9 Top MSW Programs in Philadelphia: Expert Rankings for 2026

Want to find the best MSW programs in Philadelphia? Social workers are just needed everywhere – from schools and hospitals to mental health clinics and community organizations.

The Greater Philadelphia Area has five accredited schools offering Master of Social Work programs. These programs fit your schedule and career goals with flexible learning options. You can complete your degree in as little as 12 months with full-time study, or spread it over 3-4 years with part-time options. The programs also offer both campus-based and online formats, so you can choose what works best for you.

These Philadelphia MSW programs stand out because of their hands-on training. Students can work at more than 500 human service and social change organizations across the Philadelphia region. Small class sizes and guidance from leading faculty members help you build strong foundations in social work practice and education.

This guide looks at the nine top-ranked MSW programs Philadelphia offers for 2026. It will help you choose the right path for your social work education and career.

1. Temple University

Temple University is essential to social work education in Philadelphia. The School of Social Work aims to eliminate social, political, and economic injustices for oppressed populations. Temple’s College of Public Health houses the MSW program, which has climbed 13 spots in recent rankings to reach No. 46 nationwide. This places it among the top 20% of all social work programs.

Overview

The Pennsylvania MSW program equips you to help vulnerable populations including children, the elderly, and those living in poverty. Students learn to build resilient communities through capacity building, policy work, and evidence-based practices. The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredits this curriculum, which emphasizes social justice, professional ethics, and critical thinking to create meaningful change.

Specializations

The program features two distinct concentrations:

• Clinical Practice with Individuals and Families: Students learn to work as clinical therapists in outpatient and inpatient settings. This concentration prepares them for careers in case management, hospital discharge planning, service brokering, and private practice.
• Macro Practice in Organizations, Communities and Policy Arenas: This concentration develops leadership skills for nonprofit and governmental agencies, community organizing, and policy development. Students learn management skills to promote systemic change in various institutions.

Students can also specialize in health/mental health or children and families to align with their career goals.

Program Formats

The program offers multiple flexible pathways:

• Regular Entry MSW (60 credits): Students with any bachelor’s degree can complete this program full-time in two years or part-time in three to four years.
• Advanced Standing MSW (34.5 credits): BSW holders who graduated in the last five years can finish full-time in 12 months or part-time in 18 months.

Students can choose between on-campus or fully online formats (part-time only). Online learning combines synchronous and asynchronous instruction, with live class sessions usually scheduled one evening weekly.

Practicum Requirements

Students gain over 1,050 hours of practical experience through field education. The program includes two placements:

• Foundation Practicum: 450 hours (225 per semester) to develop simple social work skills.
• Advanced Practicum: 600 hours to build specialized skills in your chosen concentration.

Temple’s Office of Field Education connects students with suitable placement sites from more than 500 human service and social change organizations throughout the Philadelphia region.

Tuition & Financial Aid

Tuition rates:

• Pennsylvania residents: $1,148 per credit
• Out-of-state residents: $1,577 per credit
• Online program: $1,138 per credit

Students pay a University Services Fee between $193 and $528 per term based on credit load. Financial support includes assistantships, internships, externships, fellowships, and federal loans. Teaching Assistants, Research Assistants, Academic Interns and Graduate Externs receive health insurance benefits.

Unique Features

The program distinguishes itself through several key elements:

• Dual Degree Options: Students can combine their MSW with an MPH (Master of Public Health) or JD (Juris Doctor).
• Diverse Faculty Expertise: Students learn from nationally recognized experts in aging, children and families, disability, incarceration, LGBTQ health, mental health, and substance abuse.
• Student Diversity: The program’s diverse student body enriches classroom discussions with varied ethnic, socioeconomic, and geographic perspectives.
• Flexible Course Scheduling: Main Campus offers summer courses, while the Center City campus provides Saturday classes during fall and spring terms.

2. University of Pennsylvania

Ranked 8th nationwide by U.S. News and World Report, the University of Pennsylvania’s Master of Social Work program at the School of Social Policy & Practice (SP2) blends more than 110 years of tradition with fresh approaches to social justice. Penn’s MSW ranks among the oldest and most respected social work programs in the country. The program prepares you to lead service development at local, national, and global levels.

Overview

Penn’s MSW curriculum consists of two main parts: a foundation curriculum that introduces you to the profession and an advanced curriculum that lets you specialize. The program helps you become a skilled social worker who can deliver services while combining knowledge from different fields with hands-on practice. This CSWE-accredited program puts social justice first and works toward creating a fairer society. Students benefit from small classes with personal attention from leading faculty known for their teaching and research.

