8 Best MSW Programs in Chicago for 2026 (With Clinical Tracks)
Looking for the best MSW programs in Chicago? Your timing is perfect. The Bureau of Labor Statistics shows the social work industry is growing faster than most other fields. The child and family sector shows even more promise with a growth rate 20% higher than other occupations.
Chicago’s educational landscape offers excellent choices with over 50 colleges and universities providing MSW programs both online and on campus. Illinois has become a thriving hub for the profession with more than 15,000 licensed social workers. The state’s social workers earn between $54,870 and $65,630 on average, while child, family, and school social workers make around $63,590.
MSW programs need extensive fieldwork experience. Students typically complete 450 hours during the Generalist year and 630 hours in the Specialization year. Graduates with a BSW from a CSWE-accredited program might complete their MSW in just one academic year, which speeds up their career growth.
We have assessed all options in Illinois to present Chicago’s 8 best MSW programs with outstanding clinical tracks for 2026.
1. Aurora University – MSW in Addictions
Aurora University stands out among MSW programs in Chicago because it offers a specialized track in addictions. The program gives you vital skills to help people with substance use disorders. You’ll also be ready for professional certification in Illinois.
Overview
The MSW in Addictions track at Aurora University teaches you how to work with people affected by substance use disorders. After you graduate, you can take the Illinois Certified Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Counselor (CADC) examination. This certification makes you more valuable in the growing addiction treatment field.
The program’s value comes from its accreditation by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). Expert faculty bring their ground experience to teach you about substance abuse disorders and counseling strategies. The program blends academic excellence with hands-on practice to help you solve community problems.
Clinical focus
The clinical focus has three main courses:
- SWK-6340 Psychopharmacology of Substance Use Disorders (3 credits)
- SWK-5420 Addictions Counseling I (3 credits)
- SWK-6400 Addictions Counseling II (3 credits)
You need a “B” grade or better in these courses to finish the track. The program teaches you everything about substance use and challenges your personal views about affected populations. You’ll learn specific clinical skills to help different groups struggling with addiction.
The Addictions Counseling sequence builds from basics to advanced treatment methods. Addictions Counseling I covers assessment tools, career paths, and legal effects of substance use. You’ll even visit drug or DUI court proceedings. Addictions Counseling II takes it further with evidence-based treatments like motivational interviewing and reality therapy. You’ll also study family effects and treatment planning.
Students interested in dual diagnosis can take an extra course (SWK-5600 Co-occurring Substance Use and Mental Health Disorders) to become a Co-occurring Substance Use and Mental Health Disorder Professional (CODPI).
Fieldwork and internships
Fieldwork is vital to your education. The addictions track needs 500 hours for generalist internship and 600 hours for specialist internship. Each internship runs for two consecutive semesters (32 weeks).
You’ll lead your internship search with plenty of support. Tevera, a complete database of placement sites, lets you search by location and specialty area. You can also look for opportunities at other organizations that interest you.
You must complete the full 32-week internship even if you finish your hours early. This ensures you get complete training. All fieldwork must happen at approved addiction treatment sites to meet certification requirements.
Tuition and financial aid
Aurora University makes graduate education available through different financial aid options. Almost all students (98%) get some form of financial help. You can get:
- Scholarships
- Federal and state loans
- Third-party loans
- Grants
- Military benefits
You need to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) using Aurora University’s school code: 001634. Apply early to get the most benefits.
Admission requirements
The program accepts applications year-round with no strict deadlines. You should apply early though. You’ll need:
- Completed Graduate Application for Admission
- Official transcripts showing a bachelor’s degree
- 0 GPA on a 4.0 scale (they might consider lower GPAs)
- Resume
- Two letters of recommendation
- Personal statement (up to 1,500 words) answering questions about your goals
Students wanting to join the Addictions Track must meet with the Coordinator for an interview and sign declaration paperwork.
2. Loyola University Chicago – Micro Practice Track
Loyola University Chicago runs one of the most respected MSW programs with a distinguished history of CSWE accreditation dating back to 1921. The School of Social Work builds its curriculum on Jesuit values and social justice principles to help you make meaningful changes in individual lives and communities.
