8 CWSE-Accredited MSW Programs in Tennessee

Thinking about MSW programs in Tennessee? You’re looking at a field with amazing growth potential in a state that just needs qualified professionals. Tennessee hired nearly 17,000 social workers in all specialties in 2023. The growth rates paint an exciting picture – 10% for child and family social workers and 23% for both mental health and healthcare social workers.

These numbers make sense given Tennessee’s unique challenges. The state’s poverty rate sits at 17% (above the national 14.9%), while mental illness affects 20.25% of the population (compared to 18.19% nationally). On top of that, an MSW degree opens doors to advancement since it’s required for three out of four levels of Tennessee’s social work licensure. The state has six programs with CSWE accreditation – the gold standard in social work education. This piece walks you through your eight CSWE-accredited options, from specialized tracks to flexible online programs like ETSU MSW, to help you choose the right path for your social work career.

Austin Peay State University

Austin Peay State University’s MSW program stands out among Tennessee’s offerings. The curriculum gives future social workers practical skills that go beyond textbook learning. Students in Clarksville benefit from hands-on experience through guided role play, simulations, and community volunteering before their final field placement.

Program Overview

The APSU Master of Social Work program holds CSWE accreditation through October 2029. Your degree meets the profession’s highest standards. The program aims to promote human and community well-being. It serves society’s most vulnerable populations at local and global levels.

Students can choose between two tracks. The regular standing program requires 60 credit hours and welcomes students with any bachelor’s degree. The advanced standing option needs 30 credit hours and suits those with a BSW from a CSWE-accredited program. The program’s clinical lab gives exceptional learning opportunities through video-recorded simulated social worker-client interactions.

Format and Delivery

The program uses a hybrid learning model that combines flexibility with real-world experience. Some courses run entirely online, while others mix weekly in-class sessions with online learning. Students might attend one evening weekly. They take two back-to-back courses (5:30-7:15 p.m. and 7:30-9:15 p.m.) and complete remaining coursework online.

Working professionals can choose part-time or full-time enrollment. Part-time students taking 6 credit hours need 12-18 hours weekly. This time covers class attendance, reading, and assignments.

Practicum Requirements

Regular standing students complete two field placements: a 6-credit, 400-hour foundation placement and an 8-credit, 500-hour concentration placement. Advanced standing students only need the 500-hour concentration placement.

Field placements start in January. Students can finish their practicum in one Spring semester or split it between Spring and Summer. Foundation placement requires 32 hours weekly at your site during a single Spring semester. Students who spread it across two semesters spend about 15 hours weekly. Concentration placement needs 35 hours weekly in one semester or 20 hours if divided.

Students must complete Fall semester foundation courses with a minimum 3.0 GPA in social work courses to qualify for field education.

Tuition and Costs

APSU’s graduate tuition and fees for 2025-2026 cost $7,238.40 for in-state and $10,694.40 for out-of-state students. Total costs vary based on housing:

In-State Graduate Students (2025-2026)

• Living with parent/guardian: $17,474.40
• Living on campus: $25,734.40
• Living off campus: $27,372.40

Out-of-State Graduate Students (2025-2026)

• Living with parent/guardian: $20,879.40
• Living on campus: $29,139.40
• Living off campus: $30,777.40

Specializations Offered

APSU features two distinct concentrations:

1. Advanced Generalist Concentration – Students learn to work with individuals, families, groups, agencies, and communities. This versatile training helps whatever career path you choose, from clinical to administrative roles.
2. Trauma-Focused Concentration – Students gain specialized skills to help people who faced significant adversity, including abuse, violence, or disaster. This path works well if you want to help veterans, active-duty service members, and military families.

The trauma-focused track needs an extra elective. Students must complete all field hours in an approved trauma-focused agency.

