Best Online & Affordable MSW Programs in Florida
Florida’s landscape of higher education is rich with opportunities for those pursuing Master of Social Work (MSW) degrees. Aspiring social workers seeking to make a tangible difference in communities across the Sunshine State have a plethora of programs to choose from. With its diverse population and array of social challenges, Florida serves as an ideal setting for MSW programs that offer specialized training, experiential learning, and pathways to impactful careers in social work. Whether students aim to address mental health issues, advocate for marginalized groups, or engage in policy reform, Florida’s MSW programs provide a robust platform for personal and professional growth in the field of social work.
2026 Best MSW Programs in Florida
University of West Florida
Pensacola, FL - Public 4-Year - uwf.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of West Florida's online Master of Social Work offers a transformative educational journey for aspiring social work professionals. Uniquely designed to accommodate both bachelor's-level social work graduates and career transitioners, this CSWE-accredited program emphasizes clinical practice across diverse healthcare settings. Students can select traditional or advanced standing tracks, providing flexibility in credit hour requirements and professional development. The curriculum integrates evidence-based interventions, social justice principles, and comprehensive clinical training. With an optional entrance exam policy and competitive tuition around $450 per credit hour, UWF prepares graduates for impactful careers in mental health, substance abuse counseling, and community services.
- CSWE-accredited program
- Online and flexible format
- Traditional and advanced standing tracks
- 30-60 credit hours
- Clinical practice focus
- Meets Florida licensure requirements
- Tuition $450 per credit hour
- Minimum 3.0 GPA recommended
- GRE/MAT scores optional
- Multiple specialization options
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Traditional - Online Learning - Visit Website
UWF's Traditional Master of Social Work track provides an immersive clinical pathway for professionals seeking comprehensive social work training. Specifically tailored to support military populations and behavioral health contexts, this 60-credit program offers rigorous academic preparation and extensive field experience. The CSWE-accredited curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, professional development, and advanced clinical skills. Students benefit from diverse elective options, integrated research methodologies, and a robust learning environment. With flexible admission requirements, including optional graduate entrance exams and a recommended 3.0 GPA, the program prepares graduates for meaningful clinical social work roles.
- Two MSW program tracks available
- CSWE accredited program
- 30-60 semester hours required
- Minimum 3.0 GPA recommended
- Clinical focus on military populations
- Advanced field experience placements
- Diverse elective course options
- Research and practice integrated curriculum
- Grade of B- or higher required
- Optional graduate admission tests
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Advanced Standing - Online Learning - Visit Website
The Advanced Standing Master of Social Work at the University of West Florida represents a streamlined, intensive pathway for BSW graduates seeking clinical specialization. This 30-credit program accelerates professional development through concentrated coursework and extensive field experiences. Focusing on military populations and behavioral health interventions, students engage in advanced clinical training with opportunities to explore specialized electives like cognitive behavioral therapy. The curriculum meets clinical licensure requirements and provides comprehensive preparation for diverse social work practice settings. With a maximum two-year completion timeline and optional entrance exam policy, UWF supports ambitious social work professionals in achieving their career objectives.
- CSWE-accredited clinical MSW
- Traditional and Advanced Standing tracks
- 60 or 30 semester hours
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Focus on military populations
- 600 clinical field experience hours
- Diverse specialization electives
- Meets clinical licensure requirements
- BSW graduates eligible for Advanced Standing
- Two-year maximum program completion
University of South Florida
Tampa, FL - Public 4-Year - usf.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of South Florida's on-campus MSW program represents a comprehensive training ground for future clinical social work professionals. Offering full-time and part-time enrollment options across Tampa and Sarasota-Manatee campuses, the program provides advanced standing for BSW graduates. Students engage in an extensively structured curriculum that emphasizes professional ethics, human development, and sophisticated intervention strategies. With robust field practicum experiences totaling 900 practice hours for traditional tracks and 600 hours for advanced standing, graduates are comprehensively prepared for diverse clinical practice environments. CSWE accreditation ensures rigorous academic standards and professional credibility.
