Online MSW Programs with a Clinical Social Work Concentration (Online LCSW Programs)
Last updated: March 2021
Master of Social Work (MSW) programs with a clinical concentration are designed to help prepare students to become licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs). In addition to foundation-level social work courses, they focus on the skills needed to provide social work services and treatment to individuals (children, youth and adults) and small groups (couples and families).
In an MSW program, students learn how to use advanced assessment techniques to identify and assess psychosocial problems. They also learn how to diagnose and treat these problems, develop and implement interventions to promote mental health and social functioning and evaluate their own practice and intervention techniques.
Sponsored Online MSW Program
Simmons University
Simmons School of Social Work (SSW)
Master of Social Work (MSW)
Aspiring direct practitioners can earn their MSW online from Simmons University in as few as 9 months. GRE scores are not required, and the program offers full-time, part-time, accelerated, and advanced standing tracks.
- Prepares students to pursue licensure, including LCSW
- Full-time, part-time, and accelerated tracks
- Minimum completion time: 9 months
SPONSORED
| University and Program Name | Study Length | Enrollment Type | Field Placement Support |
|---|---|---|---|
|
University of Denver
Master of Social Work (MSW) SPONSORED | As few as 12 months | Full-Time and Part-Time | Support Available |
|
Fordham University
Master of Social Work (MSW) SPONSORED | As few as 16 months | Full-Time and Part-Time | Support Available |
|
Simmons University
Master of Social Work (MSW) SPONSORED | As few as 9 months | Accelerated Full-Time Part-Time | Support Available |
|
Howard University
Master of Social Work (MSW) SPONSORED | As few as 12 months | Full-Time and Part-Time | Support Available |
|
Syracuse University
Master of Social Work (MSW) SPONSORED | As few as 24 months | Full-Time and Part-Time | Support Available |
|
Case Western Reserve University
Master of Social Work (MSW) SPONSORED | As few as a year and a half | Full-Time and Part-Time | Support Available |
SPONSORED
In This Article:
| University | Enrollment Type | Study Length | Number of Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boise State University | Full-Time and Part-Time | 1+ years | 61 |
| Boston University | Part-Time | 2+ years | 43+ |
| Campbellsville University | Full-Time and Part-Time | 2 years | 30 |
| Colorado State University | Part-Time | 3 years | 60+ |
| Edinboro University | Full-Time | 1+ years | 33+ |
| Florida State University | Part-Time | 2+ years | 39+ |
| Indiana University | Full-Time and Part-Time | 1.5+ years | 41+ |
| Louisiana State University | Full-Time and Part-Time | 1+ years | 33+ |
| Rutgers University | Part-Time | 3 years | 60 |
| Samford University | Full-Time and Part-Time | 1+ years | 33+ |
| San José State University | Full-Time | 1+ years | 37+ |
| Simmons University SPONSORED | Accelerated Full-Time Part-Time | As few as 9 months | 37-65 |
| Syracuse University SPONSORED | Full-Time and Part-Time | As few as 24 months | 36-60 |
| Temple University | Part-Time | 1.5+ years | 30+ |
| The Catholic University of America | Full-Time and Part-Time | Less than 1 year – 3+ years | 30+ |
| University at Buffalo (SUNY) | Part-Time | 1.5+ years | 35+ |
| University of Arkansas, Little Rock | Part-Time | 3 years | 60 |
| University of Central Florida | Part-Time | 1.3+ years | 32 |
| University of Houston | Part-Time | 2+ years | 39+ |
| University of Louisville | Full-Time and Part-Time | 1+ years | 30+ |
| University of Missouri | Part-Time | 2+ years | 39+ |
| University of New England | Full-Time and Part-Time | 1.3+ years | 35+ |
| University of New Hampshire | Full-Time Part-Time | 1.3+ years | 35+ |
| University of Northern Iowa | Part-Time | 2+ years | 37+ |
| University of South Florida | Full-Time and Part-Time | N/A | 35 |
| University of Tennessee at Knoxville | Full-Time and Part-Time | 1+ years | 37+ |
| University of Texas, Arlington | Full-Time and Part-Time | 1+ years | 38+ |
| University of Texas, Rio Grande Valley | Full-Time | 1+ years | 33+ |
| University of Utah | Full-Time | 1+ years | 45+ |
| Widener University | Part-Time | 2+ years | 36+ |
SPONSORED
What Is Clinical Social Work?