Admission Requirements

APSU’s MSW program has a two-step application process:

1. Apply to the College of Graduate Studies
2. Submit the MSW Program Application with three professional reference letters

Regular Standing (60 hours) Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college/university with liberal arts coursework
• Cumulative GPA of 2.75 or higher

Advanced Standing (30 hours) Requirements:

• BSW degree from a CSWE-accredited program
• Cumulative social work GPA of 3.0 or higher

Online applications open in October with a February 1st deadline. All the same, late applications stay open until spots fill up. Application review starts in February. Students hear back about admission by late April.

The program doesn’t require GRE scores, making it more available than other Tennessee MSW programs.

East Tennessee State University (ETSU)

East Tennessee State University distinguishes itself among MSW programs in Tennessee through its clinical focus. The program prepares graduates for autonomous clinical practice. The university received full CSWE accreditation in 2003 and has built its reputation on clinical excellence that helps students develop advanced therapeutic skills.

Overview

The ETSU MSW program emphasizes clinical social work practice. This practice concentrates on “assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental illness, emotional, and other behavioral disturbances”. Students can choose between two paths: a 63-credit hour traditional program for those with non-social work bachelor’s degrees and a 37-credit hour advanced standing option for BSW holders from CSWE-accredited programs.

ETSU’s curriculum revolves around three core goals. Students learn clinical practice knowledge and skills, develop competence for responsible practice in public and private agencies, and use ethical research to improve social work practice.

Format and Delivery

The university added a fully online program option to complement its main campus program in Johnson City. Online students can take advantage of evening synchronous classes combined with asynchronous coursework. This format works well for working professionals. The live sessions meet once weekly at 6:00 PM EST.

Students can choose full-time or part-time enrollment based on their schedule. Advanced standing students who study full-time can finish in about 12 months. Traditional students usually need two years. Part-time traditional students might take up to four years to earn their degree.

Practicum

Field education is central to ETSU’s social work education. Traditional students must complete two field placements. The foundation internship requires 480 hours (16 hours weekly over two semesters) and the clinical internship needs 600 hours (20 hours weekly over two semesters). Advanced standing students only need the 600-hour clinical internship.

ETSU’s Director of Field Education helps each student find quality field placements within 50 miles of their preferred location. Students must submit applications by September 15 for spring/summer foundation internships and March 15 for fall/spring concentration internships.

Tuition and Costs

The 2024-2025 academic year graduate tuition and fees for in-state students come to $11,366 for two semesters (9 credit hours per semester). Out-of-state students pay $26,486. Online MSW students from out of state can benefit from an eRate of $805.50 per credit hour instead of the standard $1,487 per credit hour.

Total attendance costs vary by living situation:

• Living with parents: $26,320 (in-state) / $41,108 (out-of-state)
• Living on campus: $32,760 (in-state) / $47,880 (out-of-state)
• Living off campus: $37,335 (in-state) / $52,455 (out-of-state)

Specializations Offered

ETSU focuses solely on clinical social work preparation, unlike other Tennessee MSW programs that offer multiple concentrations. This focused approach provides thorough training for careers in therapeutic settings. Students get the preparation they need for state licensure as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW).

The program’s graduates show strong performance on licensure exams. They achieve a 73% pass rate on masters-level exams (national average: 61%) and 62% on clinical-level exams (national average: 61%).

Admission Requirements

Students must meet both Graduate School and MSW program criteria for admission. The requirements include:

• Minimum 3.0 GPA on last 60 semester credit hours (or 90 quarter credit hours)
• Overall cumulative GPA of at least 2.75
• Liberal arts background with courses in English composition, math/sciences, humanities, and social/behavioral sciences
• Three reference letters about your graduate education and professional practice potential
• Resume showing educational and professional experience
• 150-300 word essay explaining your interest in ETSU’s MSW program

Students should apply by February 1st for full consideration and funding eligibility. March 1st is the final deadline for summer and fall admission. Advanced standing students start in June, while traditional students begin in August.

King University

King University’s Master of Social Work program stands out with its specialized Clinical Advocacy focus. The program prepares graduates to become agents of change for vulnerable populations. This fully online program has earned full accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). Your degree will meet all national standards for social work education.