- Full-time and part-time options
- Advanced standing for BSW holders
- Two campus locations
- 60 credit non-advanced program
- 35 credit advanced standing
- 900 field practice hours
- 600 field practice hours (advanced)
- CSWE fully accredited program
- Multiple program pathways
- Clinical practice focus
Master's - Online Master of Social Work (MSW)
Online Learning - Visit Website
USF's Online Master of Social Work program delivers exceptional flexibility for working professionals seeking advanced social work credentials. Uniquely structured with Traditional and Advanced Standing tracks, the program eliminates GRE requirements while maintaining high academic standards. Students benefit from live-online sessions twice weekly and comprehensive field experiences, enabling seamless professional development. The program's 350+ community partnerships and extensive network of 1,000+ field instructors provide unparalleled practical learning opportunities. Designed to accommodate diverse student backgrounds, the online MSW prepares graduates for impactful roles in therapy, veterans' services, and community interventions.
- Fully online MSW program
- Two tracks: Traditional, Advanced Standing
- No GRE required for admission
- Field hours in-person
- Live online sessions twice weekly
- Traditional track: 8 semesters
- Advanced Standing: 3-5 semesters
- CSWE accredited program
- 350+ community partnerships
- Over 1,000 field instructors
Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW) - Concurrent Degree Option: Public Health and Social Work M.P.H./M.S.W.
Concentration: Public Health - Campus Based - Visit Website
University of South Florida's Concurrent MPH/MSW degree represents an innovative pathway for students passionate about public health and social work intersections. This interdisciplinary program offers unprecedented flexibility through online and campus-based formats, accommodating both traditional and advanced standing students. The Public Health concentration enables graduates to develop sophisticated skills addressing complex community health challenges. By integrating social work principles with public health strategies, students gain comprehensive knowledge for creating systemic change. The program's adaptable learning modalities and concurrent degree option distinguish it as a forward-thinking approach to social service professional education.
- Online and campus-based options
- Part-time and full-time tracks
- Advanced Standing available
- Traditional program option
- Offered across 50 states
- Tampa campus program
- Sarasota-Manatee campus option
- Concurrent MPH/MSW degree
- Multiple learning modalities
Florida International University
Miami, FL - Public 4-Year - fiu.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Campus Based - Visit Website
Florida International University's Master of Social Work program offers a comprehensive 60-credit advanced clinical training pathway designed for social work professionals seeking transformative urban community practice. The curriculum emphasizes research-based, culturally responsive methodologies with robust anti-racist frameworks. Students develop critical skills addressing complex social challenges while promoting human rights and community well-being. Featuring rolling admissions and flexible semester entry, the program accommodates diverse student backgrounds. Applicants must maintain a 3.0 GPA and complete prerequisite social science credits. The program prepares graduates to engage in sophisticated social work interventions across various professional settings.
- Rolling admissions process
- 3.0 GPA required
- 60-credit program plan
- Advanced clinical focus
- Research-based curriculum
- Fall/Spring/Summer entry
- Anti-racist frameworks
- Person-in-environment approach
- Minimum 'C' grade prerequisites
- International applicant options
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Advanced Clinical Practice - Campus Based - Visit Website
FIU's Advanced Clinical Practice MSW concentration provides an intensive social justice-oriented curriculum situated in Miami's dynamic urban landscape. This specialized track equips students with advanced clinical skills for working with individuals, families, and groups through culturally responsive, anti-racist methodologies. The 60-credit program emphasizes comprehensive field education, preparing professionals to address complex social challenges. Students develop nuanced intervention strategies focused on advancing social, racial, economic, and human rights. With a June 1st fall application deadline and flexible international student options, the program offers rigorous training for aspiring clinical social work practitioners committed to transformative community engagement.
- Rolling admissions process
- 3.0 GPA requirement
- Fall deadline: June 1st
- 60-credit program plan
- Culturally responsive training
- Anti-racist curriculum framework
- Advanced clinical focus
- International student options
- Social science prerequisite credits
- Comprehensive field education
Master's - MSW/MPH
Concentration: Health Promotion & Disease Prevention - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Florida International University's innovative MSW/MPH Combined Program represents a cutting-edge three-year interdisciplinary degree merging social work and public health expertise. This unique curriculum allows students to specialize in clinical social work while gaining comprehensive public health knowledge, particularly in health promotion and disease prevention. Graduates are strategically positioned to excel across diverse healthcare environments, including state health departments, hospitals, and community organizations. The program's integrated field practicums provide hands-on experience in direct clinical services, program coordination, and advocacy. With separate degree applications and multiple concentration options, students receive holistic professional preparation.
