Top 10 CSWE-Accredited BSW Programs in Missouri

Finding the right Missouri BSW programs can feel like navigating a maze without a map. Which programs have proper accreditation? Most importantly, which one fits your career goals best?

Missouri has several CSWE-accredited Bachelor of Social Work programs throughout the state. Students can choose quality programs like the BSW Mizzou program at the University of Missouri-Columbia or the Missouri State BSW option. These programs deliver distinct benefits and meet the Council on Social Work Education’s rigorous standards. Your degree will be recognized by employers and licensing boards alike.

This guide takes a detailed look at the top 10 CSWE-accredited BSW programs in Missouri for 2026. You’ll learn about program features and campus locations that will help you choose the right path for your social work education.

1. University of Missouri – Columbia (BSW Mizzou)

The University of Missouri – Columbia runs one of Missouri’s oldest BSW programs, with a 100-year old legacy. Mizzou’s professional social work program prepares students to step directly into human service roles or pursue graduate education.

Program Overview

Mizzou’s BSW program helps students learn to support individuals, families, groups, and communities. Students learn ways to solve problems and help people thrive in their environment. The 120-credit-hour program comes in two formats – on-campus and online. Students can pick what works best for them. Transfer students can bring up to 60 credit hours from qualifying programs. Students need to choose either online or on-campus learning and stick with that choice until graduation.

Accreditation Status

The School of Social Work at Mizzou stands among the country’s longest-running accredited programs. The school has managed to keep its Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accreditation since 1919. The program earned its latest reaccreditation, which runs until 2028. CSWE accreditation plays a vital role because social work licensure at bachelor’s and master’s levels requires graduation from CSWE-accredited programs. Mizzou’s social work graduates excel in their field – 92% of LMSW exam-takers passed their first try in 2019.

Notable Features

The program stands out with its hands-on learning approach:

• Extensive Practicum Experience: Students complete a 400-hour practicum at their chosen agency, giving them ground experience before starting their career.
• Student-Led Clinic: The Integrative Behavioral Health Clinic is a chance for students to provide mental health care to people who face barriers to services.
• International Opportunities: Students can join study abroad programs in Costa Rica and Greece.

Graduates work in many settings like healthcare facilities, family service agencies, residential treatment programs, domestic violence shelters, criminal justice agencies, and schools. The program’s commitment to excellence in practice, research, and policy makes it one of Missouri’s top social work programs.

2. William Woods University

William Woods University brings 46 years of excellence in social work education through its 46-year history. The university’s missouri bsw programs focus on practical learning and professional growth. Students at the Fulton, Missouri campus benefit from academic preparation combined with real-world experience.

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree from William Woods University has become accessible to more people and recognized by employers and graduate schools. Liberal arts and generalist foundations shape this program to create competent entry-level social work professionals. Students learn to improve human and community wellbeing. They work with different populations, help people access resources, and support social justice. A 500-hour senior field practicum and faculty mentoring help students build core competencies through professional practice. The program believes every person deserves dignity, worth, and access to resources that ensure safety and self-determination.

Accreditation Status

William Woods University’s Social Work Program holds full accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). This accreditation means your degree meets high educational standards. The program earned candidacy status in 1986-87 and received its original accreditation in 1988, backdated to 1987. Students who pursue a Master in Social Work (MSW) degree can apply their undergraduate credits toward graduate studies at most schools.

Notable Features

The BSW program stands out with these features:

• Scholarship Opportunities: New social work students interested in school social work can receive one of ten $1,000 scholarships
• Service Learning: Students get hands-on experience through campus and Fulton area service activities
• Student Organizations: “Students for Social Work” connects peers with similar interests
• Title IV-E Child Welfare Training Grant: Students who work with Missouri Children’s Division receive support through internships and employment
• Academic Excellence: The university awarded 10 bachelor’s degrees in social work during 2021-2022, showing a 150% increase from the previous year

3. Saint Louis University

Saint Louis University’s School of Social Work ranks among the best BSW programs in Missouri. U.S. News & World Report placed it in the top 13% of all social work schools nationwide in 2024. Since its establishment in 1930, this program has combined academic excellence with hands-on experience, all grounded in Jesuit values.

Program Overview

SLU’s Bachelor of Science in Social Work gives students the tools they need to help people and communities dealing with challenges like poverty, serious illness, or disability. The 42-credit major teaches you about human behavior in social settings. You’ll complete four practice courses that cover working with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. SLU stands out from other Missouri BSW programs because it blends classroom learning with real-world experience, so you’ll be ready to help people tackle life’s challenges.