Clinical social work is a specialty practice within the field of social work. Clinical social workers provide specialized support services to individuals and families experiencing problems with serious mental illness, substance abuse or domestic conflict. Clinical social work differs from other social work roles as it requires an MSW, supervised clinical experience and a license to practice.
While non-clinical social workers offer counseling and support to clients, clinical social workers use specialized skills such as assessment, diagnosis, and interventions. Clinical social workers may provide counseling services for clients, in addition to psychotherapy, behavioral therapies, and other therapeutic clinical strategies.
What Does It Mean to Be a Clinical Social Worker?
Clinical social workers provide assessment, diagnosis, treatment and prevention education for those with mental illness or behavioral disturbances. A clinical social worker must be licensed or certified within their state to practice. There is a range of settings in which clinical social workers may work, including community mental health centers, hospitals, primary care facilities and private practice.
Professionals in the field of clinical social work were interviewed about their roles:
Samantha Roberts, LCSW, is a clinical case manager at the University of California, San Francisco’s (UCSF) Citywide program. Roberts was compensated to participate in this interview.
“I take on a number of roles; therapist, advocate, case worker and crisis manager, to name a few,” says Roberts. “I work with clients 18 years and older who have a severe mental illness (i.e. schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, bipolar disorder with psychotic features and delusion disorder are some of the diagnoses) and are involved in the criminal justice system.”
Roberts explains that her role as a case manager is to help teach each client to live a healthy and stable life, to the best of their ability. “The modalities used with clients are different for each client and each CM. Personally, I find CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) to be the most useful, since the majority of my clients have poor insight and respond better to concrete tasks.”
Beth Jakubanis is a licensed clinical social worker currently working within the field of immigration. Jakubanis was compensated to participate in this interview.
“Being an immigration social worker is a little bit like being a detective,” explains Jakubanis. “It is my responsibility to assemble all of the necessary clues which the client gives me to identify the biological, psychological and social welfare concerns which will support their immigration application.”
Jakubanis explains that sometimes clients who go through the immigration process interface with a system which has become accustomed to processing people.
“A well-composed letter or evaluation can build empathy and humanity for the client while establishing their mental health functioning. An evaluation that does not capture the client’s experience accurately can result in a missed opportunity for the client,” she says.
What Are the Benefits of Specializing in Clinical Social Work?
Clinical social workers provide vital assistance and support to some of the most vulnerable members of their community. Those who work in the field point out that the work can be emotionally demanding and requires the ability to thrive in sometimes challenging circumstances.
In addition to providing clinical support for populations and clients, clinical social workers often also undergo training, perform administrative work, liaise with institutions such as hospitals or the justice system or undertake managerial roles. The work is highly varied, with the potential to practice in diverse fields. One distinctive benefit is that clinical social workers can sometimes schedule their work with greater flexibility.
Requirements for Clinical Social Work Licensing
To become a licensed clinical social worker in the United States, you must earn an MSW from a graduate program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). While the terms “LCSW program” and “MSW program” are sometimes used interchangeably, there is a difference. An LCSW program is a specific type of MSW program that prepares students to take the licensure exam to become an LCSW. However, not all MSW programs are LCSW programs. Students who want to pursue licensing after graduation may want to consider an online MSW program with a clinical concentration, depending on their state of residence.
Licensing requirements for social workers vary by state. Each state has its own social work licensing board that sets the criteria for licensure. Students should research the requirements for licensing in their state of residence to ensure that the MSW program they choose will meet them. In some states, it is not required to complete an MSW program with a clinical concentration to become an LCSW. In these situations, students may have to complete additional coursework to meet the requirements for licensure.
It’s important to keep in mind that certain states have specific requirements that students need to know if they plan to pursue a career as an LCSW after graduation.
For example, New York requires applicants to have completed at least 12 hours of clinical coursework. LCSW applicants in Florida are required to have provided clinical services directly to clients during at least one of their field education placements.
