Best Online & Affordable MSW Programs in California
In the dynamic landscape of higher education, Master of Social Work (MSW) programs stand out as vital pathways for individuals aspiring to make impactful contributions to society. Among the diverse array of options available nationwide, California's MSW programs shine as beacons of innovation, social justice advocacy, and comprehensive training.
As the most populous state in the U.S., California’s MSW programs reflect the rich diversity of its communities and embody a commitment to addressing pressing social issues through rigorous education, practical experience, and a dedication to fostering compassionate leadership. Read on to explore the distinctive features, academic excellence, and professional opportunities offered by MSW programs across California, shedding light on the vibrant landscape that shapes the next generation of social work practitioners and scholars.
2026 Best MSW Programs in California
Point Loma Nazarene University
San Diego, CA - Private 4-year - pointloma.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work (Clinical Practice)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Point Loma Nazarene University's Clinical Practice MSW concentration offers a transformative hybrid program designed for working professionals seeking advanced social work expertise. The 24-month curriculum emphasizes evidence-based clinical counseling techniques, with comprehensive training across micro and macro practice levels. Students develop critical skills in program management, research, and advocacy, preparing for nationwide licensure. The program requires a 3.0 GPA and prerequisites in Human Biology and Statistics. With flexible evening and online learning options, students can balance professional commitments while gaining interdisciplinary knowledge. The program's experienced faculty guides students through comprehensive mentorship, ensuring graduates are equipped to address complex social challenges with innovative, compassionate interventions.
- 24-month program duration
- Hybrid learning format
- Four career concentrations
- Licensure preparation nationwide
- Mission Valley campus location
- 60 units for regular track
- 33 units advanced standing
- $700 per unit cost
- Fall 2025 start date
- 3.0 minimum GPA required
Master's - Master of Social Work (Medical Social Work)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Point Loma Nazarene University's Medical Social Work concentration provides a robust hybrid MSW program targeting healthcare professionals and aspiring medical social workers. The curriculum integrates advanced generalist training with specialized medical practice skills, preparing students for diverse healthcare settings. With a flexible learning format combining evening classes and online modules, students can pursue advanced standing or complete the full 60-unit track. The program emphasizes evidence-based solutions, comprehensive fieldwork experiences, and clinical licensure preparation. Graduates develop expertise in patient advocacy, interdisciplinary healthcare collaboration, and complex medical social service interventions, positioning them for impactful careers in healthcare systems.
- Hybrid format with flexible learning
- Four career concentrations available
- Advanced standing track option
- 60 units regular track
- 33 units advanced standing track
- Fall 2025 start date
- $700 per unit cost
- Prepares for clinical licensure
- Experienced interdisciplinary faculty
- Mission Valley Regional Center
Master's - Master of Social Work (Child Welfare)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Point Loma Nazarene University's Child Welfare MSW concentration offers a dynamic hybrid program targeting professionals dedicated to supporting vulnerable children and families. The two-year curriculum provides comprehensive training in clinical practice, research, and leadership within child-focused social services. Students gain advanced skills in counseling, program management, and systemic advocacy through a flexible learning model combining in-person evening classes and online instruction. With an experienced interdisciplinary faculty, the program prepares graduates for licensure and high-demand careers in child welfare, community services, and social support sectors. The curriculum requires a 3.0 GPA and prerequisites in Biology and Statistics, ensuring rigorous academic preparation.
- Two-year hybrid program format
- Four career concentrations available
- 60 total units required
- $700 per unit cost
- Advanced standing track available
- Licensure preparation included
- Fall 2025 start date
- Mission Valley campus location
- 3.0 minimum GPA requirement
- Prerequisites: Biology, Statistics
California State Polytechnic University-Humboldt
Arcata, CA - Public 4-Year - humboldt.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work (Rural and Indigenous Communities)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Cal Poly Humboldt's MSW program specializes in Rural and Indigenous Communities, offering a comprehensive online curriculum that prepares social work professionals for culturally sensitive practice. Students explore advanced generalist approaches emphasizing social justice and collaborative strategies. The CSWE-accredited program provides flexible learning formats, enabling students to develop critical skills in addressing complex social challenges. Designed for working professionals, the online track requires California residency and focuses on multi-system interventions with an empowerment-oriented perspective. Entrance exam requirements include GRE, with comprehensive preparation for California licensure.