Specializations

The advanced curriculum offers two concentration methods:

• Clinical Social Work Practice: Prepares you to work directly with individuals, families, and groups. Students must take Mental Health Diagnostics (SWRK 7600) as one of their five electives.
• Macro Social Work Practice: Centers on organizational leadership, policy development, and community organizing. Students must complete a macro-designated elective.

Penn offers 11 different certificate programs and specializations. These specialized tracks let you focus on high-demand areas while earning your MSW.

Program Formats

Penn gives you three program options:

• Two-year Full-Time Program: Starts with orientation in August and ends with commencement the following May. Students take four courses each semester and spend three days weekly at practicum placements.
• Three-year Part-Time Program: Lets you balance your education with other commitments.
• Advanced Standing Program: A 10-month fast track for outstanding BSW graduates from accredited programs in the last five years.

Practicum Requirements

Practicum education serves as the core “signature pedagogy” of the MSW degree. Students complete:

• Foundation Year Placement: September through April, three days per week.
• Advanced Year Placement: September through April, three days per week.

Penn partners with hundreds of placement sites throughout Philadelphia and beyond. These experiences link classroom learning with agency work, letting you apply theoretical knowledge in real-life settings. Each semester evaluates your performance based on Council on Social Work Education competencies.

Tuition & Financial Aid

The academic year costs for full-time MSW students are:

• Tuition: $58,000
• General Fee: $4,108
• Technology Fee: $720
• Clinical Fee: $742
• Total: $63,570

Advanced Standing students pay $78,580 due to the condensed timeframe. The program offers substantial financial support through:

• SP2 Scholars Program: Full-tuition scholarships for students showing exceptional leadership potential.
• Coverdell Fellowships: $8,750 per semester for Returned Peace Corps Volunteers.
• Federal work-study positions and loan options for eligible students.

Unique Features

Penn’s program stands out through:

• Certificate Programs: You can earn specialized certificates alongside your degree.
• Diverse Alumni Network: You’ll connect with graduates working in social work settings worldwide.
• Social Justice Focus: The program shows steadfast dedication to creating social change through education and practice.
• Schwartz Social Innovation Scholarship: Helps master’s students create solutions in economic security, immigration, or global conflict.

3. La Salle University

La Salle University’s Master of Social Work program has its roots in the Lasallian tradition of caring for others. The program focuses on “solidarity and justice” and helps students work with vulnerable populations. This unique approach sets it apart from other MSW programs in Philadelphia and helps graduates make a real difference in people’s lives.

Overview

The MSW program takes a person-centered point of view to help you develop advanced social work skills. Students learn how individuals, families, and communities connect and work together for better outcomes. The Council on Social Work Education’s (CSWE) Board of Accreditation has fully accredited the program, which meets high educational standards. Students become skilled at ethical practice, working with diverse groups, advancing human rights, using research, shaping policy, and getting a full picture of situations before taking action.

Specializations

You can choose from several inter-professional focus areas based on what interests you and where you want to take your career. These options let you gain specialized knowledge while building strong social work foundations. The program combines theory with hands-on practice to prepare you for complex challenges in schools, mental health clinics, and other settings.

Program Formats

La Salle gives you flexible options that fit your schedule:

• Traditional Program: 60 credits spread across 20 courses
• Advanced Standing Program: 30 credits in 10 courses, designed for recent BSW graduates from CSWE-accredited programs

Both programs come in full-time and part-time options. Evening classes run from 5-7 p.m. or 7:30-9:30 p.m., with some hybrid and online courses available for working professionals. You can start in fall, summer, or spring, but field placements begin only in fall.

Practicum Requirements

Field education gives you hands-on experience. Traditional students complete two practicums – 500 hours over two semesters at the 500 level and 600 hours at the 600 level. Advanced standing students complete 600 hours at the 600 level. The practicum sequence starts in fall, and the Practicum Office helps you find placements that match your career goals. You might even complete your practicum at your current workplace if it meets CSWE requirements and you have an MSW supervisor.

Tuition & Financial Aid

Graduate tuition at La Salle will be $1,275 per credit hour in 2025-26. The total estimated costs are:

• Traditional Program (60 credits): $76,500
• Advanced Standing (30 credits): $38,250

You can get financial help through:

• Graduate assistantships that cover two courses each semester (fall/spring) and one in summer, plus $12 hourly pay
• Federal Work-Study for eligible students
• Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans up to $20,500 yearly
• Direct Graduate PLUS Loans
• Employer tuition assistance programs

Unique Features

The program offers:

• Integrative Project: A personalized capstone project you develop with a faculty mentor, based on your interests and career goals
• Evening Courses: Classes fit working professionals’ schedules
• 4+1 Program Option: La Salle undergraduates can earn both BSW and MSW degrees in five years
• Lasallian Values: Students learn social justice principles and dedication to helping others
• Small Class Sizes: You get personal attention from faculty to enhance your learning and professional growth

4. West Chester University

West Chester University ranks #21 on Social Work Degree Guide’s list of the Top 25 Most Affordable MSW programs in the United States. The CSWE-accredited program costs nowhere near other regional options while delivering high-quality education.

