MSW Programs in Virginia
Want to get your MSW in Virginia? You’ll find yourself in a state with 17,860 practicing social workers and six CSWE accredited MSW programs that can kickstart your career.
Virginia’s MSW landscape includes four outstanding schools. George Mason University, 21 years old, leads the pack alongside Virginia Commonwealth University, which ranks 11th nationally according to U.S. News and World Report. Norfolk State University and Radford University round out the options. When you start learning about these accredited MSW programs, you’ll discover they all offer traditional full-length programs without requiring a BSW degree. These programs also include 900 hours of supervised field work that gives you real-life experience. The career outlook seems bright with Virginia’s social work salaries averaging $54,444. The state’s population should reach 9.5 million by 2030, and it has the nation’s second-largest veteran population. This combination creates excellent opportunities for aspiring social workers.
George Mason University MSW Programs
George Mason University runs one of Virginia’s most respected accredited MSW programs. The 20-year-old program ranks #39 among public institutions’ MSW programs. Students learn generalist social work knowledge that emphasizes equity, inclusion, antiracism, anti-oppression, trauma-informed practice and systems transformation.
George Mason University MSW program types
GMU’s MSW program gives students several paths based on their needs and backgrounds. Students must complete 60 total credits in the standard MSW program. The on-campus format comes with three flexible timeframes:
- Two-Year Plan: Students complete the program in two academic years with 15 credit hours each semester, plus field practicum each year. Students don’t need summer study.
- Three-Year Plan: Students spend their first two years on generalist curriculum with 15 credit hours per year. Field practicum happens in the second year, and the third year focuses on full-time specialization curriculum.
- Four-Year Plan: Students complete the program in four years with 15 credit hours per year plus field practicums in the second and fourth years.
Students with a BSW from a CSWE-accredited program can apply for the Advanced Standing option. This competitive program lets qualified students finish their MSW faster (33 credit hours). Advanced standing students start in summer with a Psychopathology course before moving to the specialization year.
GMU also teams up with the Carter School for Peace and Conflict Resolution to offer a Dual Degree program. Students can earn both an MSW and a Master of Science in Conflict Analysis & Resolution in three years. These programs work well together—the MS in Conflict Analysis & Resolution builds strong theoretical foundations that complement the social work curriculum, creating uniquely qualified graduates.
Specializations
Students must pick between two specialization tracks after finishing the generalist curriculum (30 credit hours):
Children, Youth, and Families (CYF) SpecializationThis track helps students work with children, adolescents, and families through the family life cycle. Students get specialized training to work at micro, macro, and mezzo levels in:
- Schools and family service agencies
- Foster care and child welfare
- Juvenile justice systems
Core courses include Clinical Social Work in Forensic Settings, Clinical Practice with Children, Youth, and Families, and Program Evaluation for Social Workers.
Adults and Healthy Aging (AHA) SpecializationStudents learn to address unique psychosocial, health, and mental health issues of adults throughout their lives. This specialized training prepares students to work in:
- Hospitals and healthcare facilities
- Mental health and substance abuse treatment centers
- Long-term care facilities and hospice agencies
Core courses include Clinical Practice with Adults, Program Evaluation for Social Workers, and Clinical Practice with Older Adults.
Both specializations let students choose macro and clinical electives to match their career goals. The MSW curriculum also prepares students to apply for clinical licensure in Virginia after completing 600 hours of advanced clinical practicum in their specialization year.
Field education requirements
Field education forms the heart of GMU’s MSW program. Students must complete 1,050 hours of supervised practicum experience in approved agencies. This hands-on training breaks down into:
- 450 hours during the generalist year (16 hours per week)
- 600 hours during the specialized practice year (20 hours per week)
Advanced standing students need to complete 600 hours of supervised practicum.
The Department of Social Work helps find appropriate practicum placements but doesn’t guarantee them. Students must work during their agency’s operating hours. The university provides two types of field practicum placements:
- Traditional: Students match with affiliated agencies
- Employment-Based Field Practicum (EBP): Students can work through their current employer if they meet specific requirements
The university partners with over 400 field practicum agencies across Northern Virginia, the Washington Metropolitan area, and throughout the United States.