- Advanced generalist MSW program
- Rural and Indigenous focus
- Full-time, part-time, online options
- CSWE fully accredited
- California licensure preparation
- Online students must reside in CA
- Emphasizes cultural humility
- Multi-system practice approach
- Social justice oriented curriculum
Master's - Master of Social Work
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
California State Polytechnic University-Humboldt's hybrid MSW program delivers an innovative social work education experience with comprehensive training in advanced generalist practice. Emphasizing cultural humility and multi-system approaches, the program supports students through flexible full-time and part-time options. The curriculum integrates strengths-based collaborative learning strategies, preparing professionals to address complex community needs. CSWE-accredited and aligned with California licensure requirements, the program offers unique opportunities for students interested in community-focused social work. Applicants should be prepared for potential GRE submission, with a strong commitment to social justice principles.
- Advanced generalist MSW program
- Rural and Indigenous community focus
- CSWE fully accredited
- Full-time, part-time, online options
- Emphasizes cultural humility
- Meets California licensure requirements
- Online students must reside in California
- Multi-system practice approach
- Strengths-based collaborative learning
University of the Pacific
Stockton, CA - Private 4-year - pacific.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work (Health Care, Behavioral Health)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
University of the Pacific's MSW program offers a cutting-edge hybrid learning experience targeting healthcare professionals. Specializing in Health Care and Behavioral Health, the 16-month accelerated curriculum prepares students for clinical social work through innovative online and in-person classes. Students benefit from CSWE accreditation, field placements across Northern California, and advanced standing options for BSW graduates. The program emphasizes clinical practice, social justice, and specialized training in areas like mental health, aging, and community health. A minimum 2.75 GPA is required, with flexible application periods from October 1 to May 31 and a priority deadline of March 31.
- 16-month accelerated hybrid program
- Online and in-person classes
- Two program tracks available
- Advanced Standing for BSW graduates
- Field placements in Northern California
- 2.75+ undergraduate GPA required
- Apply October 1 to May 31
- Priority deadline March 31
- CSWE accredited program
- Clinical practice specialization
Master's - Master of Social Work (Behavioral Health)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Designed for aspiring behavioral health professionals, University of the Pacific's MSW program delivers a comprehensive hybrid learning model. The 16-month accelerated curriculum focuses on evidence-based approaches, cultural sensitivity, and clinical skills development. Students engage in flexible online and in-person classes, with unique opportunities like diabetes care management subspecialization. The program offers field placements throughout Northern California, requiring a bachelor's degree and minimum 2.75 GPA. CSWE accredited and military-friendly, the program provides advanced standing options and prepares graduates for diverse healthcare environments.
- 16-month Accelerated Hybrid Program
- Online and in-person classes
- Field placements in Northern California
- Bachelor's degree required
- 2.75 minimum GPA
- Apply October 1 to May 31
- Priority deadline March 31
- Advanced Standing Program available
- CSWE Accredited Program
- Diabetes Care subspecialization option
Master's - Master of Social Work (Health Care)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
University of the Pacific's Health Care MSW program equips students to address complex healthcare challenges through an innovative hybrid model. Offering two tracks—a 16-month accelerated program and a 12-month advanced standing path—students develop robust clinical skills across healthcare settings. The curriculum emphasizes mental health, aging, and community health interventions. With CSWE accreditation, field placements in Northern California, and a focus on diabetes care subspecialization, students gain comprehensive training. The program requires a 2.75 GPA and provides flexible learning options, preparing graduates for expanding career opportunities in social work.
- Hybrid online/classroom format
- 16-month accelerated program
- 12-month advanced standing option
- 2.75 undergraduate GPA required
- Field placements in Northern California
- Diabetes Care subspecialization available
- CSWE accredited program
- Application period: October-May
- Priority deadline: March 31
- Health care practice focus
California State University-San Bernardino
San Bernardino, CA - Public 4-Year - csusb.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
California State University-San Bernardino's Master of Social Work program offers a dynamic and flexible educational pathway for aspiring social workers. The CSWE-accredited curriculum provides multiple program tracks including advanced standing, two-year, and three-year options. Students benefit from hybrid learning modalities with online and in-person instruction across San Bernardino and Palm Desert campuses. The program uniquely supports career versatility through a concurrent MSW/MPA degree option, enabling students to develop comprehensive administrative and clinical skills. With comprehensive practicum education and summer program starts, students can customize their academic journey to align with professional goals and personal schedules.
