9 Best MSW Programs in New York
Want to kickstart your social work career with a New York MSW program? You can complete your degree in just 9 months through online advanced-standing options at prestigious schools like Simmons University. Some programs let you set your own pace, taking anywhere from 12 to 24 months.
New York’s MSW programs deliver impressive results. Adelphi University reports that 90% of its graduates find employment. Other NYC programs achieve even better results with 96% employment success. Quality remains a top priority for New York State MSW programs. Each accredited program undergoes regular reviews to maintain high standards. On top of that, many NY programs offer flexible study options. Students can choose online formats with virtual residencies and connect with more than 1,000 practicum partners. We help you compare the top 9 MSW programs, including well-known institutions like Columbia University, CUNY Hunter College, and Syracuse University. You’ll find the program that matches your goals perfectly.
New York University
NYU Silver School of Social Work ranks among the top institutions where aspiring social workers can get excellent clinical training with a social justice view. Students can access exciting career opportunities through innovative training, intensive professional development support, and a strong alumni network of over 20,000 professionals.
Key features
NYU’s MSW program builds on a research-informed, hands-on curriculum that emphasizes clinical social work practice. The program includes:
- Small, personal class sizes where most courses cap at 25 students and practice classes limit to 15 students
- A global view with study opportunities in New York, Shanghai, and other cities worldwide
- Strong emphasis on social and economic justice throughout the curriculum
- Leading scholars and working professionals make up the faculty, bringing both academic and real-life experience
NYU Silver provides various pathways that meet different student needs. Students can choose from full-time to part-time options, along with dual-degree programs partnered with Sarah Lawrence College, NYU School of Law, NYU School of Global Public Health, and NYU Wagner Graduate School of Public Service.
Concentrations and tracks
NYU Silver gives students flexibility through specializations instead of requiring specific concentrations or tracks. These specializations pair practicum placements with related seminars and classroom learning. Key specializations include:
- Evidence-Based Practice specialization where students work with adults diagnosed with Serious Mental Illness (SMI)
- CHAMP Institute for students who want to prevent child maltreatment
- School Social Work Training Academy created with NYC Public Schools
These specializations are a great way to get advanced training and often include stipends, scholarships, and mentorship opportunities with faculty and practice leaders locally, nationally, and globally.
Accreditation and licensure prep
The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) fully accredits the program. Graduates consistently show high success rates in passing New York State’s licensing exam at both entry level (LMSW) and advanced clinical level (LCSW). Students get specific preparation for the ASWB masters level examination needed for LMSW licensure.
Fieldwork and practicum
NYU Silver now uses “practicum” instead of “field” to line up with the school’s commitment to antiracist education and inclusive language. The program partners with more than 600 public and nonprofit agencies across New York and Shanghai, giving students dynamic learning opportunities in various settings.
Students starting their generalist practicum in Fall 2024 or later should note:
- Two-Year, Extended, and 32-Month MSW students complete 900 practicum hours (450 hours each academic year) at two different placement sites
- Advanced Standing and Transfer MSW students complete 600 practicum hours in one academic year
- Hybrid MSW students complete 900 practicum hours at one placement site
Pricing and financial aid
Tuition costs $1,652 per credit for the 2024-2025 academic year, with total program costs varying by pathway. The Silver School gives much of its budget to scholarship assistance, helping more than 95% of eligible students.
Graduate Silver Tuition Scholarships range from $7,000–$17,000 per academic year for full-time MSW students. On top of that, NYU offers special scholarships for returned Peace Corps volunteers, with a guaranteed 50% tuition scholarship.
Who is the NYU MSW best for?
NYU Silver works best if you want:
- Clinical excellence with a social justice view
- Research-informed direct practice training with individuals, groups, and families
- Global learning opportunities and international views
- Strong community connections with a diverse student body and engaged alumni network
The program’s career outcomes speak volumes – 91% of 2022 MSW graduates got a position or continued their education within one year of completing the program.
