Work (MSW) program, offered in a hybrid format, provides a flexible and comprehensive education for aspiring social workers near Chicago. This CSWE-accredited program includes 60 credit hours and 1,080 fieldwork hours, with options for full-time or part-time study. Students can choose from six specialized tracks, such as Aging and Global Social Work Practice, and benefit from small class sizes and a network of over 350 agency placements. The program does not require an entrance exam, focusing on practical experience and collaboration to prepare graduates for leadership in social change.
- CSWE-accredited MSW program
- 100% online or campus options
- Six specialized practice tracks
- 60 credit hours total
- 1,080 hours fieldwork required
- Full-time and part-time options
- Small class sizes
- Available in 5 midwest states
- First weekend residency
- Dual degree opportunities
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Aging, Adulthood and Gerontology - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Focusing on the Aging, Adulthood and Gerontology concentration, Dominican University's MSW program delivers a hybrid education tailored for professionals serving older adults in the Chicago area. Accredited by the CSWE, it requires 60 credits and 1,080 fieldwork hours, with online or on-campus options and full-time or part-time schedules. Students gain hands-on experience through a vast network of placements, including international opportunities, without needing an entrance exam. The curriculum emphasizes specialized skills for high-demand roles in gerontology, supported by small classes and dual degree possibilities.
- 100% online or campus options
- CSWE-accredited program
- 60 credit hour curriculum
- 1,080 hours fieldwork included
- Multiple specialization tracks
- Full-time and part-time options
- Campus locations in Chicago area
- Small class sizes
- Social work scholarships available
- Dual degree opportunities
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Children, Youth and Family - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Dominican University's MSW program with a Children, Youth and Family concentration offers a hybrid approach for those aiming to impact young populations near Chicago. This CSWE-accredited program involves 60 credit hours and 1,080 fieldwork hours, available online or on-campus with flexible scheduling. No entrance exam is required, allowing students to dive into specialized coursework and practical experiences through a network of 350 agencies. Emphasizing dynamic learning and expert faculty, it prepares graduates for diverse roles in child and family services, fostering meaningful community change.
- CSWE-accredited MSW program
- Online and campus options
- 60 credit hours total
- 1,080 fieldwork hours
- Multiple specialization tracks
- Full-time and part-time
- Daytime, evening, weekend classes
- Dual degree opportunities
- 350 agency placement network
- Social work scholarships available
University of Chicago
Chicago, IL - Private 4-year - uchicago.edu
Master's - Master of Arts Program in Social Work, Social Policy, and Social Administration
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Chicago's Crown Family School offers a Master of Arts in Social Work, Social Policy, and Social Administration, which is equivalent to an MSW and accredited since 1919. This campus-based program uniquely integrates direct social work practice with policy development, interdisciplinary research, and social science theory, providing a rigorous academic foundation. It emphasizes flexibility and prepares graduates for diverse careers in addressing complex societal challenges. As a master's-level program, it requires an entrance exam such as the GRE, unless otherwise stated.
- AM degree equivalent to MSW
- Accredited since 1919
- Interdisciplinary social work approach
- Policy and research integration
- Flexible career preparation
- Advanced standing option available
Master's - Master of Arts Program in Social Work, Social Policy, and Social Administration
Concentration: Clinical - Campus Based - Visit Website
Focusing on the Clinical concentration, the University of Chicago's Crown Family School provides a Master of Arts in Social Work, Social Policy, and Social Administration that blends clinical practice with policy and research. This campus program, accredited since 1919, offers an AM degree equivalent to an MSW, preparing students for advanced roles in clinical settings with an interdisciplinary approach. It requires an entrance exam like the GRE for admission, unless explicitly waived.
- Accredited since 1919
- AM degree equivalent to MSW
- Interdisciplinary social work approach
- Combines practice and policy
- Flexible career preparation
- Advanced standing option available
Master's - Master of Arts Program in Social Work, Social Policy, and Social Administration
Concentration: Social Administration - Campus Based - Visit Website
Specializing in Social Administration, the University of Chicago's Crown Family School delivers a Master of Arts in Social Work, Social Policy, and Social Administration that emphasizes administrative skills alongside direct practice and policy. This campus-based program, continuously accredited since 1919, fosters leadership in social work through a research-driven curriculum. Entrance exams such as the GRE are typically required for this master's program, absent specific exemptions.