Overview

The MSW program requires 60 credits that help you master advanced practice with individuals, families, and communities. The curriculum combines classroom learning with hands-on field experiences to champion social and economic justice. Students need a 3.00 cumulative GPA in generalist courses to move forward with specialized coursework. All but one of these practicum courses require a B grade or higher for students to pass.

Specializations

West Chester takes a focused approach by offering one specialization in advanced practice with individuals, families, and communities. This strategy lets students take a closer look at direct practice methods while understanding social welfare policies and research techniques. The specialized curriculum builds advanced skills that prepare students for their chosen practice area.

Program Formats

Students can choose from several flexible program options:

• Regular Standing (60 credits): Takes two years full-time or three to four years part-time
• Advanced Standing (36 credits): BSW graduates from CSWE-accredited programs can complete this in one year full-time or two years part-time if they graduated within the past seven years[232]

Classes run at both the West Chester campus and PASSHE Center City Philadelphia location. Evening schedules work well for professionals.

Practicum Requirements

Field education plays a vital role in the program:

• Regular standing students complete 952 total field hours across two placements
• Advanced standing students complete 504 total field hours

Field placements run from September through May. Students can choose from hundreds of partner agencies in the region. Working students might qualify for practicums at their workplace, making it easier to meet program requirements.

Tuition & Financial Aid

Pennsylvania residents’ 2024-2025 tuition rates:

• West Chester campus: $1,704 per course ($34,080 regular standing, $20,448 advanced standing)
• Philadelphia campus: $1,530 per course ($30,600 regular standing, $18,360 advanced standing)

Students can access graduate assistantships, federal work-study, and loans.

Unique Features

The program is known for these benefits:

• Dual Campus Options: Study in suburban West Chester or urban Philadelphia
• Hybrid Learning: Evening classes begin at 5:50 p.m., mixing in-person and Zoom sessions
• Employment-Based Practicums: Complete field work at your current workplace
• Strong Career Outcomes: 97% of graduates find jobs within a year

Faculty members stay active in the community as practitioners and board members of local organizations, bringing real-world expertise to the classroom.

5. Widener University

Widener University’s Center for Social Work Education runs a trauma-informed MSW program that trains clinical professionals to tackle complex challenges in a variety of populations. U.S. News & World Report ranked it among the best schools for social work in 2024, making it one of Philadelphia’s top-ranked MSW programs with specialized trauma training.

Overview

The MSW program at Widener uses a trauma-informed clinical model based on social justice principles. Students learn how trauma affects mental health, substance abuse, employment difficulties, and other social-emotional challenges. The program aims to develop culturally competent social workers who champion social and economic justice for vulnerable populations. This CSWE-accredited program gives you the advanced assessment, intervention, and evaluation skills supported by policy knowledge.

Specializations

While Widener doesn’t offer multiple concentrations, students get deep clinical specialization through:

• Clinical Social Work Practice with core skills in treating trauma
• Advanced trauma-informed approach throughout all coursework
• Optional certificates including Practices in Trauma Recovery

Students learn how different types of trauma affect people throughout their lives and become ready to deliver evidence-based services.

Program Formats

Students can choose flexible pathways that fit their needs:

• Regular Admission Program: 61 total credit hours (55 core/concentration + 6 electives)
  • Full-time: Complete in 2 calendar years
  • Part-time: Complete in less than 4 calendar years
• Advanced Standing Program: BSW graduates from CSWE-accredited programs within past six years can apply
  • 36 credit hours
  • Complete in approximately 2 years part-time

Students can take classes on-campus or 100% online.

Practicum Requirements

Field experiences play a vital role in Widener’s MSW education with two distinct placements:

• Generalist Year: 450 hours (16 hours weekly over two consecutive semesters)
• Specialization Year: 560 hours (20 hours weekly over two semesters or 14-16 hours over three semesters with extended option)

Field directors help each student find appropriate placements. Students need one day per week during regular business hours for field education, though evening/weekend options might be available.

