As the demand for skilled professionals in social work continues to rise, prospective students are increasingly turning their attention to Master of Social Work (MSW) programs in Oregon. Nestled in the picturesque Pacific Northwest, Oregon offers a diverse array of MSW programs tailored to meet the evolving needs of individuals passionate about making a positive impact on society. From urban hubs to rural communities, these programs are designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and practical experiences necessary to address complex social issues and advocate for marginalized populations. In this article, we delve into the landscape of MSW programs in Oregon, exploring their unique features, academic offerings, and the enriching opportunities they provide for aspiring social workers.

2026 Best MSW Programs in Oregon

Counseling Psychology is proud to present our comprehensive rankings of the Best MSW Programs in Oregon, designed to help aspiring social workers find their ideal educational path. Our team has carefully evaluated each program based on academic rigor, student outcomes, faculty expertise, and clinical training opportunities. Oregon offers exceptional Master of Social Work programs that prepare students for impactful careers in mental health, community services, and clinical practice. Whether you're seeking urban or rural program options, our rankings consider factors like affordability, research opportunities, and professional networking potential. We understand that choosing the right MSW program is a critical decision for your professional future. Our goal is to provide transparent, data-driven insights to support your educational journey. Learn more about our ranking methodology.
#1

Pacific University

Forest Grove, OR - Private 4-year - pacificu.edu

Master's - Master of Social Work

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Pacific University's Master of Social Work offers a transformative educational experience centered on social justice and trauma-informed practice. The hybrid program prepares culturally competent practitioners through innovative coursework and diverse field experiences. Students can engage in both rural and urban settings, developing advanced skills to serve marginalized populations. With CSWE accreditation and individualized mentorship, the program emphasizes scientific inquiry and anti-oppressive practices. Advanced standing options provide flexibility for BSW graduates seeking to accelerate their professional development and create meaningful social change.

  • Advanced practice social work degree
  • Individualized professor mentoring
  • Focuses on social justice
  • Rural and urban practice opportunities
  • Advanced Standing option for BSW graduates
  • CSWE accredited program
  • Trauma-informed practitioner preparation

Master's - Master of Social Work

Concentration: Advanced Standing - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Pacific University's Advanced Standing MSW track provides a streamlined pathway for BSW graduates to accelerate their social work education. This specialized program offers guaranteed admission for qualified candidates, requiring a minimum 3.0 GPA. The CSWE-accredited track enables students to apply during their junior year, facilitating seamless academic progression. Designed for professionals seeking rapid credential advancement, the program combines rigorous academic preparation with extensive professional development opportunities, ensuring graduates are equipped to make immediate impacts in diverse social service environments.

  • CSWE-accredited MSW program
  • Two-year and advanced standing tracks
  • Guaranteed grad school admission
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
  • Apply during junior year
  • Professional preparation focus
  • Dual admission program available

Master's - Master of Social Work

Concentration: Generalist - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Pacific University's Generalist MSW program delivers a comprehensive 64-credit curriculum preparing social work professionals for dynamic practice environments. Offering flexible full and part-time options, the program supports students through online and on-campus learning experiences. International travel courses and embedded fieldwork provide rich, immersive learning opportunities. With tuition assistance grants and state workforce development support, students can access affordable education. The program serves Oregon and southwest Washington, emphasizing practical skills, community engagement, and professional readiness across diverse social service settings.

  • 64-credit generalist curriculum
  • CSWE-accredited program since 2014
  • Forest Grove campus location
  • Online class options available
  • International travel course opportunities
  • Advanced standing track available
  • Two-year full-time or part-time options
  • Fieldwork experiences embedded
  • Tuition assistance grants
  • Serves Oregon and southwest Washington
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#2

George Fox University

Newberg, OR - Private 4-year - georgefox.edu

Master's - Master of Social Work

Campus Based - Visit Website

George Fox University's MSW program cultivates compassionate social justice advocates through a dynamic curriculum blending theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Offering traditional and advanced standing tracks, the program provides comprehensive training in micro, mezzo, and macro social work practices. With a stellar 90.5% clinical licensure exam pass rate, students engage in culturally informed interventions and research-driven methodologies. The flexible online format accommodates working professionals and recent graduates, emphasizing spiritual integration and community impact. CSWE-accredited and designed with 62 credit hours, the program prepares students for diverse professional settings while maintaining a small, intimate learning environment.

