Best Online & Affordable MSW Programs in Connecticut
Connecticut stands at the forefront of academic excellence in social work education, offering a diverse array of Master of Social Work (MSW) programs catering to aspiring professionals seeking to make a meaningful impact. With its rich history of social advocacy and commitment to community welfare, Connecticut’s MSW programs provide a fertile ground for students to develop their skills, engage in hands-on practice, and forge invaluable connections within the social work sphere. From urban centers to rural communities, these programs embody a commitment to social justice, diversity, and transformative change, making Connecticut a compelling destination for those eager to embark on a rewarding journey in the realm of social work.
2026 Best MSW Programs in Connecticut
Southern Connecticut State University
New Haven, CT - Public 4-Year - southernct.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Clinical Practice - Campus Based - Visit Website
Southern Connecticut State University's Clinical Practice MSW program provides a robust 60-credit curriculum designed to develop advanced social work professionals. Students can complete the degree in two to three years, investing 950 hours in supervised practicums that cultivate practical skills. The program emphasizes cultural competence and innovative problem-solving strategies, preparing graduates for complex clinical interventions. With CSWE accreditation and a focus on preparing students for the Connecticut Master-Level Social Worker License, this program offers comprehensive training in addressing diverse social challenges through evidence-based clinical approaches.
- 60-credit MSW program
- Two or three-year completion
- 950 hours supervised practicums
- CSWE accredited program
- Clinical and Community Practice concentrations
- Dual Degree with Women's Studies
- Prepares for LMSW licensure
- Focuses on cultural responsiveness
- Innovative problem-solving approach
- Professional development emphasis
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Community Practice: Community Organization, Policy, and Leadership - Campus Based - Visit Website
Southern Connecticut State University's Community Practice MSW concentration offers a transformative 60-credit program targeting aspiring social work professionals focused on community organization, policy, and leadership. Students engage in 950 hours of supervised practicums, developing advanced skills to address systemic social challenges. The curriculum emphasizes cultural responsiveness, professional development, and strategic community interventions. With flexible two to three-year completion options, the program prepares graduates to become ethical, competent change agents equipped to navigate complex social landscapes and pursue professional licensure.
- CSWE Accredited Program
- 60-credit MSW Degree
- Two or Three Year Options
- 950 Practicum Hours
- Two Concentration Tracks
- Clinical and Community Practice
- Prepares for LMSW Licensure
- Focuses on Diverse Populations
- Professional Development Emphasis
Master's - Master of Social Work and Master of Arts in Women’s and Gender Studies
Campus Based - Visit Website
Southern Connecticut State University's innovative 72-credit dual Master of Social Work and Women's and Gender Studies program provides interdisciplinary professional training. Students complete 1,100 hours of field practice, integrating comprehensive social work methodologies with gender-focused research and theory. The program prepares graduates for transformative roles at local, state, and national levels, offering small class sizes and expert faculty mentorship. Designed for professionals seeking comprehensive understanding of social dynamics, the curriculum supports LMSW licensure and develops critical problem-solving skills across clinical and community practice domains.
- 72-credit dual MSW/MA program
- Three-year completion timeline
- Two specialized degree tracks
- 1,100 hours field practice
- CSWE accredited program
- Small class sizes
- Flexible scheduling
- Expert faculty mentorship
- Interdisciplinary capstone research
- Application period: Sept 1-Dec 31
Quinnipiac University
Hamden, CT - Private 4-year - qu.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Health and Mental Health - Campus Based - Visit Website
Quinnipiac University's campus-based MSW program delivers a robust clinical training experience in health and mental health settings. Emphasizing social justice and anti-racist practice, students engage in two comprehensive field placements totaling 1,000 professional hours. The curriculum cultivates advanced clinical competencies through intensive coursework, focusing on ethical interventions and advocacy for vulnerable populations. Students develop specialized skills in assessment and treatment strategies, preparing for leadership roles in interprofessional healthcare environments. The program's structured approach ensures graduates are equipped with comprehensive knowledge to address complex social work challenges.