Learn more about how to become a licensed clinical social worker. Earning an MSW is just the first step. Licensing typically takes two to three years post-graduation and can require a significant amount of work experience in the field.
Resources:
Coursework for Online MSW Programs with a Clinical Concentration
While specific classes in online MSW degree programs may vary, students can expect to take courses in the following core areas:
Clinical Social Work Practice: Individuals (Children, Youth and Adults) and Small Groups (Couples and Families)
This course focuses on the transactional relationships between people and their social environments. It provides students with the skills to use social work practice methods to restore, promote and maintain functioning for individuals, families and small groups. The course is grounded in behavioral and social science theories and informed by social work values and ethics. It may also cover clinical interventions as they relate to individuals, families and small groups.
Mental Health and Human Behavior
This course explores key aspects of mental health, such as mental ill-health and mental illness, within a conceptual framework. The classification of mental illness is also explored.
Psychopathology
Psychopathology focuses on the study of mental illness to best diagnose and treat it. In a psychopathology course, students typically learn about the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders V (DSM-5) which provides categories of mental disorders, such as the schizophrenia spectrum, and the criteria needed to evaluate them.
The course helps students to recognize some of the major mental disorders and appropriate treatment practices.
Clinical Assessment and Diagnosis
This course helps to build assessment competency in students. There is a strong focus on the use and application of the DSM-5 in understanding mental disorders. The limitations of the DSM are also explored.
A course in clinical assessment and diagnosis often considers the history of diagnosis. Diagnostic criteria are usually studied from a biopsychosocial perspective that also integrates neurobiological understanding. This course may also cover clinical interventions and treatment approaches.
Evaluation of Research Methods and Social Work Practice
A solid foundation in research methods is critical for clinical social workers to enhance their understanding of client needs and improve the services offered. This course provides an overview of different theoretical frameworks and methodologies to help students use a scientific and analytic approach to building knowledge and evaluating clinical services.
An MSW program in research methods explores the importance of ethical standards in research to protect vulnerable and marginalized populations.
In addition to coursework, students usually have to complete field education at a local health services agency. Typically, students in traditional MSW programs complete their clinical field rotation in the second year for full-time programs.
| University and Program Name | Study Length | Enrollment Type | Field Placement Support |
|---|---|---|---|
|
University of Denver
Master of Social Work (MSW) SPONSORED | As few as 12 months | Full-Time and Part-Time | Support Available |
|
Fordham University
Master of Social Work (MSW) SPONSORED | As few as 16 months | Full-Time and Part-Time | Support Available |
|
Simmons University
Master of Social Work (MSW) SPONSORED | As few as 9 months | Accelerated Full-Time Part-Time | Support Available |
|
Howard University
Master of Social Work (MSW) SPONSORED | As few as 12 months | Full-Time and Part-Time | Support Available |
|
Syracuse University
Master of Social Work (MSW) SPONSORED | As few as 24 months | Full-Time and Part-Time | Support Available |
|
Case Western Reserve University
Master of Social Work (MSW) SPONSORED | As few as a year and a half | Full-Time and Part-Time | Support Available |
SPONSORED
Online Master’s in Clinical Social Work Programs
Several schools offer CSWE-accredited online Master of Social Work programs with a clinical social work or mental health concentration. Explore program information, including admission requirements and more. As with all degree programs, this information can change at any time (especially student eligibility and admission requirements), so students should speak with an admission advisor before applying to ensure that they have the most up-to-date information.
