MSW Programs in Buffalo NY

Looking for the best MSW programs in Buffalo, NY?

This article highlights top MSW options in Buffalo, tailored to fit your career goals.

Explore accredited programs, flexible learning formats, and specialized tracks to find the right path in social work.

University at Buffalo School of Social Work – Master of Social Work (MSW) Program

University at Buffalo School of Social Work offers both Traditional and Advanced Standing MSW options. Their program is highly acclaimed, providing a rich educational environment with a trauma-informed, human rights perspective.

Program Highlights

• Traditional MSW Program: Ideal for students with any bachelor’s degree. It requires 60 credits and 900 hours of field placement. Completion options include:
  • Full-time: 2 years
  • Part-time: 3 years
• Advanced Standing MSW Program: Designed for students who already hold a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW). It offers a shorter completion timeframe.

Specialized Learning Opportunities

• Hartford Partnership Program for Aging Education: This program provides opportunities for specialized training.
• Behavioral Health Workforce and Education Training Fellowship: Focused on behavioral health workforce development.

Key Features

• Field Education: Emphasizes hands-on learning with 900 hours of field placement.
• Emphasis on Social Justice and Structural Inequities: The curriculum integrates these crucial elements throughout.
• Faculty Research and Focus: High-level faculty specializing in various social work research areas.
• Robust Alumni Network: Extensive network aiding in career development.

Additional Opportunities

• Clinical Licensure Preparation: Courses meet requirements for clinical licensure (LCSW).
• Enhanced Curricular Opportunities: Various additional learning opportunities tailored to student interests.

With its strong focus on diversity and commitment to social justice, the University at Buffalo School of Social Work stands out as a strong choice for those looking to excel in the field.

Daemen College – Master of Social Work (MSW) Program

At Daemen College, the MSW program is designed to prepare you for clinical social work practice, accredited by the Council on Social Work Education.

Program Structure

• Two-Year Full-Time Program: Provides a thorough grounding in social work fundamentals.
• One-Year Advanced Entry: For students who already hold a BSW.

Curriculum Highlights

• Coursework: Focus areas include human behavior, social welfare policy, and ethics.
• Internships: Requires 450 hours of generalist and 500 hours of clinical internships.

Key Features

• Licensing Preparation: Comprehensive support to prepare for licensing exams.
• Flexible Study Options: Includes afternoon, evening, and online formats.
• Scholarships: Opportunities like the Patrick P. Lee Foundation Scholarship.

Admission Requirements

• Specific Grade Requirements: For courses in Human Biology and Statistics.
• BSW from CSWE-Accredited Program: Necessary for advanced entry.
• Strong References: Required for application.

Daemen College’s MSW program fosters a comprehensive educational experience with flexible options and robust support, making it an excellent choice for aspiring social workers.

University at Buffalo – Online Master of Social Work (MSW)

The University at Buffalo offers an accredited Online MSW program, accommodating those who need flexible learning options.

Program Options

• Traditional MSW Program: This option requires 60 credits and 900 field placement hours, completed part-time over three years.
• Advanced Standing Program: For those with a BSW, it requires 35 credits.

Learning Approach

• Trauma-Informed and Human Rights Perspectives: Integral parts of the curriculum.
• Blended Learning: Combines synchronous and asynchronous methods.

Key Features

• Local Field Placements: Coordinated near students’ residences.
• Clinical Licensure Courses: Essential for LCSW requirements.
• Priority Enrollment: Given to students living 50+ miles from campus.

This program ensures quality education with flexible online coursework, ideal for professionals seeking to advance their careers in social work.

Canisius College – 3+2 BA/BS-MSW Program

The 3+2 BA/BS-MSW Program at Canisius College, in collaboration with the University at Buffalo School of Social Work, offers a streamlined path to earn both degrees in five years.

Program Structure

• Accelerated Pathway: Complete a BA/BS in three years at Canisius and an MSW in two years at UB.
• Eligibility Requirements:
  • 3.0 GPA or Higher: Required for admission.
  • Human Biology Course Completion: Must be fulfilled.
  • Volunteer Experience: Relevant experience needed.

Key Features

• Tailored for Psychology Majors: Ideal for those seeking careers in social work and related fields.
• Strong Liberal Arts Curriculum: Leverages Canisius College’s educational strengths.
• Combined Expertise: Benefits from UB’s renowned School of Social Work.

This pathway is excellent for students aiming for an accelerated and comprehensive education in social work.

University at Buffalo – SUNY Online MSW Program

The SUNY Online MSW Program at the University at Buffalo offers flexibility and quality through a fully accredited, part-time structure.

Program Options

• Traditional MSW Program: 60 credit hours over three years.
• Advanced Standing Option: For BSW holders, completed in five semesters.

Curriculum and Delivery

• Foundation and Advanced Year Courses: Delivered online with local field placements.
• Cohort Model: Facilitates student interaction and support.

Key Features

• Accreditation: CSWE-accredited program.
• High-Quality Online Platform: Delivers the same diploma as on-campus programs.
• Experienced Faculty: Students benefit from interactions with renowned experts.

The SUNY Online MSW program integrates robust academic standards with the flexibility of online learning, perfect for working professionals.

University at Buffalo – Master of Social Work (MSW) Program

The traditional part-time MSW program at the University at Buffalo offers a flexible and quality education registered with the New York State Education Department.

Program Structure

• 60 Credit Requirement: Completed typically over three years.
• Trauma-Informed and Human Rights Focus: Core aspects of the program.
• Part-Time Study Format: Suited for working professionals needing flexibility.

Key Features

• Online Coursework: Comprehensive resources to ensure academic success.
• Practical Training: 900 hours of field placement integrated into the curriculum.
• Application Details: $100 application fee, online submission.