Columbia University
Columbia University’s School of Social Work has one of the best masters in social work programs in New York. The school ranks tied for 4th out of 319 social work schools nationwide. The program has over 1,000 students and combines academic excellence with hands-on field experience.
Key features
Columbia’s Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW) offers a well-laid-out curriculum in both online and on-campus formats. The standard program has 60 credit hours and requires 1,200 hours of field practicum. Students can finish their degree in two years with full-time study or take up to four years part-time. The school also offers these program options:
- Two-Year Program (four semesters, full-time)
- 16-Month Program (begins in spring, continues through summer)
- Advanced Standing (for BSW holders, completed in one year)
- Extended Program (combines part-time and full-time study)
- Reduced Residency (for currently hired social service professionals)
Concentrations and tracks
Students can choose from four unique concentration paths:
- Advanced Clinical Social Work Practice – Prepares you for direct practice with individuals, families, and groups
- Integrated Practice and Programming – Builds skills that span individual and community levels, including advocacy and program planning
- Policy Practice – Teaches policy analysis, advocacy, and research to affect society
- Leadership Management and Entrepreneurship – Gives you the skills to manage organizations and create new ventures that tackle social problems
Students pick both a method specialization and a field of practice. This creates a tailored educational path while letting them tap into Columbia’s cross-disciplinary resources.
Accreditation and licensure prep
The MSSW program holds full accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). This ensures graduates meet all educational requirements for licensure. After graduation, students can become Licensed Master Social Workers (LMSW) by completing required courses and passing the ASWB Masters exam. The program also lays the groundwork for those pursuing clinical licensure (LCSW) through post-graduate supervised experience.
Fieldwork and practicum
Field education forms the heart of Columbia’s social work training. The Field Education Department works with over 600 agencies and places more than 800 students each year. Columbia has built relationships with about 900 practicum sites across the country:
- 600+ placement sites in New York City, New Jersey, and Connecticut
- 300 placement sites in other states
Students work in various settings from schools and behavioral healthcare facilities to family counseling centers, substance use treatment centers, and community organizations.
Pricing and financial aid
Full-time students pay about $30,382 per semester in tuition, while part-time students pay $2,025 per credit. The total cost comes to around $83,111. Columbia offers significant financial support – over 90% of students who submit eligible FAFSA applications receive aid from the institution. Aid packages usually include scholarships, Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans, Federal Work-Study, and other loan options.
Who is Columbia’s MSW best for?
This program works best if you want:
- A prestigious degree from a top-ranked social work school
- Flexible program options that fit your schedule
- Rich field placement opportunities in New York and beyond
- Specialized training in clinical practice, policy, community organization, or leadership
- Access to Columbia’s broader university resources and cross-disciplinary opportunities
Columbia’s approach to social work education helps graduates tackle complex social challenges through proven practices and innovative solutions.
Fordham University
107 years old, Fordham University’s Graduate School of Social Service runs one of the largest and most established masters in social work new york programs. The program ranks in the top 8% of social work schools nationwide. This Jesuit institution shapes social workers through a dynamic curriculum that tackles complex social challenges.
Key features
Fordham’s MSW program requires 62 credits: 48 credits of coursework and 14 credits of fieldwork. The program features:
- Flexible scheduling allows students to complete coursework in just one day per week on campus
- Multiple campus locations in Manhattan, Westchester, and Long Island
- Future-focused curriculum providing tools grounded in theory and ethics
- Three convenient study formats: on-campus, hybrid, and fully online options
Qualified BSW graduates can choose Fordham’s advanced standing option to complete the program in just nine months with a savings of over $30,000.
Concentrations and tracks
Fordham structures its program differently from traditional concentrations. Students progress through a Generalist Phase followed by a Specialist Phase. The Specialist Phase offers four advanced practice areas:
- Individuals and Families
- Organizations and Community
- Evaluation
- Policy Practice and Advocacy
On top of that, on-campus students can get specialized practice certificates in Health or Crisis and Resilience to boost their marketability.