Boise State University
School of Social Work
Master of Social Work (MSW)
Boise, Idaho
Name of Degree: Master of Social Work (MSW)
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Length of Program: 1+ years
Credits: 61
Concentrations: Clinical PracticeAdmission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Minimum GPA 3.0
- Official transcripts
- Statement of education and career goals
- Resume
- Three letters of recommendation
- Proof of 240 hours of volunteer or work experience in social services for 6 months in last five years
- Proof of English proficiency
Boston University
School of Social Work
Master of Social Work (MSW)
Boston, Massachusetts
Name of Degree: Master of Social Work (MSW)
Enrollment Type: Part-Time
Length of Program: 2+ years
Credits: 43+
Concentrations:Macro Practice, Clinical Practice
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in liberal arts from an accredited college or university
- Candidates with two years of supervised, direct human or social service experience may apply for the Human Service Experience track
- Bachelor of Social Work from a CSWE-accredited program earned within six years for advanced standing applicants
- Minimum GPA of 3.0 for advanced standing applicants
- Personal statement
- Resume
- Three letters of references
- Transcripts
- Interview
- TOEFL scores for non-native English speaking applicants
- Other requirements as outlined for specific tracks
Campbellsville University
Carver School of Social Work
Master of Social Work (MSW)
Campbellsville, Kentucky
Name of Degree: Master of Social Work (MSW)
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Length of Program: 2 years
Credits: 30
Concentrations:Clinical Practice, Addictions
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in social work from an accredited institution for advanced standing applicants
- Baccalaureate degree with 15 credit hours of liberal arts education
- Baccalaureate GPA of 3.0
- Transcripts from accredited institutions
- Three letters of recommendation
- Signed statement of understanding of the Social Work Professional and Technical Standards
Columbia University
School of Social Work
Master of Social Work (MSW)
New York, New York
Name of Degree: Master of Social Work (MSW)
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Length of Program: 1 year
Credits: 33+
Concentrations:Advanced Clinical Social Work, Advanced Generalist Practice and Programming, Policy Practice, Social Enterprise Administration
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Academic transcripts
- Resume
- Three essay questions
- Three letters of reference
- TOEFL scores for non-native English speaking applicants
- Other requirements as outlined for specific tracks
Edinboro University
College of Science and Health Professions
Master of Social Work (MSW)
Edinboro, Pennsylvania
Name of Degree: Master of Social Work (MSW)
Enrollment Type: Full-Time
Length of Program: 1+ years
Credits: 33+
Concentrations:Trauma Informed Practice
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree form an accredited college or university
- Bachelor’s degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited program for advanced standing applicants
- Minimum GPA of 2.5 cumulative and 3.0 in undergraduate major
- Personal statement
- Official transcripts
- Letters of recommendation
- Additional requirements for international applicants
Florida State University
College of Social Work
Master of Social Work (MSW)
Tallahassee, Florida
Name of Degree: Master of Social Work (MSW)
Enrollment Type: Part-Time
Length of Program: 2+ years
Credits: 39+
Concentrations: N/AAdmission Requirements:
- Bachelor degree from a regionally accredited institution
- Bachelor of Social Work from a CSWE-accredited program for advanced standing applicants
- Coursework in human biology or human anatomy and physiology
- Minimum of 21 undergraduate credits in liberal arts curriculum
- Minimum GPA of 2.8
- GRE scores required for GPAs under 2.8
- Resume
- Two references
- Personal statement
Indiana University
School of Social Work
Master of Social Work (MSW)
Indianapolis, Indiana
Name of Degree: Master of Social Work (MSW)
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Length of Program: 1.5+ years
Credits: 41+
Concentrations:Clinical and Community Practice
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor degree from an accredited higher education institution
- Bachelor of Social Work from a CSWE-accredited program earned in the last five years for advanced standing applicants
- Minimum GPA of 3.5 for advanced standing application
- Minimum GPA of 3.0 for last 60 hours of undergraduate coursework
- Grade of “”C”” or better for elementary statistics and a course related to Native American studies
- Personal statement
- Letters of recommendation
- Transcripts
Louisiana State University
School of Social Work
Master of Social Work (MSW)
Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Name of Degree: Master of Social Work (MSW)
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Length of Program: 1+ years
Credits: 33+
Concentrations:Child and Youth Services, Gerontology, Social Work Practice in Schools, Policy and Macro Practice
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor degree form an accredited college or university
- Bachelor of Social Work degree from a CSWE-accredited program earned within the last five years for advanced standing applicants
