MSW Programs in Virginia: Online & Campus
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.
2025 Best MSW Programs in Virginia
Looking for the best MSW programs in Virginia? counselingpsychology.org has ranked the top schools to help you decide. Our list focuses on quality, affordability, and student success. Find a program that fits your goals and start your journey in social work today. Learn how we rank schools here.
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 hybrid offering that blends in-person and online learning for flexibility. This CSWE-accredited program spans 60 credit hours over two years, with an option for an extended three-year track. It emphasizes practical experience through partnerships with over 100 field education agencies, focusing on areas like child welfare, mental health, and healthcare. Advanced standing is available for BSW holders, making it an ideal choice for those looking to deepen their expertise in social work without repeating foundational content.
- 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
Focusing on Clinical (Mental Health), Norfolk State University's MSW program offers a hybrid format that combines rigorous academic training with practical field experience. The program is designed to equip students with the skills needed for trauma-informed clinical practice, covering 60 credit hours in two years. With options for advanced standing and a three-year extended track, it caters to a range of student needs. Field education at over 100 agencies ensures graduates are well-prepared for roles in mental health services, supported by CSWE accreditation and expert faculty mentorship.
- 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 MSW program with a concentration in School Social Work prepares students to address the unique challenges within educational settings. This hybrid program offers 60 credit hours of coursework over two years, with advanced standing options for qualified applicants. Students gain hands-on experience through field placements at more than 100 agencies, focusing on interventions that support student well-being and academic success. Accredited by the CSWE, the program is led by experienced faculty dedicated to fostering the next generation of school social workers.
- 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
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 MSW program with a concentration in Children, Youth, and Families is designed for those aiming to make a significant impact in the lives of young individuals and their families. This program stands out for its focus on developing leaders who can advocate for social justice and implement transformative practices. Students are equipped with clinical, organizational, and policy skills to address the unique challenges faced by children and youth. The curriculum is comprehensive, blending theoretical knowledge with practical applications to foster ethical and culturally competent professionals. Highlights include on-campus and online learning options, specialized tracks, and a strong emphasis on empowerment and systems transformation.
- 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
Focusing on Adults and Healthy Aging, George Mason University's MSW program prepares students to address the evolving needs of aging populations. This concentration offers in-depth training in interpersonal skills, research, and communication, tailored to improve the quality of life for adults and the elderly. The program's curriculum is centered around empowerment, ethical practice, and the promotion of social and economic justice. Graduates emerge as skilled professionals ready to lead in various settings, from clinical services to policy advocacy. Key features include flexible on-campus and online formats, a focus on advanced practice skills, and leadership development geared towards making a lasting societal impact.
- On-campus and online options
- Two concentration tracks available
- Empowerment-focused curriculum
- Advanced practice skills training
- Ethical leadership development
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 is set to introduce a groundbreaking Master of Social Work (MSW) program, blending hybrid learning with a curriculum focused on leadership and community engagement. Nestled in the Blue Ridge mountains, the program aims to cultivate skilled social workers through a blend of academic rigor and practical experience. With a focus on CSWE accreditation, it seeks a Program Director with a doctoral degree and at least five years of experience. The program, launching in Fall 2025, promises an inclusive environment for students to thrive and make a significant impact in social work. No GRE Required.
- 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
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 offers a Master of Social Work with a Trauma-Focused Specialization, designed for those aiming to become trauma-informed advanced generalist social workers. This program stands out for its commitment to social justice and anti-racist practices, offering a 51-credit curriculum over two years or an accelerated 24-credit Advanced Standing track for BSW holders. It prepares graduates for micro, mezzo, and macro practice levels, emphasizing research, advocacy, and ethical practice to address social challenges in marginalized communities. The program is nationally accredited, with options for full-time or part-time enrollment, requiring a 3.0 GPA for admission.
- 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) |
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
