11 CSWE-Accredited Social Work BSW Programs in Minnesota

Want to find the best social work BSW programs in Minnesota? You’re in the right place. Minnesota has 20 colleges that offer social work education, and 18 of them have CSWE-accredited Bachelor of Social Work programs. These options give you a great foundation to start your social work career.

A Bachelor of Social Work degree from Minnesota will prepare you to work in human service settings of all types. You’ll learn everything in social work practice and develop multicultural skills to work with different populations effectively. On top of that, many programs help students keep their cultural identities and heritage.

The programs’ accreditation status makes a real difference. To cite an instance, some Minnesota social work programs are 49 years old with CSWE accreditation dating back to 1974, while others have managed to keep their accreditation since 1997. This recognition will give a quality education that meets professional standards. Students who qualify can get substantial financial help, with about $1.2 million given in scholarships and fellowships in programs of all sizes.

This guide covers 11 of Minnesota’s best CSWE-accredited BSW programs and gives you detailed information to choose the right social work education experience.

1. Augsburg University

Augsburg University stands out among social work BSW programs in Minnesota because of its unique approach to social work education. This Minneapolis-based institution provides a complete program that combines academic excellence with professional growth.

Program overview

Augsburg lets you work with dedicated classmates while you intern at leading human service agencies. Minnesota’s best social work faculty will guide you through the process. The BSW degree combines academic and professional qualifications over four years (128 semester hours). The program’s value comes from its focus on interdisciplinary chances and ways to involve students actively.

The social work-specific study abroad program in Cuernavaca, Mexico makes Augsburg special. BSW juniors can study internationally for a full semester. Students still meet all Council on Social Work Education’s curricular requirements. This chance helps students understand social justice principles through hands-on learning. Students become ready to serve people both in the US and around the world.

Accreditation

The Augsburg University BSW Program has full accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education’s Board of Accreditation. The program has held this credential since 1980. This shows that it meets or exceeds quality education standards.

The accreditation covers all program options, locations, and delivery methods. This difference matters because only graduates from accredited programs can legally practice social work. The accreditation process shows the program’s quality and ensures graduating students are competent.

Admission details

You need to submit a direct application to join Augsburg’s social work program. Current students usually attend information sessions in their sophomore year. Transfer students should connect with the BSW Program Director and their admissions counselor.

Key admission requirements include:

• Status as an admitted Augsburg University student
• Completion of 52-64 semester hours
• Minimum GPA of 2.5
• Approval of all social work related transfer credits
• College-level algebra equivalency (or created plan)
• Completion of at least 4 of 7 supporting courses

Application packages must include a BSW Candidacy Application, cover letter, resume, and unofficial transcripts. Two faculty members review applications after submission. Students receive decisions by email within days after the final review. Current students must apply by March 30. Transfer students should apply within 30 days after receiving the application link. August 1 is the final deadline for everyone.

2. Bemidji State University

Bemidji State University’s social work BSW program stands out in Minnesota’s educational world with its distinctive specialization options. The 52-year-old program gives students flexible learning paths through both traditional and hybrid formats.

Program overview

The BSW program equips you with skills for generalist social work practice. Students build strong foundations in community involvement, diversity-informed practice, social justice, and professional ethics. The program is a chance to specialize in Addictions while earning a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor Certificate. BSU remains the only social work program in the region that lets students complete their master’s degree in just one year.

Students must complete 70 credit hours and 540 hours of hands-on practice within human service organizations. The Social Work Integrative Model (SWIM) hybrid program ranks eighth among the nation’s best hybrid social work degrees. Students attend campus about one Saturday monthly and complete other coursework online.

Accreditation

The Social Work program earned its original CSWE accreditation in 1974. The program managed to keep this prestigious recognition through reaccreditations in 1979, 1985, 1992, 2000, 2008, 2016, and 2024. Faculty conducts an intensive self-study evaluation, visiting social work educators perform an in-depth assessment, and the Commission gives final approval.

CSWE accreditation improves job prospects, qualifies students for advanced standing in select graduate programs, allows application for social work licensure in Minnesota, and meets school social work licensure requirements.

Admission details

Students need to complete at least 30 semester hours of liberal education coursework to apply for the BSW program. The program accepts applications during fall, spring, and summer semesters, offering both priority and rolling admission deadlines.