- Liberal arts undergraduate preparation with at least 12 credits in social and behavioral sciences
- Grade of ’’C’’ or better in an introductory statistics course
- Minimum GPA of 3.0
- Letter of intent
- Resume
- Official transcripts
- Three letters of recommendation
Rutgers University
School of Social Work
Master's of Social Work (MSW)
New Brunswick, New Jersey
Name of Degree: Master’s of Social Work (MSW)
Enrollment Type: Part-Time
Length of Program: 3 years
Credits: 60
Concentrations:Children, Youth, and Families
Admission Requirements:
- BSW from a CSWE-accredited program
- Prefered 3.0 GPA from undergraduate programs
- Transcripts
- Personal Statement
- Three (3) letters of recommendation
- Introductory Statistics course completion
Samford University
School of Public Health
Master of Social Work (MSW)
Birmingham, Alabama
Name of Degree: Master of Social Work (MSW)
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Length of Program: 1+ years
Credits: 33+
Concentrations:Advanced Clinical Practice
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited undergraduate institution
- Bachelor’s degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited program for advanced standing applicants
- Undergraduate field placement evaluation for advanced standing applicants
- Minimum 3.0 GPA
- Social work experience is preferred, but not required
- Introductory course to statistics
- Official transcripts
- Three letters of recommendation
- Personal statement
- Resume
San José State University
School of Social Work
Master of Social Work (MSW)
San José, California
Name of Degree: Master of Social Work (MSW)
Enrollment Type: Full-Time
Length of Program: 1+ years
Credits: 37+
Concentrations: N/AAdmission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university
- Bachelor degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited program for advanced standing applicants
- Grade of “B-” or higher for undergraduate social work courses for advanced standing applicants
- Field evaluation for advanced standing applicants
- Minimum GPA of 3.0 or 3.2 during last 60 hours of undergraduate credit
- If GPA at least 2.8, GRE scores required for consideration
- Three letters of reference
- Completed undergraduate coursework in statistics with a grade of “C” or better
- Academic writing sample
- Personal statement
- TOEFL scores for American citizens who learned English as a second language
Simmons University
Simmons School of Social Work (SSW)
Master of Social Work (MSW)
Boston, Massachusetts
Aspiring clinical social workers can earn their Master of Social Work degree online from Simmons University in as few as 9 months. The program prepares students to pursue employment in direct practice settings nationwide. Students may choose from three certificates: Trauma Practice, Mental Health Practice, or Clinical Practice with Active Service Members, Veterans, and Families.
Enrollment Type: Accelerated
Length of Program: As few as 9 months
Credits: 37-65
- Mental Health Practice Optional Certificate
- Trauma Practice Optional Certificate
- Clinical Practice with Active Service Members, Veterans, and Families
Syracuse University
School of Social Work at Falk College
Master of Social Work (MSW)
Syracuse, New York
Syracuse University’s CSWE-accredited online Master of Social Work program is preparing the next generation of social work leaders through an emphasis on digital innovation and social justice. No GRE scores are required to apply, and the program offers Traditional and Advanced Standing tracks.
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Length of Program: As few as 24 months
Credits: 36-60
Advanced Integrated Practice, Advanced Clinical Practice
Temple University
School of Social Work
Master of Social Work (MSW)
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Name of Degree: Master of Social Work (MSW)
Enrollment Type: Part-Time
Length of Program: 1.5+ years
Credits: 30+
Concentrations:Clinical Practice, Macro Practice
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree with a broad liberal arts focus from an accredited undergraduate institution
- Bachelor of Social Work from a CSWE-accredited program within the last five years for advanced standing applicants
- Minimum GPA of 3.0 for traditional applicants, 3.25 for advanced standing applicants
- Final field evaluation for advanced standing applicants
- Transcripts
- Resume
- Goal statement
- Three letters of recommendation
- TOEFL scores for international students whose native language is not English
The Catholic University of America
National Catholic School of Service
Master of Social Work (MSW)
Washington, D.C
Name of Degree: Master of Social Work (MSW)
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Length of Program: Less than 1 year – 3+ years
Credits: 30+
Concentrations:Clinical Social Work
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelors degree with a liberal arts foundation
- Bachelors degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited program for advanced standing applicants
- Official transcripts
- Coursework in human biology and social statistics recommended
- Minimum GPA of 3.0, 3.5 in social work undergraduate coursework and 3.2 for bachelors degree cumulatively for advanced standing applicants
- Completion of 480 hours of field education for advanced standing applicants
- Senior field evaluation forms for advanced standing applicants
- Personal statement
- Resume
- Three letters of reference
- TOEFL scores for students whom English is a second language