Virginia’s Self-Insured Liability Insurance Plan covers students during internships, while the Medical Malpractice Insurance Plan handles medical malpractice. Students must get required immunizations and submit documentation within a month after the semester starts.
Online and campus options
GMU runs its MSW program both on-campus and online with the same content but different delivery methods:
On-Campus Program
- Students can choose 2-year, 3-year, or 4-year plans
- Classes run from weekday mornings to evenings
- Fall semester has rolling admissions (limited practicum options after May 1)
- Students need minimum 3.0 GPA for their most recent 60 credit hours
Online Program
- Students take classes 100% online with field practicums in their local area
- Part-time structure takes about 10 semesters
- Eight-week courses run one at a time
- Students can view materials when convenient
- Tuition costs $795 per credit hour plus $35 per credit hour for distance learning
- Students can take 9 credits per semester in the accelerated track
Both programs need the same application materials: resume, transcripts, two recommendation letters, and an expanded goals statement. The online program reviews applications on a rolling basis.
Transfer students can join either program format. The department welcomes direct contact for questions.
Graduates from both formats can practice clinical work to address growing mental health needs, build stronger communities, drive positive change through advocacy and social action, and tackle local, national, and global challenges.
Virginia Commonwealth University MSW Programs
Virginia Commonwealth University ranks among the largest social work programs in the United States. The university is one of just 39 schools nationwide that offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in social work. U.S. News & World Report ranks VCU’s School of Social Work #28 in Best Graduate Schools for Social Work. Students can get a complete education through several program formats.
Program types
VCU has created several MSW program paths that work for students with different needs. You can choose between regular standing and advanced standing options, with flexible scheduling:
Regular Standing Options (60 credit hours):
- Full-time on-campus: Takes 2 years with 15 credits each semester
- Part-time on-campus: Takes 3-4 years with 6-9 credits each semester
- Full-time online: Takes 16-24 months with 15 credits each semester
- Part-time online: Takes 3-4 years with 6-9 credits each semester
Advanced Standing Options (42 credit hours) – you’ll need a BSW from the last five years:
- Full-time on-campus: Takes 1 year with 12-15 credits each semester
- Full-time online: Takes 1 year with 12-15 credits each semester
Campus programs start in fall for regular standing and summer for advanced standing students. The online format gives you more choices with multiple start dates throughout the year—fall, spring, and summer depending on your program.
Advanced standing students must have earned their BSW within five years, kept a 3.0 GPA, and scored a ‘B’ or ‘pass’ in senior field placement. Students still finishing field placement need one recommendation letter that shows their potential for success.
Specializations
After finishing the generalist curriculum, students pick from two specialized tracks:
Clinical Practice SpecializationThis track teaches students how to review, diagnose, treat, and prevent mental illness and behavioral issues. You’ll learn skills for:
- Individual, group, and family therapy
- Mental health intervention
- Treatment planning and implementation
Clinical practice students can earn extra certifications, like the School Social Work Certification from Virginia’s Department of Education.
Macro Practice Specialization (Social Work Administration, Planning and Policy Practice) This track focuses on leadership, community planning, and policy work. You’ll learn about:
- Program administration
- Policy analysis and development
- Community organizing
- Social planning
Note that the macro specialization doesn’t meet Virginia’s requirements for clinical social worker licensure. Students who want clinical licensure should choose the clinical track.
Both tracks follow the MSW program’s main goals:
- Teaching core knowledge for working with individuals, families, groups, communities, and organizations
- Getting students ready for specialized work in their chosen area
- Building an environment where ethical principles guide practice
- Helping students understand diversity and fight prejudice
- Using research to check how well practices work
- Building advocacy skills for social and economic justice
Field education requirements
In VCU’s MSW curriculum, students get hands-on experience in real-life settings. The Office of Field Education makes sure every student gets solid, practical training.
Field Placement Hours:
- Regular standing students need 900 total hours: 300 in generalist placement and 600 in specialist placement
- Advanced standing students complete 750 hours (600 specialist and 150 generalist) at one agency
Students start the field placement process before their semester begins. They fill out an application about their interests and career plans. The Office of Field Education then matches them with placements that line up with their goals.