Key admission requirements include:

• Enrollment in or completion of SOWK 2120 (Introduction to Social Welfare) and SOWK 2140 (Field Experience)
• Overall GPA of 2.00 or higher
• Combined social work GPA of 2.50 or above (GPAs between 2.25-2.50 considered case-by-case)
• Minimum grade of C in all social work courses

The review process results in full admission, conditional acceptance with specific recommendations, or non-acceptance with explained reasons.

3. Bethel University

Bethel University stands out with its faith-integrated BSW program. This Christ-centered learning community prepares students to bring hope and change. The program blends professional social work training with spiritual values at its St. Paul, Minnesota campus.

Program overview

The program teaches you to blend Christian faith with social work practice. You’ll learn to value every person’s dignity and worth. Students get the knowledge and skills they need to help individuals, families, groups, communities, and organizations thrive.

The program shines with its detailed practicum experience that offers real-life training. Students are ready for licensure and jobs right after graduation. You’ll complete over 600 hours of supervised fieldwork in a variety of settings like healthcare facilities, schools, and community organizations.

Students learn more than just professional skills. The program builds your ability to tackle social justice issues, work toward reconciliation, follow ethical practices, and protect human rights. After graduation, you can qualify for advanced standing in MSW programs. This means you could finish your master’s degree with just one year of full-time study.

Accreditation

The Bachelor of Social Work program has full accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education’s (CSWE) Board of Accreditation (BOA). This recognition shows the program meets high educational standards through careful peer review.

The university has managed to keep its Higher Learning Commission accreditation since 1959. The U.S. Department of Education recognizes this regional accreditation. This means graduates can apply for social work licensure and seek advanced standing admission to CSWE-accredited graduate schools.

Admission details

Basic program requirements include:

• A minimum GPA of 2.0

The social work major needs:

• Second semester sophomore standing or enrollment in at least one Social Work course
• SOW 210Z (Introduction to Social Work) completed with a C grade or higher
• 25 minimum cumulative GPA when applying for candidacy
• At least 50 hours of volunteer or paid work in a community agency, school, hospital, or social service organization

Your enrollment counselor will help you with any other requirements before classes begin.

4. Capella University

Capella University offers a fully online BSW program that gives students the flexibility they need without compromising on quality education. The program will prepare you to become a generalist social worker through its complete curriculum and hands-on experience.

Program overview

The Bachelor of Social Work program introduces you to Generalist Social Work Practice fundamentals. You’ll learn about social work theory, the generalist intervention model, strengths-based point of view, and person-in-environment framework. Let’s take a closer look at human behavior, cultural competence, and practice at micro, mezzo, and macro levels.

Students must complete 400 supervised hours of hands-on practicum/internship experience at an agency. This practical component stands as the signature teaching method in social work education. You’ll blend classroom learning with real-life experience under professional social workers’ supervision. The experience helps you develop generalist practice skills while you work with individuals, families, groups, and organizations.

Accreditation

Capella University has managed to keep its institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission since 1997. Social work students should know that both Bachelor of Social Work and Master of Social Work programs have Council on Social Work Education’s Board of Accreditation. This credential shows that the program meets quality standards and follows federal and state regulations.

Admission details

The BSW program requires:

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Recommended minimum GPA of 2.8 (on a 4.0 scale)
• Valid government-issued photo identification
• Official transcripts from previous institutions

The admission process is straightforward. You’ll create an account, enter your contact information, provide transcripts, and submit any additional required materials. Capella doesn’t charge application fees or hidden costs for transcripts or transfer credit evaluations. You’ll get an admission decision within two weeks after submitting your application.

5. College of St. Scholastica

St. Scholastica’s social work BSW program builds on Benedictine values that promote interconnectedness, dignity, inclusivity, and cultural responsiveness. Students become practitioners who create positive change through humility, relationships, and innovative practice methods.

Program overview

St. Scholastica’s social work program requires 60 major credits and students must complete at least 16 credits in residence. The curriculum helps you gain entry-level competence in social work practice through a comprehensive yet flexible degree program that fits your schedule.

Field education stands as the cornerstone of St. Scholastica’s teaching approach, with two professional practicums:

• Field I: 120 hours in a professionally supervised agency setting
• Field II: 450 hours in a primary agency setting

These placements help you develop expertise in client system analysis, professional documentation, community resource development, and ethical decision-making. The program focuses on nine core competencies set by the Council on Social Work Education, which include professional identity, ethical responsibility, critical thinking, and social justice.

Accreditation

The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) fully accredits the College’s Social Work program. This recognition validates the program’s educational quality through detailed peer review. The Higher Learning Commission, recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, accredits the College.

