Looking for classes in a specific city? Check out our lists of MSW Programs in Cary, Charlotte, Concord, Durham, Fayetteville, Greensboro, High Point, Raleigh, Wilmington, and Winston-Salem.
Are you considering a career in social work and searching for the best MSW Programs in North Carolina?
This article will help you compare top-tier MSW programs in the state, covering their unique features and benefits.
Get ready to find the best fit for your academic and career goals.
UNC-Chapel Hill – Master of Social Work (MSW) Program
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is home to one of the most prestigious Master’s of Social Work programs in the U.S. If you are searching for MSW Programs in North Carolina, UNC-Chapel Hill should be at the top of your list.
Their program emphasizes core social work values including equal service access, individual dignity, self-determination, and respect for diverse populations. This institution offers several paths to earning your MSW:
- 12-Month Advanced Standing Program: Ideal if you already hold a BSW degree.
- 2-Year Program: A full-time option for those entering the field.
- 3-Year Program in Chapel Hill: Suitable for non-traditional students who need a longer timeline.
- Online Program: Provides flexibility for those balancing other responsibilities.
For non-BSW holders, the curriculum includes 62 credit hours and up to 1,100 hours of field education. Advanced Standing students can complete their degree with fewer credit requirements. The 3-Year Program allows employed social workers to use their job as a field placement if appropriate.
The program offers two concentrations:
- Direct Practice (DP): Prepares you for clinical settings and private practice.
- Community, Management, and Policy Practice (CMPP): Focuses on leadership roles in policy, community organization, and management.
UNC-Chapel Hill prides itself on evidence-based education and global engagement, emphasizing inclusion, anti-racism, and innovation. Centers like the Center for Aging & Adult Research and Educational Services enhance the learning experience with specialized knowledge.
Financial aid opportunities and extensive academic support make this program accessible and beneficial for many students. For more information, visit the UNC School of Social Work website.
NC State University – MSW Program
The NC State University MSW Program offers a strong focus on cultural competence and social justice. This is perfect if you are looking to build your career around advanced generalist practice in diverse settings.
You can choose from two main paths:
- Traditional MSW: A two-year, full-time program totaling 60 credit hours.
- Advanced Standing MSW: A 12-month, 39 credit hour program for individuals with a qualifying BSW degree and a 3.5 GPA.
The curriculum prepares you for practice with a solid foundation in leadership, research, and social policy. Field internships with professional organizations provide essential practical experience.
Accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, NC State’s program focuses on making you a leader in social work, committed to advocacy and interdisciplinary collaboration. For more details, visit the NC State MSW Program page.
North Carolina A&T State University – Master of Social Work (MSW) Program
The North Carolina A&T State University MSW program, accredited since 2000, prepares students with a unique emphasis on multicultural clinical practice. Your education here will focus heavily on cultural competence and appreciating diverse populations.
Offered in collaboration with The University of North Carolina at Greensboro, this joint program leverages resources from both institutions. Dr. Quincy Dinnerson, the program coordinator, ensures that students receive robust support throughout their studies.
If you aim to serve diverse communities with an inclusive approach, this program is ideal. For a detailed look at what they offer, visit the North Carolina A&T State University MSW Program page.
UNC Charlotte – Online MSW Program
The Online MSW Program at UNC Charlotte offers the flexibility you need, especially if you are a working professional. Accessible part-time, this program is designed to seamlessly integrate into your life.
Admissions are managed through the UNC Charlotte Graduate School’s website, simplifying the process. Although the tuition and financial aid details aren’t readily available, the university’s Financial Aid Office can provide these specifics upon request.
Support resources are comprehensive, including advisory services, health resources, and library access. The online format ensures that you receive a robust curriculum and ample support, no matter where you are.
For more information, you can explore the UNC Charlotte MSW Program page.
University of North Carolina at Pembroke – Master of Social Work (MSW)
The MSW program at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke (UNCP) offers remarkable flexibility with fully online, hybrid, part-time, and full-time options. Their advanced standing option can significantly shorten your path to a degree if you have a BSW.
UNCP is committed to addressing the unique needs of rural and indigenous communities, making it an excellent choice if you wish to work in these areas. The program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, ensuring that you receive a high-quality education.
Significant scholarships like the EMPOWER MSWs Scholarship and the OPTIMISE Rural NC Trainee Program help alleviate financial concerns, allowing you to focus on your studies. Specialized training opportunities exist in areas like Substance Use Disorders and Recovery.
For more details, visit the UNCP MSW Program page.
North Carolina Central University – M.S.W Program
The M.S.W. program at North Carolina Central University (NCCU) prepares you for advanced generalist practice with a strong focus on cultural competence and social justice.
