6 Best BSW Programs in Maryland: CSWE-Accredited Guide

Looking to find the best social work programs in Maryland? A rewarding career path awaits you with great earning potential. Social workers in Maryland make an average of $62,710 per year, which reflects the state’s higher living costs and the growing need for professional services.

The state has eight universities that offer CSWE-accredited BSW programs. Students who need flexibility can choose an online bachelor’s social work degree. This accreditation plays a crucial role – you’ll need it to become eligible for Licensed Bachelor Social Worker credentials in Maryland. BSW students must complete at least 400 hours of supervised field placement. This hands-on experience proves invaluable before graduation.

Graduates with a BSW from an accredited Maryland program step into a strong job market. They find opportunities in public, private, and nonprofit sectors. This guide takes a closer look at six outstanding CSWE-accredited programs. We break down each program’s curriculum strengths, field education requirements, admission criteria, and costs to help you choose the right path for your social work education.

1. Bowie State University

Bowie State University stands as Maryland’s oldest historically black institution of higher education. The university’s Bachelor of Science in Social Work program readies students for generalist social work practice. Students learn both practical experience and theoretical knowledge to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills needed to tackle complex social issues.

Program overview

The BSW program shapes skilled practitioners ready to help diverse populations. The detailed curriculum gives you specialized knowledge in various social work contexts instead of requiring a minor. Your studies will take you through the connections between religion, spirituality, and social work. You’ll also master methods to help children, families, and elderly clients in communities of all types.

The program stands out with its unique language requirement. It’s among the few undergraduate social work programs in the country that need proficiency in Spanish or American Sign Language. This extra skill helps you communicate better with diverse client populations and makes you more valuable to employers after graduation.

Students split their time between classroom learning and community work. They get plenty of chances to work with experts from community groups, mental health agencies, homeless shelters, and social service organizations. This mix of theory and practice helps graduates become strong advocates for disadvantaged populations.

Accreditation status

The Social Work Department has managed to keep full accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education since 1972. The program had its full accreditation renewed through 2026. This verification proves the program meets high professional standards in social work education.

The renewal process looked at curriculum design, faculty expertise, student competency mastery, and program assessment methods. The program passed these evaluations with flying colors. The Council found zero areas of concern. This strong accreditation status means employers will recognize your degree, and many MSW programs will offer you advanced standing.

Curriculum highlights

Students need 120 credit hours to graduate, with 37 core social work courses for their professional education. Social work majors must earn at least a ‘C’ grade in all social work courses. Lower grades won’t count toward graduation.

The program mixes general education with specialized social work courses and related social sciences. Core courses build essential knowledge for workplace readiness. Electives like Social Work with Children, Law and Social Work, and Male-Female Relationships let you shape your education around your interests.

The program puts a high value on global learning. Students can travel to Cuba, Germany, Japan, and South Africa to see different cultures and social work practices. Those who can’t travel abroad can use Soliya—a platform that connects them with students worldwide.

Field education structure

Field education offers supervised practice opportunities. Seniors (and some juniors) complete two back-to-back semesters of field placement. Each semester needs 200 clock hours, totaling 400 hours. Most students work 16 hours weekly at their placement site.

Students must finish several courses before starting field placement. These include Introduction to Social Work, Human Behavior and the Social Environment I and II, Social Welfare Policy I and II, Social Work Methods I, and English 101 and 102. This groundwork ensures students understand the theory before applying it in real-life settings.

The first field semester pairs with Social Work Methods II. Students learn intervention strategies at micro, mezzo, and macro levels. Learning theory and practice together creates powerful results. Both field instruction semesters include required integrative seminars led by the field instruction coordinator.

Admission requirements

Bowie State University accepts 75% of applicants, making it fairly available to future students. Admitted students average a 3.16 GPA. The university takes below-average academic performers, but a B-average with some A’s boosts admission chances.

The university has a test-flexible policy for standardized tests. SAT scores average 860 (790 at 25th percentile, 970 at 75th percentile). ACT scores average 17 (15 at 25th percentile, 18 at 75th percentile). Test scores aren’t required but can strengthen your application.

