Best Online & Affordable MSW Programs in Missouri
As the demand for skilled and compassionate professionals in social work continues to rise, higher education has become increasingly vital. Missouri, nestled in the heart of the United States, boasts a diverse array of Master of Social Work (MSW) programs tailored to meet the evolving needs of both students and communities. Missouri’s MSW offerings cater to a broad spectrum of interests and career aspirations, from bustling urban centers to tranquil rural landscapes. In this article, we explore the landscape of MSW programs in Missouri, delving into their unique features, educational philosophies, and the opportunities they provide for aspiring social workers.
2026 Best MSW Programs in Missouri
Saint Louis University
Saint Louis, MO - Private 4-year - slu.edu
Master's - Social Work, M.S.W.
Concentration: Applied Behavior Analysis - Campus Based - Visit Website
Saint Louis University's Applied Behavioral Analysis MSW concentration equips students with advanced skills in behavioral intervention and analysis. This specialized 48-credit program offers comprehensive training in understanding complex behavioral patterns, emphasizing practical application across clinical and organizational settings. Students receive robust fieldwork experiences, learning evidence-based techniques for assessment, intervention, and program development. The curriculum balances theoretical foundations with hands-on practice, preparing graduates to effectively address behavioral challenges in diverse professional environments. With flexible full-time and part-time formats, advanced standing options, and CSWE accreditation, students can customize their educational journey while maintaining professional commitments.
- 48-credit MSW program
- Three concentration options
- Full-time and part-time formats
- Advanced standing available
- Tuition $30,000-$48,000
- CSWE accredited program
- Multiple delivery formats
- Online and in-person options
- Application deadline August 1
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
Master's - Social Work, M.S.W.
Concentration: Clinical - Campus Based - Visit Website
Saint Louis University's Clinical Social Work MSW concentration provides intensive training in direct therapeutic practice and mental health intervention. Students develop advanced clinical skills through a comprehensive curriculum that explores psychological assessment, trauma-informed care, and evidence-based treatment modalities. The program prepares practitioners to work effectively with individuals, families, and groups experiencing complex psychological challenges. Offering both online and in-person formats, the concentration accommodates diverse learning preferences and professional schedules. With potential advanced standing for BSW graduates, students benefit from rigorous academic preparation, supervised field experiences, and a curriculum designed to meet contemporary mental health practice standards.
- 48-53 total credit hours
- Three concentration options
- Online and in-person formats
- Full-time and part-time tracks
- Advanced standing available
- Tuition $30,000-$48,000
- Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
- Application deadline Aug 1 (fall)
- Practicum experiences included
- CSWE accredited program
Master's - Social Work, M.S.W.
Concentration: Community and Organization - Campus Based - Visit Website
Saint Louis University's Community and Organization Social Work MSW concentration emphasizes macro-level interventions and systemic change strategies. Students learn advanced techniques for community development, organizational leadership, and social policy analysis. The program cultivates skills in program design, community assessment, advocacy, and strategic planning across various social service sectors. Graduates are prepared to drive meaningful social transformations through systematic approaches to addressing complex community challenges. With flexible learning formats, comprehensive field experiences, and a curriculum balancing theoretical knowledge with practical application, students develop the expertise needed to create sustainable social impact and lead innovative community-focused initiatives.
- Three concentration options
- Flexible online/in-person formats
- 48-53 total credit hours
- Full-time and part-time tracks
- Advanced standing available
- Tuition: $30,000-$48,000
- CSWE accredited program
- Multiple field practice areas
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Application deadline: August 1
Washington University in St Louis
Saint Louis, MO - Private 4-year - wustl.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Campus Based - Visit Website
Washington University's MSW program at the Brown School stands out as a comprehensive, innovative pathway for aspiring social work professionals. The program offers remarkable flexibility through full-time and part-time options, enabling students to customize their educational journey. With eight unique concentrations and extensive practicum opportunities across 400+ organizations, students develop advanced analytical skills and evidence-based practices. The curriculum emphasizes an anti-oppression approach, preparing graduates to address complex social challenges through multidisciplinary collaboration. Advanced standing options and annual fall semester admission provide additional accessibility for students seeking transformative social work education.