Program Overview

King’s MSW program aims to shape “thoughtful, resourceful, and responsible advanced-level social work practitioners for far-reaching service and leadership”. Students learn social work values and ethics in a Christian academic setting. The program puts special emphasis on helping oppressed populations.

Students can choose between two paths: a 57-60 credit hour Foundational program for those with non-social work bachelor’s degrees, and a 30-33 credit hour Advanced Standing option. The Advanced Standing path welcomes students who earned their BSW from a CSWE-accredited program in the last five years. Students learn social work skills at individual (micro), family/group (mezzo), and community (macro) levels.

Format and Delivery

Working professionals benefit from the program’s online flexibility. Full-time students can finish the Foundational program in 22 months, with up to 48 months available if needed. Advanced Standing students need just 12 months of full-time study, though they may take up to 24 months.

Students learn through lectures, screen-casts, video-conferencing, small group discussions, role plays, case analyzes, and simulations. This mix of teaching methods helps build strong communication skills. The program emphasizes APA-style documentation.

Practicum Requirements

Field education is the heart of King’s MSW program. Foundational students must complete 1,050 hours of fieldwork. This includes a 450-hour generalist placement and a 600-hour advanced placement. Advanced Standing students need only the 600-hour advanced internship.

Each student works with the field director to find suitable placements. Agency field supervisors and faculty liaisons provide guidance throughout the experience.

Tuition and Costs

The 2024-2025 academic year tuition runs $610 per credit hour. Here’s what you’ll pay:

• Foundational Program (57-60 credits): $34,770-$36,600 total tuition
• Advanced Standing Program (30-33 credits): $18,300-$20,130 total tuition

Students pay a $100 online technology fee per course and a one-time $175 graduation fee.

Specializations Offered

King University sets itself apart from other Tennessee MSW programs by focusing solely on Clinical Advocacy. Students learn to find community resources, spot service gaps, and create realistic plans to get essential resources. The program teaches valuable grantsmanship and fundraising skills to support long-term advocacy work.

Admission Requirements

King’s MSW program requires:

• A bachelor’s degree with a 3.0 cumulative GPA (lower GPAs might get conditional acceptance)
• Official transcripts from all colleges/universities attended
• Two professional or academic recommendations
• A detailed resume/CV showing relevant experience
• A statement of purpose
• An individual interview with program faculty

Advanced Standing applicants need a BSW from the last five years from a CSWE-accredited program. The program might consider exceptions for candidates with relevant work experience.

Middle Tennessee State University

Middle Tennessee State University shapes future social workers through a balanced approach that helps them grow as practitioners, scholars, and leaders. The university’s MSW program sits in Murfreesboro, just 30 miles from Nashville. Students can explore many career paths thanks to MTSU’s thorough training and CSWE accreditation.

Program Overview

The MTSU Master of Social Work program strives to improve human well-being, champion diversity, and push forward social justice. The program trains students as advanced generalists and gives them knowledge and skills they can use in social work settings of all types, from clinical practice to advocacy and policy-making.

MTSU’s MSW program has earned full accreditation through the Council on Social Work Education’s Board of Accreditation. This lets graduates take state licensure examinations. Students learn analytical skills and critical thinking. They also develop cultural competence and understand professional values and ethics.

Students can choose between two options: a 60-credit hour standard program for those with non-social work bachelor’s degrees, and a 30-credit hour advanced standing option. The advanced option needs a BSW degree from a CSWE-accredited program and at least a 3.0 GPA.

Format and Delivery

MTSU uses a hybrid learning model that blends in-person classes, online work, and internships. Working professionals find this flexible approach helpful since classes usually run during evening hours. Students can study full-time with 12-15 credit hours per semester or part-time with 6 credit hours.

The MSW Student Handbook lays out the curriculum sequence. Students need permission to switch between full-time and part-time status. This well-laid-out yet flexible format helps students manage their education alongside work and personal life.

