Washington State boasts a rich tapestry of educational opportunities, particularly in social work, where its Master of Social Work (MSW) programs stand as pillars of excellence. Aspiring social workers seeking to make a meaningful impact in communities across the Evergreen State are met with a diverse array of MSW programs tailored to various career paths and specializations. From the bustling urban landscapes of Seattle to the serene corners of rural Washington, these programs offer a blend of academic rigor, practical experience, and a commitment to social justice. In this article, we delve into the landscape of MSW programs in Washington, exploring their unique features, esteemed faculties, and the transformative opportunities they offer for those dedicated to advancing the welfare of individuals and society as a whole.

2026 Best MSW Programs in Washington

When it comes to pursuing a Master of Social Work (MSW) in Washington state, aspiring social workers have several outstanding educational paths to consider. CounselingPsychology.org has carefully evaluated and ranked the top MSW programs across the state, taking into account academic rigor, faculty expertise, clinical training opportunities, and student outcomes. Our comprehensive analysis helps prospective students identify the most competitive and supportive graduate programs that will prepare them for meaningful careers in social work. These programs offer diverse specializations, from clinical mental health to community development, ensuring students can find a path that aligns with their professional goals. Learn more about our ranking methodology.
#1

Pacific Lutheran University

Tacoma, WA - Private 4-year - plu.edu

Master's - Master of Social Work

Concentration: Healthcare and Behavioral Health - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Pacific Lutheran University's Healthcare and Behavioral Health MSW program offers a transformative educational experience for aspiring social work professionals. Through a flexible hybrid model, students can choose between a 14-month Advanced Standing or 24-month Regular Standing track. The curriculum uniquely emphasizes anti-racist practices and social justice, providing comprehensive training in clinical skills. With 900 practicum hours and a focus on healthcare dynamics, graduates develop advanced competencies to address complex behavioral health challenges. The program prepares students for diverse professional roles while maintaining a commitment to ethical leadership and systemic change in healthcare settings.

  • Two program entry pathways
  • Low-residency hybrid model
  • 900 hours practicum work
  • Healthcare/behavioral health focus
  • Anti-racist practice emphasis
  • Small cohort model (10-18 students)
  • Licensure preparation tracks
  • Global health perspective option
  • Evening/online course options
  • CSWE accreditation pending

Master's - Master of Social Work

Concentration: Anti-Racist Practices - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Pacific Lutheran University's Anti-Racist Practices MSW program pioneers a progressive approach to social work education. Designed for working professionals, the hybrid learning model offers two entry pathways with remarkable flexibility. Students engage in a curriculum deeply rooted in social justice principles, exploring intersectional perspectives on community intervention. The program's distinctive emphasis on anti-racist methodologies equips graduates with critical skills to challenge systemic inequalities. Through 900 practicum hours and innovative coursework, students develop advanced clinical competencies while cultivating a nuanced understanding of equity-centered social work practice.

  • Two MSW program pathways
  • Hybrid/low-residency model
  • Healthcare and behavioral focus
  • 900 hours practicum required
  • CSWE accreditation pending
  • Anti-racist practice emphasis
  • Small cohort learning
  • Global health perspective
  • Licensure preparation included
  • Late afternoon/evening classes

Master's - Master of Social Work

Concentration: Global Focus on Health and Behavioral Health - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Pacific Lutheran University's Global Health and Behavioral Health MSW program represents an innovative approach to social work education. Blending theoretical knowledge with practical experience, the program offers two dynamic pathways: a 14-month Advanced Standing and a 24-month Regular Standing track. Students benefit from a comprehensive curriculum that integrates global health perspectives, anti-racist practices, and rigorous clinical training. With 900 practicum hours and a commitment to diversity, graduates emerge as skilled professionals prepared to address complex healthcare challenges across international and local contexts, emphasizing ethical leadership and transformative social change.

  • Advanced & Regular Standing pathways
  • Hybrid/low-residency learning model
  • Healthcare and behavioral focus
  • 900 hours practicum required
  • CSWE accreditation pending
  • Small cohort sizes (10-18 students)
  • Global health perspective included
  • Licensure preparation track
  • Late afternoon/evening classes
  • Online and in-person options
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#2

Eastern Washington University

Cheney, WA - Public 4-Year - ewu.edu

Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Eastern Washington University's MSW program offers a comprehensive 90-credit degree designed to cultivate advanced social work practitioners. Delivered through a hybrid model with full and part-time options, the curriculum emphasizes evidence-based interventions, social justice, and generalist practice skills. Students engage in extensive practicum experiences across diverse community settings, ensuring robust professional preparation. The CSWE-accredited program features flexible learning formats in Cheney, Spokane, and Everett, preparing graduates to address complex social challenges with advanced clinical competencies.