- MSW focuses on health/mental health
- Two field placements, 1000+ hours
- Interprofessional healthcare approach
- Multiple degree pathway options
- Clinical and organizational practice focus
- Anti-racist practice emphasis
- Dual-degree opportunities available
- Monthly field seminars
- NASW Code of Ethics foundation
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Health and Mental Health - Online Learning - Visit Website
Quinnipiac's online MSW program offers a flexible 60-credit pathway tailored for health and mental health professionals seeking advanced practice credentials. Designed to accommodate working professionals, the program provides full-time and part-time study options with two field placements ensuring 1,000 professional hours of hands-on experience. Students prepare for Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) licensure through a rigorous curriculum emphasizing interprofessional education and practical skill development. The online format enables students to balance professional commitments while advancing their social work expertise in specialized healthcare contexts.
- 60-credit online MSW program
- Health/mental health concentration
- Full/part-time study options
- Two field placements
- 1,000+ professional hours
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Advanced Standing available
- LCSW licensure preparation
- Interprofessional education
- Two-year full-time completion
University of Saint Joseph
West Hartford, CT - Private 4-year - usj.edu
Master's - Masters in Social Work
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Saint Joseph's Master of Social Work (MSW) program offers a robust educational pathway for aspiring clinical social workers seeking comprehensive professional development. Featuring a distinctive hybrid learning model, the program provides flexible full and part-time tracks with specialized concentrations in Health/Mental Health, Child and Family Services, and Veterans Services. Students benefit from a 61-credit curriculum that emphasizes evidence-based interventions, social justice principles, and community-centered practice. Notably, the program eliminates GRE requirements, making it accessible for working professionals. CSWE-accredited and supported by a clinical preceptor supervision model, graduates are well-positioned to create meaningful societal impact through advanced social work practice.
- 61-credit standard MSW program
- Advanced Standing option available
- Hybrid online/on-campus format
- No GRE required
- Full/Part-time options
- Three specialization tracks
- CSWE-accredited program
- Values and Vision Scholarship
- Clinical preceptor supervision model
- Community-based practice focus
Fairfield University
Fairfield, CT - Private 4-year - fairfield.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Fairfield University's Master of Social Work program stands out for its innovative low-residency format that seamlessly integrates online learning with minimal on-campus requirements. The CSWE-accredited curriculum provides robust clinical training in behavioral health assessment and social justice principles. Students can choose between a comprehensive two-year track requiring 60 credits or an advanced standing track with 30 credits. The program's flexibility allows working professionals to pursue advanced social work education without disrupting their careers. With multiple annual start dates, full and part-time options, and potential $10,000 scholarship opportunities, the program prepares students to become transformative clinical social work leaders. Entrance exam requirements are not explicitly mentioned, suggesting potential flexibility in admissions.
- Low-residency MSW format
- Online courses available
- CSWE accredited through 2029
- Two program tracks
- Clinical social work focus
- 60 or 30 credit options
- Social justice curriculum
- Multiple start dates annually
- Full-time or part-time
- $10,000 scholarship potential
Central Connecticut State University
New Britain, CT - Public 4-Year - ccsu.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Mental Health and Addiction - Campus Based - Visit Website
Central Connecticut State University's Master of Social Work program stands out with its specialized Mental Health and Addiction concentration, offering a trauma-informed approach to clinical social work education. The program provides flexible learning pathways, accommodating both full-time and part-time students through 32-64 credit tracks. Designed for comprehensive professional development, students gain advanced clinical skills through immersive academic training and hands-on internship experiences. Pre-candidacy CSWE accredited, the program prepares graduates for state licensure and diverse career opportunities in mental health settings. Evening classes, on-campus childcare, and financial aid support make this program accessible for aspiring social work professionals seeking specialized mental health training.