Practicum Requirements

Field education stands as the “signature pedagogy” of social work education at MTSU. Standard program students must complete 900 total practicum hours. This includes a 400-hour foundation placement and a 500-hour concentration placement. Advanced standing students only need the 500-hour concentration placement.

These placements let students use classroom knowledge in real-life client situations within organizations of all types. Each placement needs weekly supervision from a qualified social worker. Supervisors must have an MSW or higher license, two years of post-graduation work, and six months with their organization.

Tuition and Costs

MTSU’s graduate tuition for 2024-2025 breaks down as follows:

In-state students pay $565 per credit hour for 1-10 hours, plus $112 for each extra credit. Out-of-state rates are $1,564 per credit hour for 1-10 hours, with $311 for additional credits. Out-of-state students taking only online courses can use an eRate option.

Specializations Offered

MTSU focuses solely on advanced generalist social work practice, unlike other Tennessee MSW programs that offer multiple concentrations. Graduates learn to work at all practice levels—micro (individuals), mezzo (families/groups), and macro (organizations/communities).

The advanced generalist framework includes systems perspectives, problem-solving approaches, human diversity focus, research analysis, and steadfast dedication to helping at-risk populations. This broad training gives graduates more career flexibility instead of limiting them to one area.

Admission Requirements

You’ll need to complete two separate steps to join MTSU’s MSW program:

1. Apply to the College of Graduate Studies (you need at least a 2.75 undergraduate GPA)
2. Submit the MSW program application with extra materials

The MSW application needs:

• Completed MSW application form
• Three professional references using the required MSW reference form
• Personal essay covering three specific prompts (maximum 5 pages)
• Signed agreement to follow the NASW Code of Ethics

Competition for spots runs high, and applications stay open until all positions fill up. After acceptance, you must confirm your spot by the given date to ensure enrollment.

Southern Adventist University

Southern Adventist University blends Christian principles with social work education, making it stand out among Tennessee’s MSW programs. The university prepares practitioners in a faith-based setting through its CSWE-accredited program that champions excellence and leadership in social work systems of all types.

Program Overview

The Master of Social Work program at Southern Adventist University has full accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education’s Commission on Accreditation (COA). Graduates can apply for LMSW and LCSW licensure with this accreditation. The program seamlessly combines faith with professional practice and prepares students to become compassionate leaders who can positively affect their communities. The curriculum takes a comprehensive approach that gives students skills they can use at micro, mezzo, and macro practice levels.

Format and Delivery

Students must finish the program within four years if studying full-time, while part-time students have six years. Students who want to transfer should know that 75% of their degree must be completed at Southern. Transfer grades need a ‘B’ or higher, and ‘P’ grades aren’t accepted. Core social work course transfers are only possible from CSWE-accredited programs.

Practicum Requirements

Field education is the final hands-on component of the curriculum. Students need to complete 400 field hours in their foundation year, while advanced placement requires 500 hours. Professional practitioners with accredited MSW degrees supervise students as they work with individuals, families, groups, and organizations. The School of Social Work’s field director must approve all field placements. Students need a minimum GPA of 2.75 (foundation) or 3.0 (advanced) before starting field placement.

Tuition and Costs

The MSW program costs $12,870 annually. Undergraduate tuition for 2024-2025 is $26,000 with a $1,300 general fee, which helps put graduate costs in perspective. Living on campus adds about $8,900 yearly for room and board.

Specializations

Students can choose from three emphasis areas:

• Crisis and Emergency Management
• Mental Health Practice in Social Work
• School Social Work

The School Social Work emphasis teaches practical and theoretical knowledge needed in school systems while incorporating biblical values of compassion.

Admissions

The university’s 2023-2024 cycle saw 69 applications, with 47 acceptances (68% acceptance rate) and 39 enrollments. Here are the application deadlines:

• Fall: July 1 (domestic), May 1 (international)
• Winter: November 1 (domestic), September 1 (international)
• Summer: April 1 (domestic), February 1 (international)

Applications require a $45 fee. International students must prove English fluency. All applicants should have above-average grades (typically A grades, 70%+, or GPA 3+).

