MSW Programs in Maine

Looking at MSW programs in Maine? You’ll find a state where the Department of Health and Services has declared a critical shortage of social workers. The state doesn’t deal very well with its unique regional challenges.

Maine’s most important social issues require qualified professionals. The state’s prescription drug abuse treatment numbers are roughly eight times the national average. Maine’s elderly population is also notably higher at 21.2% over 65, compared to the national 16.5%. These challenges make social work degrees valuable career options. Mental health and substance abuse social workers in Maine earn $59,340 per year – well above the national average of $41,000.

Maine’s three university options let you get your MSW degree: the University of Maine, the University of New England (UNE MSW), and the University of Southern Maine. Each school provides campus-based and hybrid programs that blend on-campus and online instruction. Full-time students can complete their degree in two years. Part-time students typically take three to four years. Maine residents can find affordable options at $445 per credit, while non-residents can access reasonable online programs at $494 per credit.

Each program has unique features you should think about. Understanding admission requirements and program specifics will help prepare you for healthcare social work’s growing field, which experts project will grow 8% by 2026.

How to Choose the Right MSW Program in Maine

Picking the right MSW program in Maine means you’ll need to think over several elements that match your career goals, lifestyle, and priorities. Maine has three institutions that offer MSW degrees. You should know what each program has to make a smart choice.

Factors to think over when choosing the right MSW Program in Maine

Several key factors will help you pick the best MSW program in Maine:

Accreditation Status: The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) has accredited all three MSW programs in Maine. This ensures they meet national standards for social work education. You’ll need this accreditation for your future license and professional credibility.

Faculty Expertise: Programs with experienced faculty give you practical insights and academic knowledge. To cite an instance, USM’s faculty shows their research at national and international conferences. This gives students great networking chances and mentorship opportunities.

Field Education Requirements: Field education is the foundation of MSW training. UMaine students complete two field internships: a 400-hour Generalist year internship (about 16 hours weekly) and a 500-hour Specialized year internship (about 20 hours weekly). UNE’s program wants four 280-hour practicums that add up to 1120 hours of field education.

Program Structure and Timeline: Programs let you complete your degree based on your schedule:

• Full-time options take 2 years
• Part-time programs take 3-4 years
• BSW holders can finish in 1 year (full-time) or 2 years (part-time) through advanced standing options

Financial Considerations: Costs vary by a lot between schools and residency status. USM’s tuition ranges from $7,700-$11,500 for in-state students and $20,700-$31,100 for non-residents. UMaine’s costs are $8,400-$12,500 for residents and $24,800-$37,100 for non-residents.

Geographic Accessibility: Your location matters for campus requirements. Some programs help students who can’t come to main campuses often. UMaine’s Online-Blended format works for residents of Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont.

Campus vs. online learning in MSW Programs in Maine

Maine’s MSW programs come in different formats to fit your schedule and learning style:

Traditional Campus-Based Programs: You’ll need to attend classes on campus regularly.

• University of Maine has a traditional program with two options: two-year full-time or four-year part-time plans
• University of Southern Maine gives you campus-based options with two-year (full-time) and four-year (part-time) plans

Hybrid/Blended Programs: These mix online and in-person classes.

• UMaine’s Online-Blended program has most classes without set times, plus some scheduled online meetings and two Saturday sessions each semester on campus
• USM’s Low-Residency program combines online learning with campus classes 2-3 times per semester
• UNE lets students come to campus once every three weeks during school sessions

Fully Online Programs: UNE is the only school in Maine with a fully online MSW program that doesn’t want campus visits.

Here’s what to think about for each format:

Residency Restrictions: Some programs have location limits. UMaine’s Online-Blended program works only for people living in Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont. International students can’t join.

Scheduling Flexibility: Online and hybrid programs work better for working professionals. UNE’s online program uses a cohort model with a fixed study plan.

Learning Style Compatibility: USM’s Low-Residency MSW program works best if you like online learning but want some face-to-face interaction.

Field Placement Location: You can usually complete field practicums at qualified organizations near you, whatever the program format.

