8 Best MSW Programs in Massachusetts

Looking for MSW programs in Massachusetts? You’re stepping into a field that shows real promise. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects social work employment to grow 7% by 2033, which beats the average occupation growth rate by a lot – about 4% more.

Massachusetts has 13 MSW programs spread throughout the state. Ten schools run campus-based or hybrid programs, and four offer fully online MSW programs that let Massachusetts residents study from home. These 13 schools give you options for both traditional and advanced standing tracks based on your educational background.

Boston’s homelessness crisis ranks second highest among large US cities, and 11.5% of Massachusetts residents live with a disability. These realities make a master’s in social work in Massachusetts a powerful way to create change in people’s lives. Some programs are quite flexible – Simmons University’s online MSW lets qualified students finish in just 9 months.

Let’s get into 8 outstanding MSW programs that could be your perfect fit in the Bay State.

Boston University

Boston University ranks in the top 4% of graduate social work schools nationwide. The program has 851 students enrolled as of 2024 and maintains an excellent 11:1 student-to-faculty ratio. These numbers show both quality and personal attention.

Key features

BU’s School of Social Work gives students four different program formats. Students can study at Boston’s vibrant Charles River Campus, take classes fully online from anywhere in the United States, attend off-campus programs in Bedford, Cape Cod, and Fall River, or join a hybrid program in Worcester.

Students can major in Clinical Practice or Macro Practice. The program also has four specialized tracks: Aging, Behavioral Health, Children Youth and Families, and Trauma Violence and Justice. These specializations help students build focused expertise through advanced elective courses and field placements.

Students with relevant experience can take the Human Service Experience (HSE) Track. This track works well if you have at least two years of full-time supervised human services background, and it cuts field requirements from two internships to one. The Advanced Standing Track lets qualified candidates with undergraduate social work degrees finish faster.

Students contribute more than 300,000 hours in the field at BU. This hands-on experience is a great way to get practical skills while learning theory.

Pros and cons

Pros:

• Location advantage: Boston leads in education, healthcare, and nonprofits, with amazing field placement options
• Specialization options: Four specialized areas that match today’s social work priorities
• Flexible formats: Several program choices that fit different learning styles and schedules
• Social justice focus: Classes tackle social justice issues, racism, poverty, and cultural oppression
• Scholarship availability: Merit-based funding helps with educational costs

Cons:

• Cost: Tuition rates run higher than other Massachusetts programs
• Campus style: Urban campus layout might not suit everyone
• Size: Large student population can make it harder to connect at first

Pricing

Tuition rates change based on program format and enrollment status. Here are the 2025-2026 academic year rates:

Students should also plan for books and supplies ($1,489), housing and food ($15,450), and other expenses ($4,412).

Who is BU’s program best for?

BU’s program shines for students interested in trauma-informed practice. A student shares, “Trauma exposure affects many people… At BUSSW, students have the chance to pursue a Trauma & Violence specialization”. This matches the growing awareness of trauma’s effects on people and communities.

The program works well for students who want specialized training in behavioral health. Boston’s reputation as a mental health hub means clinical practice students can choose from more than 800 affiliated organizations for field placements.

Macro practice students will find BU’s curriculum valuable. It prepares graduates to work in community organizing, human services management, and program development. The macro practice focus builds on social justice values like “participatory democracy, human dignity, equality, and freedom”.

Working professionals with human services experience will appreciate the HSE Track. It helps advance their career while staying in the field. The online program works well for students across the United States, with small classes of no more than 15 students.

Simmons University

Simmons University stands out among MSW programs in Massachusetts as the first school of clinical social work in the country, 119 years old. Their emphasis on clinical practice and psychotherapy skills has earned them trust from employers looking for top expertise.

Key features

The Simmons MSW program offers multiple flexible formats that fit different student needs. Students can choose between traditional on-campus courses, online classes, or a mix of both. The program offers full-time study (completed in 23 months), part-time extended (up to 40 months), and an accelerated track that takes just 16 months.

