15 Best MSW Programs in California

Considering MSW programs in California? You’ve picked the national frontrunner in social work education. California awarded 12% of all master’s in social work degrees across the country during the 2019-2020 academic year—leading all other states.

The state offers 28 CSWE-accredited California MSW programs, giving you plenty of choices to shape your social work career. The California State University system provides 20 publicly funded masters of social work programs. BSW degree holders can complete some masters in social work California programs in just 12 months through advanced standing options.

The career outlook shines bright. California leads the nation in social worker employment, and the field will grow 7% from 2022 to 2032. Social work professionals here earn between $66,000 and $88,000 yearly, based on their specialty and location.

This piece highlights 15 top-rated programs with real-life student success stories. These insights will help you choose the right path, whether you want to focus on clinical practice, community organizing, or advanced generalist roles.

MSW Program Overview

MSW programs help students become skilled at advanced social work through a curriculum that balances theory with hands-on practice. These graduate degrees have two main parts: a generalist foundation and specialized advanced coursework.

The generalist portion covers everything in social work practice, human behavior, social environments, research methods, social welfare policy, and field instruction. The specialized curriculum builds on these basics with advanced content that fits specific practice areas.

MSW programs in California focus on these core values:

• Professional ethics and human rights
• Social justice and equity
• Diversity and cultural competence
• Evidence-based practice
• Working with communities

The curriculum creates professionals who can tackle complex social issues and stand up for vulnerable populations. Programs take a person-in-environment point of view that shows how power, privilege, and systemic factors shape people’s social experiences.

Field education is the life-blood of all California’s masters in social work programs. Students get supervised practical experience in a variety of settings. These placements let them use classroom knowledge in real-life situations while getting professional guidance.

Programs come in many shapes and sizes to fit different student needs. Students can choose from traditional two-year full-time options among part-time paths that take three to four years, evening/weekend formats, and popular online MSW options. BSW graduates can take advanced standing programs that count their previous coursework, letting them finish in just 9-16 months.

California MSW programs offer many specialization paths. These include clinical practice, community organization, family and children services, health and aging, school social work, and forensic social work. Many programs also let students earn dual degrees that mix social work with public health or business administration.

Accreditation by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) will give a quality guarantee and students need it to qualify for licensure after graduation.

MSW Programs in California

California leads the nation in social work education with 29 fully-accredited MSW programs, which is more than any other state according to the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). These programs create a rich mix of educational opportunities through both public and private institutions statewide.

The California university system makes education highly accessible. Twenty publicly funded state schools in the California State University (CSU) and University of California (UC) systems offer MSW degrees. Students can find programs throughout the state, from San Diego to Humboldt.

Several California institutions rank among the country’s best social work programs. University of Southern California’s graduates earn about $17,263 more than average social work graduates. UC Berkeley’s graduates also do well, earning $13,592 more than typical social work graduates.

Students find program costs relatively competitive even with California’s higher living costs. Traditional two-year MSW programs cost around $29,000 on average, though many schools charge less.

California’s institutions excel at providing flexible learning options. Most schools combine campus-based and hybrid formats, while eight universities run online programs that need minimal or no campus visits. This helps working professionals advance their careers more easily.

Field education plays a vital role in all California MSW programs. Students complete at least 900 supervised fieldwork hours in settings like correctional facilities, hospitals, schools, and community agencies.

Seventeen California universities welcome BSW graduates with advanced standing programs. Qualified students can finish their MSW in just 12 months instead of the usual two years.

California MSW programs let students specialize in:

• Clinical/direct practice social work
• Macro/community practice
• Advanced generalist practice
• Youth and family services
• Gerontology
• School social work

These programs produced 3,312 MSW graduates in the 2020-21 academic year, adding many qualified professionals to California’s social service workforce.

University of Southern California (USC)

The USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work ranks among California’s oldest and most prestigious MSW programs. This 100-year old program started as the western United States’ first full-time professional social work program. USC has remained a leader in social work education throughout its rich history.

Program Overview

USC’s Master of Social Work program champions integrative social work practice. Students learn to tackle complex social challenges through a comprehensive approach. The curriculum combines practice, policy, and research with real-life situations. This prepares graduates to start their careers right away. USC’s groundbreaking method acknowledges how professional practice interconnects. Students apply social work theory, analyze policy, and use empirical research to develop complete solutions.