Accreditation and licensure prep
The Council on Social Work Education fully accredits the program, meeting all educational requirements for licensure eligibility. Students prepare for the ASWB Masters Examination through:
- Sessions on test-taking strategies and content review offered toward the end of spring semester
- An online licensing preparation course (five hours) available to all MSW students and alumni
- Curriculum that matches licensing exam content areas
Fieldwork and practicum
Field education is the cornerstone of Fordham’s MSW program. Students complete:
- Minimum of 900 total fieldwork hours
- 450 hours in Generalist Phase Field Practicum
- 450 hours in Specialist Phase Field Practicum
The program partners with thousands of field sites throughout the tri-state area. Students can pursue unique opportunities like United Nations internships and the Palliative Care Fellowship.
Pricing and financial aid
The 2025-2026 tuition costs $1,098 per credit. Total program costs are approximately:
- Two-year full-time plan: $68,076 ($34,038 per year) plus fees
- Advanced standing: $34,038 plus fees
Fordham provides tuition discounts for partner organization employees. Jewish Board employees receive 20% off, while New York Departments of Social Services employees get $800 off per 3-credit class.
Who is Fordham University’s MSW best for?
This program works best for students who:
- Value flexible scheduling that accommodates work-life balance
- Seek a social justice-oriented education rooted in Jesuit tradition
- Prefer an integrated approach that spans micro, mezzo, and macro practice
- Want to complete coursework in just one day per week on campus
The program started by serving the New York metropolitan region. Today, it equips students with skills to serve diverse populations anywhere. Social work employment shows strong growth potential, with a projected 9% increase from 2021 to 2031, outpacing other professions.
Adelphi University
Adelphi University’s School of Social Work has been CSWE accredited since 1951, making it one of the longest-running masters in social work new york programs. Students can choose from multiple campuses across New York state, which gives them great flexibility as they pursue their social work careers.
Key features
The MSW program at Adelphi requires 64 credits and offers several paths:
- Traditional MSW – Students can complete this part-time over three years with starts in fall and spring
- Advanced Standing – BSW graduates can take this 32-credit fast-track option and finish in just 15 months
- MSW for Human Service Professionals – Current human services employees can complete their field placements at work
Students learn through a mix of live and self-paced online classes. The online program costs 30% less than on-campus options while delivering the same high-quality education.
Concentrations and tracks
Advanced, contemporary direct practice is the heart of Adelphi’s curriculum. Students can also specialize in these four areas:
- Health Across the Life Course
- Mental Health, Substance Abuse and Trauma in Context
- Children & Families
- Human Services Management and Organizational Leadership
Accreditation and licensure prep
Beyond CSWE accreditation, students get ready for licensure through:
- Introduction to Licensing Workshops
- Weekly licensing-focused practice questions
- A required 1-credit Credentialing and Assessment course
- Free 6-month access to AATBS online LMSW Prep Program
Graduates can apply to become Licensed Master Social Workers (LMSW).
Fieldwork and practicum
Field education is the key to Adelphi’s program:
- Traditional MSW students need 1,200 hours (two 600-hour placements)
- Advanced Standing students complete one 600-hour field placement
- Human Services professionals do one employment-based placement
The school works with more than 1,000 human service agencies in the New York metro area. Students can work in various settings from child welfare agencies to psychiatric hospitals.
Pricing and financial aid
Students can reduce their costs through several financial aid options:
- Traditional MSW students can get Graduate Social Work Scholarships up to $20,000
- Advanced Standing students can receive up to $10,000 in scholarships
- Extra stipends through fellowship programs like the IDEATE Fellowship ($10,000)
Who is Adelphi University’s MSW best for?
Adelphi’s program works well for students who:
- Want flexible scheduling (full-time, part-time, online, or on-campus options)
- Look for affordable education with generous scholarships
- Need strong job prospects (90% of graduates find work within a year)
- Live near Garden City, Brooklyn, Hauppauge, or Hudson Valley campuses
This program shines because it makes quality social work education available while keeping high standards and excellent career preparation.