BSW graduates can take advantage of the Advanced Standing MSW program. This path needs only 34 credits instead of the standard 65 credits. Students can finish in 9 months with the two-term option or 12 months with the three-term option.

Simmons stands out with its extensive practicum education. Traditional MSW students gain more than 1,000 hours of ground experience in community settings. Advanced Standing students complete 672 hours. These opportunities help students apply classroom learning to ground practice.

Students can choose from specialized certificate options including:

• Clinical Practice with Active Service Members, Veterans, and Families
• Trauma Practice
• Healthcare & Social Work
• School Social Worker Licensure
• Public Policy

Simmons leads innovation as Massachusetts’s only Social Work School using Social Work Simulation Education. Students can practice clinical situations before starting field placements.

Pros and cons

Pros:

• Pioneer status as the nation’s first clinical social work school
• Multiple program formats: online, on-campus, and hybrid options
• Quick completion paths for qualified students
• More practicum experience than other Boston area programs
• Nearly 90% of faculty members actively practice in the field
• Advanced simulation-based clinical training
• Complete career support with workshops, fairs, and job boards

Cons:

• Costs more than public universities in Massachusetts
• Strong clinical focus might not match macro practice interests
• Online format lacks traditional campus life
• Heavy field requirements challenge working students

Simmons University MSW pricing

The 2025-2026 academic year tuition varies by program format:

Additional costs include:

• Practicum education fee: $75 per placement
• Student fee: $75 per term
• Books (not included in tuition)

Students can access Simmons Future Leader Scholarships and Dean’s Scholarships. These go to top applicants with strong academic records. U.S. citizens and permanent residents can seek federal loans through FAFSA (code: 002208).

Who is the Simmons University MSW best for?

Simmons excels at training clinical social workers in psychotherapy skills. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects social worker employment to grow 13% from 2019 to 2029. This growth creates excellent opportunities for Simmons graduates.

The program fits students interested in current social needs, such as helping aging Americans or people with substance misuse issues. Students gain an edge through simulation-based training before entering clinical settings.

The online format works well for working professionals. Live, interactive classes stay small with about 20 students. This allows meaningful discussions and direct faculty interaction. SocialWork@Simmons supports students throughout their journey. Each student works with dedicated academic advisors who hold MSW degrees.

Graduates can pursue licensure as clinical social workers (LCSW/LICSW) in Massachusetts and beyond. This opens careers in child welfare, community mental health, healthcare, schools, and private practice.

Smith College

Smith College takes a different path with its MSW program in Massachusetts. The 27-month program revolves around three summer residencies and two 8-month supervised internships. This approach creates a deep-dive learning experience that zeros in on clinical social work.

Key features

Smith believes you can’t understand someone without looking at both their inner world and outer circumstances. The program weaves together clinical social work and social justice. This combination has been Smith’s trademark for more than a generation.

The program follows a unique timeline:

• Three summers of intensive coursework on Smith’s campus (June-August)
• Two 8-month supervised internships at sites across the country (September-April)
• Graduation in August after the third summer

Your MSW degree requirements include 60 quarter hours of internships, 4 quarter hours of internship seminars, 6 quarter hours of community-based anti-racism experience, 37 quarter hours of core courses, 8 quarter hours of sequenced electives, and 10 quarter hours of elective courses.

Summer courses start with the basics – social work methods, psychological and sociocultural theories, social welfare history, policy analysis, and research methods. The second summer builds on this foundation. Students learn about human development in sociocultural contexts through psychodynamic theory, family theories, and eco-systemic perspectives.

Social justice stands at the heart of the program. “Issues of gender, race, ethnicity, class and oppression are intricately woven throughout the curriculum”. Smith lives by five Core Principles of racial justice that shape every aspect of the program.

