Looking for classes in a specific city? Check out our lists of MSW Programs in Minneapolis, Rochester, and St. Paul.
Looking for the best MSW programs in Minnesota to advance your social work career?
This article highlights the top programs, offering a deep dive into their unique features, including accreditation, curriculum, and fieldwork opportunities.
Whether you’re seeking flexibility, affordability, or a focus on social justice, you’ll find the right fit here.
University of Minnesota – MSW Program
The MSW program at the University of Minnesota School of Social Work is designed to prepare you for advanced social work practice and leadership roles. The curriculum covers areas such as clinical mental health, community practice, families and children, and health, disability, and aging.
- Program Options: Offers a full-program option for students without a bachelor’s in social work (BSW) and an advanced standing option for those with a CSWE-accredited BSW degree.
- Study Format: Choose between full-time or part-time study, with courses scheduled from Thursdays to Saturdays.
- Social Justice Emphasis: Strong focus on social justice, addressing power, privilege, and oppression issues.
- Practicum Placements: Gain practical experience with placements ranging from 600 to 960 hours.
- Dual-Degree Programs: Opportunities for dual-degrees with the School of Public Health and the Humphrey Institute of Public Affairs.
- Diverse Student Body: Welcomes students from Minnesota, across the nation, and globally.
This program is suitable if you seek a well-rounded education that combines classroom learning with real-world practice. For more details, visit the University of Minnesota School of Social Work MSW program page.
Augsburg University – MSW Program
The Augsburg University MSW program focuses on developing professionals dedicated to anti-racist and anti-oppressive practices. This program aims to promote intersectional racial and social justice in a diverse, global society.
- Core Focus: Learn about interactions between individuals, groups, and their environments, and develop client-centered approaches.
- Field Placements: Apply theories and methods through practical field placements.
- Accreditation: Accredited by the CSWE Board of Accreditation, meeting high standards for program quality.
- Learning Format: Offers online learning weeks and in-person class weeks for flexibility.
- Global Engagement: Engage in short-term study abroad experiences.
This program is ideal if you are passionate about social transformation and global needs. Explore more about the Augsburg University MSW program.
Minnesota State University, Mankato – MSW Program
Minnesota State University, Mankato offers an MSW program with a specialized focus on challenges in small and rural communities. The program equips you for both direct and indirect practice in various settings.
- Advanced Generalist Practice: Covers social work practice with individuals, families, groups, organizational administration, community engagement, and public policy.
- Flexibility: Classes are scheduled to accommodate busy schedules.
- Field Practicum: Work closely with the Field Education Director for hands-on learning.
- Affordability: Competitively priced compared to other public and private institutions in Minnesota.
- Licensure Preparation: Prepares graduates to take the graduate-level licensure exam by the Association of Social Work Boards.
If you prefer a program focused on small and rural community challenges, visit the Minnesota State University, Mankato MSW program for more details.
Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota – Master of Social Work (MSW) Program
Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota offers an online MSW program that is tailored for individuals aspiring to become clinical social workers. This program accommodates students from diverse backgrounds.
- Program Tracks: Two paths – Advanced Standing track for BSW holders (one-year program) and Traditional track for non-BSW holders (60-credit program).
- Study Options: Flexible full-time and part-time options.
- Core Emphasis: Ethical leadership, collaboration, social justice, and diversity in practice.
- Admission Requirements: Undergraduate GPAs, transcripts, recommendations, and reflective essays, with provisional status possible for lower GPAs.
- Career Preparation: Graduates are prepared for growing employment opportunities in social work.
This program is ideal if you want to pursue clinical social work with flexible study options. Learn more by visiting the Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota online MSW program.
University of St. Thomas – Master of Social Work (MSW)
The University of St. Thomas MSW program specializes in clinical social work practice, preparing you to work in various contexts with individuals, small groups, and families.
- Mental Health Focus: Contributes to the region’s growing mental health workforce.
- Flexible Completion Options: Suitable for full-time students and working professionals.
- Field Partners Network: Extensive network of clinical field partners and over 2,500 MSW alumni.
- Supervision Training: Includes 30 hours of supervision training for social work supervision in Minnesota.
- Dual Degree Option: Unique MSW/JD dual degree combining social work with law.
- Licensure Coursework: Post-MSW coursework available for those needing specific clinical knowledge areas.
If you’re interested in clinical social work practice with opportunities for dual degrees, visit the University of St. Thomas MSW program for more information.
