The state of Massachusetts is well known for the many colleges and universities within the state. If you want to become a social worker, then looking into the universities and social work programs offered in MA may be the right option for you.
Massachusetts features 20 universities that offer social work programs in total, with 15 of the programs accredited by the Council for Social Work Education. Several of the programs offer both a bachelor’s and master’s degree level program (and some programs offer a social work associate’s degree) to meet the needs of students regardless of where they may be starting in their education and what kind of degree they are looking to earn.
This means that the state has options for students earning their first degree or working professionals who want to expand upon their education. Massachusetts employs the greatest number of people within health services and education, so future social workers who have attended MA social work programs may find themselves with many job opportunities in those areas in the state, as those fields are broad and social work is frequently in high demand.
Social Work Degree Programs in Massachusetts
With all the social work programs available to choose from in Massachusetts, there is likely to be one that suits your needs. MA features social work programs that can be completed online, part-time, or full-time. Below are a few of the excellent options available to you if you are looking to pursue a social work degree in Massachusetts.
Boston College
The CSWE Master of Social Work program through Boston College is a two year program that allows students to choose which educational route they would like to pursue. Students are able to determine whether they would like to specialize in clinical or macro practice. The clinical practice route prepares students to address issues in their community through the use of assessment and diagnostic techniques and trains on the ability to use therapeutic interventions. The macro social work route teaches students how to affect change at a variety of levels within their community. This path prepares students to be leaders within different social systems to address inequality. Within each program, students develop their expertise through a specific concentration, of which there are six options:
- Afrocentric Social Work
- Children, Youth, and Families
- Health
- Mental Health
- Latinx Communities/
- Global Practice
Students who have previously earned their bachelor’s degree in social work from an accredited university have the opportunity to apply for the advanced standing program, which allows them to complete the MSW degree program in one year. The MSW program also provides the opportunity for students to study part time and finish in three years.
Boston University
The MSW degree at BU is a highly ranked program that has flexible learning options to meet the needs of many students. There are four program options, which include an on-campus learning option, online program, off-campus option, and a hybrid program. Depending on which program students choose, they can earn their degree in one to four years. Full-time and part-time enrollment is available for students who are attending the program on campus. The online, off-campus, and hybrid courses are available to complete with part-time enrollment. Students who have an accredited BSW degree may have the option to complete the advanced standing program.
The MSW program at BU allows for students to tailor the program to fit the education and career experience that they have with three track options and two majors. Students attending on-campus can choose from four specialization options. The track options are traditional, human service experience, and advanced standing. The specialization options include the following:
- Behavioral Health
- Children, Youth, and Families
- Lowy Specialization in Aging Practice, Policy, and Social Justice
- Trauma and Violence
Boston University also offers a social work PhD program that has the goal of preparing students for a higher level of understanding of all aspects of social work so they can apply their knowledge and make contributions to the field.
Regis College
Regis College offers both a BSW (bachelor of social work) and MSW (masters of social work) degree program.
The BSW program prepares students for their future goals by teaching foundational knowledge of social work. The goal of the program is to educate students so they will be able to sit for the ASWB licensing exam at the first level. The program is also intended to prepare students to go on to earn their master’s degree in social work if they so choose. The Regis College BSW program gives students the option to take a three year BSW program that would also fast-track their master’s degree.
The MSW program through Regis College is offered 100 percent online. Students will complete the required fieldwork in their own geographic region. The program takes 32 months for the traditional track and 16 for those who qualify to attend the advanced program. Students who qualify for the advanced track are those who have previously earned a BSW degree from an accredited social work program.
Simmons College
There are multiple options for which social work degrees potential students can look into pursuing through Simmons College, including a BSW, MSW, PhD, or DSW (doctor of social work). There are both on-campus and online programs available for the BSW and MSW programs. The DSW and PhD programs are offered online as well.
The BSW program includes courses such as human behavior, social science, and the practice of social work. The program requires 128 credits to be completed for a student to graduate. Upon graduation, students should be prepared to take the bachelor’s level social work licensing exam.
The MSW program has the option for full-time or part-time attendance. Students may also apply for the 16 week accelerated MSW program if they qualify by having a BSW from an accredited program. In this program, students can choose to earn additional certificates such as in trauma practice, healthcare, public policy, and more. The MSW program emphasizes real-world experience through clinical training, and they include simulations for student practice.