Specializations

Students can tailor their MSW experience by choosing one of five specialized tracks:

• Adult Mental Health and Wellness
• Children, Youth and Families
• Social Change and Innovation
• School and Educational Settings
• Military Populations and Settings

Program Duration and Format

Students benefit from multiple flexible formats:

• Accelerated: 12 months (for BSW holders)
• Full-time: 24 months
• Part-time: 28 months
• Online: Variable timeline

Field Education Requirements

At USC, students must complete 1,200 hours of hands-on practicum education. Campus students work at two different community placements. Online students start with a 210-hour Virtual Practicum using simulated client interactions. They then move to an 890-hour in-person placement.

Accreditation and Licensure Preparation

The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) fully accredits the program. Students meet eligibility requirements for the California Board of Behavioral Sciences examination. Required California pre-licensure course content weaves throughout the curriculum.

University of California, Berkeley

Berkeley Social Welfare ranks among the top 10 schools of social work nationwide. Since 1944, it has prepared more than 11,000 social work professionals who now lead in research, teaching, and advanced practice.

Program Overview

Berkeley’s Master of Social Welfare (MSW) program puts emphasis on multi-level practice. The program brings together knowledge from multiple disciplines to serve communities of all types. Students learn evidence-informed practice and work toward social justice through anti-oppressive frameworks. This comprehensive program shapes social workers who question conventional wisdom while they become skilled at specific intervention methods.

Specializations

Students can choose from three distinct specialization areas:

• Advancing Health and Wellbeing Across the Adult Life Span (AHWAL)
• Strengthening Children and Families (SCYF)
• Strengthening Organizations and Communities (SOC)

Duration and Format

The traditional MSW spans two years as a full-time program requiring 60 units, with a minimum of 12 units each semester. Berkeley used to offer FlexMSW options – an Advanced Standing track (27 units over one year) for BSW holders and an Extended Program (part-time over three years). However, these options won’t be available for Fall 2025 admission.

Field Education Requirements

At UC Berkeley, students complete two different placements that add up to about 1,120 hours. First-year students spend two days weekly at their placement sites (400 hours). Second-year students dedicate three days weekly (720 hours). Field consultants offer individual-specific assessment and continuous support throughout this learning experience.

Accreditation and Licensure Preparation

The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) fully accredits the program. Graduates can register with the California Board of Behavioral Sciences to pursue their clinical social worker license.

San Diego State University

San Diego State University’s School of Social Work started in 1963. The school provides a detailed MSW program that prepares students to practice advanced specialized direct service or administration/community development.

Program Overview

The SDSU Master of Social Work program gives graduates multiple skills to work in different settings with vulnerable populations. Students learn about social justice, human rights, evidence-based practice, and professional leadership. The program currently focuses on health care and well-being, families in transition, and social/environmental stressors that affect individuals and communities. Faculty research, community intervention programs, the Center for Alcohol and Other Drug Studies, and the Social Policy Institute help tackle human service issues.

Specializations

Students select between two distinct concentration methods:

• Direct Practice/Clinical – Focuses on micro and mezzo level approaches through counseling and therapy for individuals and groups
• Administration/Community Development – Concentrates on macro practice, including leadership, organizational change, civic engagement, and community capacity building

SDSU also offers specialized programs. These include the MSW/MPH dual degree with the School of Public Health and the Pupil Personnel Services Credential Program.

Program Duration and Format

Students complete 38-60 units in one to four years:

• Advanced Standing (38 units): One-year program for recent BSW graduates
• Traditional program (60 units): Available in two-year, three-year, and four-year plans

Field Education Requirements

At SDSU, students complete 1,050 practicum hours over two years (450 hours in foundation year, 600 hours in advanced year). First-year students spend about 16 hours weekly at their placement. Second-year students dedicate 20 hours weekly. SDSU has strategic collaborations with over 400 community agencies throughout San Diego and Imperial Counties.

Accreditation and Licensure Preparation

The program has kept its Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accreditation since 1966. Graduates can apply for the Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) certification through the California Board of Behavioral Science Examiners.

California State University, Long Beach

California State University, Long Beach (CSULB) School of Social Work stands out among MSW programs in California. The school’s unique approach focuses on how people interact with their surroundings through ecological and systems viewpoints.

