Best Online & Affordable MSW Programs in New Hampshire
As the demand for skilled professionals in the field of social work continues to rise, Master of Social Work (MSW) programs in New Hampshire are playing a crucial role in shaping the next generation of compassionate and knowledgeable practitioners.
Nestled in the heart of New England, New Hampshire offers a unique blend of urban and rural communities, presenting diverse challenges and opportunities for social work intervention. With a commitment to excellence in education and a focus on practical experience, MSW programs in the Granite State are equipping students with the tools and expertise needed to address the complex social issues facing individuals, families, and communities across the region.
2026 Best MSW Programs in New Hampshire
Colby-Sawyer College
New London, NH - Private 4-year - colby-sawyer.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Colby-Sawyer College's Master of Social Work program offers a transformative hybrid online curriculum designed for aspiring social work professionals. Students complete 900 clinical hours while developing advanced therapeutic skills through a flexible 24-month standard track or a 12-month advanced standing option for BSW graduates. The program emphasizes practical experience, strategic licensure preparation, and ethical practice aligned with NASW Code of Ethics. With a partnership with Dartmouth Health and diverse fieldwork placement opportunities, students gain comprehensive training in mental health counseling, child treatment, and public policy interventions. The program maintains a minimum 3.0 GPA requirement and is currently in CSWE Candidacy, ensuring high-quality social work education.
- Hybrid online curriculum
- 900 clinical practicum hours
- 24-month standard track
- 12-month advanced standing option
- NASW Code of Ethics focused
- Diverse fieldwork placement settings
- Dartmouth Health partnership
- Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
- Currently in CSWE Candidacy
University of New Hampshire College of Professional Studies Online
Manchester, NH - Public 4-Year - cps.unh.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Online Learning - Visit Website
University of New Hampshire's online Master of Social Work program offers a comprehensive and flexible pathway for aspiring social work professionals. CSWE-accredited with no campus visit requirements, the 62-credit program accommodates full-time and part-time students seeking advanced generalist practice skills. Students explore diverse specializations including health, mental health, child welfare, and disabilities through two substantive field internships. The curriculum emphasizes social justice, professional empowerment, and practical experience, preparing graduates for multifaceted social work roles in clinical practice, community advocacy, and social service sectors. Military-friendly and designed for working professionals, the program provides adaptable learning options.
- CSWE-accredited MSW program
- Online and campus options
- 62 total credit hours
- Multiple practice specializations
- Two field internships
- Advanced generalist practice focus
- Full-time and part-time tracks
- No campus visits required online
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Health and Mental Health - Online Learning - Visit Website
University of New Hampshire's MSW program with a Health and Mental Health concentration provides specialized training for social work professionals targeting critical healthcare domains. This CSWE-accredited online degree prepares students for advanced practice in medical settings, public health administration, and mental health counseling. Through intensive internships with local community agencies, students develop practical expertise in healthcare, education, substance abuse intervention, and community welfare. The program offers flexible full-time and part-time tracks, enabling working professionals to enhance their clinical skills while maintaining current employment. Graduates emerge as competent, compassionate social workers ready to address complex health-related social challenges.
- CSWE-accredited MSW program
- Online and campus options
- Health and mental health concentration
- Two internship placements
- Multiple specialization tracks
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Addictions and Substance Abuse - Online Learning - Visit Website
University of New Hampshire's Master of Social Work program featuring an Addictions and Substance Abuse concentration equips professionals with advanced skills in addressing critical social health challenges. The 62-credit CSWE-accredited curriculum combines rigorous classroom learning with hands-on field internships, emphasizing ethical practice and community engagement. Students develop specialized expertise in substance abuse intervention, health services, and mental health support. Designed for working professionals, the program offers online and on-campus options with full and part-time pathways. Graduates are prepared to become licensed clinical social workers with strong foundations in social justice and comprehensive understanding of addiction treatment strategies.