Pros and cons

Pros:

• Clinical social work focus gives you deep therapeutic expertise
• Internship hours go well beyond other programs
• Small classes of about 20 students mean personal attention
• Social justice threads through every course
• Strong support includes writing help, math assistance, and career guidance
• Partnerships with top training institutes nationwide
• Summer faculty includes experts from across the country

Cons:

• Public universities cost less
• Program structure leaves little room for flexibility
• Five-week summer courses pack in a full semester
• Clinical focus might not suit macro work enthusiasts
• Campus residencies mean dealing with New England winters

Pricing

Smith College makes private education surprisingly affordable:

Who is the Smith College MSW best for?

Smith shines brightest for students who want deep clinical training with theory, relationships, and cultural awareness at its core. The program works best for those who thrive in immersive learning rather than traditional semester formats.

Students passionate about mixing social justice with clinical practice will find their home here. Social justice isn’t just an add-on – it’s part of everything.

The program hits the sweet spot between academic challenge and hands-on experience. One student puts it this way: “It’s intense. It’s very rigorous academically. You’re doing a full semester in five weeks… since I started my placement, I’ve found that I have [learned the information]”.

The degree opens many doors. As students often say, “social work is a good degree that has a lot of options for where you can go after your masters”. Smith prepares you for various clinical roles while teaching you to see the bigger picture – social, economic, political, and cultural factors that shape client experiences.

Bridgewater State University

Bridgewater State University provides one of the most budget-friendly MSW programs in Massachusetts. Their social justice focus helps students prepare for advanced practice. The university runs the largest bachelor’s in social work program in the state and brings this expertise to graduate students through a Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredited curriculum.

Key features

The program uses resilience theory and strengths-based methods to teach intergenerational practice. Students can pick from several flexible study options:

• Full-time program completed in two years
• Part-time options completed in either three or four years
• A unique Saturday hybrid cohort that works great for professionals

The Saturday program stands out because students need to attend just one day each week with few on-campus sessions. Students move through the program together, which creates a supportive community.

Field education is a vital part where students get hands-on experience in settings like child welfare agencies, mental health facilities, schools, criminal justice organizations, elder services, and medical institutions.

Students interested in both law and social work can join the joint JD/MSW program offered by Bridgewater State University and the University of Massachusetts Law School-Dartmouth. This specialized track lets students earn both degrees faster than if they pursued them separately.

Pros and cons

Pros:

• Students build strong support networks through the cohort model
• Working professionals benefit from the hybrid format
• Small classes provide individual attention
• Social justice emphasis runs throughout the curriculum
• Joint JD/MSW option opens specialized career paths

Cons:

• Student reviews mention limited course selection options
• Graduate students sometimes feel treated like undergraduates
• Program has less name recognition than other Massachusetts schools

Pricing

The university keeps graduate tuition rates competitive:

Students taking three graduate courses (9 credits) in one semester spend about $15,577.50 including living costs. A full year with 18 credits over fall/spring semesters costs around $31,155.00.

The College of Graduate Studies teams up with the Financial Aid Office to help students get assistantships, fellowships, grants, and scholarships. Non-Massachusetts residents who get admitted can receive the Horace Mann Scholarship, which gives $5,000 yearly toward total costs.

Who is the Bridgewater State MSW best for?

The MSW program works best for students who want an affordable path to advanced social work practice. Working professionals love the Saturday cohort option when regular weekday classes don’t fit their schedule.

Social justice values are the cornerstone of their MSW program, making it perfect for students passionate about this field. Graduates can work in various settings like child welfare, youth services, mental health counseling, school social work, and healthcare.

The joint JD/MSW program is a chance for students to blend legal and social service careers. Students complete this dual degree full-time in 4.5 calendar years or part-time in 5 to 6.5 years, depending on summer studies.

Bridgewater State University provides quality MSW education that combines academic excellence with real-world experience at a lower cost than many private Massachusetts schools.

Anna Maria College

Anna Maria College’s MSW program builds on an Advanced Generalist practice model that combines liberal arts with a person-in-environment framework. The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) has granted full accreditation to this program, proving it right through its educational quality and professional standards.

