Best MSW Programs in Florida 2025: Online & Campus
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.
2025 Best MSW Programs in Florida
Looking for the best MSW programs in Florida? counselingpsychology.org has ranked the top schools to help you decide. Our list focuses on quality, affordability, and student support. We know picking the right program matters for your future. Florida offers great options for social work students. Find out which programs made our list and why. Ready to see how we ranked them? Check out our rankings methodology for details.
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 offers a CSWE-accredited online Master of Social Work (MSW) program tailored for both BSW graduates and career changers. This program stands out for its clinical practice focus, preparing students for licensure in Florida and beyond. With tuition at $450 per credit hour, it provides an affordable pathway to advanced social work practice. The curriculum covers medical and behavioral healthcare, emphasizing social justice and evidence-based interventions. Flexible online formats and the option for traditional or advanced standing tracks make it accessible for students with varying schedules and academic backgrounds. No GRE Required.
- 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
At the University of West Florida, the Traditional MSW program is designed for students without a BSW degree. This 60-credit online program focuses on clinical skills with a special emphasis on military populations and behavioral health. Accredited by the CSWE, it integrates research with practice and offers diverse elective options. Students must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA and complete advanced field experience placements. The program is structured to foster critical thinking and professional development, preparing graduates for clinical licensure and impactful careers in social work. No GRE Required.
- 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 MSW program at the University of West Florida is a 30-credit online option for BSW graduates seeking to fast-track their education. This CSWE-accredited program focuses on clinical practice, particularly with military populations, and requires 600 hours of clinical field experience. With a curriculum that includes cognitive behavioral therapy and integrated healthcare practice, it prepares students for licensure and diverse professional opportunities. A minimum 3.0 GPA is required, and the program must be completed within two years. No GRE Required.
- 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 Master of Social Work (MSW) program on campus is tailored for those aiming to excel in clinical social work. Offering both full-time and part-time schedules across Tampa and Sarasota-Manatee campuses, it includes an advanced standing option for BSW graduates. The curriculum is rich with courses on professional ethics, human development, and intervention strategies, all accredited by the Council on Social Work Education. Practical experience is a cornerstone, with 900 field practice hours for traditional students and 600 for those in advanced standing, ensuring readiness for diverse clinical settings.
- 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
For professionals seeking flexibility, the University of South Florida provides an Online Master of Social Work (MSW) that doesn't compromise on quality. This program features Traditional and Advanced Standing tracks, accommodating various academic backgrounds without requiring the GRE. Interactive live-online sessions complement in-person field experiences, facilitated by esteemed faculty. With CSWE accreditation and over 350 community partnerships, students gain hands-on experience under the guidance of more than 1,000 field instructors, preparing them for impactful roles in therapy and veterans' services.
- 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
The University of South Florida offers a unique Concurrent Degree Option combining a Master of Social Work (MSW) with a Master of Public Health (M.P.H.), focusing on Public Health. This campus-based program is designed for students interested in addressing health disparities through social work. Flexible learning options include part-time and full-time tracks, with advanced standing available for BSW holders. The program's interdisciplinary approach equips graduates with the skills to tackle public health challenges within communities, supported by the university's extensive resources and CSWE accreditation.
- 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 Atlantic University
Boca Raton, FL - Public 4-Year - fau.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Online Learning - Visit Website
Florida Atlantic University offers a Master of Social Work (MSW) program designed for flexibility, with online and blended on-campus tracks, catering to students balancing personal and professional commitments. Known for its high job placement rate of 93%, the program equips graduates with clinical skills for diverse populations. It welcomes students from various academic backgrounds, including those with a BSW, offering an Advanced Standing option and certificate specializations. The program emphasizes practical experience through local community practicums and starts every summer and semester, requiring a GPA of 3.0-3.5 for admission.
- 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
The Master of Social Work (MSW) program at Florida Atlantic University is tailored for aspiring clinical practitioners, offering both online and hybrid learning formats to accommodate working professionals. With a 93% job placement rate, the program stands out for its focus on evidence-based clinical techniques and offers specializations in areas like addictions and child welfare. It provides Advanced Standing for BSW holders and includes practicum experiences, preparing students for real-world challenges. The program admits students in summer, spring, and fall, with a completion time of 3-5 semesters, and does not require the GRE for admission.
- 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
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 (MSW) program specializes in Clinical Social Work Practice, offering a flexible and trauma-informed curriculum tailored for working professionals. With options for a 63-credit traditional track or a 32-credit advanced standing pathway, students benefit from live virtual sessions, faculty mentorship, and a focus on practical skills and professional development. The program includes 1000 hours of clinical training, preparing graduates for advanced clinical licensure. Highlights include competitive tuition at $675 per credit, priority application deadlines, and a curriculum designed to meet the needs of today's social work challenges.
- 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
The campus-based Master of Social Work (MSW) program at Barry University provides a comprehensive 63-credit curriculum focused on clinical trauma-informed practice, policy development, and social research. Ideal for those new to the field, it prepares students for diverse roles in mental health, healthcare, and community services through professional internships. With small class sizes and a strong emphasis on critical thinking and leadership, graduates are well-equipped to drive social change. Tuition is competitively priced at $675 per credit, with financial aid opportunities available.
- 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 is designed for BSW degree holders seeking to fast-track their career in social work. This 32-credit clinical program focuses on social work practice, policy, and leadership, with a trauma-informed curriculum and diverse clinical placements. Students gain hands-on experience in mental health, healthcare, and community services, preparing for high-impact careers. The program requires a recent CSWE-accredited bachelor's degree, a minimum 3.0 GPA, and includes competitive tuition at $675 per credit.
- 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 Agricultural and Mechanical University
Tallahassee, FL - Public 4-Year - famu.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work (M.S.W)
Concentration: Community, Administration, and Policy (CAP) - Campus Based - Visit Website
Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University's Master of Social Work (MSW) program specializes in Community, Administration, and Policy (CAP), offering a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills for those aiming to lead in macro social work. This CSWE-accredited program requires 79 semester hours, blending 67 professional curriculum hours with a 12-credit field placement to ensure hands-on experience. It stands out for its focus on community development, policy, and administration, preparing students to tackle social injustices through evidence-based strategies. With options for full-time or part-time study, the program accommodates various schedules, emphasizing cultural competence and social justice. 'Requires GRE' for admission, it's designed for those committed to making a difference at the systemic level.
- 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
- Two-year program structure
- Policy and research oriented
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) |
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 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
- 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
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: 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
- 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
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)
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
- 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
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
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
- 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
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)
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 - 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 - 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