- Three-year interdisciplinary degree
- Two concentration options
- Three semesters field practicum
- Separate application for each degree
- Public health and social work integration
Barry University
Miami, FL - Private 4-year - barry.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)
Concentration: Clinical Social Work Practice - Online Learning - Visit Website
Barry University's online Master of Social Work program delivers a robust clinical social work training pathway, strategically designed for working professionals seeking advanced licensure. With two flexible enrollment options—a comprehensive 63-credit traditional track and a streamlined 32-credit advanced standing program—students engage in trauma-informed curriculum featuring live virtual sessions. The program distinguishes itself through personalized faculty mentorship, emphasizing practical skills development and comprehensive 1,000-hour clinical training. Focusing specifically on Clinical Social Work Practice, students gain specialized competencies to address complex mental health challenges across diverse populations.
- Fully online and part-time
- 63 or 32 credit options
- $675 per credit
- Priority application deadlines
- Live virtual sessions
- 1000 hours clinical training
- Trauma-informed curriculum
- Advanced clinical concentration
- Faculty mentorship included
- Professional development support
Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)
Campus Based - Visit Website
Barry University's campus-based Master of Social Work provides a transformative 63-credit curriculum tailored for emerging social work professionals. CSWE-accredited and clinically oriented, the program cultivates advanced skills in trauma-informed practice, policy development, and social research. Students benefit from competitive $675 per credit tuition, professional internship placements, and comprehensive training in mental health, healthcare, and community services. With a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA requirement and mandatory personal statement, the program prepares graduates to drive meaningful social change through critical thinking, communication, and leadership competencies.
- 63-credit Traditional MSW Program
- CSWE-accredited Degree
- Clinical Trauma-Informed Curriculum
- 3.0 Minimum Undergraduate GPA
- $675 Per Credit Tuition
- Professional Internship Placements
- Two Recommendation Letters Required
- Personal Statement Mandatory
- Diverse Clinical Practice Sites
- Small Class Sizes
Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW) Advanced Standing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Barry University's Advanced Standing MSW program offers a strategic 32-credit accelerated pathway for BSW degree holders seeking career advancement. Designed for professionals with a recent CSWE-accredited bachelor's degree, this clinical-focused program provides intensive training in social work practice, policy, and leadership. Students leverage diverse clinical placement opportunities, developing critical skills for high-impact careers. With a trauma-informed curriculum, competitive $675 per credit tuition, and a minimum 3.0 GPA requirement, graduates are equipped to address complex social challenges across mental health, healthcare, and community service sectors.
- 32-credit MSW Advanced Standing
- CSWE-accredited program
- Clinical practice focus
- Diverse internship settings
- $675 per credit tuition
- BSW degree requirement
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Two recommendation letters
- Personal statement required
- Trauma-informed curriculum
Florida Atlantic University
Boca Raton, FL - Public 4-Year - fau.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Online Learning - Visit Website
Florida Atlantic University's online Master of Social Work program offers a comprehensive educational journey for emerging social work professionals. Featuring a robust curriculum with a 93% job placement rate, the program provides flexible learning pathways accommodating both BSW holders and students from diverse academic backgrounds. Students can complete the program in 3-5 semesters, with multiple start dates and advanced standing options. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based clinical techniques, preparing graduates to address complex social challenges across varied populations. Practicum experiences in local communities enhance practical skills, while specialized certificate opportunities in areas like addictions and child welfare provide targeted professional development.
- Two pathway options: Online/Blended
- 93% job placement rate
- 3-5 semesters to complete
- Starts every summer/semester
- GPA requirement 3.0-3.5
- Advanced Standing option available
- Certificate specializations offered
- Practicum in local community
Master's - Master of Social Work
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Florida Atlantic University's hybrid Master of Social Work program delivers a dynamic educational experience designed for aspiring clinical social work professionals. With flexible online and on-campus blended tracks, students can pursue advanced training while maintaining professional commitments. The program's comprehensive curriculum focuses on evidence-based clinical practices, critical thinking, and comprehensive social work interventions. Featuring a remarkable 93% job placement rate, students benefit from specialized certificate options in addictions, child welfare, and healthy aging. Multiple campus locations, summer/spring/fall start dates, and advanced standing opportunities make this MSW program accessible and adaptable to diverse student needs.
