Best Online & Affordable MSW Programs in Wisconsin
In the heart of the Midwest, Wisconsin stands as a beacon of academic excellence, particularly in the realm of social work education. With its vibrant communities and commitment to social welfare, the state boasts a rich tapestry of Master of Social Work (MSW) programs designed to equip aspiring social workers with the skills and knowledge needed to tackle the complex challenges of today’s society.
From urban centers to rural landscapes, Wisconsin’s MSW programs offer a diverse array of specialized tracks and experiential learning opportunities. They nurture compassionate professionals poised to make a meaningful difference in individuals’ and communities’ lives. In this article, we delve into the landscape of MSW programs in Wisconsin, exploring their unique features, academic rigor, and invaluable contributions to the field of social work both locally and beyond.
2026 Best MSW Programs in Wisconsin
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
Milwaukee, WI - Public 4-Year - uwm.edu
Master's - Social Work MSW
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee's MSW program offers a comprehensive pathway for aspiring social work professionals seeking to create meaningful societal change. With a curriculum emphasizing innovative practice and social justice, students can explore specialized tracks including behavioral health, child welfare, and trauma-informed care. The program distinguishes itself by offering flexible learning options—both traditional and advanced standing tracks—and maintaining a competitive admission process. Notably, no GRE is required, making the program accessible to diverse candidates. CSWE-accredited and supporting multiple concentration areas, this MSW prepares graduates to address complex human service challenges with advanced clinical skills and a commitment to social equity.
- Online and on-campus MSW options
- Application deadline: April 15, 2025
- No GRE required for admission
- 2.75 GPA minimum requirement
- Advanced standing for BSW holders
- CSWE accredited program
- Multiple concentration areas
- School social work certification
- Substance abuse counseling track
- Fall semester admission only
Master's - Online Master of Social Work MSW
Online Learning - Visit Website
UW-Milwaukee's online MSW program provides a flexible, professionally-oriented pathway for working social service professionals. Designed with two distinct tracks—Advanced Standing for BSW graduates and Foundation for those with varied undergraduate backgrounds—the program enables students to complete coursework asynchronously while meeting Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) credentialing requirements. With a competitive per-credit cost of $675 and total program expenses ranging from $24,300 to $40,500, the program offers an economical route to advanced social work education. CSWE-accredited and requiring no GRE, this online MSW prioritizes accessibility and professional development.
- Online part-time MSW program
- Two program tracks available
- $675 per credit cost
- Advanced Standing: 36 credits
- Foundation Track: 60 credits
- CSWE accredited program
- No GRE required
- 2.75 minimum GPA
- Application deadline: April 15, 2025
- Limited to Wisconsin, bordering areas
Master's - Social Work MSW
Concentration: Child and Family Well-being - Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee's MSW program in Child and Family Well-being prepares advanced practitioners to drive transformative social change through specialized training. Focusing on child welfare and family systems, this concentration equips students with comprehensive skills to address complex familial challenges. The program offers remarkable flexibility, including on-campus and online formats, and provides advanced standing for BSW graduates. With no GRE/MAT requirement and a competitive 2.75 GPA threshold, the program welcomes diverse candidates passionate about supporting children and families. CSWE-accredited and offering specialized certifications, this track develops nuanced, evidence-based intervention strategies.
- On-campus and online MSW formats
- Advanced standing for BSW graduates
- Multiple concentration options
- No GRE/MAT required
- CSWE accredited program
- Fall semester admissions only
- Application opens October 1
- Application deadline April 15
- Minimum 2.75 undergraduate GPA
- Specialized certifications available
Master's - Social Work MSW
Concentration: Behavioral and Mental Health - Campus Based - Visit Website
UW-Milwaukee's MSW program in Behavioral and Mental Health delivers rigorous training for social work professionals targeting psychological wellness. This concentration provides robust preparation in evidence-based interventions, trauma-informed care, and comprehensive mental health strategies. Students explore advanced clinical techniques across diverse ecological contexts, supported by experienced faculty and cutting-edge research. The program's flexible format—available on-campus and online—accommodates varied learning preferences, with advanced standing options reducing program duration. Requiring no GRE and maintaining a 2.75 GPA minimum, the program prioritizes accessibility while maintaining high academic standards.
