Best Online & Affordable MSW Programs in Virginia
Navigating the myriad of Master of Social Work (MSW) programs available in Virginia can be both exciting and overwhelming for prospective students. With a rich array of options across universities in the state, individuals seeking to pursue advanced studies in social work are presented with a diverse landscape of academic offerings, each with its own unique strengths and specialties. Whether aspiring to specialize in clinical practice, policy advocacy, or community development, Virginia’s MSW programs provide a fertile ground for personal and professional growth. In this article, we explore the landscape of MSW programs in Virginia, shedding light on the distinct features, educational philosophies, and opportunities awaiting those embarking on this transformative educational journey.
2026 Best MSW Programs in Virginia
Norfolk State University
Norfolk, VA - Public 4-Year - nsu.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Norfolk State University's Master of Social Work program is a dynamic two-year journey for aspiring social work professionals seeking comprehensive training in social challenges. The hybrid program uniquely balances theoretical knowledge with practical experience, offering students flexible learning through in-person and online formats. With advanced standing options and an extensive network of over 100 local field education agencies, students develop critical skills in advocacy, mediation, and social justice. The curriculum emphasizes versatile professional development across child welfare, mental health, and healthcare sectors, preparing graduates to become impactful change agents in diverse community settings.
- 2-year program, 60 credit hours
- In-person and online formats
- Over 100 field education agencies
- Advanced standing for BSW holders
- CSWE accredited program
- Specialized training areas
- Extended 3-year program option
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Clinical (Mental Health) - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Norfolk State University's Clinical Mental Health MSW concentration provides an intensive professional pathway for students passionate about psychological wellness and therapeutic intervention. This specialized track equips future clinicians with advanced skills in trauma-informed practice, comprehensive assessment, and evidence-based treatment methodologies. Students engage in rigorous coursework covering social welfare policy, clinical practice techniques, and human behavior, complemented by extensive field practicum experiences. The program's flexible two-year format, including advanced standing options, prepares graduates for diverse mental health roles in clinical settings, community organizations, and healthcare systems.
- 2-year full-time program
- 60 total credit hours
- In-person and online formats
- Advanced standing available
- CSWE accredited program
- Over 100 field practicum agencies
- Specialized training options
- Concentrations in child welfare
- Expert faculty mentorship
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: School Social Work - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Norfolk State University's School Social Work MSW concentration prepares dedicated professionals to support educational environments and student well-being. This specialized track focuses on developing comprehensive interventions for diverse student populations, addressing academic, social, and emotional challenges. Students learn advanced strategies for school-based counseling, educational policy analysis, and systemic advocacy. The program combines theoretical foundations with practical field experiences across 100+ local agencies, enabling graduates to become critical support mechanisms within educational institutions. With flexible learning formats and CSWE accreditation, the curriculum ensures comprehensive preparation for impactful school social work practice.
- 2-year program, 60 credit hours
- In-person and online formats
- Advanced standing available
- 100+ field education agencies
- CSWE accredited program
- Specialized training options
- Concentrate in various practice areas
- Experienced, expert faculty
Mary Baldwin University
Staunton, VA - Private 4-year - marybaldwin.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Mary Baldwin University's emerging Master of Social Work program represents an innovative approach to professional social work education. Situated in the Blue Ridge mountains, the program prioritizes comprehensive training with a focus on community engagement and transformative practice. With an anticipated Fall 2025 launch, the curriculum emphasizes leadership development and inclusive academic environments. While seeking its inaugural program director, the university is simultaneously pursuing CSWE accreditation. The hybrid program structure offers flexibility for aspiring social workers, targeting students interested in making meaningful societal impacts through advanced professional training. Potential applicants should note the program's emphasis on doctoral-level faculty and leadership-driven curriculum design.
- Inaugural MSW Program
- Seeking Program Director
- CSWE Accreditation Focus
- Leadership Driven Curriculum
- Doctoral Degree Preferred
- Minimum 5 Years Experience
- Social Work Licensure
- Staunton, Virginia Location
- Inclusive Academic Environment
- Fall 2025 Program Launch
George Mason University
Fairfax, VA - Public 4-Year - www2.gmu.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Children, Youth, and Families - Campus Based - Visit Website
George Mason University's Children, Youth, and Families MSW concentration offers an innovative pathway for social work professionals dedicated to supporting vulnerable populations. Students engage in comprehensive training focused on child welfare systems, family dynamics, and developmental interventions. The program cultivates advanced skills in trauma-informed care, youth advocacy, and family support strategies. Through rigorous coursework and field experiences, students learn to develop targeted interventions addressing complex familial challenges. The curriculum emphasizes culturally responsive practices, evidence-based approaches, and systemic understanding of childhood and adolescent social environments. Graduates emerge as skilled practitioners prepared to make meaningful impacts in child and family service sectors.
- On-campus and online formats
- Specializations in CYF, Aging
- Empowerment and systems focus
- Advanced professional practice
- Social justice leadership training
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Adults and Healthy Aging - Campus Based - Visit Website
George Mason University's Adults and Healthy Aging MSW concentration provides specialized training for social work professionals committed to supporting older adult populations. Students explore comprehensive gerontological perspectives, addressing complex health, social, and psychological needs of aging communities. The program develops advanced skills in elder care management, healthcare navigation, and senior support systems. Coursework integrates theoretical knowledge with practical interventions, emphasizing dignity, autonomy, and quality of life for older adults. Students learn innovative approaches to addressing age-related challenges, including healthcare coordination, mental health support, and community engagement strategies. Graduates are equipped to become compassionate, skilled advocates in geriatric social services.