Program Overview

CSULB’s MSW program teaches students multicultural social work practices in organizations of all sizes—from individuals to communities. Students learn to create positive change in multicultural settings to help people live better lives, including advocacy for equitable access to resources. You’ll learn skills to work with people from different backgrounds while tackling complex social issues.

Specializations

Students can choose from three specialized areas:

• Child and Family Wellbeing – Gives you the tools to use strength-based approaches that promote positive functioning in a variety of populations
• Adulthood and Aging – Supports adults and older adults through evidence-based practices
• Integrated Health – Helps you tackle physical, behavioral health, and substance use challenges

Program Duration and Format

CSULB offers flexible options with three program plans:

• 2-Year full-time program
• 3-Year part-time program
• Advanced Standing option for BSW graduates

The school also offers a distance education option that follows the 3-year program plan. Students learn through teleconferencing, face-to-face instruction, and web-based support.

Field Education Requirements

At CSULB, students complete 1,000 total hours split between two placements (500 hours each). These hours take place in community agency settings under qualified field instructor supervision. Students also attend weekly integrated field seminars. Advanced Standing students complete one 660-hour placement.

Accreditation and Licensure Preparation

The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) fully accredits the program. Students meet all requirements for state licensure and professional social work credentials.

San Jose State University

San Jose State University’s MSW program is 54 years old. The program started with a goal to prepare social workers for Spanish-speaking populations. Today, it stands as one of California’s most diverse masters in social work programs.

Program Overview

The School of Social Work at SJSU takes pride in its “Transcultural Perspective” approach. This philosophy runs through its curriculum and celebrates cultural strengths while fighting for social and economic justice. The program has earned the #5 spot in College Factual’s 2024 Best Social Work Schools in California. Students learn advanced generalist skills to become ethical practitioners. They also gain leadership abilities to work with diverse populations from a transcultural view.

Specializations

Students can choose from these key areas:

• Health and aging
• Children, youth, and families
• Mental health

Program Duration and Format

SJSU gives students several program options:

• Two-Year/Full-Time On-Campus Program: Classes run Monday/Friday or Wednesday/Friday with field placement Tuesday/Thursday
• Three-Year/Part-Time Evening On-Campus Program
• Online/Hybrid MSW Program: Students learn through asynchronous and synchronous sessions with in-person field education
• Advanced Standing Option: Available to qualified BSW graduates

Field Education Requirements

Field education is the life-blood of SJSU’s curriculum. Students must complete 1,050 hours total. First-year students finish 420 hours (208 fall, 212 spring). Final-year students complete 630 hours (302 fall, 328 spring). Students combine classroom learning with professional values through hands-on activities at approved California agencies.

Accreditation and Licensure Preparation

SJSU has managed to keep its CSWE accreditation since 1973. Nine competencies from the Council on Social Work Education guide the curriculum. These cover ethical practice, human rights, diversity, research, policy participation, and practice with individuals through communities.

California State University, Northridge

California State University, Northridge’s (CSUN) Department of Social Work prepares professional social workers who become agents of change in urban settings. Their focus remains on anti-oppressive, socially just practices. CSUN stands out for its supportive faculty and hands-on learning opportunities.

Program Overview

CSUN’s MSW program builds on a strengths-based framework that includes seven theoretical viewpoints. These viewpoints include social justice, ecosystems, social constructionism, biological-social-cultural-psychological-spiritual development theories, community development, empowerment-based practice, and multicultural competent practice. Students learn critical thinking skills that help them create effective interventions locally, regionally, and globally.

Specializations

CSUN’s advanced generalist program equips students to work in urban communities at all practice levels:

• Individual/family (micro)
• Group/community (mezzo)
• Societal/policy (macro)

Students gain more career opportunities than typical specialized programs offer.

Program Duration and Format

Students can choose from several program options:

• Two-year full-time program (four semesters, 60 units)
• Three-year part-time program (eight semesters, 60 units)
• Online options with both asynchronous and synchronous elements

Online students take two eight-week courses simultaneously with ongoing 16-week practicum education classes.

Field Education

At CSUN, students must complete 16 hours weekly throughout their program. Placements happen Monday-Friday between 9am-6pm, with no evening or weekend options available. Students learn to practice through an anti-racist, anti-oppressive, and trauma-informed lens while supporting human systems.

