Best Online & Affordable MSW Programs in Minnesota
In the dynamic landscape of social work education, Minnesota stands as a beacon of excellence, offering a plethora of Master of Social Work (MSW) programs tailored to meet the evolving needs of aspiring and seasoned practitioners. With a steadfast commitment to fostering compassionate and competent professionals, Minnesota’s MSW programs boast a rich tapestry of academic rigor, experiential learning opportunities, and a dedication to social justice principles. As we delve into the diverse array of MSW programs across the North Star State, we uncover the unique facets that distinguish each institution while exploring the broader impact these programs have on shaping the future of social work practice in Minnesota and beyond.
2025 Best MSW Programs in Minnesota
Looking for the best MSW programs in Minnesota? CounselingPsychology.org has you covered. We ranked top schools to help you find the right fit. Our list considers quality, affordability, and student support. Whether you're starting or advancing your career, these programs stand out. Check out our rankings to make an informed choice. Learn how we picked them here.
Bethel University
Saint Paul, MN - Private 4-year - bethel.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Online Learning - Visit Website
Bethel University offers an online Master of Social Work (MSW) program tailored for individuals aiming to drive social change through clinical and community practice. This CSWE-accredited program emphasizes justice and liberation, offering flexible completion in 12-21 months. With tuition ranging from $27,300 to $43,680 and scholarships up to $25,000 for Minnesota school commitments, it's designed for those balancing work and study. Highlights include an Advanced Standing option, a strong clinical practice focus, and preparation for clinical licensure.
- Fully online MSW program
- 12-21 month completion time
- Advanced Standing option available
- CSWE accredited program
- Tuition $27,300-$43,680
- Scholarships up to $25,000
- Strong clinical practice emphasis
- Justice and liberation focused
- Prepares for clinical licensure
Master's - Master of Social Work: Advanced Standing
Online Learning - Visit Website
The Advanced Standing MSW at Bethel University is a 12-month, fully online program for BSW graduates, focusing on justice-informed practices to tackle societal issues. It requires 36 credit hours and 500 field practicum hours, preparing students for licensure and impactful social work. The curriculum covers trauma-informed approaches and systemic inequities, with start dates in Summer 2025 and 2026. This CSWE-accredited program is ideal for professionals seeking to advance their social work careers.
- Fully online program
- 36 total credit hours
- Complete in 12 months
- Advanced Standing track
- CSWE accredited program
- 500 field practicum hours
- Summer 2025, 2026 start dates
- Prepares for professional licensure
- Focuses on social justice
- Addresses systemic challenges
Master's - Master of Social Work: Full Program
Online Learning - Visit Website
Bethel University's full MSW program is a 21-month, online course for students from various academic backgrounds, aiming to address social challenges through advanced practice. The 56-credit program includes 900 field practicum hours, focusing on evidence-based practices and justice-informed curriculum to prepare for licensure. Starting Fall 2025, it's designed for those looking to make a difference in areas like poverty and mental health disparities, with a CSWE accreditation ensuring quality education.
- Fully online program
- 56 total credit hours
- Complete in 21 months
- 900 hours field practicum
- CSWE accredited program
- Prepares for licensure exam
- Justice-informed curriculum
- Diverse population focus
- Evidence-based practice training
- Fall 2025 start date
Minnesota State University Moorhead
Moorhead, MN - Public 4-Year - mnstate.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Multicultural Clinical - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Minnesota State University Moorhead's Master of Social Work program, with a concentration in Multicultural Clinical, stands out for its hybrid format, blending online flexibility with the depth of traditional learning. This program is designed for those aiming to make a significant impact in diverse clinical settings, offering specialized training that addresses the complexities of multicultural populations. With options for advanced standing for BSW holders, the program accelerates career advancement. Highlights include its CSWE accreditation, over 50 years of social work education excellence, and a curriculum that aligns with the 12% projected job growth in the field, promising graduates an average salary of $67K.
- 100% Online plus option
- Unique specialization tracks
- Advanced standing available
- 50+ years social work education
- 12% projected job growth
- Average salary $67K
- Evening and late classes
- CSWE accredited program
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Social Change & Leadership - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Focusing on Social Change & Leadership, Minnesota State University Moorhead's Master of Social Work program prepares students to lead and innovate in the social work field. This hybrid program combines the convenience of online learning with the rigor of in-depth study, ideal for aspiring leaders. It offers unique tracks that cater to the evolving needs of the workforce, including advanced standing for BSW graduates. Recognized by Forbes Advisor, the program boasts a legacy of over 50 years in social work education, with a promising 12% job growth projection and an average graduate salary of $67K, all under the umbrella of CSWE accreditation.