Program overview
The Micro Practice specialization at Loyola provides targeted training for direct clinical work with individuals, families, and groups. Students can choose from four distinct tracks:
- Advanced Clinical Practice Track – Focuses on clinical assessment and therapeutic interventions in different settings
- Certified Alcohol and Other Drugs Counselor Training Program (CADC) Track – Prepares you for substance abuse counseling certification
- Migration Studies Track – Specializes in working with immigrant and refugee populations
- Schools/Professional Educator License (PEL) Track – Develops skills for social work roles in educational settings
Students need 49 credit hours to complete the standard MSW program in two years of full-time study or four years of part-time study with two classes per semester. Students with a BSW degree earned in the last five years can opt for Loyola’s Advanced Standing option. This fast-track program needs only 23 credit hours and takes just one year to complete.
Clinical training
The Advanced Clinical Practice track prepares you to work in hospitals, outpatient practices, extended care facilities, and community mental health agencies. This track matches Loyola’s mission to provide transformative education for practice-informed social work.
Students must complete 9 credit hours (three courses) from an extensive menu of clinical offerings. The course options include:
- Group therapy approaches
- Family assessment and intervention
- Specialized work with adolescents, children, or older adults
- Crisis intervention and trauma-focused care
- Substance abuse treatment
- Practice with LGBTQ populations
Each course blends relevant policy and research content, helping you develop a comprehensive clinical point of view. The program fulfills educational requirements for both LSW and LCSW licenses.
Internship requirements
Internships are the foundation of Loyola’s MSW education. Students must complete two distinct internship experiences totaling 1,000 hours. The typical structure includes:
- First internship: 400 hours at 16 hours weekly (Tuesdays and Thursdays)
- Second internship: 600 hours at 24 hours weekly (Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays)
Students can choose a summer block option for one internship experience, which involves 35-40 hours weekly, Monday through Friday.
Loyola partners with over 1,500 agencies throughout the Chicagoland area, giving students excellent access to supervised field experiences. The SONIA internship management system helps students research and apply to potential sites.
Tuition and costs
The standard 49-credit MSW program costs $55,370, with each credit hour priced at $1,130. Advanced Standing program students (23 credits) pay proportionally less.
Other fees include:
- Student Development Fee ($48-194 per semester, based on credit load)
- Technology Fee ($31-130 per semester, based on credit load)
- Graduate Social Work Field Fee ($100 per semester, fall and spring only)
Loyola’s Financial Aid Office makes education available through various options. The university offers internal scholarships based on financial need, community engagement, academic promise, and commitment to social work. Loyola extends need-based scholarship opportunities to international, DACA, and undocumented students.
3. Dominican University – Children, Youth and Family
Dominican University has a unique Children, Youth and Family track that tackles an urgent social need. Hundreds of thousands of children experience maltreatment in the United States each year. This specialized MSW program helps you become a champion for vulnerable youth and teaches you how to help families in crisis.
Overview
The Children, Youth and Family track gives you complete training to work with at-risk children and their families. You’ll learn how to prevent maltreatment, support children in vulnerable situations, and build stronger family systems. The program is notable because it focuses on culturally sensitive practice and advocacy skills for this specific population.
After graduating, you can get a Child Welfare Employee License in Illinois, which lets you start working in state-sanctioned child protection roles right away. You’ll need to complete 60 credit hours of coursework, including 1,080 hours of supervised fieldwork and related practicum courses.
This track is one of several options at Dominican. Other tracks include aging/gerontology, global social work for immigrants and refugees, health and well-being, military social work, and school social work. This variety lets you shape your education around your career goals.
Clinical emphasis
The clinical focus prepares you for real-life challenges in child welfare. Your specialized coursework covers child welfare policy and history, including laws and initiatives that define social workers’ roles inside and outside the system.
Two core courses are required for this specialization:
- SWK 644 – Child Welfare I
- SWK 645 – Child Welfare II (with SWK 644 as prerequisite)
These courses prepare you for vital certification exams including:
- Child and Adolescent Needs and Strengths assessment
- Child Endangerment Risk Assessment Protocol
- Child Placement Worker certification
Research shows clear links between childhood trauma and lifelong challenges. These include higher risks of poor health, mental health issues, and problems with economic and employment outcomes. You’ll master assessment techniques first, then learn evidence-based interventions to address these challenges.
