Navigating the realm of Master of Social Work (MSW) programs in New Jersey can be a daunting task, especially with the multitude of options available. Aspiring social workers seeking to make a meaningful impact in their communities must carefully weigh factors such as program accreditation, faculty expertise, specialization offerings, and field placement opportunities. In this article, we delve into the landscape of MSW programs across the Garden State, providing insights to aid prospective students in pursuing higher education and fulfilling careers in social work.

2025 Best MSW Programs in New Jersey

Looking for the best MSW programs in New Jersey? CounselingPsychology.org has you covered. Our team carefully reviews each program to help you find the right fit. We consider factors like accreditation, faculty, and student support. Our rankings aim to guide your decision-making process. Whether you're starting your career or advancing it, we highlight top options. Check out our detailed rankings to see which programs stand out. Learn more about how we rank these programs here.

#1

Rutgers University-Camden

Camden, NJ - Public 4-Year - camden.rutgers.edu

Master's - Master of Social Work

Concentration: Clinical Social Work - Campus Based - Visit Website

Rutgers University-Camden's Master of Social Work program, with a concentration in Clinical Social Work, is designed for those aiming to make a significant impact in human services. Accredited by the CSWE, this program offers a rigorous curriculum that prepares students to tackle social injustices and provide clinical services to diverse populations. With options for campus, online, and blended learning formats, students can tailor their education to fit their schedules. The program emphasizes hands-on experience through field placements, ensuring graduates are ready to address the complexities of clinical social work. 'No GRE Required' for admission, making it accessible to a broader range of applicants.

  • CSWE Accredited Program
  • Multiple Program Formats
  • 60 Total Credit Hours
  • Clinical Social Work Concentration
  • Online and Campus Options
  • Two-Four Year Completion
  • Flexible Learning Paths

Master's - Master of Social Work

Concentration: Management and Policy - Campus Based - Visit Website

Focusing on Management and Policy, the Master of Social Work program at Rutgers University-Camden equips future leaders with the skills to influence social welfare systems effectively. This CSWE-accredited program blends theoretical knowledge with practical applications, offering concentrations that cater to diverse career goals. Students benefit from flexible scheduling options, including online and weekend classes, facilitating a balance between studies and professional commitments. The curriculum is designed to foster advanced competencies in policy analysis and organizational leadership, preparing graduates for impactful roles in the social work field. 'No GRE Required' enhances accessibility for aspiring social work professionals.

  • CSWE Accredited Program
  • Multiple Program Formats
  • 60 Total Credit Hours
  • Clinical and Policy Concentrations
  • Flexible Learning Options
  • Three-Year Completion Path
  • Online and Weekend Options
  • Advanced Practice Focus
  • Field Placement Opportunities
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#2

Stockton University

Galloway, NJ - Public 4-Year - stockton.edu

Master's - Master of Social Work

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Stockton University's Master of Social Work (MSW) program is designed to cultivate professionals adept at addressing social injustices and serving diverse populations. This hybrid program blends rigorous academic coursework with practical field experiences, emphasizing social justice and equity. With options for full-time or part-time study, students can tailor their education to fit their schedules. The program boasts a CSWE-accredited curriculum, no GRE requirement, and a focus on preparing graduates for licensure and impactful careers in social work. Highlights include a 60-credit curriculum, advanced standing for qualified applicants, and a deadline for fall admission on March 14.

  • CSWE Accredited Program
  • 60-credit comprehensive curriculum
  • Full-time and part-time options
  • Advanced Standing available
  • Social justice concentration
  • Clinical social work elective track
  • 400-500 practicum hours
  • Fall semester start
  • No GRE required
  • Application deadline: March 14

Master's - Master of Social Work

Concentration: Leadership and Management - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Focusing on Leadership and Management, Stockton University's MSW program equips students with the skills to lead and innovate within social service organizations. This hybrid program combines theoretical knowledge with practical application, preparing graduates for leadership roles that advocate for social justice. It offers flexibility with full-time and part-time paths, advanced standing for BSW holders, and a curriculum accredited by CSWE. Key features include a 60-credit requirement, no GRE for admission, and a focus on developing management competencies alongside traditional social work skills. Applications for the fall semester are due by March 14.

  • 60-credit comprehensive MSW program
  • CSWE accredited program
  • Full-time and part-time options
  • Advanced Standing available
  • Social justice-focused curriculum
  • 400-500 practicum hours
  • Clinical Social Work elective track
  • No GRE required for admission
  • Fall 2025 application deadline: March 14
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement

Master's - Master of Social Work

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

Stockton University's MSW program with a concentration in Clinical Social Work prepares students for advanced practice in therapeutic settings. This hybrid program emphasizes a social justice approach to clinical practice, offering both full-time and part-time study options. Students benefit from a CSWE-accredited curriculum, advanced standing opportunities, and extensive practicum experiences. The program is designed to meet the requirements for LCSW licensure, with no GRE required for admission. Highlights include a 60-credit curriculum, specialized clinical electives, and a deadline for fall applications on March 14. Graduates are equipped to address complex social issues through a clinical lens.