- Master of Arts (AM) degree
- Continuously accredited since 1919
- Interdisciplinary social work curriculum
- Combines practice and policy
- Broader educational foundation
- Flexible career preparation
Northeastern Illinois University
Chicago, IL - Public 4-Year - neiu.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Social Work Practice with Children, Youth, and Families - Campus Based - Visit Website
Northeastern Illinois University's Master of Social Work program, specializing in Social Work Practice with Children, Youth, and Families, prepares students to address the unique needs of young populations through a CSWE-accredited, 60-credit curriculum. This concentration emphasizes advanced skills in direct practice and advocacy, with flexible part-time or full-time options and evening classes tailored for working professionals. The program does not require an entrance exam, such as the GRE, and features small class sizes, a minimum 3.0 GPA requirement, and an Advanced Standing option for eligible students.
- Full CSWE accreditation
- 60 credit hour program
- Two practice concentrations
- Evening classes available
- Part-time/full-time options
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Advanced Standing option
- Application deadline Jan. 15
- Fall semester admission
- Small classroom settings
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Leadership and Change - Campus Based - Visit Website
Focusing on the Leadership and Change concentration, Northeastern Illinois University's Master of Social Work program develops leaders capable of driving systemic social justice reforms. This 60-credit, CSWE-accredited program offers evening classes and part-time or full-time schedules, accommodating professionals without an entrance exam requirement like the GRE. Students benefit from affordable tuition, personalized mentorship, and a curriculum designed to foster critical thinking and advocacy skills for impactful community service.
- CSWE fully accredited program
- 60 credit hours total program
- Two specialized concentrations
- Evening classes for professionals
- Part-time or full-time options
- 3.0 undergraduate GPA required
- Application deadline Jan. 15
- Advanced standing available
- Affordable tuition
- Small classroom settings
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: School Social Work - Campus Based - Visit Website
Northeastern Illinois University's Master of Social Work program, with a concentration in School Social Work, equips students to support educational environments and address student well-being. This CSWE-accredited program spans 60 credits, provides part-time or full-time flexibility with evening classes, and requires no entrance exam such as the GRE. It includes an Advanced Standing option, a 3.0 GPA minimum, and emphasizes practical skills for making a difference in school settings, launched in Fall 2016.
- Full program 60 credit hours
- Two concentrations available
- CSWE fully accredited
- Part-time and full-time options
- Late afternoon/evening classes
- 3.0 GPA minimum requirement
- Application deadline Jan. 15
- Advanced standing option
- Started Fall 2016
Why Pursue an MSW in Chicago?
Chicago’s status as the third-largest city in the United States creates a dynamic environment for social work practice. The city’s complex social fabric presents both challenges and opportunities that prepare MSW graduates for leadership roles in the profession. Major healthcare systems like Northwestern Medicine and Rush University Medical Center provide extensive field placement opportunities, while organizations such as Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago offer community-based learning experiences.
The Chicago metropolitan area is home to diverse populations requiring culturally competent social work services. Students gain exposure to urban social issues, policy development at the state and local level, and innovative approaches to community organizing. Additionally, Illinois’ proximity to other major metropolitan areas and strong professional networks create excellent post-graduation career mobility.
Chicago’s MSW programs benefit from the city’s role as a hub for social work research and policy development. Many programs maintain partnerships with local government agencies, nonprofits, and healthcare systems, ensuring students gain practical experience alongside their academic preparation.
MSW Programs in Chicago Overview
Chicago hosts several CSWE-accredited MSW programs, each offering unique strengths and specializations. The University of Chicago’s Crown Family School offers a Master of Arts Program in Social Work, Social Policy, and Social Administration (SW), equivalent to an MSW but with a broader educational foundation. Loyola University Chicago’s School of Social Work brings over 100 years of experience in training social work professionals, while UIC’s Jane Addams College of Social Work prepares students to become agents of social change.
Other notable programs include DePaul University’s MSW program with two concentrations and Chicago State University’s campus-based MSW program with a Direct Practice clinical specialization.
When evaluating Chicago MSW programs, consider these essential factors:
CSWE Accreditation: Ensure your chosen program maintains accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education, which is required for Illinois licensure eligibility.
Key Questions to Ask Any MSW Program:
- What field placement opportunities are available in Chicago?
- How does the program prepare students for Illinois licensure?
- What are the clinical and macro track options?
- Are advanced standing pathways available?
- What financial aid and scholarship opportunities exist?
Advanced Standing MSW Programs in Chicago
Advanced standing programs allow students with Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degrees from CSWE-accredited programs to complete their MSW in accelerated timeframes, typically 12-16 months instead of the traditional 24 months.
To be eligible for an Advanced Standing MSW degree in Illinois, students typically must:
- Hold a BSW from a CSWE-accredited program
- Maintain a minimum GPA (usually 3.0 or higher)
- Have completed their BSW within a specified timeframe (often within 5-7 years)
- Demonstrate strong academic performance in social work practice courses
Advanced standing students save significant time and money by bypassing foundation-level coursework and moving directly into advanced practice courses. In Illinois, LSWs can earn their license in about 5-6 years, including four years for their BSW and 1-2 years for their MSW, making advanced standing an attractive option for BSW graduates.
