Not in San Antonio? Check out our lists of MSW Programs in The Woodlands, Tyler, Waco, Wichita Falls, Abilene, Allen, Amarillo, Arlington, and across Texas.
Ready to advance your social work career with top-quality education in Texas?
Get to know the best MSW programs in San Antonio TX.
We’ve compiled essential details about standout programs that offer unique specializations, flexible schedules, and robust fieldwork opportunities.
Whether you’re a prospective student or a professional looking to enhance your skills, this guide will provide valuable insights to help you make an informed decision.
UTSA – Master of Social Work (MSW) Program
The University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) offers an MSW program widely recognized for its excellence. Ranked among the top 100 social work programs by U.S. News and World Report, UTSA’s MSW program is designed to provide a rigorous and transformative education in social work.
The program offers two curriculum tracks:
- Standard 60-hour curriculum:
Ideal for those without a social work background, this track requires 900 hours of field practicum. Classes cover general social work practice and specialized topics. - Advanced Standing 36-hour curriculum:
For students with a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work (BSW), this track requires 450 hours of field practicum, focusing on advanced social work practice.
Flexibility: The program offers both part-time and full-time options, starting in the fall and spring semesters. Classes are held at UTSA’s Downtown Campus, emphasizing practical and culturally competent social work.
Field Practicum: Extensive fieldwork is a cornerstone. Students work 12-15 hours per week in various community agencies, acquiring hands-on experience essential for their career.
Admission Requirements:
- Graduate application
- Transcripts
- Purpose statement
- Three letters of recommendation
Funding Opportunities: UTSA offers stipends through Title IV-E of the Social Security Act to eligible students, aiding in financial support.
Graduates of UTSA’s MSW program enjoy high state licensing exam pass rates and are known for their significant community impact. For more information, visit the UTSA Master of Social Work program.
Our Lady of the Lake University – Master of Social Work (MSW)
Our Lady of the Lake University (OLLU) offers an accredited MSW program through its esteemed Worden School of Social Service, the first of its kind in Texas. The program emphasizes social work practice with Hispanic children and families.
OLLU’s MSW program offers two tracks:
- Advanced Standing (30 credits):
Designed for students with a BSW, this track can be completed more quickly. - Foundation (57 credits):
Suitable for those without a BSW, this track covers a broad range of generalist and specialized practice areas.
Flexibility: A hybrid format with evening and online classes makes it suitable for working professionals.
Core Curriculum and Specializations: Courses include:
- Generalist practice
- Social welfare policy
- Human behavior
- Social work with Hispanic populations
Internship Opportunities: Leveraging partnerships with social service agencies, the program offers invaluable practical experiences.
Business Essentials Certificate: Students can also earn a Certificate in Business Essentials for Health Care Professionals, enhancing their understanding of healthcare management.
Admission Requirements:
- Official transcripts
- Purpose statement
- Three recommendation letters
Tuition: Competitive rates with various financial aid options available.
For more details, explore the OLLU Master of Social Work program.
The University of Texas at San Antonio – Master of Social Work (MSW) Program
The University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) offers a robust MSW program through its Department of Social Work, accredited by the CSWE since 2008. This program is dedicated to fostering inclusive, culturally competent social work practice.
Core Values: The program emphasizes social responsibility, cultural competence, and community collaboration.
Student Experience: With over 200 students currently enrolled, the program offers a diverse and inclusive learning environment.
Field Education: The program provides extensive field practicum experiences, preparing students for real-world practice.
Title IV-E (SWEPT) Program: Extending the program’s reach to Corpus Christi, this initiative offers additional learning opportunities for students.
The MSW program at UTSA is well-regarded for its high state licensing exam pass rates and impactful community contributions. For more information, visit the UTSA Department of Social Work.
University of Kentucky – Army MSW Program
The University of Kentucky’s Army MSW program, offered at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, TX, is tailored for those pursuing diverse social work practice areas, including healthcare, clinical, policy practice, and community organizing.
Accreditation: The program is fully accredited by the CSWE and is known for its high clinical licensing pass rates, consistently above the national average.
Program Format:
- Hybrid and online options
- Full-time and part-time tracks available
Curriculum: The advanced generalist curriculum prepares students for various practice levels, from micro to macro.
Certificates: Various certificate options are available, such as:
- Clinical social work
- Child welfare
- Military behavioral health
Research Opportunities: The College of Social Work’s research centers and labs provide extensive practice and research opportunities.
Pathways: Choose between regular (two-year) or advanced standing (one-year) pathways, depending on your academic background.
Career Support: The program provides strong career support, including diverse field placements and robust student support structures.
