Kansas presents an array of opportunities for aspiring social work professionals. From bustling urban centers to serene rural communities, the state offers diverse environments for students to immerse themselves in the practice and theory of social work. With a focus on addressing the unique needs of Kansas communities, MSW programs in the state are tailored to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and experiences necessary to make a meaningful impact in the field.

Read on as we delve into the various MSW programs available in Kansas, exploring their distinctive features, curriculum offerings, and the opportunities they provide for future social workers. Whether you’re drawn to advocacy, clinical practice, or community development, Kansas has a program to suit your aspirations and propel you toward a fulfilling career in social work.

2026 Best MSW Programs in Kansas

At Counseling Psychology, we've carefully evaluated the Master of Social Work (MSW) programs across Kansas to help prospective students make informed decisions about their graduate education. Our comprehensive rankings consider factors such as academic quality, faculty expertise, clinical training opportunities, and student success rates. Kansas offers several outstanding MSW programs that prepare students for impactful careers in social work, counseling, and community support services. Whether you're interested in clinical practice, healthcare, or social justice, these top-tier programs provide rigorous academic training and hands-on experience to launch your professional journey. Our team of education experts has analyzed each program's unique strengths to bring you the most reliable and current insights into Kansas's best MSW educational opportunities. Learn more about our ranking methodology.
#1

Kansas State University

Manhattan, KS - Public 4-Year - k-state.edu

Master's - Master of Social Work

Concentration: Clinical Social Work Practice - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Kansas State University's Master of Social Work program, collaboratively developed with the University of Kansas School of Social Welfare, offers a dynamic clinical social work practice concentration. The hybrid program provides unparalleled flexibility through blended learning formats, accommodating both full-time and part-time students. With synchronous and asynchronous coursework options, professionals can advance their careers while maintaining work commitments. Advanced Standing exists for BSW graduates, enabling accelerated degree completion. Students explore comprehensive clinical interventions with individuals, families, and groups, supported by innovative learning strategies and opportunities like the $10K Integrated Health Scholars scholarship. The program's strategic design ensures graduates are equipped with advanced clinical skills and professional competencies.

  • Partnership with KU School of Social Welfare
  • Advanced Standing option for BSW holders
  • One-year full-time or two-year part-time
  • Blended learning format
  • Campus classes every other Saturday
  • Two specialization tracks available
  • $10K scholarship for Integrated Health Scholars
  • Clinical and macro practice options
  • Synchronous and asynchronous learning

Master's - Master of Social Work

Concentration: Social Work Macro Practice - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Kansas State University's Master of Social Work program presents a robust macro practice concentration emphasizing social service administration and policy development. Through a strategic partnership with the University of Kansas School of Social Welfare, the hybrid program delivers comprehensive training in systemic social change strategies. Distance learning alternatives and on-campus sessions every other Saturday provide maximum accessibility for working professionals. The curriculum prepares students to lead organizational transformations, develop policy frameworks, and address complex social challenges. Advanced Standing options expedite degree completion for BSW holders, while scholarship opportunities like the $10K Integrated Health Scholars Program support students' academic journeys. Graduates emerge as sophisticated macro-level social work practitioners.

  • Partnership with KU School of Social Welfare
  • Advanced Standing option available
  • One-year full-time or two-year part-time
  • Blended learning format
  • On-campus every other Saturday
  • Two specialization tracks
  • Clinical and macro practice focus
  • $10K scholarship opportunity
  • Integrated Health Scholars Program
  • Distance learning alternative
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#2

Fort Hays State University

Hays, KS - Public 4-Year - fhsu.edu

Master's - Master of Social Work

Concentration: Clinical - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Fort Hays State University's Clinical Master of Social Work program offers a dynamic hybrid learning experience tailored for working professionals seeking advanced clinical training. Fully accredited by CSWE, the program provides flexible online coursework complemented by intensive three-day clinical intensives. Students can select between Regular and Advanced Standing pathways, ensuring comprehensive preparation for social work licensure. The curriculum emphasizes synchronous learning, practical field experiences, and simulated real-world training, equipping graduates with robust skills for diverse clinical settings. With monthly application reviews and strategic application deadlines, the program supports students' professional development through innovative educational strategies.

