Exploring the realm of Social Work, primarily through Master of Social Work (MSW) programs, opens the doors to many opportunities for personal growth and professional impact. Arizona is a vibrant hub for MSW education, offering diverse programs tailored to individual needs and career aspirations. Whether you’re considering traditional pathways or embracing the flexibility of online learning, understanding the landscape of MSW programs in Arizona is pivotal.

Join us as we navigate through the nuances of MSW education in Arizona, empowering you to make informed decisions and chart your course toward a fulfilling career in social work. Discover the programs, weigh the options, and embark on a transformative educational journey in the heart of the Southwest.

MSW Degree Program Requirements/Eligibility in Arizona

Arizona Traditional MSW Admissions Requirements

Arizona’s traditional MSW programs typically include 60 credits and require about two years of full-time study. Many students who apply to these programs don’t have a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) but rather a bachelor’s degree in other subjects. Admission requirements may vary among institutions but commonly include:

  • Completion of a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution, often in psychology or a related field.
  • Minimum GPA requirement, typically around 3.0.
  • Submission of letters of recommendation.
  • Personal statement or essay.
  • Resume or CV highlighting relevant experience.
  • Completion of prerequisite coursework (e.g., psychology, sociology, human services).
  • GRE scores (some programs may waive this requirement).
  • Interview (part of the application process for select programs).
  • Background check and/or fingerprinting.

Arizona Advanced-Standing MSW Admissions Requirements:

If you do have a BSW, you’ve probably heard of Advanced-Standing MSW degrees. These programs allow students who already have their BSW to get their MSW in as little as a year. In addition to your BSW, the only other requirement these programs will ask for is a GPA of 3.5 or higher. Here are a few schools in Arizona that offer them:

RELATED: Learn more about Social Work Salaries

Arizona MSW Program Tuition and Costs

Arizona MSW programs’ average per credit hour cost is $607, translating to an average of $41,184 for the total tuition paid. While this may seem a little high at first glance, it can be a great idea to look into online MSW programs or state schools if you’re looking to reduce costs. Take a look at the full range of tuition costs below:

SchoolTuition (per credit hour)Total CreditsTotal Tuition
Arizona State University$819 (Online)
60$37,918
Northern Arizona University$395 (Resident)
$977 (Nonresident)
$610 (Online)
60$23,692 (Resident)
$58,676 (Nonresident)
$36,600 (Online)
Grand Canyon University$575 (Online)
$550 (On-Campus)
62$34,500 (Online)
$33,000 (On-Campus)

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

Whether or not an online program is right for you depends entirely on your specific needs. Take a look at the table below to find out if an online MSW is suitable for you.

Traditional MSW vs. Online MSW Programs in Arizona

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

Regardless of your decision, you’ll want to ensure that your MSW program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). If an MSW program isn’t accredited, you won’t be eligible for licensure upon graduation.

Learn more about Social Work Degree Options:

Getting Your Arizona Social Work License

One of the many perks of obtaining an MSW is that you’ll be able to get licensed. Learn more about how to get your social worker license in Arizona.

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.

Social worker talking to clients in their home.

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 Arizona

Flagstaff, AZ

1900 S Knoles Dr, Babbitt Administrative Center, Room 200
Flagstaff, AZ 86011-4092
(928) 523-9011

Tempe, AZ

Master's Programs
University Drive and Mill Avenue
Tempe, AZ 85287
(855) 278-5080

Are we missing your school's program or need to update information listed? Please contact us so we can make the necessary changes.

Joel Gill
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