Accreditation and Licensure Prep

CSWE first accredited the program in 2004, with reaccreditation in 2012 and 2020. The program’s accreditation extends through 2028, cementing CSUN’s position as a qualified social work education provider.

California State University, Fullerton

California State University, Fullerton stands as Orange County’s only public university offering an MSW program. The 33-year-old program provides resilient training that focuses on direct practice with populations in need.

Program Overview

CSUF’s Master of Social Work program prepares students for roles in a variety of professional settings, from mental/behavioral health and child welfare to medical environments and criminal justice. The department secured nearly $10 million in grants to strengthen Southern California’s behavioral health workforce. A $4.75 million grant from the California Department of Health Care Access supports the MSW Expansion Project. CalOptima Health provided an additional $5 million grant to establish the Orange County Behavioral Health MSW Stipend Program.

Specializations

Students can specialize in three key areas:

• Aging
• Child Welfare
• Community Mental Health

The Child Welfare concentration equips students to work in protective services, healthcare, schools, and juvenile justice settings. The program qualifies for CalSWEC Title IV-E training funds, which provide financial support to students who commit to public child welfare careers.

Program Duration and Format

Students can choose between two options:

• A traditional two-year full-time program with weekday courses on Fullerton’s main campus
• An MSW flex program that working professionals can complete part-time over three years with evening courses

Field Education Requirements

Field education serves as social work’s “signature pedagogy” according to CSWE, requiring 1,050 total hours of supervised experience. Students complete about 525 hours each year (250 in fall, 275 in spring). Qualified field instructors mentor and guide students as they apply classroom theory at community agencies.

Accreditation and Licensure Preparation

The program’s full accreditation by the Council on Social Work Education allows graduates to apply for Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) certification in California. The curriculum combines human development theories, social welfare policy, and research with hands-on practice experience.

California State University, Sacramento

California State University, Sacramento’s MSW program has been shaping social work education in Northern California since 1964. The program equips graduates to serve in a variety of professional settings within diverse communities.

MSW Program Overview

Sac State’s MSW program creates globally-aware practitioners who champion social justice and health equity. Students start with foundation courses to build generalist skills before moving to specialized training. The first year develops essential competencies for working with individuals, groups, families, and organizations. Advanced curriculum then builds specialized expertise in practice methods, policy, and theory.

Specializations

Students head over to one of three concentration areas in their advanced year:

• Behavioral Health – Mental health assessment and intervention skills
• Children & Families – Child welfare and family-centered practice expertise
• Health & Aging – Healthcare solutions throughout the lifespan

Program Length and Format

Students can choose from three flexible degree paths:

• Two-Year Full-Time: Classes run Monday through Wednesday with field placements on Thursday and Friday
• Advanced Standing: A fast-track option for qualified BSW graduates
• Three-Year Weekend/Part-Time: Perfect for working professionals

Field Education Requirements

Field education is a large part of Sac State’s curriculum, with 1,280 total hours required. First-year students complete 512 hours (16 hours weekly), and advanced students finish 768 hours (24 hours weekly). Students must complete field hours during regular business hours (8am-5pm) when “the life of the agency exists”.

Accreditation and Licensure Preparation

The Council on Social Work Education fully accredits the program. Graduates can pursue Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) certification through the California Board of Behavioral Sciences.

California State University, Chico

California State University, Chico’s School of Social Work prepares students through bachelor’s level generalist practice and master’s level advanced generalist practice programs. The program shines among California’s MSW options because of its excellent child welfare training and flexible learning opportunities.

Program Overview

CSU Chico’s MSW program champions service, social justice, human dignity, relationship importance, integrity, and practice competence. Students become ethical, knowledgeable practitioners who value teamwork and continuous learning. Social work jobs will increase by 16% over the next decade. Mental health positions show even stronger growth at 19%.

Specializations

Students can specialize in these advanced generalist areas:

• Mental Health Services (MH)
• Families, Children and Youth Services (FCY)

Program Duration and Format

Students have multiple program options:

• Traditional two-year, full-time program (61-63 units)
• One-year, 36-unit accelerated option for BSW holders
• Three-year distributed learning program with blended format

Students in the distributed learning program complete 67% of their work online. Campus visits happen just 2-3 weekends per semester, with 33% face-to-face learning.