Online students work at agencies in their local communities. This gives them real-life experience and helps build professional networks. The matching process looks at:
- Practice interests
- Essay responses
- Agency opportunities
- Student eligibility
Field instructors meet with students weekly for at least an hour. These carefully chosen instructors work as part of the school’s faculty. Field liaisons connect the school with agencies, watch student progress, and check both student work and placement quality.
Students work in a variety of settings with:
- Individuals (client intake, assessments, case conferences)
- Families (court hearings, family interviews)
- Groups (sessions with minority group members)
- Organizations (board meetings, funding analysis)
- Communities (public meetings, grant proposal review)
Online and campus options
VCU gives students two great choices: on-campus and online MSW programs.
On-Campus Format:
- Face-to-face classes
- Fall start for regular standing; summer start for advanced standing
- Clinical and macro specializations available
- Field placements at agencies during business hours
Online Format:
- Accredited by the Council on Social Work Education’s Commission on Accreditation
- Most work is self-paced with just three required evening sessions per course
- Start in fall, spring, or summer
- Field placements in your local community
- Choose part-time or full-time study
- Small classes with about 25 students
Canvas serves as the online program’s virtual campus. Students access syllabi, assignments, discussions, and video meetings there. This setup works great for students who need location flexibility.
The main difference between formats is when specializations are available online:
- Macro track: Available for regular standing full-time (fall and spring starts) and advanced standing (summer start)
- Clinical track: Available in fall and spring for regular standing; fall and summer for advanced standing
Both formats need the same credits (60 for regular standing, 42 for advanced standing) and similar field work. Students learn about evidence-based methods, practical tools, and social work best practices.
Graduates from either format leave ready for advanced practice. They gain specialized knowledge to help with community mental health needs and create positive change through advocacy.
Norfolk State University MSW Programs
Norfolk State University’s Ethelyn R. Strong School of Social Work stands out as a unique institution. It remains the only state-supported Historically Black College and University School of Social Work that offers BSW, MSW, and Ph.D. programs. The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredits the school. Students become competent practitioners who help strengthen individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities.
Program types
NSU’s MSW degree offers several paths that fit different student needs:
Full-Time Program Students complete their MSW requirements in two academic years through this traditional option. The program requires about 15 credits each term to meet the 60-credit requirement. Students follow a normal sequence of courses and field work every semester.
Extended-Time Program NSU understands some students need more flexibility. The extended program runs over six semesters (three years). Students must still enroll full-time but spread their coursework over a longer period. Each student works with an academic advisor and needs approval from the Assistant Dean.
Advanced Standing Program This accelerated option rewards exceptional academic performance. Students with a BSW from a CSWE-accredited program may qualify. Requirements include:
- A BSW earned within five years of application
- 400+ clock hours of field experience with a B grade or better
- 0 GPA in non-social work courses and social work courses
- Only 30 credit hours needed instead of 60
Non-Matriculating Status Students can take graduate social work courses before committing to the full MSW degree. Space limits the number of non-degree students admitted. Later degree program applications can transfer up to six graduate credit hours.
Specializations
Students choose from five specialized tracks after completing their generalist curriculum:
Clinical Specialization Students learn mental health assessment, diagnosis, treatment planning, and intervention skills. The track leads to clinical licensure and practice in healthcare and mental health settings.
Child Welfare Specialization The focus centers on protecting children and building stronger families through assessment, intervention, and prevention services. Graduates work in child protective services, foster care, adoption, and family support agencies.
Macro Specialization Students master organizational leadership, community planning, and policy development. The track creates leaders ready for administrative roles, program development, and community-level work.
Military Specialization This track addresses service members’, veterans’, and their families’ unique needs. Graduates practice in military settings, VA hospitals, and organizations serving the military community.
School Social Work Specialization Students learn to handle educational, social, and emotional issues affecting students. Graduates become certified school social workers in K-12 educational settings.
Each specialization follows specific course requirements. Students complete them in either two years or through the extended three-year program.