  • 90-credit comprehensive MSW program
  • CSWE accredited curriculum
  • Full-time and part-time options
  • Hybrid and in-person delivery
  • Practicum in diverse settings
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
  • Generalist and specialized tracks

Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)

Concentration: Child Welfare - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Specializing in Child Welfare, Eastern Washington University's MSW program provides targeted training for professionals seeking advanced expertise in supporting vulnerable populations. The 90-credit curriculum integrates comprehensive coursework with intensive field practicum experiences, focusing specifically on child welfare intervention strategies. Students develop critical skills in assessment, policy analysis, and evidence-based practice, with opportunities for advanced standing and scholarship support. The program's multi-campus approach and flexible scheduling accommodate working professionals committed to making meaningful impacts in child and family services.

  • 90-credit MSW program
  • Full and part-time options
  • CSWE accredited program
  • Multiple campus locations
  • Practicum field experience
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
  • Advanced Standing available
  • Diverse practice concentration
  • 16-20 hours weekly practicum
  • Scholarship opportunities available

Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)

Concentration: Mental Health - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Eastern Washington University's Mental Health concentration within the MSW program equips students with specialized clinical skills for transformative social work practice. The 90-credit curriculum emphasizes advanced assessment techniques, therapeutic interventions, and systemic approaches to mental health challenges. Featuring CSWE accreditation and flexible learning formats, students gain comprehensive training in clinical reasoning, social justice principles, and ethical practice. The program prepares graduates to become innovative mental health practitioners capable of addressing complex psychological and social dynamics in diverse professional settings.

  • 90-credit comprehensive MSW degree
  • Full-time and part-time formats
  • Multiple campus locations
  • CSWE accredited program
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
  • Practicum field experience
  • Specialized practice concentrations
  • Advanced generalist curriculum
  • Social justice focused training
  • Three program options available
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#3

University of Washington-Tacoma Campus

Tacoma, WA - Public 4-Year - tacoma.uw.edu

Master's - Master of Social Work

Campus Based - Visit Website

University of Washington Tacoma's MSW program delivers a comprehensive social work education emphasizing community-driven practice. CSWE-accredited, the program offers robust field education placements across diverse sectors including healthcare, child welfare, and criminal justice. Students engage in intensive community-focused learning, developing advanced professional skills through hands-on training. The curriculum prepares graduates to address complex social challenges with nuanced, evidence-based interventions. Strategic coursework integrates theoretical knowledge with practical application, enabling students to become transformative social work practitioners equipped to drive meaningful community change. Program highlights include multiple professional tracks and extensive experiential learning opportunities.

  • CSWE Accredited Program
  • Community-Focused Learning
  • Field Education Placements
  • Multiple Professional Tracks
  • South Puget Sound Focus
#4

University of Washington-Seattle Campus

Seattle, WA - Public 4-Year - washington.edu

Master's - Master of Social Work

Campus Based - Visit Website

University of Washington's MSW program offers a robust, nationally recognized curriculum designed for social work professionals seeking transformative educational experiences. With multiple program formats including two-year full-time, one-year advanced-standing, and three-year part-time tracks, students can strategically align their academic journey with career objectives. The comprehensive program emphasizes advanced professional practice training, focusing on culturally diverse and at-risk populations. Students benefit from rigorous academic coursework complemented by extensive field practicum experiences. The program provides specialized tracks in Clinical Social Work, Community-Centered Integrative Practice, and Administrative and Policy Practice, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for complex social service challenges. Prerequisites include human biology and basic statistics, demonstrating the program's commitment to academic rigor and comprehensive social work preparation.

  • Multiple MSW program options
  • Two-year full-time program
  • One-year advanced standing option
  • Three-year part-time extended degree
  • Advanced practice specializations
  • Clinical Social Work track
  • Community-Centered Integrative Practice
  • Administrative and Policy Practice
  • 17-credit advanced practicum
  • Minimum 48-75 total credits
*Source: IPEDS 2023 survey results, NCES, U.S. Department of Education.

MSW Degree Program Requirements/Eligibility in Washington

Washington Traditional MSW Admissions Requirements

If you want to become licensed as a social worker and don’t currently have a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), you’ll need to enroll in one of Washington’s traditional MSW programs. These two-year programs offer a comprehensive curriculum, typically through an average of 60 credits, though Washington’s MSW programs tend to be a bit longer (see more below). You’ll need the following to apply:

  • 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

Washington Advanced-Standing MSW Admissions Requirements

If you already have a BSW and a 3.5 GPA, you can apply for advanced-standing MSW programs. These types of programs allow students to obtain their MSW in as little as one year and have a typical 35-credit courseload. All of the admissions requirements listed above will apply. Below are a few advanced-standing MSW programs available in Washington:

RELATED: Learn more about Social Work Salaries

Washington MSW Program Tuition and Costs

The most significant difference you’ll notice among Washington MSW programs is that they tend to be extensive. Because of the longer programs, the cost tends to be higher. Here are a few tuition cost ranges as reference:

SchoolTuition (per credit hour)Total CreditsTotal Tuition
University of Washinton$621 (Resident)
$1,062 (Non-resident)
75$47,340 (Resident)
$79,722 (Non-resident)
Seattle University$84966$56,034
Eastern Washington University$564 (Resident)
$935 (Non-resident)
90$50,794 (Resident)
$84,129 (Non-resident)