- CSWE-accredited program
- Online and in-person options
- Multiple program tracks
- 35-60 unit programs
- San Bernardino/Palm Desert campuses
- Advanced Standing Program
- Two-year traditional track
- Three-year extended track
- MSW/MPA concurrent degree
- Pathway Distance Education
Master's - Master of Social Work / Master of Public Administration
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The concurrent Master of Social Work and Master of Public Administration program at California State University-San Bernardino represents an innovative approach to social work education. Designed for professionals seeking comprehensive administrative and clinical expertise, this hybrid program offers remarkable flexibility through full-time, part-time, online, and in-person learning options. With CSWE accreditation, students can choose from advanced standing (35 units) or traditional two and three-year tracks (60 units). The curriculum emphasizes practical skills development across San Bernardino and Palm Desert campuses, preparing graduates for complex leadership roles in social service and public administration sectors.
- Online and in-person options
- CSWE-accredited program
- Multiple program lengths
- Advanced Standing Program (35 units)
- Two-Year Program (60 units)
- Three-Year Program (60 units)
- Campuses: San Bernardino and Palm Desert
- MSW/MPA Concurrent Degree available
- Concurrent practicum education
- Summer entry for Advanced Standing
National University
San Diego, CA - Private 4-year - nu.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Online Learning - Visit Website
National University's online Master of Social Work program offers a transformative educational experience for aspiring social work professionals. CSWE-accredited and designed for flexibility, students can complete their degree in 24-38 months through two distinct tracks: Generalist (60 credits) and Advanced Standing (36 credits). The program eliminates traditional barriers with no GRE requirements, $0 application fees, and year-round enrollment starting every Monday. Ideal for both experienced professionals and career changers, the curriculum emphasizes ethical practice, social justice, and advanced intervention strategies across diverse social service settings.
- CSWE-accredited MSW program
- Online and flexible delivery
- Two program tracks available
- No GRE/GMAT required
- $0 application fee
- Start every Monday
- 24-38 month completion time
- Generalist track: 60 credit hours
- Advanced Standing track: 36 credit hours
- Year-round enrollment
Master's - Master of Social Work (Advanced Social Work with Children and Families)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Specializing in Advanced Social Work with Children and Families, National University's online MSW program provides a comprehensive learning pathway for dedicated social work professionals. This CSWE-accredited degree allows students to develop specialized skills in child welfare, family dynamics, and mental health interventions. With two program tracks accommodating different academic backgrounds, students can complete their degree in 24-38 months. The flexible online format, no GRE requirements, and year-round enrollment make this program accessible for those seeking to advance their careers in child and family social work.
- CSWE-accredited MSW program
- Online learning with flexible schedule
- No GRE/GMAT required
- Two program tracks available
- Generalist track: 60 credit hours
- Advanced Standing track: 36 credit hours
- Start every Monday
- Year-round enrollment
- Zero application fee
- No group projects required
Master's - Master of Social Work (Advanced Social Work Practice with Marginalized Populations)
Online Learning - Visit Website
National University's online Master of Social Work with a concentration in Advanced Social Work Practice with Marginalized Populations empowers students to become transformative social justice advocates. This CSWE-accredited program equips professionals with advanced skills in assessment, intervention, and policy practice specifically targeting underserved communities. Students can choose between Generalist and Advanced Standing tracks, completing their degree in 24-38 months. With no GRE requirements, $0 application fees, and a fully online format, the program provides an accessible pathway to making meaningful community impacts in healthcare, mental health, and social services.
- 100% Online Program
- CSWE-Accredited Degree
- Two Program Tracks
- $0 Application Fee
- No GRE Required
- Generalist Track: 60 Credit Hours
- Advanced Standing Track: 36 Credit Hours
- Start Every Monday
- Year-Round Enrollment
- 24-38 Month Completion Time
MSW Degree Program Requirements/Eligibility in California
California Traditional MSW Admissions Requirements
Traditional MSW programs are typically for students who already have a bachelor’s degree in another field (other than social work) and are looking to switch fields. You can expect an average of 60 credits and a two-year timeline for graduation. To apply to traditional MSW programs, you’ll need the following things for your application:
- 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
California Advanced-Standing MSW Admissions Requirements
You may be interested in the Advanced Standing MSW option if you already have a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree. This option allows students to complete their MSW in half the time and for half the cost. In addition to the application requirements just mentioned, you’ll also need to submit transcripts showing that you’ve maintained a 3.5 GPA.
