7 Best MSW Programs in Houston: Guide for 2026

Houston’s rapid growth and social challenges make it a prime location to pursue your Texas MSW degree. The region faces a poverty rate above 18 percent, and one in five adults say they have unmet mental health needs. On top of that, Texas expects social-work openings to jump 20 percent between 2023 and 2033. This creates plenty of opportunities for qualified professionals.

Houston serves as a great training ground for your social work career, whether you’re looking at the University of Houston’s MSW program or learning about other options. The city ranks as the fourth-largest in the United States with over 2 million residents. Top MSW-level employers include Harris Health System, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Texas Children’s Hospital, Catholic Charities, and BakerRipley. In this piece, we break down the 7 best MSW programs in Houston to help you make an informed decision about your educational experience.

1. University of Houston MSW Program

The University of Houston Graduate College of Social Work (GCSW) has been the life-blood of MSW education in the region since 1967, when the Texas Legislature founded it. The program has had full accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education since 1970. Graduates have gone on to serve in social work roles in a variety of settings.

Key features

Students can choose from three flexible enrollment options in the University of Houston MSW program. The Face-to-Face option brings students together on the main UH campus for weekday classes. Students who pick the Hybrid program blend online learning with campus meetings 1-2 Saturdays each month at UH Sugar Land. The 100% Online program lets students anywhere in the country earn their degree without coming to campus.

Students progress through a two-tier curriculum structure. The program starts with 15 credits of foundation work and moves into specialized courses. Students then choose between two paths:

• Clinical Practice: Students learn to improve cognitive, mental, emotional, behavioral, physical, and social well-being through assessment, intervention, diagnosis, and treatment
• Macro Practice: The focus shifts to community development, program planning, policy analysis, and advocacy work

The program also features specialized learning tracks in trauma education, global behavioral health, political social work, and nonprofit leadership.

MSW admission criteria

Applicants need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with a minimum 3.0 GPA (on a 4.0 scale). The application package must include:

1. Official transcripts
2. 2-3 professional or academic recommendations
3. Personal statement showing your interest in social work and dedication to social justice
4. Resume highlighting relevant experience

Advanced Standing applicants must have or be finishing a BSW degree from a CSWE-accredited program. They need at least one recommendation from their BSW program.

The admissions team looks at each application as a whole package. No single factor automatically determines acceptance. Application fees are $50 for domestic and $80 for international applicants. AmeriCorps, Peace Corps, Teach for America, and City Year members can request fee waivers.

Tuition and format

Program duration depends on your chosen format and enrollment status. Full-time Face-to-Face students finish in two years, while part-time Hybrid or Online students take three years. Students with qualifying BSW degrees can complete Advanced Standing in one year full-time or two years part-time.

Credit requirements vary by program type. Full Program students complete 51 semester credit hours and 900 hours of field practicum. Advanced Standing students need 34 semester credit hours with 500-720 field practicum hours.

Your residency status, course selection, and program format determine tuition costs. Online students pay extra distance education fees on top of regular tuition. University of Houston graduate tuition runs about $11,888 yearly for in-state and $27,776 for out-of-state students.

Best fit for

Face-to-Face learning works best for students who thrive in traditional classrooms, can attend daytime classes, and live near Houston. These students should limit work to 20 hours weekly to handle the full-time course load.

The Hybrid format suits working professionals, particularly those in social services who can commute to Houston. Students get online flexibility plus hands-on skill development.

Self-motivated learners who need scheduling freedom or live outside Houston will benefit from the Online program. Students can earn their MSW while completing practicum requirements in their local communities.

2. Texas Southern University MSW Program

Texas Southern University stands firm in its dedication to serve diverse communities, with a special focus on African Americans and groups facing oppression and discrimination. This historically Black university provides social work education based on ethical practice, evidence-based approaches, and social justice principles.