- Full-time and part-time options
- 8 unique concentrations
- Practicum with 400+ organizations
- Real-world learning experiences
- Multidisciplinary collaboration
- Anti-oppression curriculum approach
- Advanced standing available
- Annual fall semester admission
- Flexible specialization paths
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Children, Youth & Families - Campus Based - Visit Website
The Children, Youth & Families concentration at Washington University's Brown School provides a specialized MSW pathway focused on comprehensive child and family welfare interventions. Students engage in rigorous coursework that combines clinical practice, systemic analysis, and evidence-based strategies for supporting vulnerable populations. The program's extensive fieldwork component connects students with over 400 organizations, ensuring practical experience in addressing complex family dynamics. With an anti-oppression curriculum and multidisciplinary collaboration opportunities, graduates are equipped to develop innovative solutions in child welfare, family counseling, and social support systems.
- Full-time and part-time options
- 8 unique concentrations available
- 400+ organizational affiliations
- Foundation and Concentration Practica
- Anti-oppression curriculum approach
- Evidence-based practice focus
- Annual fall semester admission
- Multidisciplinary collaboration opportunities
- Comprehensive career services support
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Mental Health - Campus Based - Visit Website
Washington University's Mental Health MSW concentration offers an intensive, comprehensive approach to clinical social work practice. Students receive advanced training in psychological assessment, therapeutic interventions, and systemic mental health strategies. The program's curriculum integrates evidence-based practices with a social justice perspective, preparing students to address complex mental health challenges across diverse populations. Featuring extensive practicum experiences, including 360-hour foundation and 600-hour concentration practica, students develop sophisticated clinical skills. The flexible learning format supports working professionals, with full-time and part-time options designed to accommodate diverse career trajectories in mental health services.
- Full-time and part-time options
- Multiple concentrations available
- 400+ practicum organizations
- Evidence-based curriculum
- Anti-oppression learning approach
- Fall semester annual admission
- Interdisciplinary collaboration
- 360-hour foundation practicum
- 600-hour concentration practicum
- Diverse specialization tracks
Missouri Baptist University
Saint Louis, MO - Private 4-year - mobap.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Online Learning - Visit Website
Missouri Baptist University's online Master of Social Work program offers a robust educational pathway for aspiring social work professionals. CSWE-accredited and designed for maximum flexibility, students can complete the program in 24-36 months with an advanced standing option for qualified candidates. The curriculum emphasizes ethical leadership and social justice through a distinctive Christian perspective, preparing graduates for advanced clinical practice. Competitive tuition, accessible faculty, and a comprehensive 60-credit curriculum make this program ideal for those seeking meaningful societal impact and LCSW licensure preparation.
- CSWE-Accredited MSW Program
- Fully Online Delivery
- 60 Total Credit Hours
- Cost Per Credit: $668
- 24-36 Month Completion
- Advanced Standing Option
- Christian Worldview Integrated
- Next Start: August 25, 2025
- Prepares for LCSW Licensure
Master's - Master of Social Work—Advanced Standing
Online Learning - Visit Website
Missouri Baptist University's Advanced Standing MSW program provides a streamlined online pathway for BSW graduates seeking rapid career advancement. Tailored for working professionals with a recent Bachelor of Social Work degree, this accelerated track enables students to complete their master's in less than one year. The 30-credit curriculum maintains the university's commitment to ethical leadership and social justice, integrating a Christian service perspective. With fully online delivery, competitive per-credit pricing, and CSWE accreditation, students can efficiently enhance their professional skills and expand their social work career opportunities.
- 30 total credit hours
- Online advanced standing MSW
- Fully online program
- $668 per credit hour
- Complete in one year
- CSWE accredited program
- Next start date: June 30, 2025
- BSW within past 7 years required
University of Missouri-Kansas City
Kansas City, MO - Public 4-Year - umkc.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Missouri-Kansas City's Master of Social Work (MSW) program stands out as a transformative educational pathway for aspiring social work professionals. By offering two distinctive tracks—a comprehensive 60-credit traditional program and a streamlined 36-credit advanced standing option—UMKC accommodates diverse student backgrounds and career goals. The curriculum emphasizes multicultural competence and ethical leadership, preparing graduates to navigate complex social challenges. Designed with working professionals in mind, the program provides flexible evening and weekend classes, enabling students to balance academic pursuits with professional responsibilities. Community-based practice and advanced generalist approaches form the core of this innovative social work educational experience.