  • Fully online Clinical MSW
  • Two pathway options
  • CSWE fully accredited
  • Priority deadline January 15
  • Final deadline April 15
  • Applications reviewed monthly
  • Three-day clinical intensives
  • Synchronous zoom sessions
  • Local practicum experiences
  • Simulated real-world training
#3

Wichita State University

Wichita, KS - Public 4-Year - wichita.edu

Master's - Master of Social Work

Campus Based - Visit Website

Wichita State University's MSW program emerges as a comprehensive urban-focused social work education pathway, strategically designed to cultivate advanced generalist practitioners. Students can choose between a robust 63-credit standard track or a streamlined 37-credit advanced standing option for BSW graduates. The curriculum powerfully emphasizes cultural competency, social justice principles, and multi-dimensional practice methodologies. With no GRE requirement and a modest 2.75 GPA threshold, the CSWE-accredited program attracts diverse learners committed to transformative social work. Unique program highlights include prioritizing urban practice environments and empowering students to become versatile professionals across therapy, administration, advocacy, and policy domains.

  • Two program tracks available
  • Regular program: 63 credit hours
  • Advanced standing: 37 credit hours
  • Full-time or part-time options
  • No GRE required
  • 2.75 GPA minimum
  • Priority deadline: January's 2nd Friday
  • CSWE accredited program
  • Focuses on social justice
  • Urban practice emphasis
*Citation: National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2023. Available at: https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

MSW Degree Program Requirements/Eligibility in Kansas

KansasTraditional MSW Admissions Requirements

Traditional MSW programs are typically reserved for students with bachelor’s degrees but not Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degrees. These programs take two years to complete as a full-time student and require the completion of an average of 60 credits. Check out the admissions requirements below:

  • 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

Kansas Advanced-Standing MSW Admissions Requirements

Advanced-standing MSW programs are fast-tracked options for students with a BSW and a 3.5 (or higher) GPA. In addition to these requirements, you’ll also need the admissions requirements listed above. Advanced-standing MSW programs usually only take a year to complete. Here are a few examples in Kansas:

RELATED: Learn more about Social Work Salaries

Kansas MSW Program Tuition and Costs

As you can see below, there’s a considerable range in terms of Kansas MSW program tuition cost. MSW programs in Kansas start at $260 per credit and exceed $907 per credit. You can expect to pay in this range, but you may be able to find a more affordable option depending on the state you reside in, as well as your eligibility for financial aid. Check out a few examples below:

SchoolTuition (per credit hour)Total CreditsTotal Tuition
University of Kansas$437.00 (Residents)
$1,048 (Non-residents)
64$30,386 (Residents)
$69,466 (Non-residents)
Fort Hays State University$260.96 (Resident)
$669.57 (Non-resident)
$319.45 (Online)
66$17,160 (Residents)
$44,191.62 (Non-residents)
$21,083.70 (Online)
Washburn University$467 (Resident)
$907 (Non-resident)
$595 (Online)
66$30,822 (Resident)
$59,862 (Non-resident)
$39,270 (Online)