Key features

Students learn various prevention and intervention methods through three flexible pathways:

• Full-time: 62 credits completed in two years (including summer courses)
• Part-time: 62 credits typically completed in four years (including summer courses)
• Advanced Standing: BSW graduates from CSWE-accredited programs need 30+ credits completed in three semesters or two years part-time

Field education serves as the basis of the program where students complete 1,070 total hours. First-year students dedicate 450 hours (16 hours weekly across two semesters). Advanced standing and second-year students complete 620 hours (20-24 hours weekly).

Social justice, human rights, and cultural diversity run deep through the curriculum. Students learn research-informed practices and adapt to contextual factors in professional settings.

Pros and cons

Pros:

• Alumni get tuition discounts
• Strong focus on ethical practice in a variety of populations
• Field placement happens alongside classes for hands-on learning
• Working professionals can choose part-time options
• Students might complete field work at their current workplace

Cons:

• Online options are limited
• Field requirements could be tough for working students
• The school has less recognition than bigger Boston-area institutions

Pricing

Anna Maria College sets its prices based on its private institution status:

Who is the Anna Maria College MSW best for?

Students who want to support and drive social change will find this program valuable. The program prepares graduates to “advance the opportunities, resources, and capacities of individuals and communities both locally and globally”.

Students interested in working with multiple service delivery systems will benefit from this curriculum. The program helps graduates develop skills to work with different populations.

Career-changers and social service professionals who need schedule flexibility excel at Anna Maria College. BSW degree holders can take advantage of the accelerated advanced standing option to save time and money.

Merrimack College

Merrimack College launched a distinctive MSW option in the Merrimack Valley region, which earned CSWE accreditation in November 2024. The program builds on Augustinian values and social justice principles to help graduates become agents of positive change.

Key features

The 56-credit advanced generalist program helps promote human and community well-being through social work knowledge and skills. Students get:

• Evening classes that work well for professionals
• Several study paths: full-time (2 years), part-time (3-4 years), and a 36-credit advanced standing option for BSW graduates
• Detailed field education with 900 hours of hands-on experience
• Elective tracks in School Social Work, Criminology, Substance Use Disorders, Community Engagement, and Social Work within the Latino Community

Students experience transformative learning both in and outside the classroom. The curriculum combines foundation courses (28 credits), specialist courses (20 credits), and electives (8 credits).

Pros and cons

Pros:

• The only MSW program you’ll find in the Merrimack Valley
• Every student completes field placements before graduation
• Evening classes and upcoming online options fit working professionals’ schedules
• Deep focus on cultural humility and anti-oppressive practice

Cons:

• A newer program compared to other Massachusetts options
• Online offerings are still in development
• Not as many specializations as bigger universities

Pricing

The college helps make education affordable through several options:

At $110 per credit, tuition rates are substantially lower than competing programs.

Who is the Merrimack College MSW best for?

Students looking for career-focused education with strong community ties will thrive here. The college partners with top employers like Lahey Health Behavioral Services, Department of Children and Families, and various public school systems.

The Merrimack Valley location gives students a chance to work with diverse communities that need resources. This program stands out for anyone who wants a values-based education with real-world experience to kickstart their career in this growing field.

Salem State University

Salem State University leads the way as Massachusetts’ first public social work program. US News and World Report ranks it among the top 100 social work programs nationwide. The program has adapted to today’s workforce needs while keeping tuition costs low.

Key features

The program specializes in integrated health and behavioral health practice. Students learn to work in healthcare systems that blend physical and behavioral health approaches. This complete approach includes:

• Practice viewpoints for micro, mezzo, and macro systems
• Integration of human behavior knowledge, practice, policy, and research
• Understanding physical, mental, and behavioral health throughout life

Students can choose flexible program options. They can finish full-time in two years or take up to four years. Field education lets students pick between academic year internships (16-20 hours weekly from September through May) or summer block internships (32-40 hours weekly from mid-May through August).

The university launched an online MSW program that features a three-year part-time format with evening courses at 5pm and 7pm. This setup helps students balance their work and education effectively.