- Two MSW program tracks
- Flexible evening/weekend classes
- Advanced generalist curriculum
- Traditional track: 60 credit hours
- Advanced standing: 36 credit hours
- No BSW required for entry
- Application deadline: March 1
- Advanced standing deadline: Feb 1
- Part-time scheduling available
- Community-based practice focus
Columbia College
Columbia, MO - Private 4-year - ccis.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Advanced Clinical Practice - Campus Based - Visit Website
Columbia College's Master of Social Work program in Advanced Clinical Practice offers a comprehensive online learning experience designed for working professionals. With pre-candidacy CSWE accreditation, the program emphasizes cultural humility and ethical practice across mental health, healthcare, and social service sectors. Students benefit from flexible part-time and full-time options, specialized tracks in clinical practice and organizational leadership, and a unique military social work concentration. The curriculum prepares graduates to create meaningful societal change through advanced research skills, human development understanding, and strategic advocacy approaches.
- 100% Online MSW Program
- Two Specialization Tracks
- Military Social Work Option
- 3.0 GPA Admission Requirement
- Fall 2025 Program Start
- 19 States Eligible for Enrollment
- Pre-Candidacy CSWE Accreditation
- Part-time and Full-time Options
- Advanced Clinical Practice Track
- Organizational Leadership Track
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Organizational Leadership and Change - Campus Based - Visit Website
The Master of Social Work at Columbia College focusing on Organizational Leadership and Change provides a robust online educational pathway for aspiring social service professionals. Designed to address complex social challenges, the program equips students with comprehensive skills in direct practice, research, and advocacy. With pre-candidacy CSWE accreditation, flexible learning options, and an advanced standing opportunity, students can develop critical leadership competencies. The curriculum supports graduates in pursuing diverse roles across social services, emphasizing cultural competence and strategic organizational transformation.
- 100% online MSW program
- Two specialization tracks
- Military social work concentration
- Pre-candidacy CSWE accreditation
- 3.0 GPA requirement
- Three recommendation letters needed
- Fall 2025 program start
- 19 states eligible for enrollment
- Advanced Standing option available
- Part-time program options
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Military Social Work - Campus Based - Visit Website
Columbia College's Military Social Work concentration within their Master of Social Work program offers a specialized pathway for professionals committed to serving military personnel and their communities. The fully online program provides comprehensive training in social justice, research methodologies, and direct practice skills. Tailored for military-connected students, the curriculum addresses unique challenges facing service members and their families. With flexible learning options, pre-candidacy CSWE accreditation, and a projected 9% field growth by 2031, graduates are prepared for impactful roles in mental health, policy, and healthcare settings.
- 100% Online MSW Program
- Two Specialization Tracks
- Military Social Work Concentration
- Starting Fall 2025
- Requires 3.0 GPA
- Pre-Candidacy CSWE Accreditation
- Multiple State Enrollment Options
- Advanced Standing Available
- Part-time and Full-time Options
- Nationwide Learning Locations
MSW Degree Program Requirements/Eligibility in Missouri
Missouri Traditional MSW Admissions Requirements
If you’re looking for an MSW program to enroll in but you don’t already have a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), you’ll need to enroll in a traditional MSW. These programs are two years long and require students take on 60 credits (give or take). To enroll, you’ll need:
- 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
Missouri Advanced-Standing MSW Admissions Requirements
An advanced-standing Master of Social Work (MSW) degree is an accelerated program for those who already hold a BSW degree. Entry requirements routinely include:
- BSW degree from an accredited institution is typically awarded no longer than five years prior
- Minimum GPA of 3.5
- All other requirements from the Traditional MSW above
The Advanced-Standing MSW typically requires around 38 credits and takes approximately one year to complete. Examples of Advanced-Standing MSW programs in Missouri include:
- Missouri State University – visit site
- University of Missouri – visit site
- Missouri Baptist University – visit site
RELATED: Learn more about Social Work Salaries
Missouri MSW Program Tuition and Costs
Affordable MSW program tuition is not hard to come by in Missouri. Overall, you can expect to pay between $10,350 and $48,000 for your tuition, depending on the program, its format, and the state you currently reside in. Take a look at the examples below.
| School | Tuition (per credit hour) | Total Credits | Total Tuition |
| Missouri State University | $415 (Resident) $761 (Non-resident) | 62 | $25,750 (Resident) $47,202 (Non-resident) |
| University of Missouri | $172.50 (Resident) $397.50 (Non-resident) | 60 | $10,350 (Resident) $23,850 (Non-resident) |
| St. Louis University | $857 | 56 | $48,000 |
2026 Affordable MSW Program Options
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Missouri Baptist University |
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| Saint Louis University |
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| Missouri Western State University |
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Are Online MSW Programs in Missouri as Good as Campus-Based?
Students in the new millennium now have the option to take their classes online or in person. While there are benefits to both, there are also setbacks. The table below provides a full list of pros and cons.
