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Are you ready to take your social work career to the next level?
This guide to the top MSW Programs in St. Louis, MO will help you find the right fit for your educational and professional goals. From program details to unique features, we cover everything you need to know to make an informed decision.
Saint Louis University – Master of Social Work (MSW)
Saint Louis University’s Master of Social Work (MSW) program is tailored to equip social work professionals to address critical social, health, and economic issues within vulnerable populations. With three main concentrations—Applied Behavior Analysis, Clinical, and Community and Organization—this program offers flexibility and targeted expertise.
- Applied Behavior Analysis: This concentration is a Verified Course Sequence that prepares students for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst® (BCBA®) exam, solidifying their understanding of behavioral interventions.
- Clinical: Focusing on assessment, intervention, and evaluating outcomes, this concentration prepares students for client-centered clinical social work.
- Community and Organization: Ideal for those interested in macro-level work, this concentration emphasizes community organizing, advocacy, and policy implementation.
The program offers both full-time and part-time options to cater to varied schedules and professional commitments. Students with a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from a CSWE-accredited program can benefit from advanced standing and earn up to 15 credits towards their MSW.
Specialization Options:
- Community Mental Health Practice
- Criminal Justice
- Gerontology
- Health Practice
- Nonprofit Administration
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00
Financial Support:
Saint Louis University offers numerous financial aid options, including scholarships and fellowships, making the program accessible to eligible students. The School of Social Work’s accreditation by the Council on Social Work Education ensures the highest standards of academic quality.
Tuition varies based on the chosen track, reinforcing the need to explore financial aid opportunities.
Brown School at Washington University in St. Louis – Master of Social Work (MSW) Program
The Brown School at Washington University in St. Louis is renowned for its holistic and robust MSW program. This program combines rigorous academic training with practical field experience to prepare students for diverse roles in social work.
Program Highlights:
- Flexible Study Options: Students can pursue the program full-time or part-time, fitting their studies around personal and professional commitments.
- Field Education: With over 400 affiliated organizations, the practicum placements offer hands-on experience, enabling students to implement real-world solutions.
- Generous Financial Support: Over $8 million in scholarships was awarded last year, demonstrating the school’s commitment to making education accessible.
- Career Services: From workshops to networking events, the Career Services team provides comprehensive support to ensure job readiness.
- Personalized Advising System: Faculty and administrative advisors offer guidance throughout the program, ensuring a tailored educational experience.
Admission Criteria:
- Holistic consideration of the applicant’s background
- Commitment to the mission
- Relevant academic and professional experience
Career Outcomes:
Graduates are well-prepared for roles such as program managers, clinical social workers, urban education reformers, social entrepreneurs, policy analysts, and nonprofit leaders.
Learn more about the MSW program at the Brown School at Washington University in St. Louis to see how it aligns with your career goals in social work.
University of Missouri-St. Louis – Master of Social Work (MSW) Program
The University of Missouri-St. Louis (UMSL) MSW program offers an accredited curriculum designed to prepare students for professional practice in diverse settings. It caters to both full-time and part-time students, spanning two to six years.
Key Program Features:
- Field Education: With over 400 practicum locations, students gain practical experience, applying classroom knowledge to real-world challenges.
- Diverse Career Preparation: Graduates are equipped to work in settings including schools, hospitals, government agencies, private practices, and nonprofits.
- Strong Alumni Network: The UMSL alumni network provides valuable connections in sectors such as business, research, entrepreneurship, and public service.
Additional Resources:
- Career Services: Dedicated counselors assist with resume development, interview preparation, and securing internships and job opportunities.
- Research Opportunities: Students can showcase their research in the annual Graduate Research Fair and participate in the Three Minute Thesis challenge.
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Minimum cumulative GPA
Financial Support:
UMSL is committed to affordability and provides various financial aid and scholarship opportunities.
MORE INFO on the UMSL MSW program
Washington University – Master of Social Work (MSW) Program
The MSW program at Washington University’s Brown School is designed to provide students with a broad yet customizable education in social work. The program equips graduates to navigate and redress pressing societal issues effectively.
Program Highlights:
- Customization: With a range of specializations and elective courses, students tailor their studies to suit their career ambitions.
- Research and Practical Experience: Students engage in research opportunities and real-world practicum placements, solidifying their field competence.
- Global Perspective: Training students for roles in over 50 countries, the program emphasizes a global approach to social work.
Concentration Options:
- Specialization certificates
- Joint or dual degrees
- Practicum placements locally, nationally, and internationally
The program is accessible to individuals with a BSW from a CSWE-accredited school, potentially qualifying them for advanced standing credit.
Enrollment Benefits:
- Flexibility in course scheduling
- Participation in student groups advocating for social change
Explore the Master of Social Work program at Washington University’s Brown School for a comprehensive educational experience in social work.
Missouri Baptist University – Master of Social Work (MSW) Program
Missouri Baptist University’s (MBU) MSW program is designed for those seeking to advance their professional practice. This CSWE-accredited program balances theoretical, research, and practice components within a supportive, faith-based environment.
Program Features:
- Advanced Professional Preparation: The curriculum prepares students for roles such as Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW), and Licensed Advanced Master Social Worker (LAMS).
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Students deepen their knowledge through intensive classroom and fieldwork experiences.
- Flexible Options: Full-time and part-time formats cater to varied scheduling needs, with courses available fully online.
Unique Attributes:
- Integration of Christian values
- Accessible and supportive faculty
- Small liberal arts university environment
Accreditation & Duration:
- CSWE-accredited
- 24-36 month program length (1 year for advanced standing)
Financial Considerations:
Competitive tuition costs and available financial aid enhance access to the program.