Here are a few Advanced Standing MSW options in California:
- California State University, LA – visit site
- San Diego State University – visit site
- University of Southern California – visit site
RELATED: Learn more about Social Work Salaries
California MSW Program Tuition and Costs
Realistically speaking, the cost of an MSW program’s tuition is often a deciding factor in their choice of school. California’s MSW programs range drastically in tuition, with an average cost of $52,053. However, you can find options that are way below the average price by looking at state schools (if you’re a California resident) or online programs, which tend to be cheaper. Here are a few options to consider:
| School | Tuition (per credit hour) | Total Credits | Total Tuition |
| California State University, LA | $239.20 (Resident) $635.20 (Nonresident) | 60 | $14,352 (Resident) $38,112 (Nonresident) |
| University of Southern California | $1,495.90 | 60 | $89,754 |
| California Polytechnic State University | $510 (Online) $417.50 (Resident) $638.90 (Nonresident) | 60 | $30,600 (Online) $25,050 (Resident) $38,334 (Nonresident) |
2026 Affordable MSW Program Options
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| California State University-Northridge |
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| California State University-Dominguez Hills |
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| Point Loma Nazarene University |
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Are Online MSW Programs in California as Good as Campus-Based?
Online MSW programs are becoming more and more popular. Take a look at the table below to find out the various pros and cons of these types of programs.
Traditional MSW vs. Online MSW Programs in California
| 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 |
Important tip: Make sure that all MSW programs you apply to are accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). This will ensure that you meet all California licensure requirements.
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 California Social Work License
California has unique licensure requirements that may differ from those of other states. Find out more about getting your social work license in California.
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 California
Aliso Viejo, CA
University of Massachusetts Global
- Master's - Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy
Online Learning - Website
- Online program delivery
- Master of Arts degree
- 60 credits standard program
- 400 practicum hours required
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement
- Autobiography required for admission
- Seven-year completion limit
- Transfer up to 12 credits
- Master's - Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy
Concentration: Combined Marriage and Family Therapy and Professional Clinical Counseling - Online Learning - Website
- Online program delivery.
- Master of Arts degree level.
- 60 credits for standard emphasis.
- 69 credits for combined emphasis.
- Requires 400 practicum hours.
- 3.0 GPA requirement.
- Seven-year completion limit.
- Transfer up to 12 credits.
Arcata, CA
California State Polytechnic University-Humboldt
- Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling
Concentration: Counseling Psychology - Campus Based - Website
- Master of Arts degree.
- Counseling Psychology program.
- Prepares for MFT licensure.
- California licensure requirements met.
- Clinical theory foundation.
- Research emphasis.
- Clinical skills training.
- Supervised clinical work required.
- Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling
Concentration: Marriage and Family Therapy - Campus Based - Website
- Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology.
- Marriage and Family Therapy concentration.
- Meets California MFT license requirements.
- 150+ supervised counseling hours.
- Clinical training at Counseling & Psychological Services.
- Emphasis on clinical theory and research.
- Extensive clinical skills training.
- Supervised by licensed professionals.
- Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling
Concentration: School Psychology - Campus Based - Website
- Master of Arts degree.
- Counseling Psychology program.
- MFT licensure preparation.
- California license requirements.
- Supervised clinical experience.
- 150+ counseling hours.
- Licensed professional supervision.
- Clinical theory foundation.
Azusa, CA
Azusa Pacific University
- Master's - MA in Clinical Psychology: Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT)
Campus Based - Website
- 63 units of coursework.
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required.
- Bachelor's degree prerequisite.
- TOEFL iBT 90 for international students.
- 40 hours of personal psychotherapy.
- 300 hours of direct client experience.
- Two to six year completion time.
- Optional play therapy certificate.
- Master's - Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology: Marriage and Family Therapy
Concentration: Gottman Couples Therapy Level 1 Certificate - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Master's degree program
- Marriage and Family Therapy concentration
- Hybrid delivery format
- Clinical Psychology foundation
- Professional counseling preparation
- Interdisciplinary studies included
- Theology and ethics integration
- Psychotherapy coursework
- Master's - Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology: Marriage and Family Therapy
Concentration: Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) Option - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Master's degree program.