- On-campus and online MSW formats
- Advanced standing track available
- Multiple practice concentration options
- No GRE required for admission
- Fall semester admission only
- 2.75 undergraduate GPA minimum
- Application deadline April 15
- CSWE accredited program
- 34 credits for advanced standing
- Optional graduate certificates
Master's - Social Work MSW
Concentration: Gerontology - Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee's Gerontology MSW concentration offers specialized training for social work professionals dedicated to serving aging populations. This innovative program prepares students to address complex challenges facing older adults through comprehensive, compassionate approaches. Students develop advanced skills in elder care, policy development, and systemic interventions supporting senior community members. With no GRE/MAT requirement and flexible learning formats, the program welcomes diverse candidates committed to gerontological social work. CSWE-accredited and offering field placement opportunities, this concentration equips graduates with the expertise to create meaningful support systems and advocate for elderly populations' unique needs.
- Online and on-campus MSW options
- Advanced standing available
- No GRE/MAT required
- Fall semester start only
- Application deadline: April 15
- Minimum 2.75 GPA required
- CSWE accredited program
- Multiple specialization tracks
- Field placement included
- Certification options available
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, WI - Public 4-Year - wisc.edu
Master's - Full-Time Master of Social Work
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Wisconsin-Madison's Full-Time Master of Social Work program offers a comprehensive two-year educational journey preparing professionals for transformative social work practice. With CSWE accreditation, students explore diverse concentrations including Aging, Child Welfare, Health, and Mental Health. The curriculum emphasizes generalist and advanced practice approaches, integrating social justice frameworks and robust field education experiences. Advanced standing opportunities exist for BSW graduates, potentially reducing program duration. Students benefit from extensive agency partnerships, providing practical learning across over 100 field education sites. Optional dual degree options and specialized elective courses enhance students' professional development and interdisciplinary perspectives.
- Two-year full-time MSW program
- CSWE accredited program
- Four focus area options
- Advanced standing available
- Over 100 field education agencies
- Generalist and advanced practice years
- Optional dual/double degrees
- Direct and indirect practice emphasis
- Social justice framework
- Specialized elective courses
Master's - Part-Time Master of Social Work
Concentration: Child, Youth, and Family Welfare - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
UW-Madison's Part-Time Master of Social Work with a Child, Youth, and Family Welfare concentration provides a flexible hybrid learning model designed for working professionals. The four-year Saturday-based program delivers comprehensive social work training, emphasizing practical skills in child welfare systems. With 49 total graduate credits at $800 per credit, students explore advanced practice methodologies, policy analysis, and research techniques. The program requires a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA and includes an integrated field internship. Graduates can anticipate competitive career opportunities with an estimated market salary of $59,000, positioned to drive meaningful social change in child welfare and related service sectors.
- Part-time Saturday hybrid format
- Two focus area options
- 49 graduate credits total
- $800 per credit tuition
- Fall term admission
- Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
- Field internship included
- 4-year program duration
- Licensure requirement potential
Master's - Part-Time Master of Social Work
Concentration: Mental Health - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Part-Time Master of Social Work program at UW-Madison focusing on Mental Health delivers an innovative hybrid learning experience tailored for aspiring clinical practitioners. Spanning four years with Saturday-only classes, the program equips students with advanced interventional strategies for complex psychological challenges. Featuring comprehensive field internship experiences and competitive $800 per credit tuition, students develop nuanced skills in mental health assessment, treatment planning, and systemic interventions. With a 3.0 GPA requirement and fall term admissions, the program prepares professionals to address diverse mental health needs across clinical, community, and organizational settings.
- Part-time Saturday hybrid format
- Two concentration areas
- 49 graduate credits total
- 4-year program commitment
- $800 per credit tuition
- Fall term admissions
- 3.0 undergraduate GPA required
- Field internship included
- Licensure requirement compatible
- Application deadline May 1st
Concordia University-Wisconsin
Mequon, WI - Private 4-year - cuw.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Advanced Generalist - Online Learning - Visit Website
Concordia University-Wisconsin's Master of Social Work program offers a transformative online educational experience focusing on the Advanced Generalist concentration. Students can complete the program flexibly in 1-2 years through Regular or Advanced Standing pathways. The CSWE-accredited curriculum provides comprehensive training across multiple practice levels, emphasizing hands-on internships and professional development. With no GRE requirement and a competitive $770 per credit cost, the program prepares social workers for diverse roles in mental health, community services, and clinical settings. Optional clinical licensure courses and 16-hour weekly field placements ensure practical skill development. The program's Lutheran-affiliated, military-friendly approach supports students' holistic professional growth.