Traditional MSW vs. Online MSW Programs in Missouri
| 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 |
To become licensed, you’ll need to make sure your program is accredited. In Missouri and the rest of the United States, social work programs are accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). Look for their logo on pamphlets and program websites.
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 Missouri Social Work License
One of the major draws of an MSW program is that graduates can now get licensed. Each state has its own unique licensure process. Learn about Missouri’s licensure requirements 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 Missouri
Columbia, MO
Columbia College
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Advanced Clinical Practice - Campus Based - Website
- 100% Online MSW Program
- Two Specialization Tracks
- Military Social Work Option
- 3.0 GPA Admission Requirement
- Fall 2025 Program Start
- 19 States Eligible for Enrollment
- Pre-Candidacy CSWE Accreditation
- Part-time and Full-time Options
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Military Social Work - Campus Based - Website
- 100% Online MSW Program
- Two Specialization Tracks
- Military Social Work Concentration
- Starting Fall 2025
- Requires 3.0 GPA
- Pre-Candidacy CSWE Accreditation
- Multiple State Enrollment Options
- Advanced Standing Available
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Organizational Leadership and Change - Campus Based - Website
- 100% online MSW program
- Two specialization tracks
- Military social work concentration
- Pre-candidacy CSWE accreditation
- 3.0 GPA requirement
- Three recommendation letters needed
- Fall 2025 program start
- 19 states eligible for enrollment
Kansas City, MO
University of Missouri-Kansas City
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Campus Based - Website
- Two MSW program tracks
- Flexible evening/weekend classes
- Advanced generalist curriculum
- Traditional track: 60 credit hours
- Advanced standing: 36 credit hours
- No BSW required for entry
- Application deadline: March 1
- Advanced standing deadline: Feb 1
Saint Joseph, MO
Missouri Western State University
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Online & Campus Based - Website
- In-person classes with online component
- Advanced standing or traditional tracks
- 2.75 GPA requirement
- CSWE candidacy status
- Trauma-informed curriculum
- Grand Challenges focus
- Criminal background check required
- Personal statement needed
Saint Louis, MO
Missouri Baptist University
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Online Learning - Website
- CSWE-Accredited MSW Program
- Fully Online Delivery
- 60 Total Credit Hours
- Cost Per Credit: $668
- 24-36 Month Completion
- Advanced Standing Option
- Christian Worldview Integrated
- Next Start: August 25, 2025
- Master's - Master of Social Work—Advanced Standing
Online Learning - Website
- 30 total credit hours
- Online advanced standing MSW
- Fully online program
- $668 per credit hour
- Complete in one year
- CSWE accredited program
- Next start date: June 30, 2025
- BSW within past 7 years required
Saint Louis University
- Master's - Social Work, M.S.W.
Concentration: Applied Behavior Analysis - Campus Based - Website
- 48-credit MSW program
- Three concentration options
- Full-time and part-time formats
- Advanced standing available
- Tuition $30,000-$48,000
- CSWE accredited program
- Multiple delivery formats
- Online and in-person options
- Master's - Social Work, M.S.W.
Concentration: Clinical - Campus Based - Website
- 48-53 total credit hours
- Three concentration options
- Online and in-person formats
- Full-time and part-time tracks
- Advanced standing available
- Tuition $30,000-$48,000
- Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
- Application deadline Aug 1 (fall)
- Master's - Social Work, M.S.W.
Concentration: Community and Organization - Campus Based - Website
- Three concentration options
- Flexible online/in-person formats
- 48-53 total credit hours
- Full-time and part-time tracks
- Advanced standing available
- Tuition: $30,000-$48,000
- CSWE accredited program
- Multiple field practice areas
Washington University in St Louis
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Campus Based - Website
- Top-ranked MSW program
- Full-time and part-time options
- 8 unique concentrations
- Practicum with 400+ organizations
- Real-world learning experiences
- Multidisciplinary collaboration
- Anti-oppression curriculum approach
- Advanced standing available
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Children, Youth & Families - Campus Based - Website
- Nationally ranked MSW program
- Full-time and part-time options
- 8 unique concentrations available
- 400+ organizational affiliations
- Foundation and Concentration Practica
- Anti-oppression curriculum approach
- Evidence-based practice focus
- Annual fall semester admission
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Mental Health - Campus Based - Website
- Top-ranked MSW program
- Full-time and part-time options
- Multiple concentrations available
- 400+ practicum organizations
- Evidence-based curriculum
- Anti-oppression learning approach
- Fall semester annual admission
- Interdisciplinary collaboration