Field education requirements
Students gain hands-on experience under professional supervision through two distinct phases:
MSW Field Practicum I (Generalist Year) Students will:
- Take SWK 690A and 690B (Field Seminar) for two consecutive semesters
- Practice generalist social work skills with clients directly
- Learn from field agency supervisors and other professionals
- Build professional competencies and social work values
- Finish required hours before starting the specialization year
MSW Field Practicum II (Specialization Year) Students will:
- Take SWK 790A and 790B for two consecutive semesters
- Expand their generalist year knowledge and skills
- Work more independently
- Handle client problems and interventions while thinking critically
- Focus on their chosen specialization area
Students learn in human service settings under experienced graduate social workers’ guidance. The core team at Norfolk State University’s School of Social Work faculty ensures field education lines up with professional standards and CSWE accreditation requirements.
Online and campus options
NSU gives students choice in how they earn their MSW degree:
In-Person Program The campus-based program offers face-to-face learning at Norfolk State University. Students connect directly with faculty and peers while building professional networks in Hampton Roads.
Online Program The online MSW delivers the same high-quality curriculum with more flexibility. Online students must:
- Check the course platform regularly
- Join discussions and group activities
- Submit assignments on time
- Attend required live sessions
- Meet campus students’ academic standards
Both formats need field practicum experiences. Over 100 public and private agencies and armed forces bases in Hampton Roads offer placements. Settings include gerontology, child welfare, criminal justice, family services, planning councils, physical rehabilitation, schools, shelters, and substance abuse treatment facilities.
Students complete 60 credit hours across five areas: Social Work Practice Methods, Human Behavior in the Social Environment, Social Welfare Policy, Research Methods, and Field Practicum. The degree requires a B grade (3.0) minimum in all courses and field work. Students must complete two consecutive semesters of full-time residency and finish within four years.
NSU’s MSW graduates work in mental health clinics, schools, hospitals, private practices, administration, child welfare, and human service agencies. The accredited program opens doors to licensure and advanced practice opportunities throughout Virginia and beyond.
Radford University MSW Programs
Radford University’s School of Social Work offers a unique MSW education that focuses on Community-Based Family Practice. This program ranks among the top accredited MSW programs in Virginia. Students learn to work effectively in both rural and urban environments, which prepares them for social work practice in a variety of settings.
Program types
Students can choose from several paths to earn their MSW degree based on their education background and schedule:
Traditional MSW Program Full-time students complete this program in five semesters (two years) while part-time students take eleven semesters (three years). The program welcomes students without a BSW background or those who earned their BSW more than seven years ago. Students focus on Community-Based Family Practice and can specialize in rural or urban social work settings.
Advanced Standing MSW Program Recent BSW graduates from CSWE-accredited programs can take advantage of this accelerated option. You need to meet these requirements:
- A BSW degree earned within the last seven years
- A minimum 2.75 cumulative undergraduate GPA
- A 3.0 GPA in all social work major coursework
Students can finish the advanced standing program in four semesters (full-time) or six semesters (part-time). This option builds on your existing social work knowledge without repeating basic coursework.
Specializations
Radford takes a focused approach compared to other Virginia MSW programs. Rather than offering multiple tracks, it develops expertise in Community-Based Family Practice through two specialized paths:
Rural Practice Focus (Main Campus) The main campus in Radford hosts this track that tackles the unique challenges of rural social work. Students learn to handle resource limitations, geographic barriers, and cultural aspects specific to rural communities.
Urban Practice Focus (Roanoke Center) The Roanoke Higher Education Center offers this track for urban practice. Working professionals find the hybrid format particularly helpful, with online classes and in-person Saturday sessions.
Both focus areas help students develop complete skills in assessment, intervention, and evaluation. These skills apply to work with individuals, families, groups, and communities in their environmental contexts.
Field education requirements
Field education plays a central role in Radford’s social work education through university-community partnerships. The Council on Social Work Education recognizes field education as vital to applying classroom knowledge in ground settings.
Each program type has specific field requirements:
- Traditional MSW students need 1,082 total hours of supervised field education
- Advanced Standing students complete 636 hours of supervised field practice
Students must meet these requirements for field placement:
- Complete all prerequisite courses with satisfactory academic performance
- Enroll concurrently in required practice courses
- Submit field application and interview with the Field Coordinator
- Attend the Field Internship Fair to explore placement opportunities
- Secure professional liability insurance ($1 million/$3 million coverage)
- Attend all required field orientations and meetings
Field education combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills under professional supervision. The university matches placements to your learning goals and professional interests.