- Online and on-campus options
- 93% job placement rate
- 3-5 semester completion time
- Advanced Standing available
- Summer, spring, fall start dates
- Multiple campus locations
- Specialized certificate options
- Clinical practice focus
- Practicum experience included
MSW Degree Program Requirements/Eligibility in Florida
Florida Traditional MSW Admissions Requirements
If you already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field but would like to branch out into social work, you’ll need to enter into a traditional MSW. The programs take about two years to complete and require 60 credit hours. To apply, check out these typical admissions requirements:
- 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
Florida Advanced-Standing MSW Admissions Requirements
For students who have a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), there’s a faster option — advanced standing. If you have a GPA of at least 3.5 and all of the additional requirements above, you can complete your MSW in as little as a year by completing 38 credits. Here are a few options for advanced-standing MSW degrees in Florida:
- University of South Florida – visit site
- Florida International University – visit site
- Florida State University – visit site
RELATED: Learn more about Social Work Salaries
Florida MSW Program Tuition and Costs
Like any other state, the cost of tuition will vary greatly depending on many factors, including the level of education you’ll receive and whether or not you’re considered a Florida resident. Generally speaking, you can expect to pay anywhere from $348 to $1,027 per credit. Take a look at the options below to get a better idea of how to factor tuition into your decision.
| School | Tuition (per credit hour) | Total Credits | Total Tuition |
| University Of South Florida | $347.91 (Resident) $855.95 (Non-resident) | 60 | $20,874.60 (Resident) $51,357 (Non-resident) |
| Florida State University | $444 (Resident) $625 (Non-resident) | 61 | $27,084 (Resident) $38,125 (Non-resident) |
| Florida Atlantic University | $371.82 (Resident) $1,026.81 (Non-resident) | 60 | $22,309.20 (Resident) $61,608.60 (Non-resident) |
2026 Affordable MSW Program Options
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| University of West Florida |
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| Barry University |
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| Florida Atlantic University |
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Are Online MSW Programs in Florida as Good as Campus-Based?
While the face-to-face interaction of in-person programs is still a big draw for many, the flexibility and convenience of online MSW programs is a significant advantage.
Traditional MSW vs. Online MSW Programs in Florida
| 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 |
Whether you choose a campus-based or online MSW program in Florida, you'll want to ensure that your degree program is properly accredited by a trusted agency such as the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).
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 Florida Social Work License
Becoming licensed as a social worker in Florida is the next step after earning your MSW degree. Each state has different licensure requirements. Learn more about how to get your social worker license in Florida.
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 Florida
Boca Raton, FL
Florida Atlantic University
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Top-ranked MSW program nationally
- Online and on-campus options
- 93% job placement rate
- 3-5 semester completion time
- Advanced Standing available
- Summer, spring, fall start dates
- Multiple campus locations
- Specialized certificate options
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Online Learning - Website
- Top-ranked MSW program nationally
- Two pathway options: Online/Blended
- 93% job placement rate
- 3-5 semesters to complete
- Starts every summer/semester
- GPA requirement 3.0-3.5
- Advanced Standing option available
- Certificate specializations offered
Fort Myers, FL
Florida Gulf Coast University
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Clinical Community Practice - Online & Campus Based - Website
- CSWE Accredited Program
- Medical Social Work Concentration
- No GRE Required
- Full and Part-time Options
- Advanced Standing Available
- Field Education Opportunities
- 39 Total Credit Hours
- 3.0 GPA Minimum Requirement
Jacksonville, FL
University of North Florida
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Campus Based - Website
- CSWE Accredited Program
- Traditional and Advanced Standing tracks
- Full-time and part-time options
- 900 total field education hours
- Late afternoon/evening courses
- On-campus program location
- $30 application fee
- Three recommendation letters required
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Advanced Standing - Campus Based - Website
- CSWE Accredited Program
- Traditional and Advanced Standing tracks
- Full-time or part-time options
- 900 hours field education
- Social justice focused curriculum
- Campus-based evening courses
- $30 application fee
- Three recommendation letters required
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Traditional - Campus Based - Website
- CSWE Accredited Program
- Traditional and Advanced Standing tracks
- Full-time or Part-time options
- 900 hours field education
- Face-to-face campus courses
- Late afternoon/evening classes
- Advanced generalist practice focus