Discover more about Missouri Baptist University’s MSW program and how it can support your career aspirations in social work.
Missouri State University – Master of Social Work (MSW)
Missouri State University’s MSW program is perfect for those looking for flexibility and quality. This accredited program focuses on producing leaders in the social work field.
Key Highlights:
- Online Accessibility: The program is 100% online, allowing you to balance your studies with other commitments.
- In-Person Practicums: These practical experiences ensure you get hands-on learning despite the online format.
- Affordability: Missouri State University offers competitive tuition rates without compromising on education quality.
- Accreditation: Accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), ensuring rigorous academic standards.
Program Options:
- Advanced Standing: For those with a CSWE-accredited Bachelor’s degree in social work, you can complete the MSW in just one year (three semesters) full-time.
- Regular Standing: For those without a BSW, Missouri State University offers a comprehensive curriculum adaptable to your background.
Field Education:
- Practical experience is a core element. The program includes field practicums, crucial for your future career in social work.
Student Resources:
- Scholarships: Financial support through various scholarships is available.
- Support Services: Academic help, advising, and transfer credit evaluations help ensure your success.
Join Missouri State University’s MSW program to advance in social work with a balanced, flexible, and high-quality education.
University of Missouri – Online Master of Social Work (MSW) Program
The University of Missouri’s online MSW program offers a powerful blend of online learning and in-person fieldwork. It prepares you to make meaningful changes and pursue licensure in the social work field.
Program Highlights:
- Dual Concentrations: Choose between Clinical and Advanced Standing paths to match your career goals.
- Flexibility: The 100% online coursework allows you to learn at your own pace, supplemented with essential in-person field experiences.
- Accreditation: Accredited by the CSWE since 1919, signaling over a century of educational excellence.
Curriculum Structure:
- Foundation Courses: Cover human behavior, social policy, and intervention strategies.
- Concentration Courses: Delve into specialized topics relevant to clinical practice or policy and administration.
- Crossover Course: Bridges foundational knowledge with advanced practice.
Field Experiences:
- Internships and Practicums: Equip you with real-world skills through diverse placement opportunities.
- Service Areas: Missouri residents and neighboring states (Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Tennessee, Kentucky, and Illinois) are eligible.
Program Costs:
- Regular Standing: Estimated at $36,228.
- Advanced Standing: Estimated at $23,548.20.
The University of Missouri’s MSW program offers a thorough preparation for a rewarding career in social work, blending academic rigor with practical training.
University of Missouri – Master of Social Work (MSW) Program
Prepare to be a competent leader in social work with the University of Missouri’s MSW program. Offering various options and concentrations, this program is tailored to meet diverse student needs.
Program Options:
- Full-time and Part-time: Complete the program at a pace that suits your personal and professional life.
- 100% Online: Maintain your full-time job while studying with online coursework and local practicums.
Concentrations:
- Clinical Social Work Practice: Focus on clinical roles within social services organizations.
- Policy, Planning, and Administration: Training for policy-making, management, and advocacy roles.
Dual Degree Options:
- MSW/MPH: Ideal for those interested in public health and policy.
- MSW/PhD: Tailored for those aiming for a career in social work research and academia.
Field Instruction:
- Gain practical, real-world experience through extensive fieldwork.
Financial Aid:
- Scholarships and Financial Assistance: Make your education more affordable.
Ensure you are well-prepared for a vibrant career in social work with comprehensive training and hands-on experience at the University of Missouri.
University of Missouri-St. Louis – MSW Program
The MSW program at the University of Missouri-St. Louis integrates both theoretical education and practical training to prepare you for diverse roles in social work.
Admission Requirements:
- Graduate School and School of Social Work Acceptance: Dual admission process ensures a high standard.
- Advanced Standing: Up to 24 credit hours for students with accredited BSW degrees.
- Course Waivers: Available for students with foundation-level social work coursework.
Curriculum Structure:
- Foundation Year: Provides a solid grounding in social work principles.
- Concentration Areas: Choose between Family Practice or Leadership and Social Change.
- Field Practicum: Key component integrating classroom knowledge with practical experience.
Program Options:
- Full-time and Part-time: Flexible scheduling options to accommodate various lifestyles.
- Area Emphasis: Specialize further in areas like Health & Behavioral Health, School Social Work, or Social Work with the Military.
Student Performance:
- Maintain GPA: Cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better to remain in good standing.
Join the University of Missouri-St. Louis MSW program to gain the necessary knowledge, skills, and ethical foundation to excel in social work.
Concordia Seminary and Saint Louis University – Dual Degree Program in Master of Social Work (M.S.W.) and Deaconess Certification
For those interested in integrating faith with social work, the Concordia Seminary and Saint Louis University Dual Degree Program offers a unique educational path.
Program Features:
- Collaboration: Concordia Seminary and Saint Louis University work together to provide comprehensive training.
- Faith and Practice Integration: Focus on engaging practical social work within Lutheran social service agencies.
- Deaconess Certification: Combines M.S.W. with Deaconess Certification for a holistic approach to service.
- Internship Opportunities: Practical experiences linked to Lutheran social service agencies.
Educational Benefits:
- Solid Social Work Foundation: Saint Louis University’s MSW program provides robust theoretical and practical training.
- Enhanced Learning: Inclusion of faith-based elements deepens your understanding and approach to social work.
If you’re passionate about making a difference through faith-integrated social work, consider this dual degree program to broaden your scope and impact.
By exploring these top MSW Programs in St. Louis, MO, you are taking the first step towards a fulfilling career in social work. Each program offers unique features and strengths, ensuring that you can find the right fit for your personal and professional aspirations.