This part-time program empowers you to advance your career in social work with a flexible schedule while ensuring quality education.

Continue reading to explore more MSW programs that may fit your educational and professional aspirations.

University at Buffalo (SUNY) – Online MSW Program

The University at Buffalo (SUNY) Online MSW program offers a fully online, part-time format designed for working professionals. This flexible program focuses on evidence-based practice, trauma-informed care, and human rights perspectives.

Program Structure

• Traditional Option: Requires 60 credit hours, completed in three years.
• Advanced Standing Option: For graduates with a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), requiring 35 credit hours, typically completed in five semesters.

Learning Approach

• Cohort Model: Encourages student interaction and creates a supportive educational environment.
• Synchronous and Asynchronous Classes: Combination of live sessions and flexible online coursework.

Key Features

• Field Practicums: Arranged locally to integrate theoretical knowledge with practical experience.
• MIS Support: Technical assistance for online learning.
• Accreditation: Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) and Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).

This program is ideal for those seeking an effective blend of flexibility and comprehensive education with a focus on practical application in social work.

University at Buffalo – Health and Human Services BA/MSW Program

The Health and Human Services (HHS) BA/MSW program at the University at Buffalo allows students to complete both a BA in Social Sciences Interdisciplinary and an MSW in just five years.

Program Structure

• Combined Degree: Merges undergraduate coursework with graduate-level social work training.
• Specializations: Options include Community Mental Health, Child and Family Studies, or Social Gerontology.

Learning Approach

• Interdisciplinary Curriculum: Integrates social science, psychology, and health services.
• Minors: Opportunities to pursue a Nonprofit Leadership minor.

Key Features

• Prerequisites: Requires introductory courses in HHS and psychology.
• Internships and Practicums: Emphasizes hands-on experience in social services.
• Research Training: Strong foundation in research methods and statistics.

This combined degree program prepares students for a variety of roles in social work and direct care management by blending robust theoretical knowledge with practical experience.

Nazareth University – MSW Program

The Nazareth University MSW program is accredited by the CSWE and offers both full-time and part-time tracks to accommodate diverse educational backgrounds.

Program Structure

• Full-Time Track: Complete the MSW in two years.
• Part-Time Track: Flexible for working professionals, usually completed in 3-4 years.
• Advanced Standing Option: One-year completion for students with a BSW.

Specializations

• Trauma-Informed Care: Equips students with skills to address trauma-related issues.
• School Social Work: Prepares for working in educational settings.
• Autism and Gerontology: Specialized training for addressing specific community needs.

Key Features

• Practicum Experiences: Partnerships with over 250 agencies for practical training.
• Global Perspectives: Includes study abroad opportunities.
• Licensure Preparation: Meets educational requirements for LMSW and LCSW licensure in New York State.

Flexible and comprehensive, this program supports students throughout their journey towards becoming licensed social workers with a focus on specialized practice areas.

University at Buffalo – MPH/MSW Combined Degree Program

The MPH/MSW Combined Degree program at the University at Buffalo provides a comprehensive education that merges public health and social work training.

Program Structure

• Three-Year Completion: Combines coursework and field training for both degrees.

Learning Approach

• Interdisciplinary Curriculum: Students earn credits towards both degrees simultaneously.
• Experiential Learning: Includes extensive fieldwork and interdisciplinary projects.

Key Features

• Community Health Focus: MPH concentration in community health and health behavior.
• Evidence-Based Practice: Emphasis on applying research to public health and social work challenges.
• Mentorship and Career Prep: Strong guidance from faculty and career services.

This combined degree equips future leaders with the essential tools to address public health and social challenges, merging the strengths of social work and public health disciplines.

University at Buffalo – Dual Collaborative MSW and MBA Program

The Dual Collaborative MSW/MBA program at the University at Buffalo develops leaders by integrating social work and business training.

Program Structure

• Three-Year Program: Completion requires 48 social work credits, 27 MBA core course credits, 18 MBA elective credits, and a 3-credit MBA internship.

Learning Approach

• Integrative Curriculum: Combines leadership, management, social policy, and strategic planning.

Key Features

• Comprehensive Skills Development: Prepares students for roles in various sectors.
• Strategic Focus: Emphasis on influencing and navigating both social and business landscapes.
• Dual Admissions: Applicants must meet both MSW and MBA admission criteria.

This dual degree program positions graduates to drive transformative change in diverse organizational contexts, enhancing their prospects in social work and business arenas.

Choosing the Right MSW Program in Buffalo NY

Selecting the right MSW program is crucial for aligning your education with career aspirations. Here are key factors to consider:

1. Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) to guarantee high educational standards.
2. Faculty Expertise: Research the faculty’s expertise to see if it aligns with your areas of interest. Experienced instructors can provide valuable insights and mentorship.
3. Specialization Options: Consider programs offering specializations that match your career goals, like clinical social work, trauma-informed care, or public health.
4. Field Placements: Look for programs with robust field placement support. Practical experience is vital for hands-on learning and networking.
5. Flexibility: Evaluate the program’s flexibility, including part-time, full-time, and online options, to ensure it fits your personal and professional life.
6. Alumni Network: A strong alumni network can provide long-term career support and networking opportunities.
7. Financial Considerations: Explore scholarships, grants, and financial aid options to make your education more affordable.

Conclusion: Find Your Ideal MSW Program in Buffalo NY

Choosing the right MSW program in Buffalo, NY, can set the foundation for a rewarding career in social work. Whether you’re looking for specialized education, practical experience, or flexible learning options, Buffalo’s range of MSW programs offers excellent opportunities.

Explore the programs listed here to find the best fit for your professional aspirations and join a community of skilled social workers dedicated to making a difference.

Embark on your journey today; the right MSW program is waiting for you in Buffalo, NY.