Tennessee State University

Tennessee State University’s MSW program, established as a historically Black university, aims to improve human well-being, access, and social justice by developing better social service systems. The program puts special emphasis on helping vulnerable and oppressed populations in Middle Tennessee.

Overview

The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) granted full accreditation to TSU’s Master of Social Work Program in February 2022. This accreditation plays a vital part in meeting requirements for future social work licensure. Students who want to get the School Social Work License (LSSW) needed for Tennessee’s education system will find this program particularly valuable with its specialized preparation in school social work.

Delivery

Students can finish their MSW degree in 1-4 years, depending on whether they choose full-time or part-time study. Foundation students who study full-time complete the program in two years, while part-time students might need up to four years. Students with BSW degrees qualify for advanced standing and can graduate in just one year full-time or two years part-time. Some students prefer a mixed approach that lets them finish in three years.

Practicum Requirements

The field education program has two separate internship experiences. Students can complete their 400-hour foundation internship in a Spring semester block or split it between Spring and Summer semesters. The concentration internship needs 500 hours with similar scheduling options. TSU supports employment-based internships for students who already work in social work settings, as long as these placements provide new learning opportunities.

Tuition and Costs

Graduate students from Tennessee pay $4,726 for 9 credit hours, while out-of-state students pay $9,964. The cost for 12 credits comes to $5,366 for in-state and $11,418 for out-of-state students. TSU helps qualified out-of-state students with discounted tuition options through the 250-Mile Radius Rate and Scholar-Plus rates.

Specializations Offered

The program uses an advanced generalist concentration approach. Students build on their foundation knowledge while learning more sophisticated theoretical and methodological concepts. This preparation enables graduates to work in both direct service (clinical) and indirect service (administrative) roles, giving them more career options.

Admission Requirements

Students need a minimum 2.75 GPA and must submit an MSW application with an essay and three recommendation letters from professionals. Advanced standing needs a CSWE-accredited BSW with at least a 3.0 GPA. Every student must keep a 3.0 GPA to move forward to candidacy.

Union University

Union University’s CSWE-accredited MSW program combines Christian principles with professional training to create transformative leaders in social work. The program runs from two locations – Jackson and Germantown, providing detailed preparation for social work careers of all types.

Program Overview

Students can choose between two paths: Regular Standing (60 credit hours) for those without a social work background and Advanced Standing (33 credit hours) for qualified BSW graduates. The spring semester marks the beginning of most students’ journey, and they must maintain B grades or better in all courses. The program’s core mission aims to create “competent and effective professionals for leadership in advanced generalist practice”.

Format and Delivery

Classes are available face-to-face at both Jackson and Germantown campuses, with a fully online option. Regular Standing students can complete their degree in two, two-and-a-half, or three years. Advanced Standing students finish in one or two years. This structure works well with different work and life schedules.

Union University Practicum Requirements

Field education stands as the “signature pedagogy” of social work education. Regular Standing students must complete 900 clock hours split between foundation and advanced placements. Advanced Standing students need 600 hours. Each placement involves working with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities under professional guidance.

Tuition and Costs

The 2025-2026 academic year sets tuition at $679 per credit hour plus a $28 per hour general student fee. Other costs include:

• Field instruction fees: $100-$245 (varies by course)
• Insurance fee: $25 annually
• Application fee: $25

Specializations Offered

The advanced generalist model prepares graduates for direct service and management positions. Union stands out by offering dual degree options that pair the MSW with either a Master of Christian Studies (MSW/MCS) or Master of Business Administration (MSW/MBA).

Admission Requirements

Students need a baccalaureate degree with a minimum 2.65 GPA. They must provide three references, submit an application with essay, and pay a $25 application fee. Advanced Standing spots go to students with a BSW from a CSWE-accredited program and a minimum 3.0 GPA. A non-refundable $100 deposit secures admission.