Field Education Requirements

Field education stands as the cornerstone of social work education and demands significant dedication:

• BSW/Foundation students complete 480 hours over two semesters (16 hours weekly)
• Concentration students complete 720 hours over two semesters (24 hours weekly)

Experienced MSWs from the community or faculty serve as field liaisons. They meet with students and supervisors at least once each semester.

Accreditation and Licensing Preparation

The Council on Social Work Education fully accredits all programs, which opens doors for licensure. Graduates demonstrate strong competencies in ethical practice, human rights advocacy, and effective interventions.

University of the Pacific

University of the Pacific runs a specialized MSW program that helps aspiring clinical social workers learn in a supportive, cohort-based environment. The program distinguishes itself from other California masters in social work programs through its unique mix of online, hybrid, and in-person classes.

Program Overview

Students at University of the Pacific’s MSW program learn to become change agents with excellent client care skills. The program teaches cultural humility and evidence-based approaches to clinical care. Students work in cohorts where they share ideas and build valuable professional connections that help their future careers.

Specializations

The program lets students choose between two specializations:

• Behavioral Health – Focuses on mental health assessment and intervention
• Health Care – Addresses medical social work practice

UOP’s partnership with the Abbott Fund provides specialized training in diabetes care and management. Students in Stockton, California can receive up to 50% in tuition scholarships.

Program Duration and Format

Full-time students need 55 credit hours to complete the traditional MSW in 16 months (four trimesters). Students pay $1,035 per credit hour, bringing the total to $57,960 plus additional fees. Students can choose between online and hybrid formats. The hybrid option needs weekly in-person attendance.

Field Education Requirements

Students must complete 1,104 hours of supervised experience in community agencies. The university’s dedicated field placement coordinators help students find quality experiential learning sites that match their educational goals and desired practice specialty. This support comes included in the program cost.

Accreditation and Licensure Preparation

The Council on Social Work Education’s full accreditation makes graduates eligible for licensure. Students can pursue Licensed Clinical Social Worker certification after graduation. The university has managed to keep its WASC accreditation since 1949, with current accreditation valid through 2027.

Loma Linda University

Loma Linda University’s MSW program has trained advanced clinical practitioners for over 20 years. The program stands out among California’s masters in social work programs because of its unique biopsychosocial-spiritual approach to social work practice.

Program Overview

This 78-unit program focuses on innovative, evidence-based trauma and resiliency-informed interventions. Students learn prevention, early intervention, diagnosis, and treatment methods throughout life stages. Students gain hands-on experience through Loma Linda’s world-class health system. The program offers advanced training in integrated behavioral health and tertiary level inpatient care. Students learn to work in healthcare settings of all types. This gives them the tools to help clients with an integrated approach.

Specializations

The education centers on advanced clinical practice with career paths such as:

• Clinical/Psychiatric Social Work
• Medical/Geriatric Social Work
• Child and Family Social Work
• Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Work

Students can earn certificates in Play Therapy and Drug and Alcohol Counseling. Tuition waivers are available for students starting in 2024-2025.

Program Duration and Format

Students can choose from several flexible options:

• Traditional 2-, 3-, and 4-year on-campus formats
• Online hybrid program for working professionals
• 12-month Advanced Standing option for recent BSW graduates

The online courses combine live and self-paced learning. Students complete their practicum placements in person near their homes.

Field Education Requirements

Field education forms the core of the program and needs dedicated commitment. Students work at agencies partnered with the Department. These agencies provide practicing social workers as field instructors. Students develop essential professional skills, self-direction, and ecological practice knowledge.

Accreditation and Licensure Preparation

The program holds full CSWE accreditation through 2025 and WASC accreditation.

Azusa Pacific University

Azusa Pacific University (APU) stands out among California MSW programs by blending Christian faith with professional social work standards and CSWE accreditation.

Program Overview

APU’s Master of Social Work program creates advanced practitioners who blend scientific knowledge, professional values, and social work skills to improve human well-being. The curriculum focuses on social justice, environmental advocacy, and equity for people of all backgrounds locally and globally, guided by Christian faith tradition. The faculty embraces the Social Work Code of Ethics, diversity, service, innovative teaching, and leadership growth. This preparation opens doors to numerous career paths in social service settings.