2026 Affordable MSW Program Options

Master of Social Work (MSW) programs offer critical pathways for professionals seeking to make meaningful community impacts across Washington state. Students exploring educational opportunities in major regions like Seattle, Spokane, and Tacoma can find affordable programs designed to support their career goals. Understanding the importance of accessible education, these MSW options help aspiring social workers manage their financial investment while gaining essential skills. The curated selection highlights programs with competitive tuition ranges, ensuring students can pursue advanced social work training without overwhelming financial burden. By comparing program features, prospective students can identify opportunities that balance academic quality with economic considerations.
School NameHighlightsAnnual Estimated Tuition & Fees
Eastern Washington University
  • 90-credit comprehensive MSW degree
  • Full-time and part-time formats
  • Multiple campus locations
  • CSWE accredited program
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
  • Practicum field experience
  • Specialized practice concentrations
  • Advanced generalist curriculum
  • $11,000 - $16,500 (Graduate In-State)
  • $23,300 - $34,900 (Graduate Non-Resident)
Pacific Lutheran University
  • Advanced & Regular Standing pathways
  • Hybrid/low-residency learning model
  • Healthcare and behavioral focus
  • 900 hours practicum required
  • CSWE accreditation pending
  • Small cohort sizes (10-18 students)
  • Global health perspective included
  • Licensure preparation track
  • $26,400 - $39,700 (Graduate)
University of Washington-Tacoma Campus
  • CSWE Accredited Program
  • Community-Focused Learning
  • Field Education Placements
  • Multiple Professional Tracks
  • South Puget Sound Focus
  • $15,000 - $22,600 (Graduate In-State)
  • $26,100 - $39,200 (Graduate Non-Resident)
*Dataset: IPEDS 2023, provided by the National Center for Education Statistics.

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

Both online and campus-based MSW programs offer a high-quality education. Flexibility and convenience are often two words that describe online MSW programs, but for some, there are drawbacks. Take a look at the table below to see if enrolling in an MSW program is the right choice for you.

Traditional MSW vs. Online MSW Programs in Washington

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

One of the most important factors to remember when applying for MSW programs in Washington is accreditation. The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) is the accrediting body for all MSW programs leading to licensure. Look for the CSWE seal on MSW program websites when applying.

Learn more about Social Work Degree options:

Getting Your Washington Social Work License

Social workers in Washington will need to get licensed. Licensing requirements will vary from state to state. To find out the details of Washington’s process, check out 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 Washington

Jump to City:

Cheney, WA

Eastern Washington University

  • Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 90-credit comprehensive MSW program
    • CSWE accredited curriculum
    • Full-time and part-time options
    • Hybrid and in-person delivery
    • Practicum in diverse settings
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
    • Generalist and specialized tracks
  • Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)

    Concentration: Child Welfare - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 90-credit MSW program
    • Full and part-time options
    • CSWE accredited program
    • Multiple campus locations
    • Practicum field experience
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
    • Advanced Standing available
    • Diverse practice concentration
  • Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)

    Concentration: Mental Health - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 90-credit comprehensive MSW degree
    • Full-time and part-time formats
    • Multiple campus locations
    • CSWE accredited program
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
    • Practicum field experience
    • Specialized practice concentrations
    • Advanced generalist curriculum

Seattle, WA

University of Washington-Seattle Campus

  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Campus Based - Website

    • Nationally ranked School of Social Work
    • Multiple MSW program options
    • Two-year full-time program
    • One-year advanced standing option
    • Three-year part-time extended degree
    • Advanced practice specializations
    • Clinical Social Work track
    • Community-Centered Integrative Practice

Tacoma, WA

Pacific Lutheran University

  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Anti-Racist Practices - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Two MSW program pathways
    • Hybrid/low-residency model
    • Healthcare and behavioral focus
    • 900 hours practicum required
    • CSWE accreditation pending
    • Anti-racist practice emphasis
    • Small cohort learning
    • Global health perspective
  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Global Focus on Health and Behavioral Health - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Advanced & Regular Standing pathways
    • Hybrid/low-residency learning model
    • Healthcare and behavioral focus
    • 900 hours practicum required
    • CSWE accreditation pending
    • Small cohort sizes (10-18 students)
    • Global health perspective included
    • Licensure preparation track
  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Healthcare and Behavioral Health - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Two program entry pathways
    • Low-residency hybrid model
    • 900 hours practicum work
    • Healthcare/behavioral health focus
    • Anti-racist practice emphasis
    • Small cohort model (10-18 students)
    • Licensure preparation tracks
    • Global health perspective option

University of Washington-Tacoma Campus

  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Campus Based - Website

    • CSWE Accredited Program
    • Community-Focused Learning
    • Field Education Placements
    • Multiple Professional Tracks
    • South Puget Sound Focus
*Data source: NCES Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System, 2023.

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