  • 60-credit MSW program
  • Full-time and part-time options
  • Advanced Standing available
  • CSWE accredited program
  • Specialized practice concentration
  • 400-500 practicum hours
  • Clinical social work elective track
  • No GRE required
  • Fall 2025 application deadline: March 14
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
  • Practicum placements in diverse settings
  • Social justice-focused curriculum
  • Prepare for LCSW licensure
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#3

Kean University

Union, NJ - Public 4-Year - kean.edu

Master's - Master of Social Work

Concentration: Direct Clinical Practice - Campus Based - Visit Website

Kean University's Master of Social Work (MSW) program, with a concentration in Direct Clinical Practice, stands out for its rigorous clinical training aimed at fostering ethically responsible and culturally aware social workers. Emphasizing evidence-based practice, the program equips students with the skills to effectively support individuals, families, and groups. A strong focus on social justice and advocacy prepares graduates to tackle societal issues with a comprehensive, inclusive approach. The curriculum is designed around nine core competencies, ensuring a well-rounded education that champions diversity and professional excellence.

  • CSWE Accredited Program
  • Clinical Practice Focus
  • Diversity-Centered Curriculum
  • 9 Core Competency Areas
  • Evidence-Based Practice Training
  • Social Justice Orientation
  • Advocacy Skills Development
#4

Fairleigh Dickinson University-Metropolitan Campus

Teaneck, NJ - Private 4-year - fdu.edu

Master's - Master of Social Work

Online Learning - Visit Website

Fairleigh Dickinson University-Metropolitan Campus offers an online Master of Social Work (MSW) program designed for those aiming to foster social justice and improve community well-being. This CSWE-accredited program stands out for its flexibility, catering to both recent graduates and working professionals through traditional and advanced standing tracks. Students engage in a curriculum rich in practice-informed research and policy advocacy, complemented by 500-900 hours of field experience. The program, requiring a 2.75-3.0 GPA for admission, spans 30-60 credits and can be completed in 18-36 months, preparing graduates for diverse roles in social work without the need for a GRE.

  • Online asynchronous format
  • CSWE accredited program
  • Traditional and advanced tracks
  • 500-900 field experience hours
  • 30-60 total credits
  • 18-36 months completion time
  • Minimum 2.75-3.0 GPA required
  • BSW or liberal arts bachelor's degree
  • Multiple practice settings available
  • Social justice focused curriculum
#5

Rowan University

Glassboro, NJ - Public 4-Year - rowan.edu

Master's - Master of Social Work

Concentration: Mental Health, Equity and Well-being - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Rowan University's Master of Social Work (M.S.W.) program, with a concentration in Mental Health, Equity, and Well-being, is designed for those aiming to make a significant impact in social work. This hybrid program blends online coursework with in-person experiences, requiring 59 credits and 900 hours of field education. It's tailored for both working professionals and recent graduates, offering advanced standing for BSW holders. The curriculum focuses on developing expertise in mental health, emphasizing ethical practice and social justice. Admission criteria include a 3.0 GPA, two recommendation letters, and a statement of objectives. 'Requires GRE' for applicants without a BSW.

  • Full-time 2-3 year program
  • 59 total graduate credits
  • 900 hours field experience
  • Hybrid learning format
  • Mental health specialization
  • Advanced standing available
  • 3.0 minimum undergraduate GPA
  • Fall priority deadline: March 15
  • Two recommendation letters required
  • Virtual screening interview

Master's - Master of Social Work

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The Master of Social Work at Rowan University offers a broad preparation for advanced professional practice, with a particular focus on Mental Health, Equity, and Well-being. This hybrid program requires completion of 59 credits and 900 hours of field education, preparing students for licensure and diverse roles in human services. It emphasizes nine core social work competencies, including ethical practice and community interventions. Open for Fall 2025 enrollment, the program has a priority deadline of March 15, 2025. 'No GRE Required' for applicants meeting specific criteria, making it accessible for a wide range of students.

  • Specialization in Mental Health
  • 900 field education hours
  • 59 minimum credit program
  • Fall 2025 enrollment open
  • Priority deadline March 15, 2025
  • Prepare for LSW/LCSW exams
  • 9 core social work competencies
  • Comprehensive clinical preparation
Show 1 More Programs ˅
*Data derived from the 2023 IPEDS survey conducted by NCES.