Applications need high school transcripts, an application form, and a $40 fee (waivers exist). Course requirements include 4 years of English, 3 years each of math and science, 2 years of foreign language, 1 year of social studies, 2 years of history, plus electives.

Tuition and financial aid

Bowie State University offers education at prices below national averages. In-state students pay $9,529 for tuition and fees in 2024-2025, much less than the national in-state average of $12,422. Out-of-state tuition costs $20,464, below the national out-of-state average of $29,909.

Total yearly costs change based on where you live. In-state students living on campus pay about $25,619, off-campus housing costs $27,099, and living with family runs $13,378. Out-of-state students pay around $36,339 for on-campus housing, $37,819 for off-campus housing, and $24,098 when staying with family.

Students can get federal aid, university scholarships, and Maryland state programs. Key dates include October 1 for FAFSA, November 1-February 15 for private scholarships and grants, March 1 for university need-based funds, and June 1 for Maryland state programs. Your undergraduate application automatically enters you for scholarship consideration.

U.S. News & World Report named Bowie State a Top Performer on Social Mobility. This honor shows how well the university helps students from disadvantaged backgrounds climb the economic ladder through education.

2. Coppin State University

Coppin State University shows its steadfast dedication to social justice through its Bachelor of Social Work program. This historically Black institution provides a unique BSW education that focuses on anti-racism, diversity, equity, and inclusion. Students learn to become practitioners who serve marginalized communities effectively.

Program overview

Students from diverse backgrounds at Coppin State’s undergraduate social work program become skilled, compassionate, and ethical practitioners who serve historically marginalized communities. The program aims to create a world where social justice thrives, systemic inequities disappear, and communities flourish.

Coppin’s approach stands out because it builds on Black liberatory frameworks, cultural humility, and anti-oppressive practices. Students learn these principles to tackle systemic inequities and promote equity within communities. The program also uniquely blends entrepreneurship with practice, research, and leadership—giving graduates various career options.

Social work jobs are growing 13% faster than average, and Coppin’s BSW graduates have excellent career prospects after licensure. Many students start working right after graduation or continue their education through MSW programs. They can specialize in child welfare, addictions, and other areas that help vulnerable populations.

Accreditation status

The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) has given Coppin State University its full accreditation. This proves the program meets national standards for social work education. Students who graduate from this program will be ready for state licensing examinations.

Seven prestigious organizations have accredited Coppin’s academic programs, with CSWE being one of them. This recognition shows the university’s excellence in education quality. Students can be confident their education meets the field’s strict professional standards.

Curriculum highlights

BSW students at Coppin State need 120 credit hours to graduate. These hours include general education requirements, core courses, and electives. The complete curriculum has 15 core courses (50 credits) with specialized classes in social welfare policy, human behavior, social work methods, and research.

Core courses include:

• SOWK 205: Writing in Social Work
• SOWK 388/389: Human Behavior and the Social Environment I & II
• SOWK 379/481/483: Social Work Methods sequence
• SOWK 460: Technology in Human Services
• SOWK 480/482: Field Experience courses

The curriculum tackles social problems at micro, mezzo, and macro levels through a systems approach. It helps develop policies that benefit communities and individuals. The program also makes technology in human services a core requirement, reflecting modern social work practice.

Field education structure

Students put classroom theories into practice in supervised settings. They participate in direct and indirect service activities that build all CSWE foundation competencies.

Students must meet these requirements for field placement:

• Full social work major status
• C or better in prerequisite courses (SOWK 210, 260, 379, 388)
• 5 minimum GPA
• Ability to graduate within 3 semesters of starting fieldwork
• Application materials submitted by March 31st for fall placement

Students need 14-16 weekly hours over two academic semesters, totaling 400 field hours minimum. Most work happens during weekday hours, but evening or weekend options might be available if agencies can provide supervision.

Admission requirements

Students start their BSW journey by applying to the social work major while taking SOWK 210 (Introduction to Social Work). They need a 2.5 minimum cumulative GPA throughout the program.