Key features

Texas Southern’s social work programs center on preparing diverse students for ethical practice that builds strengths and promotes resilience. The curriculum uses a person-in-environment framework that lines up with the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) standards. Students become skilled at:

• Professional social work practice and evidence-based assessment
• Prevention and intervention strategies at every system level
• Advocacy for human rights and social justice
• Working with underserved populations, particularly African Americans and people of color

The program stands out from other MSW options in Houston through its unique focus on eliminating poverty. This commitment helps boost the quality of life for people locally and globally. The program’s knowledge and skills associate with nine Core Competencies defined by the 2015 CSWE Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards.

Admission criteria

Students must first get accepted to the university before joining Texas Southern’s social work programs. While specific MSW admission details are limited, the university sets high standards for professional behavior in all social work education levels.

Students who show non-professional behaviors—including plagiarism, cheating, or disrespectful communications—might face reporting to judicial offices and counseling out of the program. This strict ethical standard helps graduates maintain the profession’s values.

The university’s undergraduate admissions show a 93% acceptance rate, which hints at general institutional standards. All the same, social work program admission requires professional demeanor and integrity in classroom work and field activities.

Tuition and format

Texas Southern University charges reasonable tuition compared to other MSW universities. Graduate tuition for 2025-2026 follows a straightforward structure based on credit hours:

Full-time graduate students (9 credit hours) pay $3,784.69 per semester for Texas residents or $6,979.69 for non-residents. The university’s Fixed Rate Tuition plan lets incoming students lock in their rates for four academic years (12 consecutive semesters).

Students must pay by the first day of each semester unless they have financial aid deferments or join installment plans. Late payments cost $104.00, and missing payment arrangements could lead to class cancelations.

Financial support makes the program affordable – approximately 98% of students receive substantial financial aid.

Best fit for

Texas Southern’s program suits students who share its core mission to serve African Americans and other people of color, along with those most vulnerable to discrimination. The program works best if you have passion for:

• Advocating for system and policy changes promoting human rights
• Working toward social and economic justice
• Addressing local and global challenges related to poverty and inequality

The program’s available admission policies and strong financial aid support make it a smart choice for students who want affordable social work education.

Students learn culturally competent practice and graduate ready to meet the unique needs of at-risk and underserved populations in Houston’s diverse communities. They can work together with interdisciplinary teams to create change at micro, mezzo, and macro levels where social and economic injustices exist.

3. Prairie View A&M University MSW Program

Prairie View A&M University stands out among MSWs in Houston with its unique online clinical MSW program. The program focuses on medical and behavioral health interventions from an Africentric point of view. This Texas Historically Black College/University (HBCU) combines professional training with cultural competency.

Key features

The program’s distinctive medical/behavioral health specialization helps PVAMU meet the growing staffing needs of hospitals and healthcare systems. The program excels in several areas:

• Unique specialization: Texas’s only MSW program that trains students specifically for medical social work
• Clinical focus: Students can pursue the Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) designation after graduation
• Africentric curriculum: Students can tap into core values of spirituality, interdependence, and collectivism
• Strong earning potential: Medical Social Workers in Texas earn between $50,000-$90,000 annually

Students learn culturally relevant evidence-based interventions, research, and theory. These skills help them create solutions for problems at micro, mezzo, and macro levels. The program teaches several therapeutic techniques including cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and dialectical behavior therapy.

The department’s dedicated faculty excels in teaching, research, and service. Students receive personalized attention thanks to the low faculty-to-student ratio.

Admission criteria

Each program track has specific requirements:

Traditional Program (full-time or part-time):

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university or college
• Minimum GPA of 2.75 (on a 4.0 scale) in upper-division coursework
• One introductory statistics course with grade C or better
• Liberal arts and behavioral sciences background

Advanced Standing:

• BSW degree from a CSWE-accredited institution within past six years
• Minimum GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) in upper-division coursework
• Final field practicum evaluation

Tuition and format

Students can complete the CSWE-accredited program entirely online. Three program tracks are available:

• Three-year track: Part-time option for traditional students
• Two-year track: Full-time option for traditional students
• Advanced Standing: 11-month accelerated program (January-December for spring starts or August-July for fall starts)

Credit requirements vary by track:

• Traditional program: 56 semester credit hours
• Advanced Standing: 33 semester credit hours

Resident graduate students taking 9 credit hours pay about $7,992 yearly in tuition and fees. Total annual costs range from $17,060 for students living at home to $26,341 for on-campus residents. Non-resident graduate students pay higher tuition at $17,379 annually.