University at Buffalo (SUNY)
School of Social Work
Master of Social Work (MSW)
Buffalo, New York
Name of Degree: Master of Social Work (MSW)
Enrollment Type: Part-Time
Length of Program: 1.5+ years
Credits: 35+
Concentrations: N/AAdmission Requirements:
- Bachelor degree in liberal arts from an accredited college or university
- Bachelor of Social Work degree from a CSWE-accredited program for advanced standing applicants
- Minimum GPA of 3.0
- Grade of “”B+”” or higher in field practicum for advanced standing applicants
- Official transcripts
- Resume
- Statement of purpose
- Two letters of recommendation
- TOEFL for applicants whom English is their second language
University of Arkansas, Little Rock
School of Social Work
Master of Social Work (MSW)
Little Rock, Arkansas
Name of Degree: Master of Social Work (MSW)
Enrollment Type: Part-Time
Length of Program: 3 years
Credits: 60
Concentrations: N/AAdmission Requirements:
- Bachelor degree with a liberal arts perspective from an accredited institution
- Minimum 3.0 GPA
- Narrative statement of professional orientation
- Three letters of reference
- Any volunteer, employment or life experiences related to social work
- Official transcripts
University of Central Florida
School of Social Work
Master of Social Work (MSW)
Orlando, Florida
Name of Degree: Master of Social Work (MSW)
Enrollment Type: Part-Time
Length of Program: 1.3+ years
Credits: 32
Concentrations: N/AAdmission Requirements:
- Bachelor degree with a liberal arts perspective from an accredited institution
- Minimum 3.0 GPA
- Narrative statement of professional orientation
- Three letters of reference
- Any volunteer, employment or life experiences related to social work
- Official transcripts
University of Houston
Graduate College of Social Work
Master of Social Work (MSW)
Houston, Texas
Name of Degree: Master of Social Work (MSW)
Enrollment Type: Part-Time
Length of Program: 2+ years
Credits: 39+
Concentrations:Clinical Practice, Macro Practice
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor degree from an accredited institution
- Bachelor degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited program earned within the last six years for advanced standing applicants
- Minimum GPA of 3.3 in last 60 credits for advanced standing applicants
- Official transcripts
- Completion of humanities, physical and biological sciences, mathematics, and social sciences coursework
- Resume
- Three letters of recommendation
- Professional statement
- Writing sample
University of Louisville
Kent School of Social Work
Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW)
Louisville, Kentucky
Name of Degree: Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW)
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Length of Program: 1+ years
Credits: 30+
Concentrations:Alcohol and Drug Counseling, Gerontology, Mental Health, Military Social Work, Psychosocial Oncology
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in any field
- Bachelor’s in social work from a CSWE-accredited program for advanced standing applicants
- Minimum GPA of 3.0, 3.5 for social work curriculum for advanced standing applicants
- Resume
- Two letters of recommendation
- Autobiographical personal statement
- Writing sample on an ethical dilemma
- Transcripts
University of Missouri
School of Social Work
Master of Social Work (MSW)
Columbia, Missouri
Name of Degree: Master of Social Work (MSW)
Enrollment Type: Part-Time
Length of Program: 2+ years
Credits: 39+
Concentrations:Advanced Clinical Practice, Planning and Administration
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Bachelor’s degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited program earned within the last seven years for advanced standing applicants
- Official transcripts
- Three letters of recommendation
- Essay, additional essay required for advanced standing applying into a specialization
- Minimum GPA of 3.0 preferred, with 3.25 in social work coursework for advanced standing applicants
- Resume
- Copies of practicum evaluation for advanced standing applicants
- Additional requirements for international applicants
University of New England
School of Social Work
Master of Social Work (MSW)
Portland, Maine
Name of Degree: Master of Social Work (MSW)
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Length of Program: 1.3+ years
Credits: 35+
Concentrations: N/AAdmission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree with liberal arts focus from a regionally accredited institution
- Bachelor’s degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited program for advanced standing applicants
- Coursework in statistics and research methods
- Essays
- Three letters of recommendation, fourth from field instructor for advanced standing students
- Documentation of field experience for BSW degree
- Resume
- Minimum GPA of 3.0 overall or 3.25 in last 60 hours of undergraduate degree
University of New Hampshire
College of Health and Human Services
Master of Social Work (MSW)
Durham, New Hampshire
Name of Degree: Master of Social Work (MSW)
Enrollment Type: Full-Time
Length of Program: 1.3+ years
Credits: 35+
Concentrations: N/AAdmission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution
- Minimum GPA of 3.0
- Professional statements
- Resume
- Two letters of recommendation
- Official transcripts
- Additional requirements for international admissions
University of Northern Iowa