  • CSWE-accredited program
  • Traditional and Advanced Standing options
  • Online with in-person practicum
  • 2-4 years program length
  • 62 credit hours traditional track
  • 32 credit hours advanced standing
  • Per semester credit hour: $794
  • Total program cost: $49,228
  • Advanced Standing cost: $25,408
  • Optional School Social Work Licensure

Master's - Master of Social Work

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

Specializing in School Social Work, George Fox University's MSW concentration prepares professionals to address complex mental health challenges within educational environments. The hybrid-online program offers a targeted curriculum focusing on multicultural understanding, systemic perspectives, and social-emotional interventions. Students gain practical expertise meeting Oregon licensure requirements through comprehensive training. With a flexible 8-15 month format, the program provides over 400 practicum hours, enabling graduates to develop critical skills for supporting student well-being. CSWE-accredited and strategically designed, this concentration equips social workers to create meaningful transformations in school settings.

  • CSWE Accredited Program
  • 8-15 Month Duration
  • $794 per Credit Hour
  • Hybrid-Online Format
  • School Social Work Licensure
  • 400+ Hours Practicum Experience
  • Portland Center Location
  • Online Courses Starting Fall 2025
  • Two Program Paths Available
  • Integrated MSW Option

Master's - Master of Social Work Advanced Standing

Campus Based - Visit Website

George Fox University's Advanced Standing MSW program accelerates professional development for BSW graduates seeking rapid career progression. Completed in 8-20 months, this streamlined pathway demands a minimum 3.0 GPA and professional references. The curriculum emphasizes practical skills, welcoming both recent graduates and experienced practitioners. Designed for motivated social work professionals, the program provides comprehensive education with international student accessibility. CSWE-accredited and strategically structured, this advanced track offers an efficient route to advanced social work credentials, preparing students for complex practice environments through intensive, focused training.

  • Advanced Standing MSW Program
  • 8-20 months completion time
  • CSWE accredited program
  • 3.0 minimum GPA required
  • BSW degree prerequisite
  • International students welcome
  • Professional reference needed
  • Field experience evaluation
  • Portland Center location
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#3

Portland State University

Portland, OR - Public 4-Year - pdx.edu

Master's - Master of Social Work

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Portland State University's Eugene Option MSW program offers a robust three-year hybrid learning experience targeting aspiring social work professionals. With an Advanced Clinical Practice concentration, students engage in comprehensive training across 78 total credits, blending generalist foundations and advanced coursework. The innovative curriculum emphasizes hands-on skill development through extensive two-year community practicums, enabling students to gain practical experience while exploring critical social justice perspectives. Designed for working professionals, the program provides flexible learning formats combining synchronous and asynchronous online and in-person instruction, preparing graduates for diverse mental health and clinical social work environments.

  • Three-year hybrid MSW program
  • Advanced Clinical Practice concentration
  • 78 total program credits
  • Flexible in-person/online learning
  • Two-year community-based practicum
  • Next cohort begins fall 2025
  • Located in downtown Eugene
  • Serves multiple Oregon counties

Master's - Master of Social Work

Online Learning - Visit Website

Portland State University's MSW program delivers a transformative educational experience for future social work leaders, offering multiple learning pathways including fully online and campus-based formats. Recognized as a top-tier program, it emphasizes social justice, community engagement, and practical skill development. Students benefit from extensive community service opportunities, with over 280,000 service hours logged historically. The curriculum integrates racial equity perspectives and provides substantial scholarship support, totaling $250,000 annually. Flexible learning options accommodate professionals seeking advanced social work training, with comprehensive field education experiences across diverse community agencies.