Specializations offered in MSW Programs in Maine

Maine’s MSW programs focus on specific specializations:

Advanced Generalist Practice (University of Maine):

• Teaches you to handle complex social problems through multi-level assessment, intervention, and evaluation strategies
• Works specifically for rural practice, helping you address “personal troubles and public issues”
• You’ll learn practice and research methods, policy, human behavior, and social environments
• Gets you ready for clinical licensing despite its broader focus

Integrated Clinical Practice (University of New England):

• Builds clinical skills for direct client work
• Traditional online program wants 1000 hours of field education (450-hour generalist practicum and 550-hour specialization practicum)
• Campus program has four 280-hour practicums totaling 1120 hours

Advanced Social Work Practice (University of Southern Maine):

• Trains you in both clinical and macro practice social work
• Gives you skills to tackle systemic inequities, encourage culturally responsive interventions, and serve diverse communities
• Prepares you for all types of social work practice

Elective Specialization Options: UMaine offers extra courses for more specialization:

• Adult and Child Psychopathology
• Family Treatment in Social Work Practice
• Social Work Practice with Groups
• Expressive Therapies
• Grant Writing
• Alcoholism and Substance Abuse
• Gerontological Practice in Rural Communities

Maine has the highest concentration of social work jobs in the U.S., with social workers earning $68,345 on average as of May 2023. Social work jobs should grow 7% from 2023 to 2033, faster than average, with about 67,300 openings yearly nationwide.

Each program’s focus should match what you want to do, whether you want to work in education, private practice, healthcare, gerontology, substance abuse, policy advocacy, or international organizations.

Admissions Requirements for MSW Programs in Maine

MSW programs in Maine have their own unique application processes. However, these programs share some basic requirements that match social work education standards.

General admissions criteria

Maine’s MSW programs review applications using an all-encompassing approach. They look at your academic background, relevant experience, and personal qualities that match social work values. The University of Maine School of Social Work makes decisions mainly based on your past academic work, human services experience, and the references you provide.

Academic Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university
• Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4-point scale (some programs might accept students who show they can handle graduate-level work)
• Liberal arts background shown through:
  • At least four courses in social and behavioral sciences (psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, etc.)
  • Two courses in humanities (philosophy, religion, history, English, art, music)
• Grade of “C” or better in an introductory statistics or research methods course

Personal Qualities: The admissions team looks beyond grades. They want to see critical thinking skills, good writing abilities, values that match the social work profession, emotional maturity, and people skills.

Application Components: Maine’s MSW programs need these items:

1. Graduate school application
2. Official transcripts from all schools attended
3. Personal statement/essay (usually 800-1,000 words)
4. Three letters of recommendation
5. Resume showing education, work, and volunteer experiences

The University of Southern Maine wants applications by November 15 for fall term. The University of Maine takes traditional students in fall and advanced standing students in summer.

Background Checks: Students heading into certain fields might need background checks. These could include education history checks, criminal records, Social Security Number verification, and Sex Offender Registry searches. A record won’t always stop you from getting in, but you should think about how it might affect your program requirements or getting licensed.

Advanced standing eligibility for MSW Programs in Maine

Students with a BSW degree can take a faster route through advanced standing. This lets them finish their MSW quicker than traditional students.

BSW Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited program
• Degree must have been earned within seven years of applying to the MSW program
• 0 GPA or higher preferred
• Proof of human services work with MSW supervision

Program Structure: The University of Maine’s advanced standing students must take three online summer courses worth two credits each. These courses bridge the gap to the advanced year. Students need 46 credit hours total, much less than the traditional track’s 60 credits.

The University of New England’s Advanced Standing track has:

• 30 credits (instead of 60 for traditional track)
• 11 courses (instead of 20 for traditional track)
• 500-hour specialization practicum (instead of 900 hours total for traditional track)

Enrollment Options: The University of Maine lets advanced standing students choose to:

• Study full-time for one year
• Spread courses over two years
• Learn through the distance program

The University of Southern Maine offers:

• One-Year Advanced Standing (heavy course load of 12-15 credits)
• Two-Year Advanced Standing (fewer courses each semester)

USM points out that their One-Year Advanced Standing MSW program needs a lot of time. They don’t suggest it for students who work or have other big commitments.

Application tips

A strong application needs careful work on each part. Here’s how to make your Maine MSW application stand out:

Essay Development: Your personal essay matters a lot. USM’s School of Social Work Admissions Committee sees it as your best chance to show who you are and why social work calls to you.