The on-campus PhD program through Simmons College focuses on social work through a scientific lens. Students will experience the flexibility of online learning and coursework while working to complete their practicum and dissertation. This program is generally completed in four to six years.
The DSW program prepares students to be leaders in social work by having them work on advanced clinical practice and theory. Students also have the option to pursue the route of gaining knowledge to become educators. The DSW program is completed through an online platform that utilizes advanced multimedia tools that also allow for interaction for a well rounded learning experience.
Salem State University
SSU offers social work programs for those who want to earn their bachelor’s or master’s degree.
The BSW program at SSU involves the completion of five foundational courses that teach students the essentials of social work. Once they have completed these courses, students then apply for permission to continue the program through a process called Professional Readiness. Once students have completed this process, they then move on to their junior year. In the senior year of the BSW program, students complete an internship of at least 425 hours at an agency to gain real-world experience.
The SSU MSW program gives students the opportunity to tailor the program to their preferences by giving them multiple choices for electives and where they can be placed in the field. BSW program can be completed in 2 years of full-time attendance, and there is also an extended program option for those who need more time to complete the program due to juggling other responsibilities. Evening and online course options are also available. This master’s program teaches students to practice social work through a micro, mezzo, and macro systems perspective.
CSWE Accredited Programs in Massachusetts
When deciding on which social work program to enroll in, an important factor to consider is if the program has been accredited by the CSWE. Accreditation holds several benefits to students. Additionally, it has benefits for programs that meet accreditation standards, as the program will hold more appeal to students.
What is CSWE Accreditation?
When a school has been accredited by the council on social work education, it means that the social work programs meet certain high quality standards. The CSWE develops these standards within their Commission on Accreditation (COA). The COA comprises experts in the field who determine what defines a high quality program.
Why is CSWE Accreditation Important?
Accreditation adequately prepares students to sit for the social work licensing exams and ensures that social work programs are teaching up-to-date and accurate information. The focus of the CSWE is to ensure an educated workforce of social workers that are well equipped to serve their communities by promoting equality, understanding diversity, and working to create a just society. CSWE accreditation is also important to create consistency in standards among all accredited social work programs across the United States. This consistency helps social work graduates transfer across states if the need should arise while ensuring that they have met high standards of knowledge that continue to apply wherever they are.
List of All CSWE Accredited Degrees in Massachusetts
Online Social Work Programs in Massachusetts
Online degree programs can be beneficial to students in multiple ways. Massachusetts has several schools that offer online degree programs for those who need this flexible option. The online social work degree programs in Massachusetts are available to students who need their BSW, MSW, PhD, or DSW. The universities offering online social work degrees in Massachusetts include:
- Boston University: MSW
- Regis College: MSW
- Simmons College: BSW, MSW, PhD, DSW
What Are the Benefits of an Online Social Work Degree?
Online social work degree programs are beneficial for students who may have other responsibilities, such as family or a full-time job. Many students who enroll in an online degree program for social work already work in the field, but are attending school to expand their education for a variety of reasons. Attending online allows them to do this without having to quit their social work job to attend classes.
Completing a degree online can also be helpful for those who prefer to work more at their own pace or in an environment that is more comfortable for them.
What kinds of Social Work Programs are Available Online?
- Bachelor’s in Social Work Online
- Master’s in Social Work Online
- Online PhD in Social Work
- Doctor of Social Work Online
Social Work Licensure in Massachusetts
There are several different kinds of Massachusetts social work licenses you can pursue depending on your goals. While the requirements and titles vary slightly between states, the different types of licensed social workers in MA are below:
- Licensed Social Work Associate (LSWA)
- One must have an associates degree or 60 hours of college coursework. The individual must also have a bachelor’s degree in any subject and have completed at least 1,000 hours of social work education.
- Licensed Social Worker (LSW)
- One must have their bachelors degree in social work from a CSWE accredited school. Alternatively, one can complete a certain number of supervised hours of social work experience.
- Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW)
- One must have their masters degree in social work to earn this license as well as complete clinical social work services under the supervision of a licensed social worker.
- Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW)
- This is the highest credential one can obtain as a social worker in Massachusetts. This also involves earning a masters degree in social work as well as completing a required number of supervised clinical hours.