- On-campus and online options
- Two concentration tracks available
- Empowerment-focused curriculum
- Advanced practice skills training
- Ethical leadership development
Virginia Union University
Richmond, VA - Private 4-year - vuu.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Trauma-Focused Specialization - Campus Based - Visit Website
Virginia Union University's Master of Social Work program delivers an innovative trauma-focused specialization, uniquely positioning students to address complex social challenges. Accredited nationally, the program offers a comprehensive 51-credit curriculum and an accelerated 24-credit Advanced Standing track. Rooted in social justice principles, the program emphasizes anti-racist practices and prepares practitioners for micro, mezzo, and macro interventions. As an HBCU, the university provides a supportive environment for students committed to trauma-informed care and professional excellence. Graduates are equipped to support marginalized communities through advanced generalist training, research skills, and a deep commitment to ethical social work practice.
- Two-year, 51-credit MSW program
- Advanced Standing option available
- Trauma-informed generalist approach
- Nationally accredited curriculum
- Full-time and part-time enrollment
- 3.0 GPA program requirement
- Focuses on social justice advocacy
- Prepares micro, mezzo, macro practitioners
- Ethical practice emphasized
- Professional development focused
MSW Degree Program Requirements/Eligibility in Virginia
Virginia Traditional MSW Admissions Requirements
In most cases, students looking to become social workers must enter a traditional MSW program. These programs take around two years and 60 credits to complete and are usually geared toward individuals who don’t currently have a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW). Here’s what you’ll need to submit along with your application:
- 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
Virginia Advanced-Standing MSW Admissions Requirements
Advanced-standing MSW programs require the same admissions requirements as traditional MSW programs with two exceptions – you need to have a 3.5 GPA and a BSW to enroll. The benefit to these types of programs is that you can graduate in one year instead of two. Here are a few advanced-standing MSW programs available in Virginia:
- Virginia Commonwealth University – visit site
- Radford University – visit site
- George Mason University – visit site
RELATED: Learn more about Social Work Salaries
Virginia MSW Program Tuition and Costs
As the figures below show, Virginia MSW tuition costs are in line with national averages. Typically speaking, you can expect to pay between $26,808 and $38,040 for your total MSW tuition as a resident and $45,000 to $89,160 as a non-resident.
| School | Tuition (per credit hour) | Total Credits | Total Tuition |
| Virginia State University | $634 (Resident) $750 (Non-resident) | 60 | $38,040 (Resident) $45,000 (Non-resident) |
| Virginia Commonwealth University | $447 (Resident) $892 (Non-resident) | 60 | $26,808 (Resident) $53,496 (Non-resident) |
| George Mason University | $572 (Resident) $1,486 (Non-resident) | 60 | $34,320 (Resident) $89,160 (Non-resident) |
2026 Affordable MSW Program Options
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Norfolk State University |
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| Mary Baldwin University |
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| George Mason University |
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Are Online MSW Programs in Virginia as Good as Campus-Based?
There are obvious advantages to online MSW programs, such as the ability to get your education delivered straight to your living room or home office. However, many students are deciding to stick to on-campus programs. No matter which delivery method you choose, you will receive a comprehensive and high-quality social work education. Take a look at the pros and cons of each below.
Traditional MSW vs. Online MSW Programs in Virginia
| 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) is responsible for accrediting all MSW programs in the US. As you apply to these programs, make sure that they’re all accredited by the CSWE, or else you won’t 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 Virginia Social Work License
Licensure is the big draw to MSW programs among those who want to work in the rewarding field of social work. In order to get licensed in Virginia, it’s imperative to understand the state’s requirements, as each state will differ. Find out more 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 Virginia
Fairfax, VA
George Mason University
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Adults and Healthy Aging - Campus Based - Website
- On-campus and online options
- Two concentration tracks available
- Empowerment-focused curriculum
- Advanced practice skills training
- Ethical leadership development
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Children, Youth, and Families - Campus Based - Website
- On-campus and online formats
- Specializations in CYF, Aging
- Empowerment and systems focus
- Advanced professional practice
- Social justice leadership training
Norfolk, VA
Norfolk State University
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 2-year program, 60 credit hours
- In-person and online formats
- Over 100 field education agencies
- Advanced standing for BSW holders
- CSWE accredited program
- Specialized training areas
- Extended 3-year program option
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Clinical (Mental Health) - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 2-year full-time program
- 60 total credit hours
- In-person and online formats
- Advanced standing available
- CSWE accredited program
- Over 100 field practicum agencies
- Specialized training options
- Concentrations in child welfare
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: School Social Work - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 2-year program, 60 credit hours
- In-person and online formats
- Advanced standing available
- 100+ field education agencies
- CSWE accredited program
- Specialized training options
- Concentrate in various practice areas
- Experienced, expert faculty
Richmond, VA
Virginia Union University
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Trauma-Focused Specialization - Campus Based - Website
- Two-year, 51-credit MSW program
- Advanced Standing option available
- Trauma-informed generalist approach
- Nationally accredited curriculum
- Full-time and part-time enrollment
- 3.0 GPA program requirement
- Focuses on social justice advocacy
- Prepares micro, mezzo, macro practitioners
Staunton, VA
Mary Baldwin University
- Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Inaugural MSW Program
- Seeking Program Director
- CSWE Accreditation Focus
- Leadership Driven Curriculum
- Doctoral Degree Preferred
- Minimum 5 Years Experience
- Social Work Licensure
- Staunton, Virginia Location
