Best Online & Affordable MSW Programs in Colorado
As the demand for skilled professionals in social work continues to rise, pursuing advanced education becomes increasingly vital. In the picturesque state of Colorado, nestled amidst the Rocky Mountains, Master of Social Work (MSW) programs offer aspiring social workers a unique blend of academic rigor and hands-on experience. Colorado’s diverse landscapes and dynamic communities provide an enriching backdrop for individuals seeking to foster positive change and address pressing social issues. In this article, we explore the landscape of MSW programs in Colorado, highlighting their distinct features, academic excellence, and the opportunities they present for those passionate about making a difference in people’s lives.
2026 Best MSW Programs in Colorado
University of Denver
Denver, CO - Private 4-year - du.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work (Mental Health and Trauma)
Online Learning - Visit Website
University of Denver's Mental Health and Trauma MSW concentration offers a dynamic, justice-oriented curriculum preparing students for advanced social work practice. The program uniquely blends theoretical knowledge with practical skills, emphasizing trauma-informed care and mental health interventions. Students benefit from diverse field internship opportunities across 750+ sites, with small class sizes averaging 22 students. GRE is typically required for admission. The program provides multiple pathways, including full-time and part-time options, with advanced standing available for BSW graduates. Scholarships totaling $9M annually support students' educational journeys in addressing complex mental health challenges.
- Multiple campus locations in Colorado
- Full and part-time options available
- Eight specialization pathways
- Advanced-standing program for BSW graduates
- $9M in annual student scholarships
- Average class size of 22 students
- 750+ field internship sites
- Online and on-campus programs
- Justice-oriented curriculum
Master's - Master of Social Work (Health, Equity and Wellness)
Online Learning - Visit Website
University of Denver's Health, Equity and Wellness MSW concentration provides a transformative educational experience focused on addressing systemic healthcare disparities. The program equips students with comprehensive skills to navigate complex social determinants of health, emphasizing equity-centered interventions. With flexible online and on-campus formats, students can specialize in addressing community wellness challenges. Advanced standing tracks accommodate BSW graduates, while extensive field internship networks offer practical learning experiences. GRE is standard for admission, though some pathways might have alternative requirements. The program's justice-oriented approach prepares graduates for impactful roles in healthcare, policy, and community development.
- Multiple campus locations
- Full and part-time options
- Eight specialization pathways
- $9M annual student scholarships
- Advanced-standing program available
- 750+ field internship sites
- Online MSW option
- Average class size 22 students
- Programs in Denver, Durango, Glenwood Springs
Master's - Master of Social Work
Campus Based - Visit Website
University of Denver's generalist MSW program offers comprehensive social work training across multiple Colorado campuses. Students explore diverse practice areas including mental health, child welfare, and ecological justice through flexible full-time and part-time formats. The curriculum emphasizes advanced practice skills and social justice principles, preparing graduates for multifaceted professional roles in public policy, healthcare, and nonprofit sectors. With eight specialization pathways, advanced standing options, and 750+ field internship sites, students receive robust preparation for complex social work challenges. GRE is typically required, though the program maintains an inclusive admission approach supporting diverse student backgrounds.
- Multiple campus locations: Denver, Durango, Glenwood Springs
- Full and part-time options
- Advanced Standing MSW available
- Eight specialization pathways
- $9M annual student scholarships
- Average class size of 22
- 750+ field internship sites
- Online MSW@Denver option
- Dual-degree program opportunities
, - Invalid sector ID -
University of Colorado Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs, CO - Public 4-Year - uccs.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work (Behavioral Health)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
UCCS's MSW program in Behavioral Health delivers a transformative educational experience emphasizing trauma-informed practice. This 60-credit curriculum strategically prepares students for multifaceted social work roles across healthcare, military, and community settings. Graduates develop advanced clinical skills through comprehensive academic training and 900 hours of immersive practicum experience. The program's flexible delivery options—on-campus, online, and hybrid—accommodate diverse student needs. Without GRE requirements and offering both traditional and advanced standing pathways, the program maintains accessibility while upholding rigorous professional standards. CSWE accreditation ensures graduates are well-positioned for impactful social work careers.