To become licensed as any of these, one must fulfill the educational requirements as outlined above to earn a Massachusetts social work degree as well as any supervised work experience hours required by the state of Massachusetts, then apply to take the relevant exam. The exam is held by the Association of Social Work Boards.
Social Work Salary & Job Outlook in Massachusetts
The average salary for a Massachusetts social worker will depend on various factors such as the level of education and experience that the social worker has, what type of organization they work for, how long they have been working for said organization, their location in the state, and more. A social worker who owns their own practice will make a different amount of income than one who works for a government agency, for example. Every type of social worker plays a vital role in their community.
Social Worker Salary in Massachusetts
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for a social worker in MA is $85,730. Comparatively, the BLS states that the average salary for social workers in the entire United States was $50,390 in 2021. The average salary for social workers based on their education and credentials is broken down as follows:
- BSW average salary in MA: The average salary for a social worker with their bachelor’s degree is about $67,575. However, this salary typically falls between $60,398-$75,381.
- MSW average salary in MA: The average salary for a social worker with their master’s degree is about $77,718. However, this salary typically falls between $70,208-$85,726.
- LCSW average salary in MA: The average salary for a licensed clinical social worker is about $83,500. However, this salary typically falls between $77,000-$92,800.
- DSW or PhD average salary in MA: The average salary for a social worker with a doctoral degree will depend on what career they choose to pursue. If one chooses to become a professor of social work, their salary might be about $115,640 on average. If one decides to become a clinical director, as is the career path for some with a doctoral degree in social work, their salary may be about $102,188 on average. Some social workers with doctoral degrees choose to manage nonprofits, while others continue to work directly with clients. All of these factors play a part in the salary.
Social Worker Job Outlook in Massachusetts
According to O*Net Online, the jobs for social workers in MA are projected to grow 4% in the next decade. Comparatively, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the career outlook for social workers in the US is projected to grow 9%, which is faster than average for all occupations. About 74,700 job openings for social workers are expected to open up over the next decade in the United States.
Popular Social Work Careers in Massachusetts
There are so many different kinds of social work careers, each of them important. However, the type of social work career that one might find themselves in may depend on what is needed where they live. Massachusetts has the need for social workers just like any other state. The social work careers that one might find is in demand in MA includes:
- Clinical Social Worker. A clinical social worker is valuable in MA because they can perform mental health services including assessing, diagnosing, and treating a variety of health conditions, including performing therapy. This type of social worker may also take the role of supervising other social workers. A clinical social worker may find employment at many locations such as schools, mental health facilities, rehabilitation facilities, and more. The average salary for a clinical social worker is about $83,500 in MA.
- Medical Social Worker. A medical social worker may work in a hospital, clinic, retirement home, or many other places to support an individual undergoing medical treatment as well as their family. This type of social worker might be an advocate for the family and help them navigate complex systems and provide emotional support. They might also be in charge of a caseload of clients that are receiving services at a facility. The average salary for a medical social worker is about $74,982 in MA.
What is the Typical Cost of a Social Work Program in Massachusetts
Cost may play a big factor when it comes to determining what social work program and school is right for you. The cost of a program depends on what level of education you are pursuing as well as some other factors. Knowing the average cost of each program level can help you determine how your educational journey might look.
- BSW: $39,426 on average.
Example-
- Boston University: $37,838
- Regis College: $41,015
- MSW: $45,685 on average.
Example-
- Boston College: $40,020
- Regis College: $51,350
- DSW: $55,440 on average.
Example-
- Simmons University: $56,160
- Boston University: $54,720
Social Work Scholarships
Scholarships are one option through which you can help fund your education. There are many websites available that offer options for social work scholarships, such as:
Another free and important tool to fill out is your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This application can help by determining your eligibility for grants that can also help fund your education alongside any scholarships from the resources listed above. The application is filled out each year that one is in school to redetermine eligibility. It is a vital resource for many students looking to fund their education.
Key Social Work Areas in Massachusetts
Social workers who live in Massachusetts or are looking into a career in the area will find that they are likely to become employed in the healthcare or mental health field. The state of Massachusetts prioritizes its citizens mental and physical health, and they have better health resources in both areas compared to the rest of the US.