Write a great essay by:

• Reading the NASW Code of Ethics first
• Answering all questions fully
• Writing clearly and honestly
• Showing self-awareness
• Linking your experiences to career goals

UMaine wants an 800-1,000 word essay covering specific topics. These include how your values match the profession, your career goals, commitment to fighting racism, support for diversity, and a social issue you care about.

Selecting References: Pick people who know about your readiness for graduate school and fit for social work. Good references should:

• Know your work or school performance
• Talk about your judgment, reliability, and openness to feedback
• Come from different settings to show your range of abilities

The University of Maine suggests getting a reference from your current supervisor if you work or volunteer in social services. Don’t ask family, friends, or therapists.

Addressing Lower GPA: If your GPA is below 3.0:

• Talk about it in your essay
• Get a letter from a teacher who knows your academic strengths
• Show other qualities that prove you’re ready for graduate work

USM and UMaine sometimes accept students with lower GPAs if they show they can handle graduate courses.

Highlighting Relevant Experience: Experience in social work helps, but schools know students come from different backgrounds:

• Show how your skills from other jobs fit social work
• Discuss your work abilities in your essay
• Include a reference who knows your work style

Non-Matriculated Option: Not sure about an MSW? Want to strengthen your application? Try taking classes first. USM lets you take up to six credits as a non-matriculated student before applying.

This complete approach to applying helps you become a strong candidate for Maine’s MSW programs. You’ll show both academic readiness and professional fit for social work.

Cost and Financial Aid for MSW Programs in Maine

Getting your social work education needs good planning since MSW programs in Maine need substantial investment. You’ll find many financial aid options to help with these costs and make your educational goals easier to reach.

Tuition breakdown for MSW Programs in Maine

Your MSW degree costs in Maine will change based on where you live, how you take classes, and whether you study full or part-time:

University of New England (UNE MSW)

• On-Campus Program: $1,050 per credit hour
• Online Program: $975 per credit hour
• Additional Fees:
  • General Services Fee: $760 annually (on-campus)
  • Technology Fee: $165 per semester (online)
  • General Service Fee: $85 per semester (online)
  • Malpractice Insurance: $50 annually (on-campus) or $45 annually (online)

UNE’s complete 64-credit on-campus MSW program costs about $34,410. The university creates financial aid packages around 16 credits each semester for full-time students.

University of Maine (UMaine) UMaine asks future students to check their Office of Student Financial Aid and Bursar’s Office websites for current rates and fees. Your costs will vary based on residency status and class format.

University of Southern Maine (USM) USM charges the same tuition rates for its MSW program whatever your residency status:

• In-state, Canadian, and Out-of-state students: $475 per credit hour
• Mandatory fees: $99 per credit hour
• Total per credit: $574

This pricing makes USM’s MSW program available to out-of-state students who usually pay higher rates at other schools.

Your budget should include more than just tuition:

• Books and supplies: UNE estimates $750 per semester for full-time students
• Living expenses: Programs include housing, transportation, and personal costs in total attendance cost

Scholarships and grants for MSW Programs in Maine

Maine offers several scholarship options specifically for social work students:

University-Specific Scholarships

University of Maine:

• Catharine Wilder Guiles Scholarship: Helps Maine-based mental health professionals who want graduate training at UMaine. You need substantial financial need and Maine residency
• Coverdell Fellows Scholarship: Only returned Peace Corps Volunteers can apply
• University of Maine Regional Graduate Scholarship: Cuts out-of-state tuition for qualifying programs
• Trustee Tuition Waivers: UMaine’s School of Social Work nominates up to three current MSW students yearly

University of New England:

• UNE provides various social work scholarships and stipends through their program

University of Southern Maine:

• USM keeps financial aid resources ready for social work students

External Scholarships

Maine offers specific scholarships to help with graduate social work education:

• Benjamin Riggs Scholarship (Apply by April 30th, 2026)
• Catharine Wilder Guiles Scholarship (Graduate students can apply)
• Guy P. Gannett Scholarship Fund (Apply by April 1st, 2026)
• Maine Vietnam Veterans Scholarship (Veterans and their descendants can apply by May 1st, 2026)
• Rice Scholarship Fund (Students from Maine’s off-shore islands can apply by May 1st, 2026)

Graduate Assistantships

Graduate assistantships are a great way to get funding:

• UMaine’s School of Social Work offers assistantships based on faculty research interests and funding
• You might find more assistantships through the Graduate School, Residential Life, Division of Lifelong Learning, and other departments
• Canadian students who graduated from Atlantic Provinces colleges or universities might qualify for the Atlantic Provinces Tuition Waiver

International students might qualify for some Tuition Waiver Scholarships.