University of Tennessee at Knoxville

The University of Tennessee’s College of Social Work stands among Tennessee’s top MSW programs. The school ranks in the nation’s top 25 graduate schools for Social Work. UT Knoxville brings both depth and flexibility to social work education.

Program Overview

The MSSW program has full accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). This ensures students get quality education that meets national standards. The curriculum teaches culturally relevant and ethical practices that fit our changing global context. Students learn a complete approach to help vulnerable populations with their personal, social, economic, and political needs. Students can customize their education through two concentrations and specialty certificates based on their career goals.

Format and Delivery

Working professionals will find great flexibility in UT’s online MSSW program. The courses blend evening sessions with self-paced learning between live classes. The online program maintains the same high standards as on-campus classes. The same professors teach both formats, and both have CSWE accreditation. Students can pick full-time, part-time, or advanced standing options that fit their schedule.

Practicum Requirements

Field education plays a vital role in UT’s social work training. A Field Coordinator works with each student to explore their interests and makes placement interviews easier. Regular MSSW students need two placements: a 400-hour generalist placement and a 600-hour concentration placement, adding up to 1,000 hours. Advanced Standing students only need the 600-hour concentration placement. Most placements happen during weekday business hours with qualified social work professionals supervising.

Tuition and Costs

The 2024-2025 tuition and fees were $13,720 yearly for in-state graduate students and $32,208 for out-of-state students. Online students pay regular tuition plus a $100 per credit hour Online Support Fee. Total yearly costs with living expenses reach $40,216 for in-state and $58,704 for out-of-state students.

Specializations Offered

Students choose between two concentrations:

• Clinical Practice: Focuses on assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental illness and behavioral disturbances
• Organizational Leadership: Prepares students for macro-level practice

The school also offers certificates in Veterinary Social Work, Gerontology, Forensic Social Work, and Trauma Treatment.

Admission Requirements

Summer/Fall applications are due by February 1. Students need:

• Bachelor’s degree with minimum 2.7 GPA (3.0 for graduate work)
• Liberal arts background with courses in four of five specified areas
• Three reference letters, personal statement, and resume
• No GRE needed

Final Thoughts on Tennessee’s MSW Programs

Your choice of MSW program will shape your future career in social work. Tennessee has eight CSWE-accredited programs. Each program brings something different to the table – from Austin Peay’s focus on trauma to King University’s approach to clinical advocacy. These options give you different paths to reach your career goals.

CSWE accreditation is the gold standard in social work education. You’ll need this to qualify for licensure examinations. The good news is that all eight programs meet this vital requirement. This means you can trust the quality of education at any institution you pick.

These MSW programs shine when it comes to flexibility. You can choose what works best for you. UT Knoxville offers traditional on-campus learning. King University runs fully online programs. ETSU gives you a mix of both with their hybrid format. Your schedule and learning style will help you decide.

The programs let you specialize in different areas. UTK’s clinical practice concentration prepares you for therapeutic roles. MTSU’s advanced generalist approach gives you more career options. Southern Adventist focuses on school social work if you want to work in education.

Hands-on experience is the foundation of every program. You’ll need to complete 900 to 1,050 hours of practicum work. The exact hours depend on your chosen school and whether you’re in regular or advanced standing.

Program costs vary quite a bit. Annual tuition starts at $7,238 at Austin Peay. Out-of-state students at UT Knoxville pay more than $32,000. But many schools offer special rates for online students or those who live in certain areas.

Most programs need a bachelor’s degree with minimum GPA requirements. You’ll also need professional references, personal statements, and must pay application fees. BSW graduates from CSWE-accredited programs can apply for advanced standing. This could cut your study time in half.

Social work careers in Tennessee look bright. Growth rates range from 10-23% across different specialties. The state’s higher-than-average poverty and mental health challenges mean qualified professionals are in high demand.

Without doubt, getting your MSW is a big investment that gives you a chance to create real change in Tennessee’s communities. Look at each program’s focus, format, cost, and location. This will help you pick a program that lines up with your situation and career goals.