Admission details

The undergraduate Social Work Program requires:

• A minimum 2.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale
• One recommendation, ideally from an agency supervisor
• A completed Social Work Program application
• A possible interview with Social Work Program faculty

Most students submit applications during their sophomore year’s spring semester. Faculty review might result in full acceptance, conditional acceptance with one semester to improve specific areas, or denial. Students must also complete a Minnesota background study before starting fieldwork.

Graduates find employment opportunities in child and family services, healthcare facilities, schools, residential treatment programs, tribal social services, and mental health settings.

6. Concordia College

Concordia College offers a complete Bachelor of Science in Social Work program that creates social workers dedicated to community well-being. Students learn evidence-based practices and cultural responsiveness skills to tackle complex social challenges.

Program overview

The social work degree at Concordia College spans four years and gives you a solid foundation in generalist social work practice. The curriculum aligns with Concordia’s mission statement and enhances students’ liberal arts education by developing a deeper understanding of themselves, others, and social systems.

The program aims to “prepare competent social work professionals to promote human and community well-being by providing service and confronting oppression using scientific inquiry and human rights, prioritizing vulnerable populations, and fostering hope leading to individual and social change”.

Students start community engagement in their sophomore year and finish with a full-time internship during their senior year. This practical experience helps graduates pass the national licensure examination at rates higher than the national average.

Accreditation

The Higher Learning Commission has accredited Concordia College, which belongs to the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. The social work program holds separate accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education.

This accreditation lets graduates:

• Apply for licensure based on state requirements
• Take the national board exam
• Qualify for Minnesota Merit System eligibility

Admission details

Your application to Concordia College should include:

• High school transcript (official or unofficial works for initial admission)
• ACT or SAT scores (optional under Concordia’s “test-optional” policy)

The Bachelor of Science in Social Work program costs $30,020 for first-year tuition. Students should plan for about $11,880 in living costs that cover housing, meals, books, and basic utilities.

Concordia’s social work program creates generalist social workers ready for diverse work settings. After graduation, you can get advanced placement in Master of Social Work programs to complete your graduate degree faster.

7. Metropolitan State University

Metropolitan State University’s BSW program stands out with its focus on multicultural competence. The program prepares graduates to help diverse Twin Cities communities. Students learn culturally responsive practices to serve communities of color and Native American populations.

Program overview

Metro State’s Social Work program blends social work values, knowledge, and skills into a curriculum that makes shared multicultural competence possible in generalist practice. Students learn to help people keep their cultural identities. They develop skills to work effectively across multiple cultural environments and support community members.

The program’s Title IV-E Stipend Program offers qualified students tuition coverage as they prepare for careers in public child welfare. This special track comes with extra Minnesota Child Welfare Training System content. Students complete their senior practicum in public child welfare settings.

Accreditation

The Social Work program at Metro State has managed to keep its accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) since 1997. The CSWE’s 2015 Educational Policy Accreditation Standards led to the program’s most recent reaccreditation. A full review in 2018 resulted in an 8-year approval through 2026. The program received no recommendations upon approval – the highest possible endorsement.

Admission details

You’ll need to get into Metropolitan State University first before applying to the BSW program. The program accepts applications twice a year. The deadlines are March 1 for fall enrollment and October 1 for spring enrollment.

Key prerequisites include:

• Minimum 60 semester credits completed
• Specific coursework in areas like political science, human biology, psychology, and racial/ethnic awareness
• A clear dedication to serving communities of color and/or Native American communities
• Statistics course before senior year

Students must complete 600 hours of hands-on training through two practicums, each requiring 300 hours of field experience.

8. Minnesota State University, Mankato

Minnesota State University, Mankato delivers a strong Bachelor of Science in Social Work program that gives students the real-life skills through tailored field experiences.

Program overview

Minnesota State Mankato’s BSSW program builds on a reliable liberal arts foundation to prepare you for generalist practice with individuals, families, organizations, and communities. Students develop transferable skills in communication, ethical decision-making, and leadership. The program has core courses like Introduction to Social Work (SOWK 212), Social Welfare Services (SOWK 215), Human Behavior in the Social Environment (SOWK 310), and Social Welfare Policy (SOWK 410).

Accreditation

The program has managed to keep continuous accreditation by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) since 1974. The most recent reaffirmation was completed in 2020 and remains valid for 8 years. This accreditation will give a pathway for graduates to take the national ASWB social work exam, and all states accept the BSSW degree from Minnesota State Mankato.