Fieldwork
Hands-on experience is a vital part of your education. You must complete 1,080 hours of supervised practice and internships at partner social service agencies. This practical training reinforces what you learn in class through direct application.
Your specialization placements happen at agencies serving children, adolescents, youth in transition, and their families. Some key placement sites include:
- Department of Children and Family Services
- Foster care agencies contracted with DCFS
- Catholic Charities
- Mercy Home for Boys and Girls
- Metropolitan Family Services
- Shelter, Inc.
The university partners with over 350 agencies throughout Chicago, giving you great opportunities for research and clinical experience. Students interested in global experience can join optional 10-week practicum placements in Ecuador, India, Ireland, Mexico, or South Africa.
Tuition and scholarships
Making education affordable is part of Dominican University’s mission. The school provides many financial aid options through merit-based scholarships, departmental awards, and graduate assistantships.
GPA determines merit scholarship amounts:
- Academic Excellence Scholarship: 30% tuition reduction for 3.55-4.0 GPA
- Departmental Scholarship: 20% tuition reduction for 3.35-3.54 GPA
- Graduate Scholarship: 10% tuition reduction for 3.25-3.34 GPA
Dominican received a major federal grant of $649,990 yearly for up to 5 years (2020-2025) from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). This money funds scholarships for at least 25 MSW students each year from disadvantaged backgrounds who will serve in medically underserved communities. Students from minoritized backgrounds get priority consideration.
You need to complete the FAFSA and meet priority admission deadlines to be automatically considered for eligible scholarships.
4. University of Chicago – Clinical Concentration
The University of Chicago’s Clinical Concentration ranks among the best MSW programs in Chicago. The Crown Family School’s program helps clinical social workers expand their professional horizons with an innovative educational approach.
Overview
The University of Chicago features a distinctive Master of Arts Program in Social Work, Social Policy, and Social Administration (SW) that awards an AM degree (artium magister). This degree equals an MSW but provides broader educational foundations by combining direct social work practice with policy development, interdisciplinary research, and social science theory. Graduates benefit from more career options and flexibility due to this complete degree program.
The program has managed to keep its accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education since 1919. This makes it one of the oldest and most respected social work programs nationwide. Two-thirds of students in the SW Program choose the clinical concentration. They prepare themselves for advanced practice with individuals, families, and small groups.
Interdisciplinary approach
UChicago’s Clinical Concentration blends scientific and humanistic approaches to understand human behavior and social problems. The program stands out through its focus on theoretical diversity and comparative approaches to growth and change. Students learn about the vital role of practitioner-client relationships while developing critical reflective practice.
The clinical curriculum requires students to complete:
- A two-quarter course sequence in one practice method (cognitive-behavioral, family systems, or psychodynamic)
- A one-quarter course in a second practice method
- One research class (typically Clinical Research)
- One human behavior in the social environment (HBSE) course
Students can customize their education through elective courses in specialized areas of interest, from specific treatment modalities to particular social problems or populations.
Field placement
Field education is the core of the UChicago experience. Students see the constant interplay between theory and practice. The Crown Family School’s relationships with over 600 agencies throughout Chicago create diverse opportunities for hands-on learning.
Clinical concentration students must complete at least 640 hours of field placement, usually scheduled at 24 hours weekly. These placements help students develop, apply, and test clinical knowledge under professional supervision.
Students collectively work about 225,000 hours in the field each year. They get great experience in both clinical social work and social administration. Field placements let students participate in direct practice and macro-level project work with clients and stakeholders. This prepares them for leadership positions in the field.
Tuition and GRE requirements
UChicago takes an integrated approach to admissions by reviewing all application components together rather than looking at isolated metrics. The program doesn’t require GRE scores, which removes a barrier for many applicants.
Students in the 2025-2026 academic year will pay these additional fees beyond tuition:
- Graduate Student Services Fee: $503.00 quarterly
- Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) U-Pass: $125.00 quarterly
- Lifetime Transcript Fee: $81.00 (first quarter only)
The Crown Family School makes education available through financial assistance. Last year, 95% of master’s students received merit- and need-based tuition scholarships. The school renewed 99% of scholarships for second-year students. Merit-based scholarships come from a complete review of your application without extra paperwork.