For more information, explore the University of Kentucky Army MSW program.
St. Mary’s University – Master of Social Work (MSW)
St. Mary’s University offers a versatile Master of Social Work (MSW) program, emphasizing ethical leadership and the common good. The program is known for fostering an inclusive and diverse student environment, guided by a dedicated faculty committed to student success. St. Mary’s University provides a variety of concentration areas, making it suitable for students with different professional aspirations.
Concentrations and Certificates
- Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- Communication Studies
- Industrial/Organizational Psychology
- Business Essentials for Health Care Professionals
St. Mary’s also offers certificates in several fields, including Theology, U.S. Public History, and Cybersecurity, enabling students to tailor their education to their personal and professional interests.
Admission Requirements
Prospective students must meet specific program prerequisites and provide:
- Official degree-granting transcripts
- Letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose
Applicants can further explore their options by scheduling meetings with a Graduate Admission Counselor to discuss academic programs, admissions, and financial aid. St. Mary’s Graduate Center for Excellence offers additional support, resources, and guidance throughout the academic journey.
Supporting Your Journey
Although specific program costs are not listed on the university’s website, detailed information can be obtained by contacting the Graduate Admission Office. For more information about St. Mary’s MSW program, visit St. Mary’s University Graduate Admission.
Our Lady of the Lake University – Master of Social Work (MSW) Program (RGV)
The Master of Social Work program at Our Lady of the Lake University (OLLU) in the Rio Grande Valley focuses on serving Hispanic children and families. This program is fully accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) and designed to accommodate working professionals through a blend of evening and online classes.
Program Highlights
- Hybrid Format: Evening and online classes for flexible learning
- Cultural Competence: Special focus on serving Hispanic/Latin@ communities
- Diverse Curriculum: Generalist practice, social welfare policy, human behavior, and lifespan services
Field education is a vital component, providing students with practical experiences that are essential for professional development. This program ensures graduates are well-equipped to meet the needs of the communities they serve.
Admission Process
Prospective students are required to submit:
- Official transcripts
- Personal statement
- Letters of recommendation
- Resume
Applications are reviewed comprehensively, with GPA and other materials considered. For more detailed information, visit the OLLU RGV MSW program.
Our Lady of the Lake University – Master of Social Work (MSW) Program (Online)
Our Lady of the Lake University (OLLU) offers an online Master of Social Work (MSW) program that caters to students seeking flexibility while pursuing advanced social work education. This program is designed to support those targeting careers in serving diverse populations, with a unique focus on the Hispanic community.
Program Options
- Advanced Standing (30 credits): For students with a BSW, completed in 11-20 months
- Foundation (57 credits): For students from other undergraduate backgrounds, completed in as few as two years
Tuition
- Foundation program: $56,487
- Advanced Standing program: $29,730
Flexibility and Support
The program includes six start dates per year, providing adaptability for diverse schedules. Field education is central, offering practical hands-on learning opportunities. The program also supports military students, accepting various educational benefits. Financial aid options are available to ease the financial burden.
For more details, visit the OLLU Online MSW program.
Choosing the Right MSW Program in San Antonio
When selecting an MSW program in San Antonio, consider the following key factors:
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) to guarantee that it meets industry standards and is recognized by employers.
- Curriculum: Look for a comprehensive curriculum that covers various aspects of social work practice, including both generalist and specialized courses that align with your career goals.
- Faculty Expertise: Seek programs with faculty who have extensive experience and can provide valuable insights from their professional backgrounds.
- Fieldwork Opportunities: Assess the quality and diversity of fieldwork placements to ensure you gain hands-on experience in different community settings.
- Career Support Services: Programs that offer robust career support services, such as job placement assistance, networking opportunities, and mentorship programs, can significantly impact your transition into professional practice.
- Financial Aid: Investigate scholarship, stipend, and loan forgiveness options that can reduce the financial burden of your education.
- Program Flexibility: For working professionals, hybrid and online formats offer the flexibility needed to balance work, family, and education commitments.
Evaluate these factors carefully to choose an MSW program that aligns with your personal needs and professional aspirations.
A Final Word on MSW Programs in San Antonio
Choosing the right Master of Social Work (MSW) program in San Antonio is a crucial step for advancing your career in social work. Each program offers unique features, from flexible learning formats and specialized concentrations to extensive field practicum opportunities. By considering factors such as accreditation, curriculum, faculty expertise, and financial aid, you can select a program that best fits your career goals and personal circumstances. Take the next step today by exploring these programs further or reaching out to admissions offices for more detailed information.