The admission package must have:

• Completed social work application
• One letter of recommendation
• Personal statement
• NASW policy summary statement
• Academic transcripts
• Signed program documents (MOU, Ethical Standards Form, Code of Conduct)

Priority application deadlines are March 1st for fall and December 1st for spring semester. The program carefully selects students who can handle its demanding social work education.

Tuition and financial aid

Maryland residents find Coppin State’s BSW program quite affordable. Full-time undergraduate tuition for 2025-2026 costs $2,566.50 per semester for state residents and $6,097 for others. Total semester costs with fees reach $4,724.50 for in-state and $8,255 for out-of-state students.

Campus housing and meal plans range from $10,863 to $11,218 per semester for Maryland residents. Part-time students pay $217 per credit hour (in-state) or $678 (out-of-state).

Students can get federal aid, grants, scholarships, and work-study opportunities. The FAFSA priority deadline is March 1st. Coppin provides great value compared to larger and private schools while delivering high-quality education.

3. Frostburg State University

Frostburg State University is the only accredited social work program in Western Maryland. The program offers a detailed BSW education that prepares you to work with individuals, families, groups, communities, and organizations of all types.

Program overview

The Social Work program at Frostburg combines liberal arts education with hands-on experience. This approach prepares you for both professional practice and graduate studies. The program focuses on social and economic justice, diversity, values and ethics, at-risk populations, human behavior, and social welfare policy. The curriculum builds on the core values of the National Association of Social Workers—competence, dignity and worth of the person, importance of human relationships, integrity, service, and social justice.

Students at Frostburg benefit from strong community connections. The Frostburg area gives you plenty of chances to volunteer and get hands-on experience to build your résumé. You’ll end up with both the skills and confidence you need for professional success through this mix of theory and practice.

Accreditation status

The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) fully accredits Frostburg’s Social Work program. The program’s last accreditation was reaffirmed in June 2015 and remained valid until June 2023. The department went through the reaffirmation process with a site visit on September 19, 2024. The final reaffirmation decision will come in spring 2025.

This accreditation lets graduates take the baccalaureate social work licensure exam in their chosen practice state. On top of that, it helps qualified graduates get advanced standing in MSW programs, which could cut their graduate degree time in half.

Curriculum highlights

The program takes a generalist approach. Students study racial and cultural minorities, statistics for social science, basic research methods, social policy, human behavior and the social environment, and generalist practice. Pre-social work majors must complete these prerequisites:

• SOCI 101/111 Introduction to Sociology
• SOWK 170 Introduction to Social Work (with a grade of “B” or higher)
• Either SOWK 305 (Racism and Cultural Minorities) or SOWK 375

Students need a minimum 2.5 GPA in all social work courses to advance. The department suggests keeping a 2.5 cumulative GPA with “B” grades or better in all social work courses for students who want Advanced Standing Status in MSW programs.

Field education structure

Field education marks the BSW program’s final phase. Students spend their last semester in a full-time internship to get valuable real-life experience. Students must show they meet the department’s academic, personal, and professional standards tied to CSWE’s social work competencies before placement.

Students must earn a “C” or higher in SOWK 492 and a “P” (Pass) in SOWK 495 to complete field education. This experience lets you apply classroom theories under supervision, which strengthens your grasp of key social work concepts and readies you for professional practice.

Admission requirements

You need at least 30 credit hours with a preferred 2.5 or higher cumulative GPA to join the Social Work program. Required prerequisites are:

• ENG 101/111 Freshman Composition
• Mathematics General Education Requirement
• BIOL 109 Human Biology and the Environment
• POSC 110/112 Introduction to American Politics
• PSYC 150/151 General Psychology

The application needs an agreement to follow the NASW Code of Ethics, two college instructor recommendations, criminal background check results, and a faculty interview. You’ll receive either full admission, provisional admission, or rejection.

Tuition and financial aid

For 2025-2026, Maryland residents’ tuition is $7,414. Regional residents (from Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia within 120 miles) pay $17,198, and out-of-state students pay $23,306. Total estimated costs including housing, meals, and fees reach $25,760 for in-state, $35,544 for regional, and $41,652 for out-of-state students.