Tuition & Financial Aid

Regular standing tuition costs approximately $57,000, while advanced standing runs about $36,000. Online program students pay $1,000 per credit hour. Students can access financial help through:

• Federal loans through FAFSA (school code 003313)
• Yellow Ribbon program for military students
• Employer tuition reimbursement if you qualify

Unique Features

Widener’s program offers:

• Pro bono clinical supervision for select graduates seeking Pennsylvania licensure ($6,000-$15,000 value)
• Trauma certificate option while pursuing MSW
• Dual degree options including MSW/PhD and MSW/MEd in Human Sexuality Studies
• Evening courses that work well for professionals

Students can get their LSW license right after graduation and LCSW after completing required supervised practice.

6. Bryn Mawr College

Bryn Mawr College made history in 1920 by awarding the country’s first PhD in social work. The college’s Master of Social Service (MSS) program—fully equivalent to an MSW for licensure purposes—builds on this legacy and prepares students to lead in the field.

Overview

Bryn Mawr’s MSS program balances a comprehensive curriculum that covers various social work roles. Students develop professional skills through a trauma-informed perspective. The program blends theory, practice, policy, and research to promote critical thinking and self-reflection. Social justice remains central to all coursework as students learn to advocate for client systems and create responsive programs.

Specializations

The program has two advanced specializations:

• Clinical Social Work Practice: Students learn to work with individuals, families, and groups through a biopsychosocialspiritual framework using multiple theoretical approaches including psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioral
• Communities, Organizations, Policy, & Advocacy (COPA): Students gain leadership skills in community organizing, policy advocacy, and organizational development

Each specialization requires five core courses and three electives that connect micro and macro practice levels.

Program Formats

Students can choose from several program options:

• Full-Time Program: Students complete the program in two years with 5 courses each semester in year one and 4 courses each semester in year two
• Part-Time Program: Students finish in three years with evening and weekend courses available
• Advanced Standing: BSW graduates from CSWE-accredited programs can apply within five years of graduation

Weekly classes run for 2-3 hours, primarily on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Summer courses meet twice weekly during five-week sessions.

Practicum Requirements

Field education involves:

• Foundation Year: Two full days (15 hours) weekly
• Advanced Year: Three full days (22.5 hours) weekly

Students can find evening and weekend placements but must be available for at least 15 hours during regular business hours. Human service organization employees might qualify for work-site placements.

Tuition & Financial Aid

The tuition costs $5,580 per course unit plus additional fees. The complete 18-course MSS program totals approximately $100,440. Financial support options include:

• Bryn Mawr College Scholarships at admission
• Federal student loans
• On-campus employment opportunities

Unique Features

The program stands out with:

• A joint MSS/MPH degree with Jefferson College of Population Health completed in about three years
• Certificate programs that count toward MSS elective credits
• One of the nation’s highest licensure exam pass rates at 95.2%
• Strong job placement with most graduates finding work within 3-6 months
• Flexible evening courses and intimate class sizes (98 accepted from 128 applicants)

7. Eastern University

Eastern University provides a flexible, 100% online MSW program with a Christian worldview foundation. Students become skilled practitioners who serve vulnerable populations. The program is one of the most affordable MSW programs in Pennsylvania while maintaining high academic standards.

Overview

The MSW program has full accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). Students learn to become advanced practitioners who bring compassion and justice to human needs. The curriculum blends ethical Christian perspectives with critical analysis and scientific research skills to build advanced practitioner knowledge.

Specializations

The program takes a unique approach by weaving trauma-informed practice throughout its curriculum. Students build core skills in:

• Ethical professional behavior
• Human rights and social justice advancement
• Anti-racism, diversity, equity, and inclusion
• Research-informed practice
• Policy engagement
• Assessment and intervention with diverse populations

Program Formats

Students can choose between two flexible paths:

• Regular Standing Track: 60 credits for students with undergraduate degrees in any field
• Advanced Standing Track: 30 credits for BSW graduates from the last five years with 3.0+ GPA

Both options feature 100% online coursework with 7-week terms. New classes start in August and January.

Practicum Requirements

The field education uses a concurrent model:

• Generalist Year: 400 hours (14.5 hours weekly across 28 weeks)
• Specialist Year: 500 hours (18 hours weekly across 28 weeks)

Students gain hands-on experience through internships under experienced social work professionals in their local communities.

Tuition & Financial Aid

The 2025-2026 costs include:

• Tuition: $450 per credit
• Fees: $30 per credit
• Total Program Cost: $28,800 (Regular) / $14,400 (Advanced Standing)

Students can access federal financial aid to help manage costs.