University at Albany
The University at Albany ranks among the top New York MSW programs. Their nationally ranked Master of Social Work degree prepares students for careers that improve individual and societal well-being. Students learn detailed social work practices with a strong focus on social and economic justice.
Key features
The 60-credit MSW program gives you the skills to work at all practice levels—micro, mezzo, and macro. You’ll learn to support individuals, families, groups, communities, and organizations. The program includes:
- Two years of graduate coursework with field instruction for most students
- Advanced standing option for qualified BSW graduates that provides up to 21 credits at admission
- Non-degree study options let you try coursework before committing fully
- Classes available online, in hybrid formats, and on weekends
Concentrations and tracks
UAlbany takes a unique approach to concentrations. Students complete the Advanced Generalist track that satisfies New York State LMSW licensing requirements. The program structure includes:
- A generalist foundation year followed by specialized advanced courses
- A chance to specialize in Clinical Practice or MACRO areas
- Aging population focus through the Albany Internships in Aging Project
- Mental health expertise through the Albany Internships in Mental Health program
Accreditation and licensure prep
The program holds full accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). This meets New York State’s educational requirements for master and clinical social work licensure. After graduation, students can:
- Take the LMSW exam right away
- Start the 36-month supervised experience needed for LCSW licensure
- Join weekend workshops to prepare for licensing exams
Fieldwork and practicum
Field instruction is a crucial part of UAlbany’s MSW program. The requirements include:
- Two different agency practica, each needing 500 hours (two days weekly for two semesters)
- Partnerships with roughly 700 agencies in the Capital District and nearby counties
- Broad generalist experience in first practicum, concentration focus in second
- Work-study and summer block choices for students with human service background
Pricing and financial aid
Spring 2025 tuition rates at 12+ credits are $6,540 per semester ($15,678 annually) for New York residents. Out-of-state students pay $11,440 per semester ($25,478 annually). Students can offset costs through:
- Annual competitive scholarships for diverse graduate students
- Graduate assistantships requiring 10 weekly work hours during academic year
- More than 40 School of Social Welfare scholarships
Who is UAlbany’s MSW best for?
This program suits you best if you:
- Want flexible class options (in-person, online, hybrid, evening, weekend)
- Need detailed training in individual, group, and system-level practice
- Like studying in the Capital Region with many field placement options
- Want preparation for both LMSW and LCSW licensure paths
Iona University
The Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW) program at Iona University stands out with its innovative interprofessional collaborative practice focus. This unique specialization exists nowhere else in the tri-state area. The program, part of the NewYork-Presbyterian Iona School of Health Sciences, teaches graduates how to tackle complex social challenges through teamwork that crosses professional boundaries.
Key features
The MSSW program includes:
- A two-year degree that takes 60 credits
- A flexible two-day campus schedule that helps balance work and life
- A cohort-based learning approach that builds lasting professional networks
- Modern virtual reality, simulations, and tech-enhanced curriculum
- A unique first semester dedicated to coursework before starting practicum
Concentrations and tracks
Students focus on interprofessional collaborative practice during their second year. This specialized curriculum helps graduates work effectively with professionals from different disciplines. They become ready to thrive in collaborative environments of all types.
Accreditation and licensure prep
The Social Work Department at Iona follows the profession’s nine foundational competencies. The faculty helps students plan their careers and navigate licensing requirements. Students graduate ready to meet professional standards.
Fieldwork and practicum
The fieldwork includes:
- 900 total hours of hands-on experience
- Practicum rotations that start after the first semester
- Extensive practical training in the second year
- Partnerships with leading institutions like NewYork-Presbyterian Westchester Behavioral Health
Pricing and financial aid
Each credit costs $1,050. The university recognizes education as a significant investment. Students can access several financial aid options:
- Federal grants and tax benefits
- New York State grants and scholarships
- Private scholarships
- Federal work-study opportunities
Who is Iona University’s MSW best for?