About 74% of Frostburg undergraduates get some type of financial help through scholarships, grants, loans, and campus jobs. Submit your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) starting October 1, with a priority deadline of March 1 to apply for aid.

4. Salisbury University (Online Option)

Salisbury University stands out as one of Maryland’s best social work programs. Their fully accredited online Bachelor of Arts in Social Work (BASW) program serves rural students, working professionals, transfer students, and military-connected learners.

Online BSW program overview

Students enrolled in the online BASW program receive the same quality education as on-campus students but benefit from more flexible asynchronous learning options. The program started with a focus on rural students who couldn’t attend traditional classes. Now it has grown to serve students in multiple states.

Students from Maryland, Delaware, Virginia, North Carolina, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, D.C., New Jersey, and New York can enroll in the program. The virtual classroom experience comes alive through online technologies, simulcast sessions, and interactive television.

Transfer students with associate degrees in social work, sociology, or psychology can complete the program in about 2 years through an accelerated path. This setup works particularly well for students who need to balance their work and education.

Accreditation status

The Council on Social Work Education has fully accredited the program. Graduates meet the same professional standards as traditional on-campus programs. This accreditation lets graduates pursue social work licensure and gives them the credentials needed for professional practice.

Curriculum highlights

Students must complete 120 credit hours to graduate. The program requires specific courses including statistics (MATH 155, PSYC 220, or PHIL 103), general psychology (PSYC 101), and social science prerequisites. The curriculum builds foundational knowledge before students move into specialized practice courses.

Key requirements include:

• Minimum 2.5 overall GPA and 2.7 GPA in major courses
• Core social work courses with grades of C or better
• No course can be repeated more than once

Junior students must apply for BASW program admission after finishing 45 credit hours of prerequisite courses. The program prepares graduates for generalist practice in community settings through a mix of theory and practical application.

Field education structure

Field education plays a vital role in the social work curriculum. Students get supervised practical experience that connects classroom learning with ground application. Students work with clients from various racial and ethnic backgrounds while developing their professional skills in agency settings.

Field education aims to develop:

• Knowledge and skills to help individuals, families, groups, and communities
• A professional identity aligned with social work values
• Skills to evaluate and improve practice

The program requires 400 supervised field hours split between two semesters. Students put their learning into practice by completing assigned tasks under qualified supervision.

Admission requirements

BASW program admission requires:

• 45 credit hours completed with 2.5 overall GPA
• 7 GPA in major courses
• C or better grades in prerequisite courses
• Application with personal statements
• Academic plan for field instruction

Background checks are mandatory. Legal issues or convictions might limit field placement options.

Tuition and financial aid

Salisbury University keeps education affordable with in-state tuition at $11,084 and out-of-state tuition at $22,174 for 2025-26. These economical solutions make getting an accredited social work degree more accessible.

Most incoming students (92%) receive financial aid. First-year students get an average need-based scholarship or grant of $11,800, plus non-need-based scholarships averaging $4,211.

Key financial aid dates:

• October 1: FAFSA opens
• March 1: Priority deadline for FAFSA submission

5. University of Maryland, Baltimore County

The University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) has a unique Bachelor of Arts in Social Work program. It’s part of the University of Maryland’s School of Social Work system, which creates great learning opportunities through shared resources and expert faculty.

Program overview

The program helps students become skilled at generalist practice with individuals, families, groups, and communities. Students get the advantage of being part of the University of Maryland School of Social Work’s complete education pathway. This includes bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs all within one system. Students learn a variety of skills and techniques that help them tackle social problems effectively.

Students get real-world experience by working with people from different backgrounds. After graduation, they find jobs in human service roles with government agencies, non-profits, corporations, and healthcare organizations.

Accreditation status

The program has full accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). This nationally recognized organization works to improve social work education quality. CSWE accreditation means the program meets national standards. Graduates are ready to work at the bachelor’s level, pursue graduate studies, or meet state licensing requirements.

