MSW Programs in Little Rock AR - Social Worker Prep

Not in Little Rock? Check out our lists of MSW Programs in Fayetteville, Fort Smith, Jonesboro, Springdale, and across Arkansas.

Wondering which MSW programs in Little Rock, AR are worth your time and investment?

This article highlights top programs that deliver essential skills for a successful social work career. Compare key features like program format, fieldwork opportunities, and specializations to find your best fit.

Whether you seek flexibility or need specific practical training, these MSW programs in Little Rock, AR have you covered.

The UA Little Rock Master in Social Work (MSW) program is a nationally accredited program that prepares you for a rewarding career in general social work practice. This program offers specialized concentrations in Advanced Direct Practice (clinical) and Community and Organizational Impact, allowing you flexibility to tailor your education to your professional interests.

Program Options

The UA Little Rock MSW program offers two main options:

Main Campus Program: Choose between Advanced Direct Practice and Community and Organizational Impact concentrations.
Fully Online Program: Focus on Advanced Direct Practice only.

Dual Degree Opportunities

You can concurrently earn a Juris Doctor or a Master of Public Service, adding a unique dimension to your social work education.

Curriculum Structure

The curriculum is structured into 60 credit hours over two academic years, divided into:

Foundation Year: Covers social work practice, policy, and research.
Concentration Year: Deepens knowledge in your chosen specialization.

Advanced Standing

If you have a Bachelor’s in Social Work obtained within the past five years, you qualify for an advanced standing track, allowing for a shorter completion time.

Field Education

Field education is integral to your training, providing hands-on experience in settings such as:

Mental health centers
Hospitals
Child welfare agencies

Flexible Scheduling

The program supports both part-time and full-time study, making it adaptable to your unique needs.

For more information, including tuition costs and specific requirements, visit the UA Little Rock MSW Program.

The University of Arkansas at Little Rock’s online MSW degree program prepares social workers for advanced practice and leadership roles. This 60-hour program, accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, focuses on clinical social work practices and can be completed in approximately three years. Note that it is exclusively available to Arkansas residents, with field internships required to be completed within the state.

Comprehensive Curriculum

The curriculum involves:

Coursework: Consists of 36 hours of foundational and concentration coursework and 6 elective hours.
Field Internships: Provides 18 hours of field internships, totaling 1,200 practice hours by graduation.

Synchronous Online Sessions

Throughout the program, you will participate in five synchronous online sessions per semester using Adobe Connect, ensuring real-time engagement and interaction with peers and faculty.

Accessible Field Placements

Field placements, coordinated by the program’s field coordinators, are designed to be convenient and enriching, ensuring you gain the practical experience needed for a social work career.

You can find more detailed information about tuition rates and program specifics at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock MSW Online.

Arkansas State University’s MSW program focuses on rural-based clinical social work and trauma-informed care. Designed to prepare you for varied clinical settings, this program emphasizes dignity, human rights, and ethical practice. You also have the opportunity to earn a certificate in Addictions Studies alongside your MSW.

Core Values & Curriculum

The program strongly upholds principles such as:

Respect for Diversity: Educating compassionate and ethical practitioners.
Coursework: Covers rural social work, trauma-informed care, social justice, and relationship-building.
Ethical Practice: Training competent clinicians ready to navigate various social settings.

Accreditation & Licensure

The MSW program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, ensuring the education you receive meets the highest standards. Graduates are well-prepared for licensure in advanced social work practices.

Impact & Advocacy

Graduates are trained to utilize evidence-based theories to make meaningful impacts in areas of economic, environmental, racial, and social justice.

For further information on this program, visit the Arkansas State University MSW Program.

The University of Arkansas, Little Rock’s online MSW program is the longest-running in the state and offers both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in flexible formats. This program equips graduates for leadership roles in clinical or community settings, with specializations available in gerontology and human services.

Key Features

Flexibility: The asynchronous online format allows you to complete coursework at your own pace, making it ideal for working professionals.
Specializations: Options include gerontology and human services, letting you focus on specific fields of interest.
Accreditation: The program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, ensuring your education meets high standards.
Ethical Practices: A strong emphasis on professional ethics, diversity, and social justice prepares you for challenging roles in social work.

Curriculum Highlights

The curriculum is designed to be evidence-based and research-oriented, covering:

Human Behavior: Understanding behavior across the lifespan
Social Welfare Policies: Policies that affect human well-being
Diversity and Oppression: Addressing societal inequities

Admission Requirements

Only Arkansas residents are eligible, ensuring the program stays focused on local community needs. Entry is available for both Fall and Spring semesters, providing flexibility in start times.

For more details, you can explore the University of Arkansas, Little Rock Online MSW.

This online MSW program is designed exclusively for Arkansas residents and emphasizes practical experience through in-person field hours. Tailored for working professionals, this program offers flexibility and intensive fieldwork.

Program Specifics

Duration: The program can be completed in about three years, with no accelerated track available.
Field Hours: Completes 1,200 in-person field hours, ensuring hands-on practical experience.
Cost: The total tuition is $22,980, an investment in your future career.

Learning Format

The program offers a highly flexible learning schedule, utilizing an online format that accommodates working professionals. In-person field components integrate theoretical learning with real-world practice, making it a comprehensive educational experience.

For more information about this program, visit the University of Arkansas at Little Rock Online Master’s Degree in Social Work.

Choosing the Right MSW Program in Little Rock

Choosing an MSW program in Little Rock involves several important considerations to ensure it meets your professional and personal needs. Here’s what to keep in mind:

Key Considerations

Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education. This guarantees that the program meets high academic and professional standards.
Curriculum: Look for programs that offer specializations or concentrations aligning with your career goals.
Class Format: Decide between on-campus, online, or hybrid formats. This is dependent on your lifestyle and other commitments.
Fieldwork Opportunities: Check if the program offers ample fieldwork opportunities through internships or practical placements.
Financial Aid: Investigate the tuition costs, scholarships, and other financial aid options available.

Comparison Checklist

Accreditation Status
Specialization Options
Learning Format (Online/In-person)
Fieldwork Components
Tuition & Financial Aid

By considering these factors, you can ensure you choose an MSW program that aligns with your career aspirations and personal needs.

Conclusion: Final Thoughts on MSW Programs in Little Rock AR

The MSW programs in Little Rock, AR, offer diverse and comprehensive education paths for aspiring social workers. Whether you are looking for flexible online formats, specialized tracks, or extensive fieldwork opportunities, these programs are designed to equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge. Careful consideration of your specific needs and career goals will guide you to the right program, making this important step towards your future in social work.

With the information provided, you’re better prepared to make an informed decision and embark on your journey to make a meaningful impact in the field of social work.

UA Little Rock – Master in Social Work (MSW) Program