High-achieving students can take advantage of an accelerated track that leads to both BSW and MSW degrees. This path takes just one extra year beyond the bachelor’s degree, making it a smart choice for students who want to fast-track their education.

Accreditation Status

The BSW program at Saint Louis University has held Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accreditation since 1972. The MSW program’s accreditation dates back to 1952. These long-standing credentials show how SLU has managed to keep its high standards in social work education.

Notable Features

SLU’s BSW program shines with several key features:

• Small Class Sizes: Students build strong relationships with their professors and classmates
• Full-time Faculty Instruction: Dedicated full-time professors teach every course
• Field Experience Options: Students choose from 450 different sites for hands-on learning
• Social Justice Focus: Students learn to think critically about complex issues that shape health outcomes in different communities
• Hallmark Classes: Special courses in ethics and social justice help students become leaders who can tackle tough challenges

Students can take electives in criminal justice and applied behavior analysis, adding depth to their social work education. This comprehensive education prepares graduates to work in community action agencies, service programs, and direct clinical practice.

4. University of Missouri – St. Louis

The University of Missouri-St. Louis has shaped the future of social workers through its experience-focused BSW program for almost 40 years. The program consistently ranks among top missouri bsw programs nationwide. UMSL graduates are highly sought-after professionals throughout Missouri and beyond.

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Social Work program at UMSL equips students to become generalist practitioners who excel at working with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. Students learn critical thinking, leadership, and empathy with essential professional skills. The program includes a comprehensive practicum experience of 480 hours split between two semesters of 240 hours each. This hands-on experience turns classroom theory into real-world practice. Social work employment should grow by 7% in the next decade, with a median annual salary of $55,350. These numbers show promising career prospects for graduates.

Accreditation Status

The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) fully accredits UMSL’s BSW program. This accreditation ensures graduates enter their careers as qualified professionals with nationally recognized credentials. The program follows educational policy and accreditation standards that shape the social work curriculum. Employers and graduate programs value this recognition.

Notable Features

The BSW program shines through these distinctive qualities:

• Affordability: Business Insider names UMSL as Missouri’s most affordable college
• Faculty Excellence: Students benefit from small classes and mentorship by experienced professionals who love teaching and community service
• Scholarship Opportunities: Students can access various scholarships to help with tuition and fees
• Advanced Standing Eligibility: Good academic performance qualifies students for advanced standing toward MSW degrees
• Distinguished Alumni Network: Our graduates lead communities as educators, counselors, and activists who make meaningful changes daily

UMSL creates a collaborative learning environment where students grow into self-aware, culturally informed, and critical thinkers. These future leaders commit themselves to social and economic justice and professional values.

5. Washington University in St. Louis

Washington University in St. Louis takes a unique approach to social work education compared to other schools on our list. The university doesn’t offer an undergraduate BSW program. Instead, its prestigious Brown School of Social Work provides advanced degree options for graduates of missouri bsw programs.

Program Overview

The Brown School at Washington University dedicates itself to graduate education by offering Master of Social Work (MSW) and PhD programs rather than a BSW. WashU undergraduates can benefit from the 3+2 program, which works like advanced standing for BSW graduates from other institutions. Students can complete their bachelor’s degree and MSW with just one extra year of study. The Brown School might award up to 19 credits toward an MSW for previous BSW coursework to graduates of programs like bsw mizzou or missouri state bsw. These credits must come from courses taken within the past six years with B grades or higher.

Accreditation Status

Washington University has managed to keep its accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission since 1913. The university follows the HLC’s Open Pathway accreditation process on a ten-year cycle that focuses on assurance and improvement. The current cycle runs from 2025 to 2035. The Brown School and other WashU professional schools maintain accreditation from their respective professional organizations.

Notable Features

The Brown School stands out with several key advantages:

• Top-Ranked Program: The Harvey A. Friedman Center for Aging at Washington University has been pioneering research and education for almost three decades
• Impressive Faculty: Faculty members receive international recognition and feature prominently in scholarly publications
• Diverse Student Body: Washington University’s student population reached 16,399 in 2024, representing all 50 U.S. states and more than 110 countries
• Extensive Practicum Network: The Office of Field Education partners with over 400 organizations locally, nationally, and globally
• Substantial Resources: The university’s endowment of $12.00 billion places it among the fifteen largest in the United States

The Brown School’s 100-year legacy as a respected social work institution prepares graduates to step into their careers with confidence and vision.

6. Missouri State University (Missouri State BSW)

Missouri State University offers one of the most flexible BSW programs in the state. Students can choose between in-person and fully online options that fit their needs. The program’s adaptability makes it a great choice for future social workers throughout the Midwest.