Online and campus options
Students can choose from these flexible program options:
Main Campus Program (Radford)
- Traditional in-person classes at the Radford campus
- Focus on rural social work practice
- Available in both full-time (two-year) and part-time (three-year) formats
- Classes typically scheduled during weekdays
Hybrid Program (Roanoke)
- Combines online learning with in-person Saturday classes
- Located at the Roanoke Higher Education Center
- Focus on urban-based social work practice
- Designed as a three-year, part-time program
- Perfect for working professionals
Radford University stands out among Virginia’s online MSW programs by offering a hybrid format that balances flexibility with in-person learning. The program makes quality education available to students across southwest Virginia while providing essential hands-on training.
Graduates leave with strong skills in family-centered practice and specialized knowledge of rural or urban social work contexts. These skills prove invaluable in Virginia’s varied geographic landscape.
Top Out-of-State Online MSW Programs for Virginia Students
Students from Virginia can access many more out-of-state online MSW programs that offer specialized concentrations unavailable in local institutions.
Overview of out-of-state online MSW programs
Online MSW programs give Virginia residents the flexibility they need. These programs let you study from any location while you meet your work commitments. Many programs offer in-state tuition rates to all students, which could lower your educational costs. Programs come with part-time options, accelerated tracks, and specialized concentrations not found at in-state schools. Virtual learning environments blend self-paced coursework with live sessions to deliver education comparable to on-campus experiences.
Accreditation and licensure for Virginia
CSWE accreditation plays a vital role in choosing an out-of-state program. This accreditation will give a degree that meets Virginia’s professional standards through peer review. CSWE accreditation helps you:
- Get federal financial aid
- Transfer credits between accredited schools
- Meet clinical licensure prerequisites
The Virginia Board of Social Work can help verify specific licensure requirements since procedures differ by jurisdiction.
Best out-of-state MSW programs for Virginia residents
These respected institutions offer online MSW programs well-suited for Virginia residents:
University of Kentucky – A CSWE-accredited four-semester program with an accelerated two-semester advanced standing option awaits you.
Florida State University – This top-ranked CSWE program offers traditional three-year and advanced standing two-year paths.
University of Denver – Ranked #17 by U.S. News and World Report among CSWE-accredited schools, with an advanced standing program you can complete in 18 months.
Fieldwork and flexibility in out-of-state MSW programs
Field education remains a must even with distance learning. Programs typically help arrange local placements in Virginia communities. Field requirements include:
- 900-1,200 fieldwork hours for traditional programs
- Half these hours for advanced standing students
- Regular business hours (8am-5pm) availability
Some programs let you complete employment-based placements if your workplace meets certain criteria. This option lets you gain practical experience while keeping your career on track.
Making Your MSW Program Decision in Virginia
Your choice of MSW program will shape your professional social work career in Virginia. This complete overview helps you find program options at four CSWE-accredited universities. Each school offers unique specializations and ways to complete your degree.
George Mason University stands out because it lets you choose flexible program structures. You can specialize in Children, Youth, and Families or Adults and Healthy Aging. Virginia Commonwealth University, ranked #28 nationally, gives you excellent clinical and macro practice tracks both on campus and online. On top of that, Norfolk State University has five different specializations including Military Social Work. Radford University focuses on Community-Based Family Practice with rural and urban concentrations.
You’ll need between 900-1,050 supervised practice hours based on your program type and school choice. This hands-on experience prepares you for ground challenges in settings of all types.
MSW graduates have promising career prospects in Virginia. The state’s growing population, second-largest veteran community, and average social worker salary of $54,444 mean social work professionals will stay in high demand. Looking at out-of-state online programs might help you find specializations that line up with your career goals.
The right MSW program should give you a mix of academic excellence, specialization choices, flexible formats, and practical experience. The decision might feel overwhelming at first. Note that CSWE-accredited programs will prepare you well for licensure and professional practice. The biggest difference is finding a program that matches your career goals, learning style, and personal situation.
This complete guide about MSW programs in Virginia helps you take your next step confidently. You’ll be ready to become a skilled social work professional who makes a real difference in the lives of people, families, and communities across Virginia.