Specializations

APU offers two distinct specializations:

• Clinical Practice with Individuals and Families – Readies you to work in mental health clinics, veterans’ services, managed care facilities, shelters, group homes, and settings where personal helping relationships grow
• Community Leadership and Program Administration – Gives you the skills to lead nonprofit agencies, government programs, and policy organizations that tackle complex social problems

Duration and Format

Students can choose from multiple pathways:

• Full-time program: Two years (60 units), classes two days weekly
• Part-time program: Three years (60 units), one weekday evening plus five Saturdays per semester
• Advanced Standing: 36 units for BSW graduates, completed in 10 months

The program costs $795 per unit with a base cost of $47,700 for the traditional program and $28,620 for Advanced Standing.

Field Education Requirements

Students put classroom knowledge into practice through supervised agency placements. The program requires two year-long internships that total 960 hours (16-20 hours weekly) over both years. APU partners with agencies in five Southern California counties. Advanced Standing students complete 600 hours over two terms.

Accreditation and Licensure Preparation

The Council on Social Work Education fully accredits the program. The coursework meets California Board of Behavioral Sciences pre-licensure requirements and covers human sexuality, substance dependency, child abuse assessment, and professional ethics.

California Baptist University

California Baptist University blends Christian faith principles with its MSW program while upholding strong social work standards. Students learn to champion social change, equity, and well-being through evidence-based training and hands-on experiences that transform lives.

Program Overview

CBU’s Master of Social Work program gives you the training, hands-on experience, and mentorship you need to serve communities locally and globally. Faculty mentors demonstrate social work values, professionalism, and Christian faith throughout your educational trip. Students must complete 16 hours of professional development each year to build networks and meet professionals from various backgrounds.

Specializations

CBU runs an Advanced Generalist program that readies you for multiple roles in different settings. This detailed approach focuses on social justice, community service, and research skills. Students work with community organizations to create research that helps analyze data, raise funds, and address service gaps.

Program Duration and Format

The traditional MSW needs 60 units completed over two years including:

• Eight foundation courses
• Five generalist requirements
• Nine electives
• Four practicum requirements

Qualified students can finish the Advanced Standing program (30 units) in just one year. Campus-based and online formats follow similar quality standards, with online classes offering more flexibility for working professionals.

Field Education Requirements

CBU’s program requires that students complete 900 hours serving marginalized populations throughout the Inland Empire. First-year MSW students work 400 hours (16-20 weekly), while second-year students complete 500 hours (20-24 weekly). Students must meet with qualified MSW professionals each week for supervision.

Accreditation and Licensure Preparation

The Council on Social Work Education fully accredits the MSW program, which allows graduates to seek licensure in California. The social work field should grow by 7% over the next decade, creating about 67,300 job openings each year.

Humboldt State University

Cal Poly Humboldt’s MSW program stands out among California social work programs. Its unique focus serves Indigenous and rural communities through a curriculum that aims to decolonize mainstream social work practice.

Program Overview

The Master of Social Work program at Humboldt prepares students to become advanced generalist practitioners. Students learn to maintain a disciplined, caring presence while building their practice framework based on personal and professional values. The curriculum focuses on cultural humility, partnership, and non-expert relational approaches. Critical reflection and social action for justice are key components of the program.

Specializations

The program’s advanced generalist approach centers on work with Indigenous and rural communities. Students learn to build reciprocal and dynamic relationships that help decolonize mainstream social work. They develop multi-system, multi-level approaches where practitioners and clients cooperate to improve functioning and resilience by building on existing strengths.

Program Duration and Format

Humboldt’s program comes with multiple options:

• Full-length MSW: 3.5 years (10 semesters) of part-time study
• Advanced Standing: 2 years (5 semesters) for qualified BSW graduates
• Classes combine synchronous and asynchronous instruction
• On-campus intensive required every January (Martin Luther King Jr. weekend)

Field Education Requirements

Field education, known as the “heart of social work education,” needs significant dedication at Humboldt:

• Traditional students: 960 documented hours (480 each academic year)
• Advanced Standing students: 480 hours
• Weekly commitment of 16 hours plus MSW supervision
• Placements arranged within the Superior Region of Northern California

Accreditation and Licensure Preparation

The program holds full accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) among other accreditations from the Western Association of Schools & Colleges (WASC). This accreditation will give students eligibility for licensure after graduation.