U.S. citizens and permanent residents should file the FAFSA using the university’s Federal School code: 001774 to apply for need-based aid including federal loans and work-study. Students should apply early since some forms of assistance have limits.
5. Northeastern Illinois University – School Social Work
Northeastern Illinois University provides a great path to professional licensure that combines quality education with affordability for those wanting to become school social workers. The specialized track helps you create positive change in Illinois educational settings.
Program overview
Northeastern’s MSW program with School Social Work specialization is fully accredited by the Council on Social Work Education. The Illinois State Board of Education has approved this program that helps you earn a Professional Educator License (PEL) with School Social Work endorsement for Pre-K to age 21.
The program has two curricula:
- Foundation curriculum (30 credit hours) – For those with non-BSW bachelor’s degrees
- Advanced curriculum – Built upon the foundation and focusing on specialized practice
You can get social work licensure in all 50 states after graduation, which gives you great career flexibility. Classes meet during late afternoon and evening hours since we focused on working professionals. You can finish the program in four part-time years or two full-time years.
Clinical training
The School Social Work specialization builds specific skills needed in educational settings. Students learn techniques and knowledge that work best in professional school social work practice. Students also learn trauma-informed approaches to help individuals, families, organizations, and communities.
The specialization really prepares you for the School Social Worker content exam (184) from the Illinois Licensure Testing System. You need to pass this exam before getting your license recommendation.
Fieldwork and schedule
Here are the key fieldwork requirements:
- Students in the School Social Work specialization must complete 600 hours in a school setting
- A field instructor with an MSW degree and Professional Educator License with school social worker endorsement must supervise at least 400 hours
The Practicum Office handles all practicum placements. Students must log their hours in the SL&L system, and site supervisors need to approve these hours. End-of-semester evaluations are due December 5 for fall and May 5 for spring.
Tuition and affordability
Northeastern ranks among Chicago’s most affordable MSW programs. In-state graduate students pay $8,593 yearly tuition plus $1,800 in mandatory general fees.
Former students often praise the program’s value: “As a state school, we are an affordable option for many prospective graduate students”. Alumni love the education quality despite lower costs. One graduate shared, “I had the best professors at NEIU… Every professor I had also taught at more ‘elite’ universities and taught us the same curriculum for a fraction of the price”.
6. Walden University – Trauma-Focused MSW
Walden University’s fully online Trauma-Focused MSW program excels with its specialized trauma treatment curriculum. Social workers learn to help individuals and communities who face violence and traumatic events.
Program overview
The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredits Walden’s MSW program. This accreditation ensures high-quality education that meets industry standards. Students can choose between two paths. The Traditional option suits those with non-social work bachelor’s degrees and takes three years part-time or two years full-time. BSW holders can opt for the Advanced Standing track.
Students learn social justice and community-focused approaches that help meet academic requirements for licensure in many states. The job market looks promising. Social work positions should grow 6% by 2034, outpacing average occupation growth rates.
Clinical specialization
The program’s trauma focus prepares professionals to support individuals and communities that don’t deal very well with traumatic events. The curriculum has specialized courses like:
- Vicarious Trauma and Compassion Fatigue
- Crisis, Trauma, and Disaster Response
- Trauma-Informed Practice: Neurobiology of Trauma
Students become skilled at theories and response models related to sexual trauma, crisis in individuals and families, and community crises. The coursework emphasizes brain-trauma connections, trauma-informed interventions, and treatment planning.
Online flexibility
Students can advance their education while they retain control of work and family responsibilities. The program blends virtual learning with hands-on experiences—both online and face-to-face—to foster essential counseling skills. The program has skills labs where students practice and refine their clinical abilities, though most learning happens online.
Tuition and scholarships
The academic year costs $570.00 per credit hour. Traditional option students need 92 quarter credit hours ($52,440.00 total). Adding an optional certificate requires 97 quarter credit hours ($55,290.00).
The Believe & Achieve Scholarship rewards academic progress with tuition savings. Students get one tuition-free course after completing three paid courses. Military service members, veterans, and their spouses can combine a 10% tuition reduction with the Believe & Achieve Scholarship.