Pros and cons

Pros:

• Tuition costs nowhere near private schools (about 2/3 less)
• Outstanding, knowledgeable faculty
• The core team provides continued professional development
• New state-of-the-art facility at 287 Lafayette Street
• Rich electives including Trauma Informed Practice and Military Family Work

Cons:

• Program adjusting to become more competitive
• Administrative systems need improvement
• Demanding program that requires much time commitment

Pricing

Affordable education is a hallmark of Salem State’s program:

Who is the Salem State MSW best for?

Budget-conscious students who want quality education without heavy debt thrive at Salem State. The program works especially well when you have interest in integrated health settings. Field placements are available in health clinics, hospitals, schools, and family services.

Working professionals appreciate the evening courses and growing online options. Students pursuing clinical licensure get complete preparation to practice with clients of all backgrounds throughout Massachusetts.

UMass

UMass Global offers a completely online MSW program. The program gives working professionals the chance to advance their social work credentials without putting their careers on hold.

Key features

The program uses a person-in-environment approach with a global point of view. It aims to encourage human and community well-being while highlighting social justice principles. Students can choose between two paths:

• Standard Advanced Generalist option: 69 credit hours with 1000 field placement hours
• Advanced Standing option: 39 credit hours with 600 field placement hours for BSW holders

Field education is the program’s cornerstone. Students complete their placements at social service agencies close to where they live. BSW graduates can finish the accelerated track in 12 months. Students without a BSW typically complete the program in 27 months.

Pros and cons

Pros:

• Fully online courses designed specifically for distance learning
• The core team includes scholar-practitioners with extensive real-world experience
• Original CSWE accreditation received in March 2021
• Flexible year-round study options with part-time or full-time schedules
• Student loan default rate substantially lower (48% below national average)

Cons:

• Regulatory restrictions limit availability in some states
• Program reputation still growing
• No traditional campus experience with online-only format

Pricing

Who is the UMass MSW best for?

Working professionals who need maximum flexibility will find this program ideal. Graduates can pursue diverse careers in child protective services, mental health treatment, healthcare settings, and advocacy organizations. The program’s international point of view proves valuable for students who want to tackle global challenges like human trafficking, natural disasters, and economic crises. The advanced generalist preparation helps future leaders develop critical evaluation skills and self-reflective leadership abilities.

Choose Your Massachusetts MSW Today

Your career goals, budget, and personal situation play a key role in picking the right MSW program. Massachusetts has some great options to offer. Boston University ranks in the top 4% nationwide, while Bridgewater State University gives you an affordable public education choice. These programs help prepare you for a field that’s set to grow 7% by 2033.

Boston University shines with its adaptable formats and specialized tracks. Simmons University takes pride in being the nation’s first clinical social work school. Smith College runs an intensive clinical program through its summer residency model. Bridgewater State University focuses on social justice while keeping costs down. Anna Maria College, Merrimack College, and Salem State University each bring their own style to social work education. They all blend academic excellence with hands-on field experience.

These schools make it easy to fit your studies into your life. You can go fully online with UMass Global, join a Saturday hybrid group at Bridgewater State, or take evening classes at Merrimack College. Field education is at the heart of every program. The hours needed range from 672 at Simmons (Advanced Standing) to over 1,000 at other schools.

Money matters when you’re choosing a program. Public schools like Bridgewater State and Salem State cost nowhere near what private institutions charge. But many private programs offer great financial aid packages that can really bring down the cost. Smith College stands out because fewer of their graduates end up with student loans compared to other social work schools.

Your interests should point you toward the right specialization. Boston University’s approach to trauma-informed practice is different from Salem State’s focus on integrated health. These specialized paths line up with what today’s social workers need and set you up for specific careers after graduation.

A social work education opens doors to make real change happen. Your MSW gives you skills that work in healthcare, education, mental health, child welfare, and many other areas. Massachusetts schools offer exceptional paths to reach these career goals while tackling big issues like homelessness and disability services.

The perfect program for you is among these seven excellent choices. Picking might seem tough at first but knowing what makes each program special helps clear things up. Once you start, you’ll join a profession that enables people and communities while solving some of society’s toughest challenges.