Advanced Standing Eligibility Checklist: ✓ CSWE-accredited BSW degree ✓ Minimum GPA requirement met ✓ BSW completed within required timeframe ✓ Strong performance in practice courses ✓ Professional references available
Clinical vs. Macro Practice Tracks
Chicago MSW programs typically offer two primary concentration areas: clinical practice and macro practice, each preparing students for distinct career paths.
Clinical Track: The clinical concentration focuses on direct therapeutic services with individuals, families, and groups. Students develop skills in assessment, diagnosis, treatment planning, and various therapeutic modalities. LCSWs need an additional two years of post-graduate supervised experience beyond the MSW to achieve full clinical licensure in Illinois.
Clinical track graduates often work in:
- Private practice therapy
- Hospital social work
- Community mental health centers
- Substance abuse treatment facilities
- Employee assistance programs
Macro Practice Track: The macro concentration emphasizes policy analysis, program development, community organizing, and organizational leadership. Students learn to address social problems at systemic levels through advocacy, research, and administrative skills.
Macro practice graduates typically pursue careers in:
- Policy development and analysis
- Nonprofit administration
- Government social services
- Community organizing
- Grant writing and program evaluation
| Aspect | Clinical Track | Macro Practice Track |
| Focus | Individual/family therapy | Systems change and policy |
| Licensure Path | LSW → LCSW (with supervision) | LSW (direct service components) |
| Work Settings | Healthcare, private practice | Government, nonprofits, advocacy |
| Salary Range | $55,000-$75,000+ | $60,000-$85,000+ |
Admission Requirements and Application Process
Chicago MSW programs maintain competitive admission standards while seeking diverse student cohorts. Common requirements across programs include:
Essential Application Materials:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution (any field)
- Minimum GPA (typically 3.0)
- Personal statement demonstrating commitment to social work values
- Professional and academic references
- Resume highlighting relevant experience
- Official transcripts
- Some programs require GRE scores (check individual requirements)
Personal statements are used to assess writing, critical thinking, and capacity for self-awareness in terms of readiness for graduate level work. Successful applicants often demonstrate volunteer experience, work in human services, or other experiences showing commitment to social justice and helping others.
Key Application Deadlines:
- Fall admission: January 15 – March 1 (varies by program)
- Spring admission: October 15 (limited programs)
- Advanced Standing: Earlier deadlines, often December-January
Start your application process at least 6-8 months before your intended start date to allow time for gathering materials, writing personal statements, and securing strong references.
Financial Aid and Funding Options
MSW education represents a significant investment, but numerous funding sources can help Chicago-area students manage costs effectively.
Illinois-Specific Opportunities:
- Illinois Social Work Education Initiative scholarships
- Chicago Community Trust grants for human services students
- Field placement stipends through partner agencies
- Graduate assistantships at universities
- State employee tuition waivers (for qualifying state workers)
Federal Financial Aid:
- Federal student loans (subsidized and unsubsidized)
- Federal Work-Study programs
- Graduate PLUS loans for additional funding needs
Many Chicago MSW students work part-time while attending school, particularly in evening or weekend program formats. Some field placements offer stipends or hourly wages, helping offset educational costs while providing valuable experience.
Top Funding Resources for Illinois MSW Students:
- NASW Illinois Chapter scholarships
- University-specific graduate fellowships
- Employer tuition reimbursement programs
- Community foundation grants
- Professional organization scholarships
Field Placements and Practicum Opportunities
Chicago’s extensive network of social service organizations provides MSW students with diverse field placement options. All CSWE-accredited programs require supervised field education, typically totaling 900+ hours across multiple semesters.
Major Placement Categories:
Healthcare Systems
- Northwestern Medicine (multiple locations)
- Rush University Medical Center
- University of Chicago Medicine
- Cook County Health
- Advocate Aurora Health
Community Organizations
Government Agencies
- Chicago Department of Public Health
- Illinois Department of Children and Family Services
- Chicago Public Schools
Mental Health and Substance Abuse
- Thresholds (mental health services)
- Gateway Foundation (substance abuse treatment)
- Chicago Behavioral Health
Students should consider transportation when selecting field placements, as Chicago’s extensive public transit system (CTA) connects most major placement sites. Many programs provide guidance on navigating the city and accessing placement opportunities via public transportation.