Admission details

The BSSW program requires you to:

• Have earned 75 credits by application submission
• Maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher
• Achieve a Social Work GPA of 2.8 or higher
• Complete all required general education courses

BSSW faculty review applications and communicate decisions within 48 hours after the program meeting.

9. St. Catherine University

St. Catherine University’s social work program shines as a leader for people who want to drive social justice and improve communities. The university gives students flexibility with both in-person and online Bachelor of Social Work options.

Program overview

St. Kate’s BSW program gives you the core knowledge in social welfare policy, advocacy, and community outreach. Students learn vital skills in communication, interviewing, case management, and strengths-based, anti-racist interventions. The program’s standout feature is its required 400 hours of field placement that lets students work with licensed social workers in real-life settings. Students who graduate are ready to take the licensing exam and become a Licensed Social Worker (LSW).

BSW graduates can easily transition into St. Kate’s healthcare-focused Master of Social Work program with “advanced standing” status. This reduces both credits and time needed to complete the degree.

Accreditation

The Council on Social Work Education’s Commission on Accreditation has fully accredited St. Kate’s BSW program. The program started in 1975 through a partnership with the University of St. Thomas and earned its independent accreditation in 2019. This credential shows that the program delivers high-quality education that meets strict standards.

Admission details

Junior BSW students must meet these requirements for accelerated MSW admission:

• 0 cumulative GPA
• 25 social work GPA
• Successful completion of all supporting coursework
• Good academic and professional standing

Students need to maintain these standards until graduation after acceptance.

10. University of Minnesota, Duluth

The University of Minnesota, Duluth BSW program combines professional preparation with a dedicated focus on American Indian communities through an available hybrid learning model.

Program overview

The BSW program gets you ready to start your career in social work at human service organizations of all sizes. We emphasized social justice and services to American Indian communities in our curriculum. UMD’s hybrid format makes this program special. Students attend in-person classes seven times per semester and complete the rest online. This setup works great for students who have busy schedules or live far away.

Your field experience plays a crucial role. Students complete 420 hours of practicum in their final year, which breaks down to about 15 hours each week. The program creates small cohorts with around 50 students yearly. This encourages strong bonds between students and faculty.

Accreditation

The Council of Social Work Education (CSWE) fully accredits UMD’s BSW program. The program earned its original accreditation in 2017 after a three-year evaluation. Our latest reaffirmation happened in 2020-21, and the accreditation now extends through 2027-28.

Admission details

The program uses a competitive rolling application process. Students should apply by February 15th for priority consideration, though applications are accepted until August 1st. You’ll need:

• A minimum 2.5 overall GPA
• Completed prerequisite courses
• Community service experience

Students start as pre-social work majors and submit another application for upper-level courses.

11. Winona State University

Winona State University runs a hands-on social work BSW program that combines ground experience with academic excellence. Students get ready for generalist practice through comprehensive field education opportunities.

Program overview

WSU’s Bachelor of Social Work degree provides nearly 500 hours of in-field and practicum experience through its 40-year-old agency partnerships. Students can choose between in-person classes at the Winona campus or a hybrid option at the Rochester campus. Rochester’s hybrid program requires attendance at four evening learning labs each semester, and students complete the remaining coursework online.

Learning extends beyond the classroom with SOCW 475 Practicum in the final semester. This 480-hour block field education placement lets students participate four days weekly. Students work with a Faculty Field Liaison and agency Field Instructor to develop their generalist social work practice competencies.

Accreditation

WSU’s Bachelor of Social Work program has managed to keep its Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accreditation since 1984. The accreditation covers all approved program locations and delivery methods. This makes graduates eligible for professional licensure in most states.

Winona State University admission details

BSW program applicants must meet these requirements:

• Complete or have 60+ credits in progress
• Hold an overall GPA of 2.0 and foundation course GPA of 2.5
• Pass required foundation courses with a C grade or better
• Meet application deadlines (fall start: third Tuesday in February; spring start: first Tuesday in October)

Faculty members review all applications and send decisions through WSU email showing Acceptance, Pending, or Need to Reapply status.

Online BSW options

Online BSW programs are a great way to get social work careers started for working professionals and rural residents in Minnesota. Several universities now lead the way with distance learning options that maintain high standards and offer convenient formats.

Minnesota State Moorhead’s online BSW program shows impressive results. Their graduates achieve a 97% first-time pass rate on the national social work licensure examination, well above the 79% national average. Students who complete this fully accredited program can work at entry-level licensed positions in healthcare facilities, social assistance organizations, and government agencies.