- 100% Online plus format
- Unique MSW specializations
- Advanced standing available
- 50+ years social work education
- 12% projected job growth
- $67K average salary
- Multicultural Clinical focus
- Social Change & Leadership track
- Council on Social Work Education accredited
University of St Thomas
Saint Paul, MN - Private 4-year - stthomas.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Clinical Social Work - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of St. Thomas offers a Master of Social Work with a concentration in Clinical Social Work, blending rigorous academic coursework with practical clinical training. This hybrid program is tailored for those aiming to excel in clinical settings, emphasizing social justice and ethical practice. With a curriculum designed to foster leadership in social work, students can choose from various completion paths, including full-time, part-time, and hybrid options. The program stands out for its specialized tracks in areas such as immigrant populations and geriatric care, alongside a strong focus on clinical interventions. Accredited by CSWE, it prepares graduates for clinical licensure, requiring 600-1000 field practicum hours. Highlights include advanced clinical training, flexible learning formats, and a faculty with 90% clinical licensure.
- Advanced clinical social work focus
- Multiple program completion options
- On-campus and hybrid formats
- One to four-year program lengths
- Advanced and regular standing tracks
- Specialized emphasis areas available
- Three elective course options
- CSWE accredited program
- Prepares for clinical licensure
- Requires 600-1000 field practicum hours
Saint Mary's University of Minnesota
Winona, MN - Private 4-year - smumn.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Clinical Social Work Specialization - Online Learning - Visit Website
Saint Mary's University of Minnesota's online Master of Social Work program provides a comprehensive clinical social work specialization for professionals seeking transformative career pathways. Through CSWE-accredited curriculum, students engage in advanced clinical training focusing on mental health diagnosis, intervention strategies, and social justice advocacy. The flexible program offers two distinct tracks—Advanced Standing (30 credits) and Traditional (60 credits)—accommodating diverse student backgrounds. With affordable tuition, multiple annual start dates, and the option of an Addiction Studies Certificate, students can customize their educational journey while developing sophisticated clinical skills to address complex individual and community challenges.
- 100% Online Coursework
- CSWE Accredited Program
- 30-60 Credit Options
- $925 Per Credit
- 1-4 Year Completion
- September, January, May Starts
- Full-Time or Part-Time
- No Prerequisites Required
- Advanced Standing Option
- Optional Addiction Studies Certificate
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Advanced Standing Program - Online Learning - Visit Website
Saint Mary's University of Minnesota's Advanced Standing MSW track offers an accelerated pathway for experienced social work professionals seeking specialized clinical training. This CSWE-accredited online program enables students to build upon their foundational knowledge through a rigorous 30-credit curriculum. Emphasizing ethical leadership and advanced clinical practice, the program prepares graduates to diagnose mental health conditions and implement sophisticated intervention strategies. With flexible scheduling, dedicated field placement coordination, and an optional Addiction Studies Certificate, students can efficiently enhance their professional competencies while maintaining work-life balance.
- 100% Online Coursework
- CSWE-Accredited Program
- $925 Per Credit
- Two Program Tracks
- 1-4 Years Completion
- September, January, May Starts
- No Prerequisites Required
- Full-Time/Part-Time Options
- Optional Addiction Certificate
- Field Placement Coordinator
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Addiction Studies Certificate - Online Learning - Visit Website
Saint Mary's University of Minnesota's MSW program with Addiction Studies Certificate provides a specialized educational experience for social work professionals targeting substance abuse intervention. The comprehensive online curriculum integrates advanced clinical training with focused addiction treatment strategies, preparing students to address complex behavioral health challenges. CSWE-accredited and featuring flexible tracks, the program offers in-depth exploration of addiction theories, intervention techniques, and holistic treatment approaches. Students benefit from dedicated field placement support, affordable tuition, and a curriculum that emphasizes ethical practice, social justice, and specialized addiction treatment methodologies.