- 100% Online Coursework
- Cost: $770 per credit
- Full and Part-Time Options
- Advanced Generalist Specialization
- Clinical Licensure Option
- CSWE Accredited Program
- Regular and Advanced Standing
- Diverse Field Placement Opportunities
- No GRE Required
- 16 Hours Weekly Field Placement
University of Wisconsin-Green Bay
Green Bay, WI - Public 4-Year - uwgb.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Advanced Generalist with Individualized Area of Emphasis - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
UW-Green Bay's MSW program emerges as a dynamic educational pathway for aspiring social work professionals, strategically designed for the Advanced Generalist concentration. The hybrid program distinguishes itself through a 54-credit curriculum emphasizing social justice, multi-cultural competencies, and leadership development. With flexible full-time and part-time tracks, students benefit from advanced standing opportunities for BSW graduates. The CSWE-accredited program prioritizes an anti-racist practice framework, preparing graduates to navigate complex human service environments with sophisticated intervention strategies and a commitment to community empowerment.
- 54-credit MSW program
- Full-time or part-time options
- Advanced standing for BSW
- CSWE accredited program
- Multiple specialization areas
- Social justice focused curriculum
- Affordable Wisconsin MSW
- Interdisciplinary approach
- Career growth opportunities
- Emphasis on anti-racist practice
Master's - Master of Social Work
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Offering a comprehensive Master of Social Work experience, UW-Green Bay's program champions holistic professional development across diverse practice domains. The 54-credit curriculum provides strategic pathways in child welfare, clinical mental health, and school social work, accommodating both full-time (2-year) and part-time (4-year) enrollment models. Students engage with strengths-based educational approaches, cultivating advanced practice skills rooted in social justice principles. The program's interdisciplinary design ensures graduates are equipped with robust competencies to address complex social challenges, making meaningful contributions to human and community well-being.
- 54-credit MSW program
- Full-time or part-time options
- Advanced standing available
- CSWE accredited program
- Multiple specialization areas
- Social justice focused curriculum
- Affordable Wisconsin program
- Diverse career preparation paths
University of Wisconsin-Whitewater
Whitewater, WI - Public 4-Year - uww.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater's Master of Social Work program stands out for its innovative and flexible approach to advanced social work education. Students can engage through hybrid learning formats, experiencing comprehensive coursework that emphasizes clinical practice, social justice, and evidence-based interventions. The program uniquely offers specialized certificate options in school social work, gerontology, and substance abuse counseling, allowing practitioners to develop targeted expertise. With no GRE requirement and a minimum 2.75 GPA threshold, the CSWE-accredited program welcomes diverse students committed to transformative social work. Evening class schedules and synchronous virtual sessions accommodate working professionals seeking advanced generalist training, making it an accessible pathway for aspiring social work leaders.
- Full-time face-to-face and online options
- CSWE fully accredited program
- No GRE required for admission
- Minimum 2.75 GPA
- Optional certificate programs
- Evening class schedules
- Advanced generalist emphasis
- Application deadline: December 1
- Multiple financial aid options
MSW Degree Program Requirements/Eligibility in Wisconsin
Wisconsin Traditional MSW Admissions Requirements
If you already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field but would like to branch out into social work, you’ll need to enter into a traditional MSW. The programs take about two years to complete and require 60 credit hours. To apply, check out these typical admissions requirements:
- 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
Wisconsin Advanced-Standing MSW Admissions Requirements
For students who already have a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), there’s a faster option – advanced standing MSW programs. If you have a GPA of at least 3.5 and all of the additional requirements above, you can complete your MSW in as little as a year by completing 38 credits. Here are a few options for advanced-standing MSWs in Wisconsin:
- University of Wisconsin – visit site
- Concordia University – visit site
Wisconsin MSW Program Tuition and Costs
Wisconsin has some of the most affordable tuition costs in the nation, and this is especially true if you’re currently living in Wisconsin or even a neighboring state. On average, you’ll pay $275 to $401 per credit as a Wisconsin resident. If you’re moving to Wisconsin for school, the cost is still manageable at $597 to $839 per credit.
| School | Tuition (per credit hour) | Total Credits | Total Tuition |
| University of Wisconsin/Madison | $401 (Resident) $839 (Non-resident) | 61 | $24,504 (Resident) $51,156 (Non-resident) |
| University of Wisconsin/Whitewater | $275 (Resident) $597 (Non-resident) | 60 | $16,500 (Resident) $35,832 (Non-resident) |
| University of Wisconsin/Green Bay | $367 (Resident) $738 (Non-resident) | 54 | $19,862 (Resident) $39,832 (Non-resident) |
2026 Affordable MSW Program Options
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| University of Wisconsin-Green Bay |
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| University of Wisconsin-Whitewater |
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| University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee |
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Are Online MSW Programs in Wisconsin as Good as Campus-Based?