- Marriage and Family Therapy emphasis.
- Professional counseling preparation.
- Theoretical and applied practice.
- Interdisciplinary studies included.
- Theology, ethics, psychotherapy components.
- Equips counselors for families.
- Solid foundation in counseling.
Carson, CA
California State University-Dominguez Hills
- Master's - Master of Science in Marital and Family Therapy
Campus Based - Website
- 64-credit degree program.
- Three-year full-time completion.
- Evening course offerings.
- 300 client contact hours.
- Supervised clinical practicum.
- Cohort program model.
- Part-time study option available.
- WSCUC accreditation.
Chico, CA
California State University-Chico
- Master's - MS in Psychology - Marriage and Family Therapy
Campus Based - Website
- MS in Marriage and Family Therapy.
- Meets California licensure requirements.
- Campus-based program.
- Graduate degree level.
- Part of Psychology Department.
- Focuses on therapy training.
- Includes clinical coursework.
- Prepares for MFT licensure.
Costa Mesa, CA
Vanguard University of Southern California
- Master's - Master of Science in Clinical Psychology
Campus Based - Website
- 61-66 units required.
- $855 cost per unit.
- On-campus and online formats.
- 2-4 years time to degree.
- Meets MFT licensure requirements.
- Bachelor's degree prerequisite.
- Three references required.
- Personal statement needed.
Fresno, CA
California State University-Fresno
- Master's - Master of Science in Marriage, Family and Child Counseling
Campus Based - Website
- Master of Science degree
- 60 unit program
- 5 semester completion
- CACREP accredited
- Prepares for MFT license
- Prepares for LPCC license
- Hands-on counseling experience
- Fresno Family Counseling Center
Fresno Pacific University
- Master's - Master of Divinity/Marriage and Family Therapy, M.A.
Campus Based - Website
- 65 minimum units required
- Master of Arts degree level
- On campus delivery mode
- Fresno Main Campus location
- Tuition $610 per unit
- Student services fee $180
- Bachelor's degree required
- Two references required
Hayward, CA
California State University-East Bay
- Master's - MS in Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy Option
Campus Based - Website
- 72-unit MS in Counseling.
- Marriage and Family Therapy Option.
- Meets California MFT license requirements.
- Prerequisites in psychology or development.
- Core courses in counseling theories.
- Specialized MFT coursework included.
- Fieldwork requirement of three quarters.
- Capstone project or thesis.
La Mirada, CA
Biola University
- Master's - Master of Arts – Marriage and Family Therapy
Campus Based - Website
- On Campus format.
- 67 total credits.
- $866 cost per credit.
- 3-year standard completion time.
- WSCUC/ATS/BBS accreditation.
- Year-long internship included.
- 300+ practicum hours.
- Biblical integration in courses.
La Verne, CA
University of La Verne
- Master's - MS in Marriage and Family Therapy
Campus Based - Website
- 61 credit program
- 3 years full-time
- Fall start term
- Late afternoon classes
- Evening classes
- Some Saturday classes
- $990 per unit cost
- Financial aid available
Loma Linda, CA
Loma Linda University
- Master's - Marital and Family Therapy (MS) with Drug and Alcohol Counseling Certificate
Concentration: Drug and Alcohol Counseling - Campus Based - Website
- 90 quarter units required.
- Master of Science degree.
- Campus and online options.
- 2 years full-time campus.
- 2.5 years full-time online.
- 300 direct client contact hours.
- 100 relational hours required.
- 100 clinical supervision hours.
- Master's - Marital and Family Therapy (MS) with Play Therapy Certificate
Concentration: Play Therapy - Campus Based - Website
- 90 quarter units required
- COAMFTE accredited program
- On-campus and online options
- 2 years full-time on-campus
- 2.5 years full-time online
- 300 direct client contact hours
- 100 relational hours required
- 100 hours clinical supervision
- Master's - Marital and Family Therapy (MS)
Campus Based - Website
- 90 quarter units.
- Meets California licensure requirements.
- 300 direct client contact hours.
- 100 relational hours required.
- 100 clinical supervision hours.
- Available online and on campus.