Department of Social Work
Master of Social Work (MSW)
Cedar Falls, Iowa
Name of Degree: Master of Social Work (MSW)
Enrollment Type: Part-Time
Length of Program: 2+ years
Credits: 37+
Concentrations:Trauma Informed Practice
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university
- Bachelor degree in social work from a program accredited by the CSWE for advanced standing applicants
- Minimum GPA of 3.0, 3.2 for advanced standing applicants
- Personal statement
- Resume
- Completion of a statistics course with a minimum grade of ’’C’’
- Related work, volunteer, or practicum experience
- Three letters of recommendation
University of South Florida
School of Social Work
Master of Social Work (MSW)
Tampa, Florida
Name of Degree: Master of Social Work (MSW)
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Length of Program: N/A
Credits: 35
Concentrations: N/AAdmission Requirements:
- Bachelor degree with liberal arts coursework
- Bachelor of Social Work from a CSWE-accredited program earned within the last five years for advanced standing applicants
- Minimum GPA of 3.0
- Grade of ’’B-’’ or better for social work courses for advanced standing applicants
- Three letters of recommendation
- Personal statement
- One year of post-undergraduate work in a social service agency preferred
- Interview may be required
- Official transcripts
University of Tennessee at Knoxville
College of Social Work
Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW)
Knoxville, Tennessee
Name of Degree: Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW)
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Length of Program: 1+ years
Credits: 37+
Concentrations:Evidence-Based Interpersonal Practice, Organizational Leadership
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree from a college or university accredited by regional accrediting agency
- Bachelor of Social Work accredited by the CSWE earned in the last five years for advanced standing applicants
- Completed coursework in social science
- Liberal arts perspective coursework
- Minimum GPA of 2.7, 3.0 preferred, 3.0 GPA required for advanced standing applicants
- Official transcripts
- Personal statement
- Three letters of reference
- Resume
- Additional requirements for international applicants
University of Texas, Arlington
School of Social Work
Master of Social Work (MSW)
Arlington, Texas
Name of Degree: Master of Social Work (MSW)
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Length of Program: 1+ years
Credits: 38+
Concentrations:Community and Administrative Practice, Direct Practice in Aging, Direct Practice in Mental Health and Substance Abuse, Direct Practice with Children and Families
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor degre from an accredited institution
- Bachelor of Social Work from a CSWE-accredited program earned within the last six years for advanced standing applicants
- Minimum GPA of 3.0 in last 60 hours of undergraduate work, 3.0 required for advanced standing applicants
- Official transcripts
- Three letters of recommendation for applicants who do not fully meet the other requirements
- Personal narrative for applicants who do not fully meet the other requirements
- TOEFL or TSE scores for applicants whose native language is not English
University of Texas, Rio Grande Valley
School of Social Work
Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW)
Edinburg, Texas
Name of Degree: Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW)
Enrollment Type: Full-Time
Length of Program: 1+ years
Credits: 33+
Concentrations:Administrative and Community Practice, Direct Practice with Latino Individuals, Families and Groups
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor of Social Work from a CSWE-accredited institution for advanced standing applicants
- Minimum GPA of 3.0, 3.2 in social work core coursework for advanced standing applicants
- Official transcripts
- Three letters of recommendation
- Completion of a basic statistics course
- Personal statement
- Additional requirements for international applicants
University of Utah
College of Social Work
Master of Social Work (MSW)
Salt Lake City, Utah
Name of Degree: Master of Social Work (MSW)
Enrollment Type: Full-Time
Length of Program: 1+ years
Credits: 45+
Concentrations:Mental Health
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor degree from a regionally accredited university
- Bachelor degree in social work from CSWE-accredited program earned within the last seven years for advanced standing applicants
- Minimum GPA of 3.0
- Prerequisite coursework in human development across the lifespan and research methods
- Official transcripts
- Three professional recommendations
- Statement of purpose
- Social work practice timed case study
- Resume
Widener University
Center for Social Work Education
Master of Social Work (MSW)
Chester, Pennsylvania
Name of Degree: Master of Social Work (MSW)
Enrollment Type: Part-Time
Length of Program: 2+ years
Credits: 36+
Concentrations:Clinical Social Work
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor degree from an accredited college or university
- Bachelor degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited program for advanced standing applicants
- Minimum GPA of 3.0, 3.3 for coursework in social work major for advanced standing applicants
- Statement of purpose
- Two recommendations
- Official transcripts
Clinical Social Work Program FAQ
What can you do as a licensed clinical social worker?
Licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs) can work in a variety of settings, including the criminal justice system, with children and their families, in schools, geriatric communities, LGBTQ organizations, hospitals and psychiatric settings.
What is the difference between an MSW and LCSW?
An MSW refers to a graduate degree program accredited by the CSWE. An LCSW is a social worker who holds a Master of Social Work and is licensed by their state to provide clinical services to patients. To practice as a clinical social worker in the United States, you must first earn a master’s degree and a professional license. Learn more about the difference between an MSW and LCSW.
How long does it take to become a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW)?
The title of LCSW is the highest level of licensure available to social workers in most states. Licensed clinical social workers are permitted to practice in private settings. To become an LCSW, candidates must obtain a master’s degree from a program accredited by the CSWE, which typically takes two years.
After getting their master’s degree, social work students need to complete two to three years of clinical experience under the supervision of a licensed clinician. Once they have met the required experience hours, they can take the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Clinical Examination. To be eligible for licensure, they will need to submit documentation of their work experience to the licensing board, including hours logged on the job.
Is clinical social work a good career?
Clinical social work can be a rewarding career for those looking to work directly with clients in a therapeutic setting. Clinical social workers can help to change the lives of individuals and effect positive change within social structures.
Becoming a clinical social worker also can help advance a career in social work, potentially leading to higher pay and more challenging work in the field.
How much does a clinical social worker make a year?
The salary for a licensed clinical social worker depends on factors such as their location and field of practice. The BLS reported the median annual salary for social workers was $55,350 in May 2022. Median salaries also reported for social workers in specific areas include:
- Healthcare social workers: $60,280
- Child, family and school social workers: $50,820
- Mental health and substance abuse social workers: $51,240
- All other social workers: $61,420
Licensed clinical social workers within these fields may earn more than the median salary.
What is the difference between an LCSW and LPC?
An LPC refers to a licensed professional counselor. While the roles of LPC and LCSW may be considered functionally similar in that they provide psychotherapeutic services, social work encompasses additional responsibilities. An LCSW also may provide healthcare assistance, social services, job counseling and other services to clients that generally fall outside the purview of counseling.
| University and Program Name | Study Length | Enrollment Type | Field Placement Support |
|---|---|---|---|
|
University of Denver
Master of Social Work (MSW) SPONSORED | As few as 12 months | Full-Time and Part-Time | Support Available |
|
Fordham University
Master of Social Work (MSW) SPONSORED | As few as 16 months | Full-Time and Part-Time | Support Available |
|
Simmons University
Master of Social Work (MSW) SPONSORED | As few as 9 months | Accelerated Full-Time Part-Time | Support Available |
|
Howard University
Master of Social Work (MSW) SPONSORED | As few as 12 months | Full-Time and Part-Time | Support Available |
|
Syracuse University
Master of Social Work (MSW) SPONSORED | As few as 24 months | Full-Time and Part-Time | Support Available |
|
Case Western Reserve University
Master of Social Work (MSW) SPONSORED | As few as a year and a half | Full-Time and Part-Time | Support Available |
SPONSORED
Last updated August 2023.