- 60 credit total program
- On-campus, online, hybrid options
- CSWE accredited program
- No GRE required
- Trauma-informed focus
- Advanced Standing option available
- Application deadline April 15
- 3.0 GPA recommended
- 900 hours practicum experience
- Full-time and extended study paths
Metropolitan State University of Denver
Denver, CO - Public 4-Year - msudenver.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work - Advanced Standing
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Metropolitan State University of Denver's Advanced Standing MSW program offers a dynamic pathway for experienced social workers seeking accelerated graduate education. Uniquely designed for professionals with a Bachelor of Social Work, this hybrid program emphasizes justice-oriented practice and system-level transformation. Students benefit from comprehensive training through 1080 hours of field practicum, small class sizes, and expert faculty mentorship. With flexible course delivery options including online and in-person formats, the program prepares culturally responsive leaders equipped to address complex social challenges. No standardized entrance exam is required, making it accessible for qualified candidates committed to creating meaningful community impact.
- Fully CSWE accredited program
- Flexible course delivery options
- 1080 hours field practicum
- Small class sizes
- Affordable graduate education
- Diverse student body
- Multiple enrollment options
- Day, night, weekend classes
- Online and hybrid formats
- Scholarship programs available
Master's - Master of Social Work - Regular Program
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Metropolitan State University of Denver's Traditional MSW program provides comprehensive social work education for aspiring professionals seeking holistic, flexible graduate training. The curriculum integrates rigorous academic research with extensive clinical and community practice skills, preparing students for diverse social work roles. Students complete 1080 hours of hands-on practicum, gaining practical expertise across individual, group, and systemic intervention levels. The program's affordable tuition, multiple enrollment options, and experienced faculty create an inclusive learning environment. While no specific standardized entrance exam is mandated, applicants undergo a holistic review process ensuring they possess the necessary academic and professional potential for advanced social work practice.
- Fully accredited by CSWE
- Flexible course delivery options
- 1080 hours field practicum
- Affordable graduate education
- Multiple enrollment options
- Small class sizes
- Diverse student body
- Scholarship programs available
- Clinical and community focus
Colorado State University Pueblo
Pueblo, CO - Public 4-Year - csupueblo.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Colorado State University Pueblo's Master of Social Work program stands out for its innovative approach to professional social work education. Designed to cultivate advanced practitioners committed to social justice, the program offers flexible entry pathways for diverse academic backgrounds. CSWE-accredited since 2019, students benefit from comprehensive coursework blending theoretical knowledge with practical experience. The hybrid program uniquely allows students to complete 948 total placement hours, preparing them to address complex systemic challenges. With no GRE/GMAT requirement and weekend courses in Colorado Springs and Pueblo, the program accommodates working professionals seeking to make meaningful community impact.
- CSWE Accredited since 2019
- Two entry pathway options
- 948 total placement hours
- Face-to-face weekend courses
- No GRE/GMAT required
- Colorado Springs/Pueblo locations
- 30 credits per program year
MSW Degree Program Requirements/Eligibility in Colorado
Colorado Traditional MSW Admissions Requirements
For students who have a bachelor’s degree, but not a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), check out traditional MSW programs in Colorado. These programs run approximately two years and require the completion of 60 credits. Below are a few typical admission requirements you can expect when applying:
- 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
Colorado Advanced-Standing MSW Admissions Requirements
Advanced-standing MSW programs on the other hand require that you have a BSW already, however, you can complete these programs in half the time, and they usually only require around 38 credits. Apart from the BSW, you’ll also need to have all of the admission requirements from the list above and a 3.5 GPA. Here are a few advanced-standing MSW programs available in Colorado:
- Metropolitan State University of Denver – visit site
- University of Colorado Springs – visit site
- University of Denver – visit site
Colorado MSW Program Tuition and Costs
As you can see in the table below, you could be paying anywhere from $30,000 to $106,110 for a full MSW length. Additionally, you’ll probably note that while the overwhelming majority are completed in two years, some are extended by another semester, such as the University of Denver.
| School | Tuition (per credit hour) | Total Credits | Total Tuition |
| Metropolitan State University of Denver | $500 (Resident) $700 (Nonresident) | 60 | $30,000 (Resident) $42,000 (Nonresident) |
| University of Colorado Springs | $628 (Resident) $1,312 (Nonresident) | 60 | $37,656 (Resident) $78,661 (Nonresident) |
| University of Denver | $1,310 | 81 | $106,110 |
2026 Affordable MSW Program Options
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Metropolitan State University of Denver |
|
|
| Colorado Mesa University |
|
|
| Colorado State University Pueblo |
|
|
Are Online MSW Programs in Colorado as Good as Campus-Based?