- CSWE-accredited online MSW
- 30-60 total credits
- $925 per credit
- 1-4 year completion
- Multiple start dates
- Advanced Standing track available
- No prior social work experience required
- Optional Addiction Studies Certificate
- Dedicated Field Placement Coordinator
- 100% online coursework
Winona State University
Winona, MN - Public 4-Year - winona.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Trauma-informed clinical social work - Online Learning - Visit Website
Winona State University offers a Master of Social Work (MSW) with a concentration in Trauma-informed clinical social work, designed for aspiring professionals seeking to make a difference in mental health. This CSWE-accredited online program stands out for its flexibility, featuring asynchronous classes and 7-week course blocks, ideal for working students. With a curriculum centered on holistic healing, students engage in 1,000 hours of fieldwork across 140+ national partners, equipping them for diverse settings. The program emphasizes LICSW licensure preparation and offers two admission pathways, ensuring a tailored educational journey. 'No GRE Required' makes it accessible to a broader range of applicants.
- Online flexible coursework
- 7-week course blocks
- Trauma-informed concentration
- LICSW licensure preparation
- Up to 1,000 field experience hours
- 60 total program credits
- Professional development labs
- Asynchronous class schedules
- CSWE accredited program
- Two admission standing options
MSW Degree Program Requirements/Eligibility in Minnesota
Minnesota Traditional MSW Admissions Requirements
If you’re looking at traditional MSW programs, you likely have a bachelor’s degree in another field. MSW programs take about two years and 60 credits to complete. You’ll need the following to apply:
- 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
Minnesota Advanced-Standing MSW Admissions Requirements
If you have a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree and a GPA of at least 3.5, you can obtain your MSW a little quicker. Advanced-standing students can finish their respective programs in under a year with around 35 credits. Here are a few advanced-standing MSW programs located in Minnesota:
- University of Minnesota – visit site
- Saint Mary’s University – visit site
- Minnesota State University – visit site
Minnesota MSW Program Tuition and Costs
If you’re looking for an affordable yet quality MSW education, you can find it in Minnesota. Minnesotan students can find reduced costs on tuition based on their residency without lowering their standards. Take a look at the examples below:
| School | Tuition (per credit hour) | Total Credits | Total Tuition |
| University of Minnesota | $547 (Resident) $1,298 (Non-resident) | 53 | $28,992 (Resident) $68,820 (Non-resident) |
| Saint Mary’s University | $595 | 60 | $35,700 |
| Minnesota State University | $200 (Resident) $282 (Non-resident) | 56 | $11,186 (Resident) $15,776 (Non-resident) |
2025 Affordable MSW Program Options
Finding affordable MSW program options in Minnesota for 2025 is key for students aiming for a Master's degree without high costs. The table highlights schools offering programs with features that stand out, alongside their tuition range. It's important to find low-cost and cost-effective options to make higher education accessible. This helps students focus on their studies without the stress of heavy financial burdens. Minnesota offers various choices, making it easier to pick a program that fits both academic goals and budget needs.
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Saint Mary's University of Minnesota |
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| Bethel University |
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| The College of Saint Scholastica |
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Are Online MSW Programs in Minnesota as Good as Campus-Based?
There are plenty of advantages and disadvantages when it comes to both online MSW programs and campus-based MSW programs. Take a look at the table below to see which one is right for you.
Traditional MSW vs. Online MSW Programs in Minnesota
| 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 |
As you’re deciding on which type of program to enroll in, it’s a good idea to make sure that the programs you apply to are accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). This will ensure that you will be eligible for licensure upon graduation.
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 Minnesota Social Work License
Getting licensed as a social worker in Minnesota is the next step once you earn your MSW degree. Each state has different requirements for licensure. Learn more about how to get your social worker license in Minnesota in our Guide to Social Work Licensure.