Bemidji State University provides a different approach with its Social Work Integrative Model (SWIM), which ranks as the nation’s eighth-best hybrid social work degree. Students attend campus once a month on Saturdays, while completing other coursework online through both live and recorded sessions. The program’s success has led BSU to open new cohorts in Fall and Spring semesters.

St. Catherine University’s fully online BSW program runs asynchronously. Students need 44 credits to complete this 21-month program that costs $475 per credit (2025-2026) and holds CSWE accreditation. The program lets students complete their 400 required field placement hours close to where they live or work.

Southwest Minnesota State University completes these options with an online BSW that costs $323.30 per credit. Students gain practical experience through 440 internship hours at community agencies. Each program maintains the same field education standards found in traditional campus-based degrees.

Career Outlook for BSW Social Workers in Minnesota

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BSW graduates in Minnesota can look forward to excellent career prospects. Social work positions will grow 6% between 2024 and 2034, which exceeds typical job growth rates. This growth comes from an aging population and more people seeking mental health services across the state.

BSW graduates’ salaries vary based on their specialty and where they work. Minnesota social workers earn around $60,000 annually, with significant differences between regions. Social workers in Minneapolis-Saint Paul can earn up to $83,370 per year, while smaller communities offer other unique benefits.

New BSW graduates starting in child, family, and school social work roles typically earn around $55,000. Clinical and healthcare positions pay better, ranging from $65,000 to $70,000. Licensed Clinical Social Workers can earn up to $85,000 as they gain experience.

The job market spans healthcare, mental health, and social services sectors. Current openings include Medical Social Workers ($34.88-$47.85 hourly), Hospital Social Workers ($29.77-$42.02 hourly), and Mental Health Practitioners ($20-$25 hourly).

Social workers passionate about community service can find great opportunities with the Minnesota Department of Human Services. Organizations like Lutheran Social Service provide excellent career growth paths within Minnesota’s thriving nonprofit sector.

Minnesota Social Work Licensure Pathway

The journey toward Minnesota’s social work licensure starts after earning your BSW degree. The Minnesota Board of Social Work oversees four different license categories, each with its own educational requirements.

Minnesota’s licensure options include:

• Licensed Social Worker (LSW) – Bachelor’s level license appropriate for BSW graduates
• Licensed Graduate Social Worker (LGSW) – Master’s level license
• Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) – Master’s plus supervised non-clinical practice
• Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) – Master’s plus supervised clinical practice

BSW graduates seeking the LSW credential must meet these requirements:

• Baccalaureate degree from a CSWE-accredited program
• Passing score on the ASWB Bachelors examination
• Completed criminal background check
• Adherence to ethical standards

The Board suggests submitting your application about six months before graduation. The standard licensure process takes at least three months to complete, and the original application review needs 30-60 days. Your application stays valid for one year after submission.

Minnesota stands out by providing a provisional licensure option that doesn’t require the ASWB exam, though it needs extra supervision hours. Licensed BSW graduates can work in entry-level social work positions while they pursue advanced degrees to reach higher licensure levels.

Earn Your MN BSW Today

Your social work career in Minnesota starts with picking the right BSW program. This guide shows 11 excellent CSWE-accredited programs that maintain high educational standards. Each program has its own strengths. You can choose from Augsburg’s international study options, Bemidji State’s addiction focus, or Bethel’s faith-based approach. Minnesota’s educational paths match your specific interests.

Field experience is the foundation of these programs. Winona State requires 500 practicum hours while St. Catherine’s needs 400 hours of placement. Every program will give a mix of real-world experience and classroom learning. This hands-on training improves your job prospects and prepares you for immediate licensing.

On top of that, program formats adapt to fit your life. You’ll find traditional campus programs and hybrid options like UMD’s seven meetings per semester. Schools like Capella and St. Catherine’s offer fully online programs. Social work education becomes available to you whatever your location or work schedule might be.

The Minnesota social work job market looks promising for graduates. Job growth through 2030 is a big deal as it means that the usual rate by 7%. You can expect solid financial prospects with median salaries around $60,000. The four-tier license system creates clear paths from entry-level LSW to advanced clinical roles.

Minnesota’s BSW programs offer great value through strong academics, deep field experience, and cultural awareness training. Take time to visit campuses and talk to current students. Think over which program’s values and specialties match your career goals. This important choice starts your trip in social work. It shapes both your education and your ability to change lives throughout your career.