Program Overview

The Missouri State BSW program helps students become skilled at generalist social work practice through a complete curriculum that strengthens people to overcome challenges. We designed the program to give students knowledge, values, and skills in micro, mezzo, and macro fields. The program aligns with the NASW Code of Ethics and Missouri State University’s public affairs mission. Students can finish their degree on campus or entirely online, with identical curriculum whatever format they choose. Online program applicants should note that enrollment is open to residents of Missouri, Arkansas, Kansas, and Oklahoma.

Accreditation Status

The BSW program at Missouri State University has full accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). The program managed to keep this credential since the 1970s. The university also holds regional accreditation through the Higher Learning Commission since 1915. This dual accreditation will give students a degree that meets both institutional and professional standards.

Notable Features

The program stands out with several key advantages:

• Affordable Tuition: Students pay $267 per credit hour for 120 total credit hours, bringing the estimated program cost to $32,040
• Advanced Standing Option: BSW graduates can earn their MSW in just one year through the advanced standing track
• Growth Potential: The U.S. Department of Labor Statistics projects social work jobs to grow 9% between 2021 and 2031, faster than average across all jobs
• Regular Information Sessions: Monthly Zoom meetings help future students understand requirements and application processes

7. Evangel University

Evangel University stands at the heart of Springfield, offering a faith-based social work education that sets it apart from other Missouri BSW programs. Students learn through hands-on experience and ethical practice with a distinctive Christian perspective.

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Social Work program helps students excel in the “helping profession” through a well-structured yet tailored curriculum. Students learn essential skills to help people who face challenges like poverty, addiction, and abuse. The program combines detailed coursework with practical experiences through internships, practicums, and volunteer work. Students must complete 58 credit hours of social work courses in sequence, without requiring a minor. Since its start in 1998, the program’s students complete extensive community service hours and a 450-hour concurrent practicum.

Accreditation Status

The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) granted the program’s original accreditation in February 1998. The Council for Higher Education Accreditation confirms this accreditation remains active. Evangel also maintains regional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission. These credentials allow graduates to pursue BSW licensure in Missouri, though requirements vary by state.

Notable Features

The BSW program distinguishes itself through several characteristics:

• Faith Integration: Evangel’s identity as a detailed Christian university blends Spirit-strengthened service with social work education
• Diverse Outcomes: The 2022 graduating class included 12 social work students, with 75% identifying as white
• Social Justice Emphasis: Students raise campus awareness about social issues like poverty and social injustice
• Nondiscriminatory Policies: The faculty upholds policies against discrimination based on age, class, color, culture, disability, ethnicity, gender, immigration status, political ideology, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or tribal sovereign status

8. Avila University

Avila University, nestled in Kansas City, runs one of Missouri’s longest-standing BSW programs. The university’s mission stems from Catholic tradition and the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet’s spirit.

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Social Work degree at Avila requires 120 credit hours and prepares students to work in human service fields of all types. Students can apply for social work licensure after graduation, which they need for professional practice. The program stands out with 500 hours of practical experience as students work with clients in social service organizations. Students can choose between on-campus classes or a 100% online format, both following a similar curriculum with the same accreditation.

Accreditation Status

The Social Work Program has managed to keep its Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accreditation since 1974, with the latest renewal in 2014. The review highlighted 12 outstanding program features. This credential will give a graduate education that meets the field’s highest standards.

Avila University Notable Features

The program shines through these strengths:

• The core team brings ground professional experience to the classroom
• Students qualify for advanced standing in MSW programs, which could cut graduate studies to one year
• A values-driven education creates culturally competent agents of social change
• Students gain hands-on experience in hospitals, mental health centers, and social service agencies of all types

9. University of Central Missouri

UCM’s BSW program stands out among other Missouri social work programs. Students balancing their education with life commitments benefit from UCM’s unique position as the region’s only institution offering night classes in social work.

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Social Work at UCM requires 51 semester hours of major coursework to prepare students for generalist social work practice. Students learn core values of service, social justice, dignity, human relationships, integrity, and competence. The program helps students become professional social workers who can apply ethical principles, work with diverse populations, and champion human rights. Students learn to promote human and community well-being.

Accreditation Status

CSWE has continuously accredited the BSW program since 1986. This long-term recognition means your degree holds nationwide educational standards.

Notable Features

The program offers several advantages:

• Flexible Scheduling: Evening classes at Lee’s Summit with hybrid and online options
• Experienced Faculty: Instructors bring ground social work experience to the classroom
• Licensure Preparation: Students can qualify for baccalaureate-level licensure in Missouri and Kansas after graduation

10. Park University

Park University, now 148 years old, ranks among Missouri’s prominent BSW programs. The university shapes versatile social work professionals ready to work in different practice settings.