2026 Affordable MSW Program Options

Pursuing a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree in Kansas offers exciting opportunities for students seeking meaningful careers in social services. Finding affordable programs is crucial for aspiring social workers who want to minimize student debt while gaining advanced skills. Kansas provides several educational options across major regions like Kansas City, Wichita, and Lawrence, helping students find programs that balance quality education with reasonable tuition costs. These programs prepare graduates to make significant impacts in community support, healthcare, and social advocacy. By exploring cost-effective MSW opportunities, students can invest in their professional development without overwhelming financial burdens, ensuring more individuals can access advanced social work education and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
School NameHighlightsAnnual Estimated Tuition & Fees
Fort Hays State University
  • Fully online Clinical MSW
  • Two pathway options
  • CSWE fully accredited
  • Priority deadline January 15
  • Final deadline April 15
  • Applications reviewed monthly
  • Three-day clinical intensives
  • Synchronous zoom sessions
  • $3,800 - $5,600 (Graduate In-State)
  • $9,600 - $14,500 (Graduate Non-Resident)
Wichita State University
  • Two program tracks available
  • Regular program: 63 credit hours
  • Advanced standing: 37 credit hours
  • Full-time or part-time options
  • No GRE required
  • 2.75 GPA minimum
  • Priority deadline: January's 2nd Friday
  • CSWE accredited program
  • $6,100 - $9,200 (Graduate In-State)
  • $13,000 - $19,500 (Graduate Non-Resident)
Kansas State University
  • Partnership with KU School of Social Welfare
  • Advanced Standing option available
  • One-year full-time or two-year part-time
  • Blended learning format
  • On-campus every other Saturday
  • Two specialization tracks
  • Clinical and macro practice focus
  • $10K scholarship opportunity
  • $9,400 - $14,100 (Graduate In-State)
  • $20,100 - $30,200 (Graduate Non-Resident)
*IPEDS 2023 statistics, sourced from NCES. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

Are Online MSW Programs in Kansas as Good as Campus-Based?

Many students in Kansas have come around to the convenience and flexibility that online MSW programs offer, however, some prefer a more intimate experience at on-campus locations. Take a look at the table below to see a full list of pros and cons.

Traditional MSW vs. Online MSW Programs in Kansas

Traditional MSW ProgramsOnline MSW Programs
FormatIn-person classesOnline classes with some in-person requirements
FlexibilityLimited scheduling optionsMore flexibility in scheduling, often part-time options
LocationGeographically limitedAccessible from anywhere with internet connectivity
Learning EnvironmentClassroom-basedVirtual classroom, discussion boards, and online resources
NetworkingLocal networking opportunitiesNetworking with students and professionals from diverse locations
CostTuition, commuting, and relocation expensesGenerally lower tuition and flexibility to continue working
Hands-on ExperienceField placements and internshipsVirtual or field placements and internships arranged in the student's local area

The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredits MSW programs that lead to licensure. When applying, make sure that the programs you apply to are accredited by the CSWE; otherwise, you won’t be eligible for licensure.

Learn more about Social Work Degree Options:

Getting Your Kansas Social Work License

One of the many benefits of getting an MSW is that you’ll be eligible for licensure. Learn about Kansas’ licensure requirements and the process you’ll need to complete in order to get licensed in our Social Work Licensure Guide.

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.

Female social worker talking with elderly female woman

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 Kansas

Jump to City:

Hays, KS

Fort Hays State University

  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Clinical - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Fully online Clinical MSW
    • Two pathway options
    • CSWE fully accredited
    • Priority deadline January 15
    • Final deadline April 15
    • Applications reviewed monthly
    • Three-day clinical intensives
    • Synchronous zoom sessions

Manhattan, KS

Kansas State University

  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Clinical Social Work Practice - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Partnership with KU School of Social Welfare
    • Advanced Standing option for BSW holders
    • One-year full-time or two-year part-time
    • Blended learning format
    • Campus classes every other Saturday
    • Two specialization tracks available
    • $10K scholarship for Integrated Health Scholars
    • Clinical and macro practice options
  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Social Work Macro Practice - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Partnership with KU School of Social Welfare
    • Advanced Standing option available
    • One-year full-time or two-year part-time
    • Blended learning format
    • On-campus every other Saturday
    • Two specialization tracks
    • Clinical and macro practice focus
    • $10K scholarship opportunity

Wichita, KS

Wichita State University

  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Campus Based - Website

    • Two program tracks available
    • Regular program: 63 credit hours
    • Advanced standing: 37 credit hours
    • Full-time or part-time options
    • No GRE required
    • 2.75 GPA minimum
    • Priority deadline: January's 2nd Friday
    • CSWE accredited program
*IPEDS 2023 statistics, sourced from NCES. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

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