This program works best for students who want:
- Skills for collaborative professional settings
- Strong ties to the NewYork-Presbyterian healthcare system
- Digital tools that enhance practice abilities
- Individual attention through small classes and mentoring
- New approaches that promote fair, person-centered social work practice
Touro University
Touro University Graduate School of Social Work provides affordable clinical social work education in a supportive environment. The program sits in Manhattan’s vibrant Chelsea neighborhood and gives aspiring social workers exceptional flexibility.
Key features
The MSW program at Touro is 65 credits and offers several ways to complete your degree:
- Full-time students finish in two academic years (four semesters)
- Part-time students can complete it in three or four years
- Students can graduate in just 16 months through the accelerated track
The program keeps classes small to ensure customized instruction and offers blended learning that combines classroom experiences with online education. Students come from diverse backgrounds – 42% White, 29.52% Black, 21.77% Hispanic/Latino, and 5.54% Asian.
Concentrations and tracks
While Touro doesn’t require formal concentrations, advanced year students can choose specialized fellowships:
- Aging Education Fellowship helps students work with older adults (up to $5,000 tuition reduction)
- Evidence-Based Practice in Mental Health Fellowship prepares you to work with adults who have Serious Mental Illness
Accreditation and licensure prep
The Council on Social Work Education fully accredits the program, and it meets social work licensure requirements in all 50 states. Touro helps graduates succeed by offering:
- Free exam preparation course in the final year
- Weekly licensing practice questions
- Low-cost exam prep services through the Alumni Association
Fieldwork and practicum
Field education builds your skills through:
- Foundation Year to develop generalist practice skills
- Advanced Concentration Year to focus on clinical skills
- Two field placements that total 1,200 hours (600 hours each)
Most placements start in September. Students can choose between 21 hours weekly (30 weeks) or 15 hours weekly (40 weeks). January start students must complete 21 hours weekly.
Pricing and financial aid
The program costs $51,675 and offers several financial support options:
- Fellowships that reduce tuition by up to $5,000
- Scholarships from UJA Federation, Latino Social Work Coalition, and other organizations
- Federal Work-Study opportunities
Who is Touro University’s MSW best for?
The program works well if you want:
- Flexible schedules with fall or spring starts
- Affordable clinical social work education
- Strong licensing exam preparation
- A diverse student community with supportive faculty
- Learning in New York City’s urban environment
SUNY Brockport
SUNY Brockport distinguishes itself as a cost-effective choice among MSW programs in NY within the State University of New York system. The program’s location in the Greater Rochester Metropolitan area has helped build its reputation to prepare social work practitioners who become leaders in their agencies.
Key features
Students can choose between two paths at SUNY Brockport:
- A 60-credit program that welcomes bachelor’s degree holders from any discipline, completed in two years full-time or three years part-time
- A 36-credit Advanced Standing track for BSW graduates from the last eight years, finished in three semesters full-time or five semesters part-time
Brockport Downtown in Rochester hosts all classes, making it convenient for students. The schedule accommodates both full-time students during the day and part-time students in the evening.
Concentrations and tracks
Students learn integrated practice to work in mental health, healthcare, and social services settings. The first 30 credits build a foundation in generalist social work before students advance to specialized curriculum.
The advanced curriculum helps students learn about social justice, ethics, and the intersection of power, privilege, and oppression. Students’ final spring semester includes specialized course options in Social Work Practice in Health Care, Disabilities Studies, Sexual Health, Evidence-Based Practice, Mental Health Recovery, or Clinical Interventions.
Accreditation and licensure prep
The Council on Social Work Education fully accredits this program, which the New York State Education Department has registered. The curriculum meets educational requirements for licensure/certification in 40 U.S. states, including New York, California, Florida, and Texas.
Fieldwork and practicum
Field education forms the foundation of SUNY Brockport’s MSW training. Students get:
- Strategic collaborations with over 250 local agencies in seven counties
- A two-semester concurrent field placement for Advanced Standing students
- A four-semester field placement for traditional 60-credit students
These well-laid-out experiences help students apply theoretical knowledge in ground practice settings while developing their professional identity and competence.