Students can access these financial support options:

• PV Opportunity Graduate Student Scholarship
• Graduate Assistantships
• Panther Employee Scholarship Exemption Program

Best fit for

This program works well if you have interest in:

• Healthcare settings: Texas has 5,764 Medical Social Work job openings as of March 2022
• Mental health careers: Texas showed 12,387 Behavioral Health job openings as of March 2022
• Cultural competence: Learning about African American history, politics, and economics

The program creates a supportive environment without common minority student challenges like alienation, discrimination, and stereotyping.

4. Baylor University Hybrid MSW Program

Baylor University’s hybrid MSW program combines mental health training with social justice curriculum. The program serves Houston students through a flexible learning model. The Diana R. Garland School of Social Work ranks among respected MSW Houston universities with its detailed approach to social work education.

Key features of Baylor MSW Houston cohort

Baylor’s MSW program prepares graduates for two vital practice areas:

• Clinical Practice specialization: Students become mental health providers – a significant role today as social workers make up most mental health professionals nationwide
• Community Practice specialization: Students learn to work with public/nonprofit organizations, communities, and religious agencies – helping meet the need for 50,000 additional social workers by 2032

Both tracks hold full accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education. Graduates can become Licensed Master Social Workers or Licensed Clinical Social Workers. Baylor’s program stands out from other MSW Houston options by merging local internships with shared coursework that combines online learning and in-person components.

MSW graduates earn 40% higher median salaries than those without the credentials, making the program a smart long-term investment.

Admission criteria

Students need a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution or equivalent international education. The admission process needs:

1. Online MSW application
2. Financial aid form
3. FAFSA form submission
4. Official transcripts
5. Three recommendation letters
6. Application essays

Advanced Standing applicants must have a BSW from a CSWE-accredited program earned within five years of applying. These students need a minimum 3.0 GPA in social work courses and at least a B in all practice and field courses.

Standard admissions don’t specify a minimum GPA. The school reviews applications with an all-encompassing approach that looks at academic records and relevant experience. A strong liberal arts background helps strengthen applications.

Tuition and format

Students can choose from multiple pathway options that balance academic excellence with flexibility:

• Standard track: 58 credit hours total, with 4, 6, 8, or 10-term completion schedules
• Advanced Standing track: 30 credit hours (needs BSW), with 3 or 5-term options

Online MSW program tuition costs $1,100 per credit hour plus a $50 course/lab fee that changes by class. Total program costs reach:

• Standard track: $63,800
• Advanced Standing: $33,000

Waco’s residential campus programs cost $875 per credit hour, showing the difference between online and in-person options.

Financial aid options include federal loans (need FAFSA submission with Baylor code 003545), Graduate PLUS loans, and private financing.

Best fit for

Baylor’s program works well for students who want a faith-informed approach to social work practice, whatever their religious background. The curriculum helps students who want to:

• Merge ethical approaches to faith and social work practice
• Work in interdisciplinary healthcare settings, with field residencies at Baylor St. Luke’s
• Balance current jobs with graduate education through flexible scheduling

The hybrid format suits self-motivated learners who value online convenience and face-to-face learning benefits. The program’s hands-on experience helps graduates work confidently in almost any field.

5. Texas State University Online MSW Program

Texas State University’s online MSW program stands out as one of the nation’s best. The program gives students the ability to excel through an Advanced Practice Leadership curriculum that builds both direct practice and administrative skills. This CSWE-accredited program prepares graduates to work in child welfare, healthcare, mental health, education, and criminal justice settings.