Therefore, to maintain the health of the citizens in the state, social workers are needed at the mental health and public health facilities to support the community. Social workers can do this by providing case management, clinical mental health counseling, resource navigation, and more. Larger cities in MA, such as Boston, face specific challenges such as addiction. Social workers in the field of substance use can be of help by utilizing their skills to address and assist the community wherever needed, whether it’s in a rehab facility or in a hospital.
Masters in Social Work Degree Programs in Massachusetts
Boston College
(Chestnut Hill, MA)
- Masters in Social Work (MSW)
- $43,140 Tuition Cost
- $30,302 Scholarship and Financial Aid Awards
- Urban Campus Setting
Boston University
(Boston, MA)
- Masters in Social Work (MSW)
- $42,400 Tuition Cost
- $22,614 Scholarship and Financial Aid Awards
- Urban Campus Setting
Brandeis University
(Waltham, MA)
- Masters in Health Policy Analysis
- $42,390 Tuition Cost
- $31,469 Scholarship and Financial Aid Awards
- Urban Campus Setting
Bridgewater State University
(Bridgewater, MA)
- Masters in Social Work (MSW)
- $910 Tuition Cost
- $1,549 Scholarship and Financial Aid Awards
- Suburban Campus Setting
Cambridge College
(Cambridge, MA)
- Masters in Family and Consumer Sciences
- $13,140 Tuition Cost
- $1,809 Scholarship and Financial Aid Awards
- Urban Campus Setting
(Cambridge, MA)
Harvard University
- Masters in Public Policy Analysis
- $37,576 Tuition Cost
- $39,754 Scholarship and Financial Aid Awards
- Urban Campus Setting
Northeastern University
(Boston, MA)
- Masters in Public Policy Analysis
- $39,320 Tuition Cost
- $21,021 Scholarship and Financial Aid Awards
- Urban Campus Setting
Regis College
(Weston, MA)
- Masters in Social Work and Public Administration Policy
- $33,060 Tuition Cost
- $19,479 Scholarship and Financial Aid Awards
- Suburban Campus Setting
Salem State University
(Salem, MA)
- Masters in Social Work (MSW)
- $910 Tuition Cost
- $2,053 Scholarship and Financial Aid Awards
- Suburban Campus Setting
Simmons College
(Boston, MA)
- Masters in Social Work (MSW)
- $33,350 Tuition Cost
- $16,430 Scholarship and Financial Aid Awards
- Urban Campus Setting
Smith College
(Northampton, MA)
- Masters in Social Work (MSW)
- $41,190 Tuition Cost
- $31,450 Scholarship and Financial Aid Awards
- Suburban Campus Setting
Springfield College
(Springfield, MA)
- Masters in Social Work (MSW)
- $31,240 Tuition Cost
- $14,230 Scholarship and Financial Aid Awards
- Urban Campus Setting
Suffolk University
(Boston, MA)
- Masters in Social Work and Public Administration Policy
- $30,672 Tuition Cost
- $13,897 Scholarship and Financial Aid Awards
- Urban Campus Setting
Tufts University
(Medford, MA)
- Masters in Public Policy Analysis
- $43,688 Tuition Cost
- $27,465 Scholarship and Financial Aid Awards
- Suburban Campus Setting
University of Massachusetts Amherst
(Amherst, MA)
- Masters in Public Policy Analysis
- $1,714 Tuition Cost
- $5,541 Scholarship and Financial Aid Awards
- Suburban Campus Setting
University of Massachusetts-Boston
(Boston, MA)
- Masters in Public Policy Analysis
- $1,714 Tuition Cost
- $4,694 Scholarship and Financial Aid Awards
- Urban Campus Setting
University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth
(North Dartmouth, MA)
- Masters in Public Policy Analysis
- $1,417 Tuition Cost
- $4,184 Scholarship and Financial Aid Awards
- Suburban Campus Setting
University of Massachusetts-Lowell
(Lowell, MA)
- Masters in Social Psychology
- $1,454 Tuition Cost
- $5,211 Scholarship and Financial Aid Awards
- Suburban Campus Setting
Westfield State University
(Westfield, MA)
- Masters in Social Work (MSW)
- $970 Tuition Cost
- $1,765 Scholarship and Financial Aid Awards
- Suburban Campus Setting
Wheelock College
(Boston, MA)
- Masters in Social Work (MSW)
- $29,860 Tuition Cost
- $13,963 Scholarship and Financial Aid Awards
- Urban Campus Setting