The curriculum offers both a traditional two-year full-time option and a one-year advanced standing option for those with a BSW. You will gain extensive practical experience through field practicums, complementing the engage coursework that covers everything from social welfare foundations to leadership and community practice.
This program is ideal if your goal is to work with vulnerable populations. Practicum experiences require 16-24 hours weekly, including Saturday and online classes to suit various schedules.
For more information, visit the NCCU M.S.W. Program page.
Appalachian State University – Online Master of Social Work (MSW)
Appalachian State University’s Online MSW program is designed with the flexibility to cater to your busy schedule. This program focuses on clinical practice skills, making it ideal for those interested in working with individuals and families. The blend of synchronous and asynchronous online classes ensures engaging and interactive learning experiences.
Key features of Appalachian State University’s MSW program:
- Clinical Practice Focus: Specializes in clinical practice, preparing you to work effectively with individuals and families.
- Online Format: Classes are offered both synchronously and asynchronously, providing flexibility.
- Field Placements: Practical experience is gained through in-person field placements.
- Admission Requirements: You need a BSW degree and a GPA of 3.2 or higher in social work courses.
Starting in the summer, the program remains accessible with reasonable tuition rates, at $327 per credit hour for North Carolina residents. For more detailed information, visit the Appalachian State University MSW Program page.
UNC Wilmington – Master of Social Work (MSW) Program
UNC Wilmington’s MSW program is a well-established choice for those aiming for a career in social work. Established in 2005, the program offers several study options:
- Clinical Track: A three-year part-time program for those interested in clinical social work.
- Full-Time: A two-year program for traditional students.
- Advanced Standing: A one-year program for students with a BSW degree.
The curriculum integrates clinical and macro social work, equipping you for roles ranging from mental health treatment to policy-making. With over 900 hours of field placements, the program ensures comprehensive practical experience. Additionally, you have the opportunity to pursue certificates in areas such as addictions and school social work.
Global engagement is another hallmark of this program, with international partnerships enhancing your learning experience. For more details, explore the UNC Wilmington MSW Program page.
Western Carolina University – Master of Social Work
Western Carolina University’s (WCU) MSW program offers different formats to accommodate your lifestyle:
- Full-Time (2-Year): For those who can commit to a full-time academic schedule.
- Part-Time (4-Year): For students balancing work and other obligations.
- Advanced Standing: A streamlined option for recent BSW graduates.
This program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, ensuring high educational standards. Field education is a cornerstone, with specialized placements enhancing your practical experience.
Additional opportunities include:
- Addiction Studies Certificate
- Culturally-Based Native Health Certificate
- School Social Work Certificate
Admission requires a bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 2.85, or 3.0 for the last 60 credit hours. Prior experience in human services is beneficial. Learn more at the WCU MSW Program page.
UNC Chapel Hill – Online MSW Program
The online MSW program at UNC Chapel Hill is ideal for professionals needing flexibility without sacrificing education quality. As a top 10-ranked program, it provides a rigorous, practice-oriented curriculum aligned with the on-campus program.
Program highlights:
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Includes 62 credit hours covering Generalist and Specialization levels.
- Practicum Hours: Complete 400 hours at the Generalist level and 600 hours at the Specialization level.
- Local Agencies: Practicum placements are tailored to your interests and local opportunities.
- Support System: A robust support team helps with tailored practicum placements and career advising.
Courses are delivered both asynchronously and synchronously, making it possible to study from anywhere. Financial aid options, including program scholarships, are available to help manage costs. Notably, the GRE is not required for admission. For more information, visit the UNC Chapel Hill Online MSW Program page.
How to Choose the Right MSW Program in North Carolina
Selecting the appropriate MSW program can significantly impact your career and educational experience. Use these criteria to guide your decision:
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). This guarantees that the program meets national standards of quality.
- Curriculum Flexibility: Whether you need full-time, part-time, online, or advanced standing options, find a program that fits your schedule and lifestyle.
- Faculty Expertise: Look for programs with experienced and well-regarded faculty members who can provide mentorship and a high level of instruction.
- Field Education: Consider the quality and variety of field internship opportunities. These practicums are crucial for gaining practical experience and networking within the field.
- Financial Aid: Evaluate the cost of the program and the availability of financial aid options, including scholarships, assistantships, and loans. This can make a significant difference in managing your educational expenses.
Summary of Factors:
- Accreditation
- Curriculum Options
- Faculty Quality
- Field Internship Opportunities
- Financial Aid
MSW Programs By State
Conclusion
North Carolina offers a wealth of MSW programs, each with unique advantages tailored to different career paths and needs. Thoroughly research and consider these programs, focusing on how they align with your professional objectives. Embarking on a career in social work begins with choosing the right program that fits your aspirations and requirements. Take the next step by exploring the offerings at each institution and selecting the one that best suits your goals.