Like all educational decisions, deciding whether or not an online MSW program meets your needs depends on various factors, such as work and family obligations, commuting times, and your ability to work at your own pace. Take a look at the full range of factors below.
Traditional MSW vs. Online MSW Programs in Colorado
| 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 |
Ensure all MSW programs you apply to have been accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). When a program is accredited by CSWE, it means you’ll be receiving all the necessary preparation for licensure.
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 Colorado Social Work License
Most social workers entering the field, especially those who wish to work directly with clients, will require social work licensure, regardless of the state. However, every state has its own unique qualifications for social work licensure. Find out how to become licensed as a social worker in Colorado.
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 Colorado
,
Colorado
Colorado Springs, CO
University of Colorado Colorado Springs
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Behavioral Health - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 60 credit total program
- On-campus, online, hybrid options
- CSWE accredited program
- No GRE required
- Trauma-informed focus
- Advanced Standing option available
- Application deadline April 15
- 3.0 GPA recommended
Denver, CO
Metropolitan State University of Denver
- Master's - Master of Social Work - Advanced Standing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Master of Social Work program.
- Advanced Standing option available.
- Fully accredited by CSWE.
- Online and on-campus delivery.
- Multiple course delivery options.
- Small class sizes.
- Hands-on advising provided.
- Affordable tuition and fees.
- Master's - Master of Social Work - Regular Program
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Accredited by CSWE.
- Online and on-campus options.
- Affordable tuition in Colorado.
- Small class sizes.
- Field experience required.
- Focus on social justice.
- Integrative practice approach.
- Multiple course delivery options.
University of Denver
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Campus Based - Website
- Master of Social Work degree.
- Denver Campus MSW Program.
- Advanced-Standing MSW Program.
- Concentration in Advanced Social Work Practice.
- Specialization pathways available.
- Full-time and part-time options.
- Campus-based program.
- Field internship sites 750+.
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Health, Equity and Wellness - Online Learning - Website
- Master of Social Work degree
- Concentration in Health and Wellness
- Full-time and part-time options
- Advanced Social Work Practice concentration
- Over 750 field internship sites
- Scholarships awarded each year
- Average class size of 22
- Denver campus location
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Mental Health and Trauma - Online Learning - Website
- Master of Social Work degree.
- Concentration in Mental Health.
- Online program available.
- Full- and part-time options.
- Advanced-standing MSW program.
- Denver Campus MSW Program.
- Distance MSW Programs.
- Three Colorado locations.
Grand Junction, CO
Colorado Mesa University
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Campus Based - Website
- Master of Social Work degree.
- Two-year Foundation program.
- One-year Advanced Standing program.
- 74 credits for Foundation.
- 44 credits for Advanced Standing.
- 1050 practicum hours for Foundation.
- 600 internship hours for Advanced Standing.
- Classes held on campus.
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Advanced Standing - Campus Based - Website
- Master of Social Work degree.
- Advanced Standing concentration available.
- One-year program length.
- 44 credits required.
- 600 internship hours.
- In-person classes on campus.
- Classes held Tuesday and Thursday.
- Summer classes Monday through Thursday.
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Foundation - Campus Based - Website
- Master of Social Work degree.
- Foundation and Advanced Standing tracks.
- 74 credits for Foundation track.
- Two year Foundation program.
- 1050 hours supervised training.
- 44 credits for Advanced Standing.
- One year Advanced Standing program.
- 600 hours internship experience.
Pueblo, CO
Colorado State University Pueblo
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Online & Campus Based - Website
- CSWE-accredited program.
- Generalist and Advanced Standing options.
- Face-to-face delivery format.
- Courses meet every other weekend.
- Classes in Colorado Springs and Pueblo.
- No GMAT or GRE required.
- 18 liberal arts credits needed.
- 900+ clock hours of placement.