Curriculum highlights

A social work degree from UMBC requires:

• Minimum 120 credits with an overall GPA of 2.0
• 45 upper-level credits
• Core courses (27-28 credits) including methods, policy, and human behavior courses
• Field requirements (12 credits)

Students need a minimum grade of ‘C’ in all courses. The program also requires extra courses in economics or political science, psychology, sociology, statistics, and general biology.

Field education structure

Senior year students must complete field education. This includes two 6-credit courses that need 16 hours (2 days) weekly, totaling 240 hours each semester. Faculty field liaisons hold monthly seminars that students must attend.

Field placement requirements include:

• 5 overall GPA
• Grades of C or better in SOWK 250, 260, 388, and 397
• Transportation access
• Positive faculty recommendation

Admission requirements

Students need a minimum 2.5 GPA in prerequisite courses to join the program. The program doesn’t give social work course credit for life or work experience.

Tuition and financial aid

The 2024-2025 academic year costs in-state students $13,257 for tuition and fees. Out-of-state students pay $31,225. Total costs change based on living arrangements:

In-state students pay: $34,567 (on-campus), $38,825 (off-campus), or $27,293 (with relatives) Out-of-state students pay: $52,535 (on-campus), $56,793 (off-campus), or $45,261 (with relatives)

UMBC provides several financial aid options like grants, work-study, student loans, and scholarships. About 52% of first-year students get need-based financial aid, averaging $13,808 per award.

6. McDaniel College

McDaniel College’s Bachelor of Social Work program sits in Westminster. The program combines liberal arts education with professional preparation and creates a customized learning environment.

Program overview

The social work program equips students to work with people from all backgrounds and systems of any size. Students learn to be culturally sensitive practitioners. Field education works with coursework to build knowledge, skills, and values. The college’s commitment to interdisciplinary studies, international education, and gerontological studies creates the perfect setting for professional growth.

Accreditation status

The Council on Social Work Education fully accredits this program nationally. Graduates can start social work jobs right away. They qualify for state licensure and become eligible for advanced standing at most graduate schools of social work.

Curriculum highlights

Students need 52 credit hours to graduate, and writing skills develop throughout the major. Each course reinforces social work values and ethics. Students learn about bio-psycho-socio-cultural elements that shape the relationship between people and their environment.

Field education structure

Field education requirements include:

• Admission to the major
• Minimum grade of ‘C’ in Social Work Practice I
• Second semester junior status minimum
• Successful application and interview

Admission requirements

Students need a minimum 2.0 GPA and must complete specific courses with C+ grades or better. The process includes an application with personal essay and faculty interview. The college accepts 78% of applicants.

Tuition and financial aid

Annual tuition for 2024-2025 costs $53,150. Room costs run $6,330 while meal plans cost $7,094. All the same, more than 90% of students get financial help. The college invests nearly $55 million each year in need-based grants and merit scholarships.

Find Your Maryland BSW Today

Your career goals, priorities, and budget will help you pick the right BSW program. Maryland has six CSWE-accredited programs. Each offers unique benefits while staying true to professional social work education and field experience.

You’ll need CSWE accreditation to become licensed in Maryland. This credential will give a degree that meets professional standards employers and graduate programs look for nationwide.

Field education is where theory meets practice. You’ll complete at least 400 supervised hours in these programs. This real-life experience serves as your professional testing ground before graduation. You’ll apply what you learned in class while working under qualified supervisors.

Money definitely matters when choosing your program. Public schools like Bowie State, Coppin State, and Frostburg State cost less, especially if you live in Maryland. Private schools such as McDaniel College offer great financial aid packages that can cut your costs by a lot.

Programs differ in how flexible they are. Salisbury University’s online BSW program works well for working professionals, rural students, and military-connected learners who want adaptable schedules. Traditional campus programs let you build strong connections with faculty and classmates.

Social workers in Maryland earn well. The average yearly salary of $62,710 shows the high cost of living and strong demand for qualified professionals. BSW graduates can work in many settings – public agencies, healthcare organizations, nonprofits, and private practices.

Maryland has a BSW program that fits your needs, whether you care most about cost, specific courses, location, or how classes are delivered. Your next move is to reach out to programs you like, visit campuses if possible, and start applying once you know the deadlines and requirements.