National University

National University distinguishes itself among MSW programs in California through its fully online format. The program received its original full CSWE accreditation through October 2029 after starting the rigorous accreditation process in 2018.

Program Overview

The MSW program at National University opens doors to career opportunities in health care, human services, clinical practice, and administration fields. Students seeking professional growth in modern social work practice will find value in this 60-credit program. The curriculum builds strong foundations in professional knowledge, values, and skills. Students learn research-backed coursework and strengths-based approaches that lead to rewarding career paths for MSW graduates.

Specializations

This advanced generalist program prepares you for multiple career paths including:

• Medical and rehabilitation settings
• Schools and behavioral health centers
• Court and correctional agencies
• Local and state governments

Program Duration and Format

Students can choose between two tracks based on their educational background:

• Foundation Track: 60 credits for students new to social work, completable in 48 months
• Advanced Standing Track: 36 credits for students with a CSWE-accredited BSW, completable in 29 months

Field Education Requirements

At National, Advanced Standing students must complete two practicum courses (3 credits each), while Foundation track students complete four courses. Students start with the Practicum Preparation Process (PPP) to secure a local placement and supervisor. Each practicum demands 225 hours minimum, with bi-weekly seminar meetings throughout.

Accreditation and Licensure Preparation

The program’s CSWE accreditation qualifies graduates to take social work licensure exams in their state. This credential is vital given the nationwide shortage of MSW professionals. Students should review specific licensure requirements in their jurisdiction, as these may differ.

Comparing California’s Top MSW Programs

Choose Your California MSW Program Today

Your choice of MSW program will shape your professional social work career in California. This piece has shown how California leads the nation in social work education. The state awards 12% of all master’s degrees nationwide. Students can choose from 28 CSWE-accredited programs at both public and private schools.

MSW graduates enjoy excellent career prospects. California employs more social workers than any other state. The field should grow by 7% through 2032. Social work offers both professional satisfaction and good pay, with annual salaries between $66,000 and $88,000.

California’s MSW programs offer remarkable flexibility. Students can pick from traditional campus classes, part-time evening sessions, or online learning. BSW degree holders can fast-track their education through Advanced Standing options. They can complete their degrees in 9-16 months instead of two years.

Field education serves as the life-blood of every quality MSW program. California schools require 900-1,200 supervised field hours. This hands-on training turns classroom knowledge into real-life skills. Students also build valuable professional networks during their training.

CSWE accreditation matters for every program mentioned in this piece. This credential guarantees quality education and lets graduates take licensure exams – a must for professional practice in California.

Student success stories show how MSW education changes lives. Graduates from all backgrounds overcome challenges. They emerge ready to support vulnerable populations and make meaningful community changes.

Excellence in social work begins with picking a program that matches your career goals and learning style. Consider specializations, program formats, field placements, and support services carefully. A California MSW program will prepare you for a career that enhances human well-being and advances social justice.

FAQs

Q1. Which MSW programs in California are considered the best? While rankings can vary, top-rated programs include those at USC, UC Berkeley, and San Diego State University. These schools are known for their rigorous curricula, experienced faculty, and strong field education components. However, the “best” program depends on your specific career goals and interests within social work.

Q2. What are the typical admission requirements for MSW programs in California? Most programs require a bachelor’s degree (not necessarily in social work), a minimum GPA (often 3.0 or higher), letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and sometimes GRE scores. Some schools also look for relevant work or volunteer experience in human services.

Q3. How long does it typically take to complete an MSW program in California? Traditional full-time MSW programs usually take two years to complete. However, many schools offer flexible options, including part-time programs that can take 3-4 years, and accelerated Advanced Standing programs for BSW holders that can be completed in as little as one year.

Q4. What specializations are commonly offered in California MSW programs? Common specializations include clinical practice, child and family services, mental health, healthcare, aging, and community organization. Some programs, like USC, offer unique focuses such as military social work. It’s important to choose a program that aligns with your career interests.

Q5. How much field experience is typically required in California MSW programs? Most California MSW programs require between 900-1,200 hours of supervised field experience. This is usually split between two years, with students spending 16-24 hours per week in field placements. Field education is a crucial component of MSW training, providing hands-on experience in real-world settings.