Unique Features

The program is known for:

• Trauma-Informed Focus: Students learn practical trauma-informed skills
• Spiritually-Informed Model: An ethical approach that includes spiritual meaning-making strategies
• Experienced Faculty: Professors stay current with field developments
• Flexible Schedule: Students complete coursework on their time with live sessions only during internships
• Diverse Career Preparation: Graduates work in child welfare, mental health, and veteran services

8. Saint Joseph’s University

Saint Joseph’s University joined Philadelphia’s MSW programs recently and received candidacy for accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education in June 2024. Their 62-credit curriculum has a unique approach based on the Ignatian spiritual commitment to cura personalis – care for the whole person.

Overview

Saint Joseph’s MSW program shapes versatile leaders who make meaningful changes in communities of all types. Students learn about individual and family services, group and community work, organizational leadership, and social change advocacy. The Student Union gives real input into program policies.

Specializations

This advanced generalist program equips graduates to make changes at every social level. Students master human behavior theories, clinical diagnosis, leadership, and social entrepreneurship.

Program Formats

The program runs 100% online with:

• Live 90-minute Zoom sessions on Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday evenings
• Engaging asynchronous activities through Canvas, Panopto, and Google Workspace

Students can pick from 20 different academic plans. Full-time students can graduate in two calendar years. Part-time students need to finish within four years.

Practicum Requirements

Saint Joseph’s goes beyond traditional unpaid internships by focusing on paid and work-based practicum experiences. Their Payment for Placements research led to this innovative approach that reduces student anxiety and financial strain. Students who already have jobs might complete their practicums at their current workplace.

Tuition & Financial Aid

The undergraduate tuition is $55,380, and graduate rates follow similar pricing. Financial support includes:

• Mission and alumni discounts
• Competitive on-campus opportunities with tuition remission
• Zero textbook cost program

Unique Features

Key program highlights include:

• DREAM Fellowship connecting social work, counseling, and behaviorist students
• Zero textbook costs through free e-books and library resources
• 4+2 accelerated program for current undergraduates

9. Widener Online MSW Program

Widener’s 100% online MSW program delivers the same rigorous curriculum as its campus version, making it perfect if you’re a busy professional seeking advanced social work education.

Overview

The program caters to tech-savvy learners who thrive with written materials. You’ll learn about trauma’s effects on mental health challenges. Students develop skills to help individuals and families while earning one of Pennsylvania’s top-ranked online MSW degrees according to Social Work Guide.

Specializations

Clinical social work with trauma serves as the central theme throughout all coursework. Students learn to treat trauma’s effects in populations of all types and settings.

Program Formats

Two tracks are available:

• Regular Standing: Three-year part-time program (57 credits) suits students with any bachelor’s degree
• Advanced Standing: Two-year part-time option (36 credits) welcomes recent CSWE-accredited BSW graduates

Students can begin their journey at three different times throughout the year with no GRE requirements.

Practicum Requirements

Field experience plays a vital role in the online program:

• Generalist Year: 450 hours (16 weekly hours over two semesters)
• Specialization Year: 560 hours (20 weekly hours over two semesters or extended option)

Tuition & Financial Aid

Each credit costs $1,000 plus a $50 semester fee. Students can access federal loans (FAFSA code: 003313) and military benefits through the Yellow Ribbon program.

Unique Features

Students enjoy academic excellence with flexible scheduling options. Field directors provide personalized support to students in their geographic areas. Working professionals might qualify for employment-based practicum opportunities.

Choose Your Philadelphia MSW Today

Your career goals, learning priorities, and personal situation should guide your choice among Philadelphia’s top MSW programs. Each program shines in its own way. Temple offers dual degrees, Penn brings prestige, La Salle focuses on values, and West Chester stands out for affordability.

These schools give you plenty of flexibility in how you study. Advanced standing students can finish full-time in just 12 months. Working professionals can take their time with part-time options over 3-4 years. Schools like Widener and Eastern University let you study from anywhere with their online and hybrid programs.

Field education is the substance of these programs. You’ll get hands-on training through partnerships with hundreds of human service organizations in Philadelphia. This practical experience under professional guidance helps bridge the gap between being a student and becoming a practitioner.

Each program takes its own approach to specialization. Temple and Penn have clear paths for clinical and macro practice. Widener puts all its focus on trauma-informed clinical work. Your career plans should point you toward the right program.

Money matters too. Tuition costs vary widely. Pennsylvania residents pay $30,600 at West Chester, while Penn’s program costs $63,570. The good news? Every school offers financial aid, assistantships, and scholarships to help with these expenses.

Philadelphia makes an excellent place to study social work. The city’s diverse population, numerous social service agencies, and strong professional networks create the perfect learning environment. Social workers are needed in schools, hospitals, mental health clinics, and community organizations. Pick a program that matches your vision for making positive change in society.