Career Outcomes and Job Market for MSW Grads in Chicago
Chicago’s MSW graduates enter a robust social worker job market with diverse opportunities across sectors. The city’s size and economic diversity create demand for social workers in traditional and emerging practice areas.
Employment Outlook: Recent graduates report strong employment rates, with many securing positions before graduation through field placement connections. The Illinois job market shows continued growth in healthcare social work, mental health services, and community-based programming.
| Position Type | Salary Range (Chicago Metro) | Common Employers |
| Clinical Social Worker | $55,000-$75,000 | Hospitals, private practice, community mental health |
| School Social Worker | $50,000-$70,000 | Chicago Public Schools, suburban districts |
| Healthcare Social Worker | $58,000-$80,000 | Major hospital systems, rehabilitation facilities |
| Program Administrator | $65,000-$90,000 | Nonprofits, government agencies |
| Policy Analyst | $60,000-$85,000 | Government, advocacy organizations |
High-Demand Specializations:
- Gerontology and aging services
- Substance abuse treatment
- School social work
- Healthcare social work
- Mental health services
High-Demand MSW Specializations in Chicago:
- Trauma-informed care
- Bilingual/multicultural practice
- Substance abuse counseling
- Child welfare and family services
- Mental health therapy
Major employers actively recruiting Chicago MSW graduates include Northwestern Medicine, Chicago Public Schools, Catholic Charities, various Cook County agencies, and numerous community-based organizations throughout the metropolitan area.
Online and Hybrid MSW Options in Chicago
Several Chicago-area programs offer flexible learning formats to accommodate working professionals and students with family obligations. Loyola University Chicago offers an internationally recognized MSW Online Program, maintaining the same quality as their campus-based offerings.
Online and hybrid programs provide:
- Flexible scheduling for working professionals
- Reduced commuting costs and time
- Access to the same curriculum as on-campus students
- Technology-enhanced learning experiences
Field Placement Considerations: Online students must still complete required field education hours in their local communities. Chicago-area students benefit from the city’s extensive placement network, while suburban and regional students work with program coordinators to identify suitable opportunities.
Technology requirements typically include reliable internet access, webcam capabilities for virtual meetings, and basic computer literacy for learning management systems and communication platforms.
Licensing and Certification in Illinois
To become an LCSW in Illinois, you must obtain a degree from a CSWE–approved graduate program of social work. The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation oversees social work licensure.
LSW (Licensed Social Worker) Requirements:
- MSW from CSWE-accredited program
- Application and fees
- Criminal background check
- Examination (if required by program timing)
LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) Requirements:
- Current LSW license
- Two years (4,000 hours) of post-MSW supervised clinical experience
- Clinical examination
- Continuing education requirements
Key Licensure Steps:
- Graduate from CSWE-accredited MSW program
- Apply for LSW license with Illinois IDFPR
- Complete supervised experience (for LCSW)
- Pass required examinations
- Maintain continuing education requirements
The licensure process typically takes 2-4 weeks after application submission, assuming all documentation is complete and accurate. Learn more about social work licensure.
Additional Resources for Chicago MSW Students
Chicago Social Work Employment by Sector
| Employment Sector | Percentage of MSW Jobs | Average Salary Range | Growth Outlook |
| Healthcare/Hospitals | 35% | $58,000-$80,000 | High |
| Mental Health Centers | 20% | $55,000-$72,000 | High |
| Government Agencies | 18% | $52,000-$75,000 | Moderate |
| Nonprofit Organizations | 15% | $48,000-$68,000 | Moderate |
| Schools/Education | 8% | $50,000-$70,000 | High |
| Private Practice | 4% | $65,000-$100,000+ | High |
Illinois Social Work License Requirements Breakdown
| License Type | Education Required | Experience Required | Exam Required | Renewal Period |
| LSW | MSW from CSWE program | None (some programs require field experience) | ASWB Masters exam | 2 years |
| LCSW | MSW + LSW license | 4,000 hours supervised clinical practice (2 years) | ASWB Clinical exam | 2 years |
| Continuing Education | – | 30 hours per renewal period | – | Required for renewal |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I work while completing an MSW in Chicago? A: Many Chicago MSW programs accommodate working students through evening, weekend, or part-time formats. However, field placement requirements may limit work schedule flexibility during practicum semesters.
Q: How competitive is admission to Chicago MSW programs? A: Admission competitiveness varies by program, but most Chicago schools maintain holistic review processes considering academic performance, experience, and commitment to social work values rather than solely GPA and test scores.
Q: What’s the job market like for new MSW graduates? A: The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the average social worker salary in Illinois ranges between $54,870 and $65,630 depending on specialty. Chicago’s diverse economy and extensive social service network create strong employment opportunities for new graduates.