Pricing and financial aid
New York residents’ 2025-26 costs are $11,310 per semester (12 credits) plus $1,140 in fees. Out-of-state students pay $13,570 plus fees. The university’s graduate scholarships reach up to $5,000 yearly. Students can also work as tutors, resident assistants, or access federal funding options.
Who is SUNY Brockport’s MSW best for?
The program works best for students who want:
- Quality SUNY education at an affordable rate ($545 per credit hour plus fees)
- Career preparation in mental health, medical settings, or social policy
- Field placements throughout Western New York
- Full-time or part-time schedule flexibility
- Strong job prospects with 7% growth and $70,429 median pay in social work positions
Marist College
Marist College has launched a fully online Master of Social Work program that stands out among New York MSW programs. Classes start in June 2025. The program takes a trauma-informed viewpoint to give you the knowledge and skills needed to support people from all backgrounds who need care.
Key features
Students can choose between two flexible paths:
- BSW graduates from CSWE-accredited schools can complete a one-year advanced standing option (32 credits)
- Students with degrees in related fields like psychology or criminal justice can take the two-year program (64 credits)
The curriculum helps students grow both personally and professionally. Online learning maintains Marist’s signature hands-on experience through one-on-one advisement, role-play scenarios, and real-life simulations.
Concentrations and tracks
Marist takes a focused approach by specializing in trauma-informed social work practice. This specialized training prepares graduates to help communities affected by traumatic events worldwide through compassionate, inclusive, and equitable services.
Accreditation and licensure prep
The program has reached its first standard in CSWE’s pre-candidacy phase. Full accreditation is expected in 2027. Graduates can now seek licensure in many states, and most accept Marist’s curriculum without extra requirements.
Fieldwork and practicum
Each pathway has specific internship requirements:
- Advanced standing students need 650 clinical hours (three days weekly)
- Two-year program students complete 1,100 hours (two days weekly first year, three days weekly second year)
Students gain experience in hospitals, family counseling centers, child welfare organizations, and similar settings. Faculty members guide students throughout their placement experience.
Pricing and financial aid
The program costs $990 per credit. Several options make the program more affordable:
- Students automatically receive merit scholarships based on their previous GPA
- Corporate partnerships offer a 25% tuition discount
- Students can access federal loans, payment plans, and tuition deferment options
Who is Marist College’s MSW best for?
The program works well if you want trauma-informed training with schedule flexibility. Working professionals find great value here since the program considers employment-based internships when possible. This setup helps students manage their work, family, and education effectively.
Choose the Best-Fit MSW in New York
Your choice of MSW program will substantially affect your future social work career path. This piece covers top-tier New York MSW programs that offer specializations of all types, flexible formats, and strong employment outcomes.
These prestigious schools give you many ways to reach your specific career goals. BSW graduates can complete their degrees in just 9-15 months through advanced standing options. Traditional programs take 12-24 months. It also helps that many schools now offer hybrid and fully online formats with virtual field placements that work well for professionals.
The job market looks bright for MSW graduates from these programs. Adelphi University reports 90% of their graduates find jobs after graduation. Other schools are even more successful, with up to 96% of graduates landing rewarding social work positions. This success comes from detailed clinical training and extensive field experience. Most programs need 900-1,200 practicum hours in settings of all types.
There’s another reason to look carefully at these programs – accreditation. All ten schools have CSWE accreditation or candidacy status. This ensures your degree meets national quality standards and licensure requirements. Many programs also give you great ways to get LMSW and LCSW exam prep resources that support your professional licensing experience.
You’ll end up making your choice based on program cost, location, specialization options, and scheduling flexibility. Columbia University might be right if you want a prestigious name. SUNY Brockport offers great value in the state system. Newer programs like Marist College teach innovative trauma-informed curriculum completely online.
A social work education is both a major investment and a unique chance for growth. These top New York MSW programs give you the core skills to tackle complex social challenges while pushing for social justice. Whatever program you pick, your MSW experience opens doors to meaningful careers that make real differences in communities across New York and beyond.