There are plenty of advantages and disadvantages when it comes to both online MSW programs and campus-based MSW programs, but each will provide a rigorous education delivered by experienced faculty members. Take a look at the table below to see which program delivery method is right for you.
Traditional MSW vs. Online MSW Programs in Wisconsin
| 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 |
As you’re deciding on which type of program to enroll in, it’s a good idea to make sure that the programs you apply to are accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). This will ensure that you will be eligible for licensure upon graduation.
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 Wisconsin Social Work License
Getting licensed as a social worker in Wisconsin is the next step after earning your MSW degree. Each state has different licensure requirements. Learn more about how to get your social worker license in Wisconsin in 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.
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 Wisconsin
Green Bay, WI
University of Wisconsin-Green Bay
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 54-credit MSW program
- Full-time or part-time options
- Advanced standing available
- CSWE accredited program
- Multiple specialization areas
- Social justice focused curriculum
- Affordable Wisconsin program
- Diverse career preparation paths
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Advanced Generalist with Individualized Area of Emphasis - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 54-credit MSW program
- Full-time or part-time options
- Advanced standing for BSW
- CSWE accredited program
- Multiple specialization areas
- Social justice focused curriculum
- Affordable Wisconsin MSW
- Interdisciplinary approach
Madison, WI
University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Master's - Full-Time Master of Social Work
Campus Based - Website
- Two-year full-time MSW program
- CSWE accredited program
- Four focus area options
- Advanced standing available
- Over 100 field education agencies
- Generalist and advanced practice years
- Optional dual/double degrees
- Direct and indirect practice emphasis
- Master's - Part-Time Master of Social Work
Concentration: Child, Youth, and Family Welfare - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Part-time Saturday hybrid format
- Two focus area options
- 49 graduate credits total
- $800 per credit tuition
- Fall term admission
- Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
- Field internship included
- 4-year program duration
- Master's - Part-Time Master of Social Work
Concentration: Mental Health - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Part-time Saturday hybrid format
- Two concentration areas
- 49 graduate credits total
- 4-year program commitment
- $800 per credit tuition
- Fall term admissions
- 3.0 undergraduate GPA required
- Field internship included
Mequon, WI
Concordia University-Wisconsin
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Advanced Generalist - Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Coursework
- Cost: $770 per credit
- Full and Part-Time Options
- Advanced Generalist Specialization
- Clinical Licensure Option
- CSWE Accredited Program
- Regular and Advanced Standing
- Diverse Field Placement Opportunities
Milwaukee, WI
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
- Master's - Online Master of Social Work MSW
Online Learning - Website
- Online part-time MSW program
- Two program tracks available
- $675 per credit cost
- Advanced Standing: 36 credits
- Foundation Track: 60 credits
- CSWE accredited program
- No GRE required
- 2.75 minimum GPA
- Master's - Social Work MSW
Campus Based - Website
- Online and on-campus MSW options
- Application deadline: April 15, 2025
- No GRE required for admission
- 2.75 GPA minimum requirement
- Advanced standing for BSW holders
- CSWE accredited program
- Multiple concentration areas
- School social work certification
- Master's - Social Work MSW
Concentration: Behavioral and Mental Health - Campus Based - Website
- On-campus and online MSW formats
- Advanced standing track available
- Multiple practice concentration options
- No GRE required for admission
- Fall semester admission only
- 2.75 undergraduate GPA minimum
- Application deadline April 15
- CSWE accredited program
- Master's - Social Work MSW
Concentration: Child and Family Well-being - Campus Based - Website
- On-campus and online MSW formats
- Advanced standing for BSW graduates
- Multiple concentration options
- No GRE/MAT required
- CSWE accredited program
- Fall semester admissions only
- Application opens October 1
- Application deadline April 15
- Master's - Social Work MSW
Concentration: Gerontology - Campus Based - Website
- Online and on-campus MSW options
- Advanced standing available
- No GRE/MAT required
- Fall semester start only
- Application deadline: April 15
- Minimum 2.75 GPA required
- CSWE accredited program
- Multiple specialization tracks
Stevens Point, WI
University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Campus Based - Website
- MSW program available
- Advanced generalist focus
- Social justice emphasis
- Career advancement opportunity
- Information sessions offered
- Contact Dr. Amy Zlimen Ticho
- Email: [email protected]
Whitewater, WI
University of Wisconsin-Whitewater
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Full-time face-to-face and online options
- CSWE fully accredited program
- No GRE required for admission
- Minimum 2.75 GPA
- Optional certificate programs
- Evening class schedules
- Advanced generalist emphasis
- Application deadline: December 1