  • Online and campus options
  • #1 Online MSW Macro Degree
  • Top 12% Social Work Schools
  • 280,000 community service hours
  • $250,000 annual scholarships
  • Racial equity focused curriculum
  • Multiple campus locations
  • Field education opportunities
  • Flexible learning formats

Master's - Master of Social Work

Campus Based - Visit Website

Located in downtown Eugene, Portland State University's MSW program provides a comprehensive three-year hybrid learning model focused on Advanced Clinical Practice. Students benefit from a carefully designed 78-credit curriculum that balances theoretical knowledge with practical skills. The program's innovative approach includes two-year community agency practicums, enabling deep experiential learning. Featuring synchronous and asynchronous course formats with Friday availability, the program serves multiple Oregon counties. Graduates emerge prepared for diverse mental health and social service roles, equipped with advanced clinical techniques and a strong commitment to community-centered practice.

  • Three-year hybrid MSW program
  • Advanced Clinical Practice concentration
  • Downtown Eugene location
  • 78 total credit program
  • Two-year practicum experience
  • Synchronous and asynchronous courses
  • Next cohort begins fall 2025
  • Course availability on Fridays
  • Serves multiple Oregon counties
Show 2 More Programs ˅
*IPEDS 2023 data, National Center for Education Statistics, U.S. Department of Education.

MSW Degree Program Requirements/Eligibility in Oregon

Oregon Traditional MSW Admissions Requirements

Unless you have already completed a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree program, you’ll need to enroll in a traditional MSW program to get licensed. To graduate, you must finish 60 credits and commit two years to your education. To apply, collect the following:

  • 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

Oregon Advanced-Standing MSW Admissions Requirements

Students with a BSW can enter into a fast-tracked MSW program as long as they have a GPA of 3.5 or higher; all of the same admissions requirements above still stand. Here are a few advanced-standing MSW programs available in Oregon:

RELATED: Learn more about Social Work Salaries

Oregon MSW Program Tuition and Costs

As you can see, Oregon MSW programs aren’t particularly affordable compared to the rest of the country, but they are fairly consistent in their costs. To get a better idea, here are a few of the state’s MSW programs and their respective costs. Keep in mind that there are often lots of hidden expenses involved with the cost of your education, such as room and board and assorted fees.

SchoolTuition (per credit hour)Total CreditsTotal Tuition
Pacific University$85464$54,592
Portland State University$528 (Resident)
$755 (Non-resident)
78$41,128 (Resident)
$58,890 (Non-resident)
George Fox University$79462$49,228

2026 Affordable MSW Program Options

Pursuing a Master of Social Work (MSW) in Oregon offers students diverse opportunities to advance their careers in social services. With a focus on making education accessible, several schools in Portland, Eugene, and Salem provide affordable programs that help students achieve their professional goals without overwhelming financial burden. These programs understand the importance of keeping tuition costs manageable, allowing passionate social work students to invest in their future without accumulating massive student debt. By offering economical options, these institutions support individuals committed to making meaningful contributions to community welfare and social justice, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder talented students from pursuing their advanced degrees.
School NameHighlightsAnnual Estimated Tuition & Fees
George Fox University
  • Advanced Standing MSW Program
  • 8-20 months completion time
  • CSWE accredited program
  • 3.0 minimum GPA required
  • BSW degree prerequisite
  • International students welcome
  • Professional reference needed
  • Field experience evaluation
  • $13,000 - $19,400 (Graduate)
Pacific University
  • 64-credit generalist curriculum
  • CSWE-accredited program since 2014
  • Forest Grove campus location
  • Online class options available
  • International travel course opportunities
  • Advanced standing track available
  • Two-year full-time or part-time options
  • Fieldwork experiences embedded
  • $30,200 - $45,400 (Graduate)
Portland State University
  • Three-year hybrid MSW program
  • Advanced Clinical Practice concentration
  • Downtown Eugene location
  • 78 total credit program
  • Two-year practicum experience
  • Synchronous and asynchronous courses
  • Next cohort begins fall 2025
  • Course availability on Fridays
  • $13,800 - $20,600 (Graduate In-State)
  • $19,800 - $29,600 (Graduate Non-Resident)
*Dataset: IPEDS 2023, provided by the National Center for Education Statistics.