7. Chamberlain University – Medical Social Work
Chamberlain University is among Chicago’s best MSW programs with its specialized Medical Social Work track. The program meets the growing need for healthcare social workers and you can complete it entirely online to prepare for a career supporting patients in medical settings.
Program overview
Chamberlain University’s complete online MSW program offers both Traditional and Advanced Standing paths based on your education background. Students can choose the Medical Social Work track from several specialized paths. The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accreditation validates that the curriculum meets quality standards that are 50 years old for social work education.
The program prepares you academically to pursue licensure. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 16% growth in social work employment from 2016 to 2026—which more than doubles the average rate across all occupations.
Clinical focus
The Medical Social Work track readies you for healthcare roles in nursing homes and hospitals. You’ll learn to help patients understand their diagnoses and adapt their lifestyle, housing, or healthcare needs.
This specialty aligns with BLS forecasts that indicate increased need for healthcare social workers. The curriculum combines theory with hands-on applications that will give a solid foundation to tackle critical healthcare gaps in communities.
Online format
The program’s substance lies in its 100% online coursework that you can access 24/7. You can log in and study whenever your schedule allows[292]. On top of that, it provides round-the-clock technical support, making it perfect for professionals who work.
Tuition and financial aid
Tuition rates differ by location. Chicago campus students pay $775.00 per credit hour, plus these additional costs:
- Student Services Charge: $235.00 per session
- Books and course materials: approximately $150.00 per session
Your financial aid journey starts with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Submit your FAFSA within two weeks of your admission application to maximize your aid chances. Remember to include Chamberlain’s school code (006385) in your application.
8. UIC Jane Addams College – Mental Health Specialization
The Jane Addams College at UIC continues its namesake’s trailblazing legacy through its Mental Health specialization. Students learn to tackle critical behavioral health challenges in urban environments.
Program overview
The Mental Health specialization at UIC prepares students to work in behavioral health settings of all types. This CSWE-accredited program uses a strengths-based and ecosystems approach to help at-risk populations. UIC’s program goes beyond standard curriculum. Students can earn specialized certificates to work with children who have mental health issues or learn integrated evidence-based behavioral health practices.
Clinical competencies
The specialized curriculum follows a well-laid-out sequence. Students start their fall semester with Practice III: Mental Health, Policy II: Mental Health Policy, along with field instruction and electives. The spring semester includes Practice IV: Mental Health, research courses, and ongoing field instruction. Students develop skills to understand and treat conditions that range from mild distress to severe mental disorders.
Field instruction
Field education is essential to UIC’s program. First-year generalist students complete 450 clock hours (16 hours weekly). Students in their specialization year complete 630 clock hours (21 hours weekly). UIC partners with over 280 agencies throughout Chicago. These partnerships help students apply classroom learning in ground settings.
Tuition and application process
The application window opens September 15 each year, with a January 15 deadline. Applicants need transcripts showing a minimum 3.00/4.00 GPA, statistics coursework, a resume, personal statement, and three recommendation letters. UIC’s Scholarship and Award Program (SnAP) offers various financial aid opportunities. Award announcements come out by July 15.
Join Your Chicago MSW Program Today
You need to think about your career goals, finances, and learning style when picking the right MSW program. Chicago’s social work programs offer unique specializations that match your professional goals perfectly.
The Chicago area has eight distinct programs that showcase the depth of clinical social work education. Each specialized program prepares you for specific career paths – whether you want to help children and families, tackle substance use disorders, work in medical settings, or support schools.
Field experience is essential to these programs and requires 900-1,080 supervised hours. This hands-on training helps you develop clinical skills and build professional connections before you graduate. The programs’ CSWE accreditation ensures your degree meets national licensing standards.
Program costs vary widely. State schools like Northeastern Illinois University offer more affordable options compared to private institutions like the University of Chicago. Most programs help offset costs through scholarships, grants, and loans.
Social workers’ job prospects look bright, especially in child welfare and healthcare. Growth rates are a big deal as it means that average occupational growth, making an MSW degree a solid investment for career growth and financial security.
Take time to visit campuses and talk with program representatives. Direct conversations with faculty and current students can help you find a program that lines up with your goals. Your MSW program choice sets the foundation for a rewarding career helping people in Chicago and beyond.