- $30 application fee
Lakeland, FL
Southeastern University
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Clinical - Campus Based - Website
- CSWE Accredited Program
- Two MSW Track Options
- Flexible Completion Timelines
- Clinical Specialization Focus
- Evening Campus-Based Courses
- Tailored Field Placement
- 2 Courses per 8-Week Increment
- Christian Worldview Perspective
Miami, FL
Barry University
- Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW) Advanced Standing
Campus Based - Website
- 32-credit MSW Advanced Standing
- CSWE-accredited program
- Clinical practice focus
- Diverse internship settings
- $675 per credit tuition
- BSW degree requirement
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Two recommendation letters
- Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)
Campus Based - Website
- 63-credit Traditional MSW Program
- CSWE-accredited Degree
- Clinical Trauma-Informed Curriculum
- 3.0 Minimum Undergraduate GPA
- $675 Per Credit Tuition
- Professional Internship Placements
- Two Recommendation Letters Required
- Personal Statement Mandatory
- Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)
Concentration: Clinical Social Work Practice - Online Learning - Website
- Fully online and part-time
- 63 or 32 credit options
- $675 per credit
- Priority application deadlines
- Live virtual sessions
- 1000 hours clinical training
- Trauma-informed curriculum
- Advanced clinical concentration
Florida International University
- Master's - MSW/MPH
Concentration: Health Promotion & Disease Prevention - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Three-year interdisciplinary degree
- Two concentration options
- Three semesters field practicum
- Separate application for each degree
- Public health and social work integration
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Campus Based - Website
- Rolling admissions process
- 3.0 GPA required
- 60-credit program plan
- Advanced clinical focus
- Research-based curriculum
- Fall/Spring/Summer entry
- Anti-racist frameworks
- Person-in-environment approach
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Advanced Clinical Practice - Campus Based - Website
- Rolling admissions process
- 3.0 GPA requirement
- Fall deadline: June 1st
- 60-credit program plan
- Culturally responsive training
- Anti-racist curriculum framework
- Advanced clinical focus
- International student options
Orlando, FL
Ana G. Mendez University
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Clinical - Campus Based - Website
- Clinical social work specialization
- CSWE candidacy accreditation
- Flexible 2-4 year program
- 900 hours supervised practice
- Advanced standing for BSW graduates
- Comprehensive exam requirement
- Full-time and part-time options
- Bilingual program delivery
Pensacola, FL
University of West Florida
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Online Learning - Website
- CSWE-accredited program
- Online and flexible format
- Traditional and advanced standing tracks
- 30-60 credit hours
- Clinical practice focus
- Meets Florida licensure requirements
- Tuition $450 per credit hour
- Minimum 3.0 GPA recommended
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Advanced Standing - Online Learning - Website
- CSWE-accredited clinical MSW
- Traditional and Advanced Standing tracks
- 60 or 30 semester hours
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Focus on military populations
- 600 clinical field experience hours
- Diverse specialization electives
- Meets clinical licensure requirements
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Traditional - Online Learning - Website
- Two MSW program tracks available
- CSWE accredited program
- 30-60 semester hours required
- Minimum 3.0 GPA recommended
- Clinical focus on military populations
- Advanced field experience placements
- Diverse elective course options
- Research and practice integrated curriculum
Tallahassee, FL
Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University
- Master's - Master of Social Work (M.S.W)
Concentration: Community, Administration, and Policy (CAP) - Campus Based - Website
- 79 total semester hours
- CSWE accredited program
- Full-time and part-time options
- Macro social work focus
- 12 credit hours field placement
- 67 professional curriculum hours
- Advanced concentration in administration
- Community development emphasis
Tampa, FL
University of South Florida
- Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW) - Concurrent Degree Option: Public Health and Social Work M.P.H./M.S.W.
Concentration: Public Health - Campus Based - Website
- Online and campus-based options
- Part-time and full-time tracks
- Advanced Standing available
- Traditional program option
- Offered across 50 states
- Tampa campus program
- Sarasota-Manatee campus option
- Concurrent MPH/MSW degree
- Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)
Campus Based - Website
- Full-time and part-time options
- Advanced standing for BSW holders
- Two campus locations
- 60 credit non-advanced program
- 35 credit advanced standing
- 900 field practice hours
- 600 field practice hours (advanced)
- CSWE fully accredited program
- Master's - Online Master of Social Work (MSW)
Online Learning - Website
- Fully online MSW program
- Two tracks: Traditional, Advanced Standing
- No GRE required for admission
- Field hours in-person
- Live online sessions twice weekly
- Traditional track: 8 semesters
- Advanced Standing: 3-5 semesters
- CSWE accredited program