- 64-credit program for non-BSW
- 32-credit advanced standing
- Trauma-informed healthcare focus
- On-campus evening classes
- Pre-candidacy CSWE accreditation
- August program start
- Internship opportunities included
- Free on-campus childcare
- Financial aid available
- Starts every August
MSW Degree Program Requirements/Eligibility in Connecticut
Connecticut Traditional MSW Admissions Requirements
Most students who enroll in traditional MSW programs typically have a bachelor’s degree from another field of study. These programs generally require around 60 credits and take around two years to complete when going to school full-time. To apply for a traditional MSW programs in Connecticut, you will be required to have:
- 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
Connecticut Advanced-Standing MSW Admissions Requirements
For those who already have a BSW, you can save time by enrolling in an advanced standing MSW, which typically takes about a year and an average of 38 credits. To enroll in an advanced standing MSW program, you must have all of the above items plus a 3.5 GPA or higher. Here are a few advanced standing MSW programs in your area:
- University of Connecticut – visit site
- Southern Connecticut State University – visit site
- University of St. Joseph – visit site
RELATED: Learn more about Social Work Salaries
Connecticut MSW Program Tuition and Costs
Connecticut is a surprisingly affordable state to pursue your MSW compared to other states. You’ll save even more money if you’re a Connecticut resident, and some schools even give a discount if you live in the greater New England region. Take a look at a few examples below:
| School | Tuition (per credit hour) | Total Credits | Total Tuition |
| University of Connecticut | $325.20 (Residents) $690.40 (Non Residents) | 60 | $325.20 (Residents) $690.40 (Non-Residents) |
| Southern Connecticut State University | $499 (Residents) $956 (Nonresidents) | 60 | $29,920 (Residents) $57,380 (Nonresidents) |
| University of St. Joseph | $986 | 61 | $60,146 |
2026 Affordable MSW Program Options
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Central Connecticut State University |
|
|
| Southern Connecticut State University |
|
|
| University of Saint Joseph |
|
|
Are Online MSW Programs in Connecticut as Good as Campus-Based?
Online schools have been around for over a decade, but some students are just coming around to the idea of an online MSW. Take a look at the table below to learn if an online MSW is right for you.
Traditional MSW vs. Online MSW Programs in Connecticut
| 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 |
Don’t assume that all MSW programs listed will be accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). Look carefully to make sure this accreditation is listed on the school’s site. If it’s not, you may not be eligible for licensure if you enroll.
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 Connecticut Social Work License
Connecticut has its own unique social work licensure requirements. Find out more about how these differ from other states to get a clear picture of what will be expected of you. Our Social Work Licensure Guide will give you an overview of the requirements for Connecticut.
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 Connecticut
Fairfield, CT
Fairfield University
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Low-residency MSW format
- Online courses available
- CSWE accredited through 2029
- Two program tracks
- Clinical social work focus
- 60 or 30 credit options
- Social justice curriculum
- Multiple start dates annually
Hamden, CT
Quinnipiac University
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Health and Mental Health - Campus Based - Website
- MSW focuses on health/mental health
- Two field placements, 1000+ hours
- Interprofessional healthcare approach
- Multiple degree pathway options
- Clinical and organizational practice focus
- Anti-racist practice emphasis
- Dual-degree opportunities available
- Monthly field seminars
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Health and Mental Health - Online Learning - Website
- 60-credit online MSW program
- Health/mental health concentration
- Full/part-time study options
- Two field placements
- 1,000+ professional hours
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Advanced Standing available
- LCSW licensure preparation
New Britain, CT
Central Connecticut State University
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Mental Health and Addiction - Campus Based - Website
- 64-credit program for non-BSW
- 32-credit advanced standing
- Trauma-informed healthcare focus
- On-campus evening classes
- Pre-candidacy CSWE accreditation
- August program start
- Internship opportunities included
- Free on-campus childcare
New Haven, CT
Southern Connecticut State University
- Master's - Master of Social Work and Master of Arts in Women’s and Gender Studies
Campus Based - Website
- 72-credit dual MSW/MA program
- Three-year completion timeline
- Two specialized degree tracks
- 1,100 hours field practice
- CSWE accredited program
- Small class sizes
- Flexible scheduling
- Expert faculty mentorship
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Clinical Practice - Campus Based - Website
- 60-credit MSW program
- Two or three-year completion
- 950 hours supervised practicums
- CSWE accredited program
- Clinical and Community Practice concentrations
- Dual Degree with Women's Studies
- Prepares for LMSW licensure
- Focuses on cultural responsiveness
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Community Practice: Community Organization, Policy, and Leadership - Campus Based - Website
- CSWE Accredited Program
- 60-credit MSW Degree
- Two or Three Year Options
- 950 Practicum Hours
- Two Concentration Tracks
- Clinical and Community Practice
- Prepares for LMSW Licensure
- Focuses on Diverse Populations
West Hartford, CT
University of Saint Joseph
- Master's - Masters in Social Work
Campus Based - Website
- 61-credit standard MSW program
- Advanced Standing option available
- Hybrid online/on-campus format
- No GRE required
- Full/Part-time options
- Three specialization tracks
- CSWE-accredited program
- Values and Vision Scholarship