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

Online MSW programs are great for those who have busy schedules and don’t have time to commute to classes. But for some, in-person courses and access to on-campus resources are important. Either choice will provide the same rigorous coursework delivered by respected faculty. Take a look at the full range of benefits (and drawbacks) of online MSW programs here:

Traditional MSW vs. Online MSW Programs in Oregon

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

To become licensed in Oregon, you must ensure that the program you enroll in is accredited. The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) is responsible for accrediting all MSW programs in the US. Look for their seal on all program websites, and contact the school’s program director if you have any questions about accreditation.

Learn more about Social Work Degree options:

Getting Your Oregon Social Work License

The final step to becoming a social worker is to get licensed. Each state has different requirements for state licensure. Learn about what you’ll need to get licensed in Oregon 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 Oregon

Jump to City:

Forest Grove, OR

Pacific University

  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Advanced practice social work degree
    • Individualized professor mentoring
    • Focuses on social justice
    • Rural and urban practice opportunities
    • Advanced Standing option for BSW graduates
    • CSWE accredited program
    • Trauma-informed practitioner preparation
  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Advanced Standing - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • CSWE-accredited MSW program
    • Two-year and advanced standing tracks
    • Guaranteed grad school admission
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
    • Apply during junior year
    • Professional preparation focus
    • Dual admission program available
  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Generalist - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 64-credit generalist curriculum
    • CSWE-accredited program since 2014
    • Forest Grove campus location
    • Online class options available
    • International travel course opportunities
    • Advanced standing track available
    • Two-year full-time or part-time options
    • Fieldwork experiences embedded

Newberg, OR

George Fox University

  • Master's - Master of Social Work Advanced Standing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Advanced Standing MSW Program
    • 8-20 months completion time
    • CSWE accredited program
    • 3.0 minimum GPA required
    • BSW degree prerequisite
    • International students welcome
    • Professional reference needed
    • Field experience evaluation
  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Campus Based - Website

    • CSWE-accredited program
    • Traditional and Advanced Standing options
    • Online with in-person practicum
    • 2-4 years program length
    • 62 credit hours traditional track
    • 32 credit hours advanced standing
    • Per semester credit hour: $794
    • Total program cost: $49,228
  • Master's - Master of Social Work

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

    • CSWE Accredited Program
    • 8-15 Month Duration
    • $794 per Credit Hour
    • Hybrid-Online Format
    • School Social Work Licensure
    • 400+ Hours Practicum Experience
    • Portland Center Location
    • Online Courses Starting Fall 2025

Portland, OR

Portland State University

  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Campus Based - Website

    • Three-year hybrid MSW program
    • Advanced Clinical Practice concentration
    • Downtown Eugene location
    • 78 total credit program
    • Two-year practicum experience
    • Synchronous and asynchronous courses
    • Next cohort begins fall 2025
    • Course availability on Fridays
  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Three-year hybrid MSW program
    • Advanced Clinical Practice concentration
    • 78 total program credits
    • Flexible in-person/online learning
    • Two-year community-based practicum
    • Next cohort begins fall 2025
    • Located in downtown Eugene
    • Serves multiple Oregon counties
  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online and campus options
    • #1 Online MSW Macro Degree
    • Top 12% Social Work Schools
    • 280,000 community service hours
    • $250,000 annual scholarships
    • Racial equity focused curriculum
    • Multiple campus locations
    • Field education opportunities
*Data sourced from: NCES IPEDS survey, 2023. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

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