Key features

The online MSW program at Texas State stands out with a complete curriculum that combines direct practice with administrative coursework. Students develop expertise in:

• Advanced diagnostic assessment and intervention skills
• Social policy analysis and implementation
• Program planning and development
• Professional ethics and social justice principles

The program maintains similar academic standards as its on-campus version. Students use the same textbooks and learn from the core faculty. Texas State also offers specialized electives in health care, diversity, international social work, gerontology, spirituality, adventure therapy, and veteran services.

Graduates can pursue licensure in Texas and beyond. Students have shown excellent performance on licensing examinations historically.

Admission criteria

The admission process requires:

• A completed online application with $55 fee ($90 for international applicants)
• Official transcripts from all institutions where credit was earned
• A complete resume (maximum two pages)
• A statement of purpose explaining your motivation to pursue the MSW degree
• An interview

Texas State requires a minimum 2.9 overall GPA or 2.9 GPA in the last 60 hours of undergraduate coursework. The GRE isn’t required, unlike many other programs.

Here are the application deadlines:

• Fall Priority Admission: January 1
• Fall Standard Admission: August 1 (June 1 for international students)

Texas State MSW tuition and format

The program offers two tracks based on your education:

• Foundation/Regular Track: 62 credit hours if you don’t have a BSW degree
• Advanced Standing Track: 36 credit hours for graduates of CSWE-accredited BSW programs

Online students can choose between:

• Full-time: 3-4 courses per semester
• Part-time: 2 courses per semester

Tuition rates stay the same whether you study online, hybrid, or face-to-face. Online courses come with an additional electronic course fee. Current approximate rates per credit hour are:

• In-State: $804.96
• Out-of-State: $1,004.96

Field education needs 900 total hours for regular track students (split between two internships) and 540 hours for advanced standing students.

Best fit for

The online program works best for self-motivated, relaxed learners who need flexible schedules without compromising on education quality. This option is perfect for:

• Working professionals balancing career and education
• Students living outside the Houston metropolitan area
• People wanting a balanced curriculum for both direct practice and administrative roles

The program’s blend of practice and administrative coursework makes it ideal for those who want leadership positions in clinical practice, program development, or agency administration.

Texas State provides strong financial support—meeting about 68% of students’ financial aid needs—making it a great value compared to other Houston universities.

6. University of Texas at Arlington Online MSW Program

The University of Texas at Arlington’s School of Social Work ranks among the nation’s best MSW programs, now fully online for students across Texas and beyond. The program started with Texas residents and now welcomes students from all 50 states through its Distance Learning Out-of-State Online Program.

Key features

UTA’s online MSW program offers three direct practice concentrations:

• Children and Families
• Mental Health and Substance Abuse
• Aging

Students experience the same high-quality standards as the on-campus program, with faculty members skilled in online education. The program’s asynchronous format lets you complete coursework when it fits your schedule. The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) fully accredits the program.

The dean helps students by organizing events and ensures the School of Social Work supports you throughout your educational trip. UTA’s high ranking for online student support makes distance education available to more students.

Admission criteria

Your academic background determines the admission requirements:

• Traditional standing: Bachelor’s degree with minimum 3.0 GPA in last 60 hours
• Advanced standing: BSW from CSWE-accredited program within last six years

Students with GPAs below 3.0 might need to submit GRE scores, recommendation letters, and a narrative essay. UTA reviews applications comprehensively by looking at both academic performance and relevant experience.

Tuition and format

Students can choose from multiple paths:

• Traditional standing: 61 credit hours completed over 26 months full-time or up to 6 years part-time
• Advanced standing: 38 credit hours completed in 12-16 months

Field education requirements include:

• Traditional students: 960 hours (two 480-hour placements)
• Advanced standing: One 480-hour placement

In-state graduate tuition costs about $11,044 per academic year, while non-residents pay around $23,486. Out-of-state online students pay significantly less than typical non-resident rates and can save 40-50% on tuition and fees.