MSW Degree Program Requirements/Eligibility in New Jersey

New Jersey Traditional MSW Admissions Requirements

New Jersey MSW programs usually require around 60 total credits and take around two years to complete on a full-time basis. Traditional MSW degree programs are geared toward those who don't already hold a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree. While specific entry requirements vary from school to school, they typically include:

  • 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 Jersey Advanced-Standing MSW Admissions Requirements

An advanced-standing Master of Social Work (MSW) degree is an accelerated program for those with 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 NewJersey include:

RELATED: Learn more about Social Work Salaries

New Jersey MSW Program Tuition and Costs

The average range of tuition costs for a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree in New Jersey is approximately $644 to $809 per credit hour for in-state students and $809 to $1,096 per credit hour for out-of-state students. This can result in total tuition costs ranging from $38,688 to $65,760 or more for the entire program, depending on the school and residency status. Remember that students must also account for additional expenses such as textbooks and computers.

To get an idea of MSW tuition costs in New Jersey, check out some examples below:

SchoolTuition (per credit hour)Total CreditsTotal Tuition
Rutgers University$644 (Resident)
$1,096 (Non-resident)
$1,007 (Online)
60$38,688 (Resident)
$65,760 (Non-resident)
$60,420
Ramapo College$85164$54,464
Montclair State University$809
$905 (International)
60$48,540
$54,300 (International)

Are Online MSW Programs in New Jersey 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. Luckily, both online and campus-based MSW programs offer the same comprehensive curriculum delivered by experienced faculty members, so rest assured that you’ll be getting a quality education either way. Still on the fence? Check out the comparison below for more information.

Traditional MSW vs. Online MSW Programs in New Jersey

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

Whether you choose a campus-based or online MSW program in New Jersey, 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:

Getting Your New Jersey Social Work License

Getting licensed as a social worker in New Jersey 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 Jersey with 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.

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 New Jersey

Jump to City:

Camden, NJ

Rutgers University-Camden

  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Clinical Social Work - Campus Based - Website

    • CSWE Accredited Program
    • Multiple Program Formats
    • 60 Total Credit Hours
    • Clinical Social Work Concentration
    • Online and Campus Options
    • Two-Four Year Completion
    • Flexible Learning Paths
  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Management and Policy - Campus Based - Website

    • CSWE Accredited Program
    • Multiple Program Formats
    • 60 Total Credit Hours
    • Clinical and Policy Concentrations
    • Flexible Learning Options
    • Three-Year Completion Path
    • Online and Weekend Options
    • Advanced Practice Focus

Galloway, NJ

Stockton University

  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • CSWE Accredited Program
    • 60-credit comprehensive curriculum
    • Full-time and part-time options
    • Advanced Standing available
    • Social justice concentration
    • Clinical social work elective track
    • 400-500 practicum hours
    • Fall semester start
  • Master's - Master of Social Work

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

    • 60-credit MSW program
    • Full-time and part-time options
    • Advanced Standing available
    • CSWE accredited program
    • Specialized practice concentration
    • 400-500 practicum hours
    • Clinical social work elective track
    • No GRE required
  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Leadership and Management - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 60-credit comprehensive MSW program
    • CSWE accredited program
    • Full-time and part-time options
    • Advanced Standing available
    • Social justice-focused curriculum
    • 400-500 practicum hours
    • Clinical Social Work elective track
    • No GRE required for admission

Glassboro, NJ

Rowan University

  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Specialization in Mental Health
    • 900 field education hours
    • 59 minimum credit program
    • Fall 2025 enrollment open
    • Priority deadline March 15, 2025
    • Prepare for LSW/LCSW exams
    • 9 core social work competencies
    • Comprehensive clinical preparation
  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Mental Health, Equity and Well-being - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Full-time 2-3 year program
    • 59 total graduate credits
    • 900 hours field experience
    • Hybrid learning format
    • Mental health specialization
    • Advanced standing available
    • 3.0 minimum undergraduate GPA
    • Fall priority deadline: March 15

Madison, NJ

Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus

  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online, asynchronous format
    • CSWE accredited program
    • Two program tracks available
    • 500-900 field experience hours
    • Traditional track: 60 credits
    • Advanced standing: 30 credits
    • Minimum 2.75-3.0 GPA required
    • 18-36 month completion time

Teaneck, NJ

Fairleigh Dickinson University-Metropolitan Campus

  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online asynchronous format
    • CSWE accredited program
    • Traditional and advanced tracks
    • 500-900 field experience hours
    • 30-60 total credits
    • 18-36 months completion time
    • Minimum 2.75-3.0 GPA required
    • BSW or liberal arts bachelor's degree

Union, NJ

Kean University

  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Direct Clinical Practice - Campus Based - Website

    • CSWE Accredited Program
    • Clinical Practice Focus
    • Diversity-Centered Curriculum
    • 9 Core Competency Areas
    • Evidence-Based Practice Training
    • Social Justice Orientation
    • Advocacy Skills Development
*Citation: National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2023. Available at: https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

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