- 2 years campus full-time.
- 2.5 years online full-time.
Long Beach, CA
California State University-Long Beach
- Master's - Master of Science in Counseling Psychology
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 65-unit course of study.
- Prepares for LMFT and LPCC licensure.
- 2-year or 2.5-year track available.
- No GRE required.
- On-site clinic included.
- Live supervision provided.
- Community practice sites available.
- Fall-only admission cycle.
Los Alamitos, CA
Touro University Worldwide
- Doctorate - Doctor of Marriage and Family Therapy (DMFT)
Concentration: Organizational Systems in MFT - Online Learning - Website
- 60-credit hour program
- $700 per semester credit
- 100% online delivery
- No GRE or GMAT required
- No residency required
- Accelerated admissions process
- Six starts per year
- Eight-week sessions
Los Angeles, CA
Loyola Marymount University
- Master's - Marital and Family Therapy with specialized training in art therapy
Campus Based - Website
- Master of Arts degree.
- Full-time two-year program.
- Part-time three-year option.
- 60 semester hours required.
- 11 practicum units included.
- Up to 840 clinical hours.
- Minimum 350 art therapy hours.
- Supervision by licensed professionals.
- Master's - Marital and Family Therapy with specialized training in art therapy
Concentration: clinical art therapy - Campus Based - Website
- Master of Arts degree
- 60 semester hours required
- Full-time two-year program
- Part-time three-year option
- Clinical traineeships included
- Daytime class attendance
- Prerequisites in arts/psychology
- B average required
The Chicago School at Los Angeles
- Master's - M.A. Marriage, Couples, and Family Therapy
Campus Based - Website
- COAMFTE Accredited Program
- Two or Three Year Options
- No GRE Required
- Per Credit Tuition: $1,409
- Anaheim, LA, Online Campuses
- 300 Clinical Training Hours
- Multiple Career Settings
- Bachelor's Degree Flexible
- Doctorate - Psy.D. Marital and Family Therapy
Campus Based - Website
- 60 credit hour program.
- Post-master's doctoral degree.
- Campus-based delivery format.
- Los Angeles - Anaheim location.
- Requires license-eligible master's degree.
- Graduate GPA 3.0 or higher.
- Three recommendation letters required.
- Admission interview required.
University of Southern California
- Master's - Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy
Online Learning - Website
- Master of Science degree.
- Marriage and Family Therapy program.
- Online delivery format.
- Full-time: 2 years.
- Bachelor's degree required.
- Letters of recommendation needed.
- Transcripts from all institutions.
- Resume/CV required.
Moraga, CA
Saint Mary's College of California
- Master's - MA in Counseling, with a specialization in Marriage & Family Therapy/Professional Clinical Counselor
Concentration: Dual School Counseling + Marriage and Family Counseling - Campus Based - Website
- 68-unit program
- MA in Counseling degree
- Marriage & Family Therapy specialization
- Professional Clinical Counselor specialization
- Campus-based delivery
- Prepares for MFT licensure
- Prepares for PCC licensure
- Includes clinical fieldwork
- Master's - MA in Counseling, with a specialization in Marriage & Family Therapy/Professional Clinical Counselor
Concentration: Marriage & Family Therapy/Professional Clinical Counselor - Campus Based - Website
- MA in Counseling degree
- MFT/PCC specialization
- 68-unit program
- California licensure preparation
- Clinical fieldwork required
- Supervised field experience
- Multiple study plan options
- 2.5 to 5 year durations
Northridge, CA
California State University-Northridge
- Master's - Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Master of Science degree
- Prepares for LMFT licensure
- Prepares for LPCC licensure
- COAMFTE accredited
- IACSTE accredited
- One course at a time
- Eight-week course format
- Completed in less than two years
Orange, CA
Chapman University
- Master's - MA in Marriage and Family Therapy
Campus Based - Website
- 60 units required for graduation.
- Program takes 3 years full-time.
- 2.5-year plan available for fall start.
- Part-time attendance options available.
- Classes offered Monday-Thursday evenings.
- Possible Friday afternoon classes.
- Average class size 25-30 students.
- Admission deadlines January 15 and September 15.