Loan forgiveness options for MSW graduates in Maine

Social work graduates often face heavy financial burdens, but loan forgiveness programs can help:

Social Worker Education Loan Repayment Program

Maine’s state loan forgiveness program for social workers has grown:

• The program started in 2011 and gave $5,000 to three qualified applicants yearly
• New legislation (LD 632) now helps 25 recipients instead of three and increases forgiveness from $5,000 to $20,000 per recipient

You can qualify for this program if you:

• Have a license under Title 32, chapter 83
• Finished your bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree in social work from an accredited school within 3 years
• Have education loans from your degree
• Work in underserved areas like public or private child welfare/family services, public interest law services, public child care, disability services, elderly care, veteran services, or tax-exempt organizations

Social workers in child welfare/family services, elderly care, or disability services get priority.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)

Social workers who work for U.S. federal, state, local, or tribal governments or non-profits might qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness.

MSW degrees cost a lot. MSW graduates usually have $68,000 to $76,000 in student loans. UMaine’s in-state MSW tuition runs about $52,000.

These costs get harder with:

• New MSWs earning around $50,000 yearly
• Extra costs after graduation like licensing and exams ($722)
• Required supervision after graduation (96 hours at about $100/hour, which could cost $9,600 more)

Getting financial aid through scholarships, assistantships, and loan forgiveness programs becomes crucial to make an MSW degree work financially in Maine.

Licensure and Career Outcomes After MSW in Maine

Your MSW degree in Maine opens up exciting new opportunities for licensure and career growth. The state provides great professional paths for social workers through its unique licensing requirements and varied career options.

Licensure process for MSW graduates in Maine

The State Board of Social Worker Licensure in Maine oversees social work practice to safeguard public health and welfare. After getting your MSW, you’ll need the right license based on your career goals.

The licensing path follows these steps:

1. Original License Application: Your first step after earning your MSW is to apply for the Licensed Master Social Worker, Clinical Conditional (LMSW-CC) license. You’ll need to submit:
   • Application fee ($25), licensure fee ($70), and criminal history check fee ($21)
   • Official transcripts from your CSWE-accredited program
   • Request for examination form
   • Agreement to provide consultation form
2. Examination: You’ll need to register with ASWB for the Masters level exam ($230 registration fee plus $25 application fee). Schedule your exam through Pearson VUE at a nearby testing center.
3. Supervised Experience: Your LMSW-CC license lets you start gathering supervised experience toward clinical licensure:
   • Standard path: You’ll need 3,200 hours (two years) of supervised social work experience with 96 hours of consultation
   • Non-clinical MSW concentration: You’ll need 6,400 hours (four years) with 192 hours of consultation
4. Clinical License Application: After completing your required hours, apply for the Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) license with the same fees as before.
5. Clinical Examination: Register for the ASWB Clinical level exam ($260 fee) and schedule through Pearson VUE.

It’s worth mentioning that exam approval stays valid for one year, so plan your timing carefully.

Career paths for MSW graduates in Maine

MSW graduates in Maine can explore career opportunities in many different settings:

Healthcare Settings: Social workers in healthcare typically work in hospitals. You’ll find roles in oncology, pediatrics, and mental health. Most healthcare positions require a master’s degree.

Mental Health & Substance Abuse: Maine has the highest concentration of jobs for mental health and substance abuse social workers nationwide. You can work in rehabilitation facilities, private practice, prisons, and juvenile detention centers.

Administrative Roles: Your MSW can lead to positions as nursing home directors, university professors, psychiatric crisis screeners, and hospice workers.

Community & Policy Work: Many graduates choose to work with communities through policy or advocacy organizations. Options include government agencies at all levels, development corporations, community action agencies, and neighborhood centers.

International Opportunities: The WHO, United Nations, UNICEF, and International Red Cross need social workers. They offer projects in rural and urban areas focusing on social development, international adoption, community organization, and post-traumatic stress.

Job outlook and salary expectations for MSW graduates in Maine

Maine’s social work field offers strong compensation and growth potential:

Current Employment: Maine has about 4,050 social workers. We found most work in child/family/school settings (1,580) and mental health/substance abuse (1,300).