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Social Work program prepares students to work in social service environments of all types. Students complete 122 credit hours with 45 core requirements at the Parkville campus through face-to-face classes. The program builds competent generalist practitioners who work together with people from many backgrounds using a strengths-based approach. Students learn through a framework that combines Ecosystems Theory, Strengths Perspective, Multicultural Competence, and Social Justice principles. The senior year field education practicum becomes the life-blood of student experience by bringing together everything they’ve learned.

Accreditation Status

The Council on Social Work Education gave Park University’s BSW program full re-affirmation of accreditation in Spring 2019. This accreditation continues through Spring 2027. The Higher Learning Commission also accredits the university, which ensures complete educational quality.

Notable Features

The program stands out with these key elements:

• Practical Application: Field education links theory with ground practice
• Diverse Student Body: A community of 6,634 students from different backgrounds
• Career Support: Students get academic counseling and job placement help

Online BSW options

Missouri’s leading BSW programs now give students the choice to complete their degree entirely online. This setup works great for working professionals, rural residents, and students with family commitments.

The University of Missouri’s School of Social Work (BSW Mizzou) runs a comprehensive online BSW program. Students need 120 credit hours to graduate, with most taking 2-3 classes each semester. The program takes about 3 years after completing prerequisites. The online version holds the same CSWE accreditation as its campus counterpart.

Missouri State University’s BSW program comes in two flavors – traditional on-campus and fully online formats with similar curriculum requirements. Right now, the online option welcomes students from Missouri, Arkansas, Kansas, and Oklahoma.

Avila University jumped into online education with their BSW program that features convenient 8-week courses. While students learn online, they still complete their required 500 hours of hands-on experience. The program lets them access course materials whenever and wherever they want.

There’s another reason to look at University of Central Missouri – they blend online and in-person learning. Students can take some courses online or in hybrid format, plus evening classes at their Lee’s Summit campus.

Students need a few basics for these online programs: good internet connection, a computer with webcam and microphone, and the right software for virtual classes.

Career Outlook for BSW Social Workers in Missouri

Missouri BSW programs lead graduates to stable career opportunities in social work. The state’s job market looks promising, and new graduates can expect plenty of exciting career options in different sectors.

Social workers with a BSW in Missouri typically earn around $50,540 per year. Clinical social workers in urban areas can make close to $60,000. The average hourly rate stands at $43.53, which is about 27% lower than the national average. All the same, Missouri’s lower living costs help balance this difference.

Different cities in Missouri offer varying pay scales. Springfield tops the list at $67.40 per hour, while Kansas City comes in at $60.81. Other key markets include Lees Summit ($49.51), Columbia ($49.14), and Saint Joseph ($46.84).

State government jobs come with attractive benefits packages. Missouri’s social workers in government positions earn between $54,000 and $72,000 yearly. The job outlook remains positive with a projected 9% growth from 2020 to 2030. This growth rate beats the national average and creates about 505 new positions each year across these specialties:

• Child, Family, and School Social Workers: $22.68/hour
• Healthcare Social Workers: $25.52/hour
• Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers: $22.74/hour

Graduates from programs like BSW Mizzou and Missouri State BSW will find strong opportunities in healthcare, child welfare, and mental health services. These opportunities are especially abundant in rural areas where social workers take on multiple essential roles.

Missouri Social Work Licensure Pathway

Social workers who graduate from Missouri BSW programs need a specific path to get their license in Missouri. The MOPRO system will become the new registration platform in January 2025. This system lets social workers access licensing services any time of day.

Missouri’s social work graduates can choose from several license levels:

• LBSW: Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (BSW degree required)
• LBSW-IP: LBSW with Independent Practice (requires additional supervised experience)
• LMSW: Licensed Master Social Worker (MSW degree required)
• LAMSW: Licensed Advanced Macro Social Worker
• LCSW: Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Each license type needs degrees from CSWE-accredited programs like BSW Mizzou or Missouri State BSW. The supervision requirements change based on the license level. While LBSW doesn’t need supervision, LBSW-IP candidates must complete 3,000 supervised hours within 24-48 months.

LBSW exam candidates can take their tests 60 days before graduation if they have the right documentation. The application fees vary from $35-$70 based on when you submit.

Licensed social workers must complete 30 continuing education hours every two years. This includes 3 hours in ethics and 2 hours in suicide prevention. The proper license gives social workers legal protection under Missouri’s privileged communication laws with their clients.