- CSWE-accredited MSW program
- Online and campus options
- 62 total credit hours
- Specialization in Addictions
- Two field internships
- Full and part-time paths
- Advanced generalist practice focus
University of New Hampshire at Manchester
Manchester, NH - Public 4-Year - manchester.unh.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work (M.S.W.)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of New Hampshire's Master of Social Work (M.S.W.) program distinguishes itself through a comprehensive approach to social work education that prioritizes practical experience and social justice. The CSWE-accredited hybrid program offers remarkable flexibility with full-time, part-time, and online formats, accommodating diverse student needs. Students can explore specialized practice areas including health, mental health, addictions, and child welfare, with internships ranging from 16-24 hours weekly in community settings. Advanced standing opportunities exist for BSW graduates, and the program strategically prepares students for licensed clinical social worker roles. With an emphasis on anti-oppressive practices and equity-centered learning, graduates emerge as transformative professionals ready to address complex social challenges.
- CSWE-accredited graduate program
- Hybrid and online learning options
- Specialized practice areas available
- Two-year traditional or 28-month online format
- Advanced standing for BSW graduates
- Comprehensive field internship experience
- Focus on social justice and equity
- Prepares for licensed clinical social worker
- Multiple specialization tracks
MSW Degree Program Requirements/Eligibility in New Hampshire
New Hampshire Traditional MSW Admissions Requirements
To get your MSW, you’ll likely need to enroll in a traditional MSW program versus an advanced standing MSW program. These types of programs are geared toward students who don’t already have a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree. You’ll need to commit two years and complete 60 credits, as well as fulfill 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
New Hampshire Advanced-Standing MSW Admissions Requirements
If you have a GPA of 3.5 or higher and a BSW degree, consider applying to an advanced-standing MSW program, which allows students to complete their MSW in only a year. Currently, New Hampshire only has one advanced-standing MSW program at the University of New Hampshire. To apply, you’ll need to fulfill the same admissions requirements as the standard MSW (with the addition of a BSW and minimum GPA, as stated above).
RELATED: Learn more about Social Work Salaries
2026 Affordable MSW Program Options
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| University of New Hampshire College of Professional Studies Online |
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| Colby-Sawyer College |
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| University of New Hampshire at Manchester |
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Are Online MSW Programs in New Hampshire as Good as Campus-Based?
Online MSW programs are a popular choice nowadays, but they aren’t for everyone. While some prefer the flexibility of online programs, others prefer face-to-face interaction. Below is the full list of pros and cons.
Traditional MSW vs. Online MSW Programs in New Hampshire
| 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 |
The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) oversees all accreditation for MSW programs in New Hampshire and the rest of the country. Look for their approval in any program you apply to, otherwise you will not be eligible for licensure.
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 New Hampshire Social Work License
Getting licensed as a social worker in New Hampshire 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 New Hampshire in our Social Work Licensing 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.
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 New Hampshire
Manchester, NH
University of New Hampshire College of Professional Studies Online
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Online Learning - Website
- CSWE-accredited MSW program
- Online and campus options
- 62 total credit hours
- Multiple practice specializations
- Two field internships
- Advanced generalist practice focus
- Full-time and part-time tracks
- No campus visits required online
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Addictions and Substance Abuse - Online Learning - Website
- CSWE-accredited MSW program
- Online and campus options
- 62 total credit hours
- Specialization in Addictions
- Two field internships
- Full and part-time paths
- Advanced generalist practice focus
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Health and Mental Health - Online Learning - Website
- CSWE-accredited MSW program
- Online and campus options
- Health and mental health concentration
- Two internship placements
- Multiple specialization tracks
University of New Hampshire at Manchester
- Master's - Master of Social Work (M.S.W.)
Online & Campus Based - Website
- CSWE-accredited graduate program
- Hybrid and online learning options
- Specialized practice areas available
- Two-year traditional or 28-month online format
- Advanced standing for BSW graduates
- Comprehensive field internship experience
- Focus on social justice and equity
- Prepares for licensed clinical social worker
New London, NH
Colby-Sawyer College
- Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)
Online Learning - Website
- Hybrid online curriculum
- 900 clinical practicum hours
- 24-month standard track
- 12-month advanced standing option
- NASW Code of Ethics focused
- Diverse fieldwork placement settings
- Dartmouth Health partnership
- Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