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 Minnesota
Duluth, MN
The College of Saint Scholastica
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 63 credits regular standing program
- 38 credits advanced standing program
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Clinical practice focused
- Meets clinical licensure requirements
- Two program tracks available
- Field practicum included
- Mental health intervention emphasis
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Advanced Practice with Groups - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 63 credits for Regular Standing
- 38 credits for Advanced Standing
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Clinical practice focus
- Meets clinical licensure requirements
- Two program entry paths
- Field practicum included
- Advanced practice electives
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Clinical practice focused MSW
- 63 credits regular standing
- 38 credits advanced standing
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Meets clinical licensure requirements
- Field practicum included
- Two program entry pathways
- Mental health intervention training
University of Minnesota-Duluth
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Child Welfare - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Advanced Generalist program
- Hybrid course delivery model
- Specialized American Indian focus
- Two program options available
- Over 200 agency internships
- Clinical licensure preparation
- Part-time student friendly
- CSWE accredited 25+ years
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Macro/Community-Based Social Work Practice - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Advanced Generalist MSW
- Hybrid learning model
- Unique American Indian focus
- Two program options
- Advanced Standing Program: 34 credits
- Foundation Program: 51 credits
- Over 200 practicum agencies
- Clinical licensure pathway
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Mental Health/Clinical Social Work - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid course delivery model
- Advanced Generalist program
- Special focus on American Indian services
- Two program entry options
- Over 200 practicum agencies
- Foundation Program: 51 credits
- Advanced Standing: 34 credits
- Part-time and full-time options
Moorhead, MN
Minnesota State University Moorhead
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Multicultural Clinical - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 100% Online plus option
- Unique specialization tracks
- Advanced standing available
- Forbes Advisor ranked 2024
- 50+ years social work education
- 12% projected job growth
- Average salary $67K
- Evening and late classes
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Social Change & Leadership - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 100% Online plus format
- Unique MSW specializations
- Advanced standing available
- Forbes Advisor top-ranked
- 50+ years social work education
- 12% projected job growth
- $67K average salary
- Multicultural Clinical focus
Saint Cloud, MN
Saint Cloud State University
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Master's degree in Social Work
- On-campus, online, hybrid options
- Two program tracks available
- Anti-oppression educational lens
- CSWE accredited program
- Fall application deadline Jan 15
- Competitive admission process
- Supplemental essay required
Saint Paul, MN
Bethel University
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Online Learning - Website
- Fully online MSW program
- 12-21 month completion time
- Advanced Standing option available
- CSWE accredited program
- Tuition $27,300-$43,680
- Scholarships up to $25,000
- Strong clinical practice emphasis
- Justice and liberation focused
- Master's - Master of Social Work: Advanced Standing
Online Learning - Website
- Fully online program
- 36 total credit hours
- Complete in 12 months
- Advanced Standing track
- CSWE accredited program
- 500 field practicum hours
- Summer 2025, 2026 start dates
- Prepares for professional licensure
- Master's - Master of Social Work: Full Program
Online Learning - Website
- Fully online program
- 56 total credit hours
- Complete in 21 months
- 900 hours field practicum
- CSWE accredited program
- Prepares for licensure exam
- Justice-informed curriculum
- Diverse population focus
St Catherine University
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Online & Campus Based - Website
- CSWE Accredited MSW Program
- Flexible Program Length Options
- Clinical Practice Focus
- 500-900 Hours Field Practicum
- Social Justice Emphasis
- Regular and Advanced Standing Tracks
- On-Campus and Hybrid Courses
- Evening Course Schedules
- Master's - Master of Social Work/Master of Arts in Holistic Health Studies
Concentration: Holistic Health - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Dual MSW/MAHS degree option
- Advanced and regular standing paths
- 61-76 total credit hours
- Social justice focused curriculum
- Field practicum experiences
- Clinical and research sequences
- Holistic health integration
- Diverse career preparation
University of St Thomas
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Clinical Social Work - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Advanced clinical social work focus
- Multiple program completion options
- On-campus and hybrid formats
- One to four-year program lengths
- Advanced and regular standing tracks
- Specialized emphasis areas available
- Three elective course options
- CSWE accredited program
Winona, MN
Saint Mary's University of Minnesota
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Addiction Studies Certificate - Online Learning - Website
- CSWE-accredited online MSW
- 30-60 total credits
- $925 per credit
- 1-4 year completion
- Multiple start dates
- Advanced Standing track available
- No prior social work experience required
- Optional Addiction Studies Certificate
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Advanced Standing Program - Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Coursework
- CSWE-Accredited Program
- $925 Per Credit
- Two Program Tracks
- 1-4 Years Completion
- September, January, May Starts
- No Prerequisites Required
- Full-Time/Part-Time Options
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Clinical Social Work Specialization - Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Coursework
- CSWE Accredited Program
- 30-60 Credit Options
- $925 Per Credit
- 1-4 Year Completion
- September, January, May Starts
- Full-Time or Part-Time
- No Prerequisites Required
Winona State University
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Trauma-informed clinical social work - Online Learning - Website
- Online flexible coursework
- 7-week course blocks
- Trauma-informed concentration
- LICSW licensure preparation
- Up to 1,000 field experience hours
- 60 total program credits
- Professional development labs
- Asynchronous class schedules