Salary Range: Social workers in Maine earn competitive pay:

• Annual salaries range from $46,650 to $55,790
• Base salary averages $60,974 yearly, about 12% below the national average
• Senior social workers can earn around $77,709 annually
• Substance abuse and mental health social workers might earn up to $68,900

Growth Projections: The future looks promising:

• Social work jobs in Maine should increase by 5.1% through 2022
• Mental health and substance abuse positions could grow by 8.2%
• Nationwide social work jobs should grow 19% from 2012 to 2022

Job Opportunities: Maine offers about 100 social work openings annually, making it a great state for MSW graduates.

Maine combines competitive pay, steady job growth, and diverse career options. This makes it an ideal place to build your social work career after finishing your MSW program.

Spotlight: University of New England (UNE) MSW Program

UNE leads the way among MSW programs in Maine. They launched one of America’s first fully online social work master’s programs in 2009. Their educational options continue to grow and adapt to help students with different needs.

Program structure and delivery formats

UNE gives you two ways to earn your MSW:

Traditional Track:

• 60 credits across 20 courses
• You can start the program six times a year
• A detailed curriculum that teaches generalist social work with emphasis on social context and how it affects people

Advanced Standing Track:

• Only BSW graduates from CSWE-accredited programs can apply
• 30 credits in 11 courses
• Six start dates throughout the year

You can pick from these options:

• 100% Online Option: Learn at your own pace with asynchronous classes
• Campus-Based Option: Traditional classroom experience
• Hybrid Courses: Available only with campus-based learning

Fieldwork and practicum requirements

Field education is the life-blood of UNE’s MSW curriculum. They offer innovative ways to get practical training:

Practicum Models:

• Traditional Practicum: 32 weeks of seminar and agency placement
• Block Practicum: An intensive 16-week experience
• O.S. (Simulation and Onsite) Model: Blends virtual simulation with hands-on practice

Hours Required:

• Traditional students need 900 total hours: 400 for generalist practicum plus 500 for specialization
• Advanced standing students complete 500 hours of specialization practicum

The S.O.S. model lets students finish some practicum hours virtually. This makes the program more accessible without compromising skill development.

Admissions and tuition details

Admission Requirements:

• You need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
• They look for a 3.0 GPA but review all application aspects
• You must submit a professional statement about specific topics
• Your resume should highlight relevant experience
• Two professional references must complete recommendation forms

Tuition Structure (2023-2024):

• On-Campus costs $1,050 per credit hour ($34,410 total for 64 credits)
• Online program runs $975 per credit hour
• You’ll also pay for general services, technology, and malpractice insurance

UNE’s financial aid can cover your tuition and fees. You also get $350 each semester for textbooks and materials.

Get an MSW Degree in Maine

Getting an MSW degree in Maine is a chance to tackle pressing social needs while building a fulfilling career. Maine faces unique challenges. The state deals with high prescription drug abuse rates and an aging population. These issues create a strong need for qualified social workers of all specializations. Students can choose from three accredited programs at the University of Maine, University of Southern Maine, and University of New England. Each program offers unique benefits through specialized curricula, delivery formats, and focus areas.

Choosing the right program depends on several key factors like location, cost, specialization options, and program structure. Students can pick from traditional campus-based, hybrid, and fully online options based on their priorities and life situations. On top of that, it takes less time to complete if you have a BSW degree through advanced standing pathways.

Money matters when it comes to your education. While tuition varies between schools, you’ll find many funding options through scholarships, assistantships, and loan forgiveness programs designed for social workers. The expanded Social Worker Education Loan Repayment Program helps graduates who work in Maine’s underserved areas.

MSW graduates in Maine have excellent career prospects. The state ranks first nationwide in mental health and substance abuse social work positions. The salaries are a big deal as it means that they exceed national averages. The growth in healthcare, mental health, and community service sectors points to steady demand for qualified professionals.

Your gateway to professional practice starts with licensure after graduation. You begin with LMSW-CC licensure, gain supervised experience, and progress to full clinical licensure (LCSW). This path builds your credentials and opens up career options across the state.

Earning an MSW takes dedication, but the professional and personal rewards make it worth your time. Maine’s social work field offers both good pay and meaningful ways to make positive changes in communities facing tough challenges.