Best fit for

Self-directed learners who need flexibility while pursuing clinical social work credentials will find this program valuable. Many classes offer online options, making the program perfect for:

• Working professionals balancing career and education
• Military personnel and their families stationed worldwide
• Students looking for affordable out-of-state tuition options
• Those drawn to specialized direct practice concentrations

7. Chamberlain University Online MSW Program

Chamberlain University builds on its 130-year healthcare education legacy through a complete online MSW program that gives aspiring social workers the flexibility they need. This program offers fully virtual learning with specialized focus areas, setting it apart from other Houston universities.

Key features

Chamberlain’s MSW program excels with three specialty tracks that prepare you for specific practice areas:

• Crisis and Response Interventions
• Trauma
• Medical Social Work

A fourth “Design Your Own Focus” option lets you customize your curriculum based on your career goals. The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) has accredited the program, which means the curriculum meets or surpasses social work education standards.

The learning experience has:

• Online coursework you can access 24/7 for maximum scheduling flexibility
• Mentorship from experienced social justice leaders
• Virtual simulation practice with clients
• Three-day immersion experiences (one for Advanced Standing, two for Traditional Option)

Admission criteria

The Traditional Option needs:

• Bachelor’s degree or higher with minimum 2.5 CGPA on a 4.0 scale
• Degree from an institution accredited by regional agency or recognized by CHEA

Advanced Standing requirements are:

• Bachelor’s in social work from CSWE-accredited program
• Minimum 3.0 CGPA on a 4.0 scale

Neither option needs GRE or entrance exams. All applicants must complete background checks, drug screenings, and fingerprinting.

Tuition and format

The program offers two paths:

• Traditional Option: 60 credit hours (5 semesters full-time)
• Advanced Standing Option: 36 credit hours (3 semesters full-time)

Field education ranges from 500 hours for Advanced Standing to 1,000 hours for Traditional Option students.

We set tuition rates for 2026 at $735-$780 per credit hour based on location. Additional fees include a $235 student services charge per session.

Best fit for

This program serves:

• Working professionals who need 24/7 course access
• Students interested in specialized practice in crisis intervention, trauma, or medical social work
• Those seeking licensure preparation through CSWE-accredited education
• Self-directed learners who value flexibility and educational quality

Note that the 100% online format makes this program available to you wherever you are, offering another viable option beyond traditional MSW Houston programs for students nationwide.

Comparison Table

Next Steps

Your choice of MSW program depends on your career goals, priorities, and personal situation. Seven programs in the Houston area each bring something special to the table. Students have great options – from in-person classes at University of Houston to culturally focused education at Texas Southern or Prairie View A&M. You’ll also find flexible online programs through UT Arlington or Chamberlain University. These programs are excellent paths to advance your social work career.

Texas needs qualified social workers now more than ever. The job market looks promising with a projected 20% growth in social work positions from 2023 to 2033. Houston’s strong healthcare systems, community organizations, and social service agencies are looking for trained professionals who can tackle the region’s complex social challenges.

Money matters play a big role in program selection. The good news is that Houston’s affordable living costs and competitive social worker salaries ($68,064 average per year) make an MSW degree worth the investment. Texas Southern University and Prairie View A&M are especially budget-friendly. Other schools provide various financial aid options to help with educational costs.

Take time to match each program’s specialization tracks with your career interests. Each school shines in different areas. Prairie View A&M excels in medical/behavioral health, while Chamberlain specializes in crisis intervention and trauma. UT Arlington focuses on children and families, mental health, and aging.

Program flexibility should be on your radar too. Full-time students might like accelerated programs. Working professionals often prefer part-time or online options. BSW holders can save time and money through advanced standing tracks available at most programs.

Choosing between programs might feel daunting at first. This detailed comparison gives you the information to pick an MSW program that matches your professional goals. Your social work expertise will without doubt make a difference as Houston grows and changes, helping build stronger communities and improve lives throughout the region.