Bethel University – Master in Social Work (MSW) Program
Bethel University’s MSW program offers an enriching learning experience combining flexible schedules and convenient learning formats. This CSWE-accredited program aims to develop social workers who can advocate for justice in marginalized communities and integrate evidence-based practices into their work.
- Flexible Learning: Offers full-program options and advanced standing, allowing you to complete the program in as few as 12-21 months if you already have a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW).
- Justice-Focused Curriculum: Emphasizes justice, liberation, and evidence-based social work practice.
- Licensure Preparation: Prepares you for the professional licensure exam and meets the clinical clock hour requirements for the Board of Social Work.
- Diverse Employment Settings: Graduates find opportunities in public schools, hospices, domestic violence shelters, and mental health clinics.
- Core Values: Combines core values with scholarship, service, and leadership to prepare you to address complex social issues.
This program is suitable if you seek to become a social worker with a strong foundation in justice and practical experience. For further information, visit the Bethel University MSW program.
Winona State University – Master of Social Work Program
The MSW program at Winona State University is distinguished by its commitment to community engagement and trauma-informed clinical social work. The program accommodates both Advanced Standing and Regular Standing options, tailored for students with or without a BSW, respectively.
- Flexible Online Learning: Courses are delivered online in seven-week blocks, offering flexibility for working professionals.
- Accreditation: CSWE-accredited, ensuring program quality that aligns with state licensure requirements.
- Social Justice Focus: Promotes client empowerment and social justice, especially for diverse and vulnerable populations.
- Practical Experience: Students gain hands-on experience through field practicums.
- Diverse Faculty: A diverse faculty supports professional development through learning labs and seminars.
Explore this program if you are interested in trauma-informed practice and flexible online learning. Visit the Winona State University MSW program for more details.
University of Minnesota Duluth (UMD) – Advanced Generalist MSW Program
UMD’s Advanced Generalist MSW program stands out with a specialized focus on American Indian social services, clinical practice, and child welfare. This hybrid program requires on-campus presence one day a week.
- Financial Support: Approximately 61% of students benefit from scholarships.
- Practicum Opportunities: Collaborates with over 200 agencies for practicum placements across Minnesota and Northern Wisconsin.
- Program Tracks: Offers Advanced Standing for BSW holders (completed in one year) and Foundation Program for non-BSW holders (completed in two years).
- Career Preparation: Prepares you for multifaceted roles such as therapist, case manager, and community organizer.
If you are interested in specialized practice areas, consider this program. Discover more about the UMD Advanced Generalist MSW program.
Minnesota State University Moorhead – MSW Program
The MSUM MSW program offers a supportive and engaging learning environment with a dedicated faculty. This program is cost-effective and provides comprehensive academic experiences, including online and distance education options.
- Affordability: Competitively priced to make it accessible for diverse students.
- Flexible Format: The program is delivered 100% online, suiting working professionals.
- Field Practicum: Flexible field practicum options tailored to your needs and interests.
- Licensure Preparation: Prepares you for licensure and equips you with the skills needed for various roles in social work.
- Professional Growth: With over 50 years of social work program experience, it focuses on student achievement and professional development.
Consider MSUM if you need an affordable, flexible, and supportive MSW program. For additional information, visit the Minnesota State University Moorhead MSW program.
How to Choose the Best MSW Program for You
When selecting the best MSW program, consider these key factors to ensure the program aligns with your personal and professional goals:
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) to ensure a quality education and eligibility for licensure.
- Curriculum and Specializations: Review the program’s curriculum and areas of focus. Choose a program that aligns with your career interests, whether clinical practice, community work, or policy advocacy.
- Practicum Opportunities: Evaluate the types and locations of fieldwork placements. Practical experience is crucial for real-world application of classroom knowledge.
- Tuition and Financial Aid: Consider the program’s cost and available financial aid options, including scholarships and grants. Balance affordability with the value offered.
- Format and Flexibility: Assess the program’s delivery format. Check if it supports your need for full-time, part-time, or online learning.
- Support Services: Look into student support services, faculty expertise, and alumni networks. These can provide advice, mentorship, and professional connections.
- Mission and Values: Evaluate the program’s mission and values to ensure they align with your own, particularly regarding social justice and diversity.
By weighing these factors, you can make an informed decision and choose an MSW program that meets your needs and supports your career aspirations.
MSW Programs By State
Conclusion: Your Path to a Rewarding Career in Social Work
Minnesota offers a wealth of MSW programs tailored to various interests and needs. By choosing the right program, you can embark on a fulfilling career in social work, making a positive impact on individuals and communities. Explore the options, evaluate your preferences, and take a step closer to your professional goals in social work.