Redding, CA
Simpson University
- Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 68-unit program
- 2-year length
- Dual cohort model
- Classes two evenings weekly
- Some online courses
- 7-week class format
- Hands-on practicum experience
- Community clinical training sites
Riverside, CA
California Baptist University
- Master's - Counseling Psychology, MS
Campus Based - Website
- Master of Science degree.
- 63-87 units required.
- Two-year program length.
- $839 per unit cost.
- Campus-based delivery.
- Qualifies for MFT licensure.
- Practicum placements available.
- Optional Forensic Psychology concentration.
- Counseling Psychology, MS
- Master's - Master of Science in Counseling Psychology
Online Learning - Website
- Online and on-campus delivery
- 62-68 total program units
- MFT licensure preparation
- Christian worldview integrated
- Comprehensive clinical training
- Professional ethics emphasis
- Psychotherapy requirement included
- Forensic psychology concentration
Rocklin, CA
William Jessup University
- Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 63 units required
- 26 months program length
- Rocklin campus and remote options
- Hybrid delivery format
- Master of Arts degree level
- Prepares for LMFT licensure
- Prepares for LPCC licensure
- Cohort model structure
San Francisco, CA
University of San Francisco
- Master's - M.A. in Counseling Psychology with a concentration in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT)
Concentration: Marriage and Family Therapy - Campus Based - Website
- Master's degree program
- BBS accredited
- Marriage and Family Therapy focus
- School of Education program
- California licensure preparation
- Marriage and Family Therapist license
- Professional Clinical Counselor license
- Meets California educational requirements
- Master's - M.A. in Counseling Psychology with a concentration in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT)
Concentration: Marriage and Family Therapy - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 60-credit program.
- Cohort-based model.
- Fall entry dates.
- Classes one evening per week.
- Occasional Saturdays.
- Designed for working adults.
- Master's degree level.
- Concentration in Marriage and Family Therapy.
San Jose, CA
San Jose State University
- Master's - MS in Clinical Psychology
Campus Based - Website
- MS in Clinical Psychology
- Prepares for MFT licensure
- California state approved
- Evidence-based psychotherapy training
- Campus-based program
- Master's degree level
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy focus
- Psychodynamic traditions included
San Luis Obispo, CA
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo
- Master's - Master of Science in Psychology
Campus Based - Website
- 90-quarter unit program
- Meets California MFT license requirements
- Full-time completion in 2+ years
- Day and evening course schedule
- On-campus practicum training clinic
- Community traineeship sites
- Approximately 40 enrolled students
- Small graduate class sizes
Stockton, CA
University of the Pacific
- Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy
Campus Based - Website
- Master of Arts degree.
- Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy.
- Hybrid program format.
- Two-year program length.
- Small class sizes.
- Experiential learning focus.
- Prepares for licensure.
- Curriculum includes family systems.
Thousand Oaks, CA
California Lutheran University
- Master's - MS in Counseling Psychology (MFT)
Online & Campus Based - Website
- MS in Counseling Psychology
- Marriage and Family Therapy concentration
- Graduate level program
- Meets BBS educational requirements
- AAMFT core competencies addressed
- California licensure preparation
- Hybrid delivery format
- Curriculum goals section available
- Master's - Master of Science in Counseling Psychology with an emphasis in Marital and Family Therapy
Concentration: Attachment Theory - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Master of Science degree.
- Marital and Family Therapy emphasis.
- Hybrid delivery format.
- On-site Community Counseling Center.
- 12-month practicum placement.
- Clinical specialization options.
- Attachment Theory specialization available.
- Cohort-based program structure.
- Master's - Master of Science in Counseling Psychology with an emphasis in Marital and Family Therapy
Concentration: Psychological Trauma - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Master of Science degree.
- Marital and Family Therapy emphasis.
- Cohort-based program model.
- 12-month practicum placement.
- On-site Community Counseling Center.
- Clinical specializations available.
- Psychological Trauma specialization.
- Some online specialization options.
- Doctorate - Marital and Family Therapy
Concentration: Family Court Mediation - Online & Campus Based - Website
- MS in Counseling Psychology.
- Marital and Family Therapy focus.
- Hybrid delivery format.
- Cohort-based program structure.
- 12-month practicum placement.
- On-site Community Counseling Center.
- Clinical specializations available.
- Trauma specialization offered online.
What Colleges Offer Online Advanced Standing MSW Programs in California?
Currently, there are three available online advanced-standing MSW offerings located within California:
