MSW Programs in Michigan – No GRE/CSWE Accredited Masters

Known for its agriculture, nature, Great Lakes, and vibrant college town settings, Michigan is a beautiful state where one can look to earn their social work degree. The state currently has 33 universities that offer social work programs. Out of those, 23 of the programs are accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). Michigan features University of Michigan – Ann Arbor, which was ranked #1 in US News Best Social Work Grad School rankings.

The social work programs within the state have something to offer all potential students regardless of their educational level, whether it’s a bachelor’s degree program or online graduate degree program for those who want to expand their job opportunities. Social workers are in demand all across the state, so those earning their social work degree in Michigan can look forward to an important career ahead of them that has a variety of options for work locations and what they might specialize in.

Social Work Degree Programs in Michigan

Michigan has many excellent social work programs to choose from. With so many options, it’s important to know what is available. There are options to suit the needs of students who wish to earn a master’s degree, bachelor’s degree, attend a flexible online program, or go on to earn a doctoral degree.

University of Michigan

The University of Michigan School of Social Work began in 1921, with graduate level education beginning in 1935. Since then, the number of students who have been able to earn a graduate level social work degree has gradually increased over the years, and the school has established a reputation of high quality education.

For the past 15 years, UM has ranked in the top two spots of the US News & World Report of best social work schools. University of Michigan offers two degree programs: the Master of Social Work (MSW), and a doctoral PhD in social work program.

The MSW program has multiple pathways that students can take to fit a variety of educational needs. There are part-time programs available as well as an online program for students who may need a more flexible learning option.

In the program, students will learn how to effect change in their communities, work with families, take on leadership roles, and more. The program lasts about two years unless students qualify for the advanced standing program by entering the program with a BSW degree from an accredited university.

The PhD program prepares students for scholarly research in an interdisciplinary environment. This means that students earn a degree in social work and another social science field including anthropology, political science, psychology, or sociology. The University of Michigan offers students PhD multi-year program funding to assist with paying for school. There are also funded health care plans available, as well as funded teaching and research opportunities.

Michigan State University

The Michigan State University school of social work wants to prepare students for a career of innovative social work practice where they conduct high quality research that they apply to better the most vulnerable in their community. The social work programs educate students on ethics, competency, responsiveness, and innovation in social work. The goal of the program is to promote solutions, social justice, and positive change. MSU offers a bachelors, masters, and PhD degree in social work.

The BSW program educates students by laying down the groundwork for generalist social work through teaching students about social justice and public service. The program prepares students for working with a diverse population and teaching them how to solve complex issues through critical thinking and research. The program also prepare students for a graduate level program if they choose to go on to do so.

The MSW program at MSU provides students with courses in social work theory, educates students on policy, provides more information on how to conduct in-depth research, how to ethically practice social work, and provides them with the opportunity to participate in intensive field experience.

There are two concentrations that students can focus on while in the master’s program. The first concentration is clinical social work, which focuses on micro level interventions which is best for working with people and families, such as providing case management or psychotherapy.

Second concentration is on the macro level, or big picture social work. This is for students who want to make change within communities or organizations.

The master’s program has full-time, part-time, advanced standing, or online attendance options for students to choose from. Depending on what one chooses or qualifies for, the program can take 1-3 years.

The PhD program is for students who want to become leaders in the social work field, such as making discoveries and teaching the next generation of social workers about innovative information. Social workers in this role are most likely to be able to effect policy and become leaders of social service programs. MSU’s program is prepared with course sequences to prepare students for this direction in leadership.

Wayne State University

The Wayne State University School of Social Work has been providing education to students for 86 years. Through their diverse student base and community engagement, they are committed to social change. They have provided approximately $300,000 annually to their social work students. Additionally, individuals enrolled in their social work programs will benefit from the university’s connections to over 300 agencies in the community. WSU offers a bachelor’s degree, masters degree, and PhD degree in social work.

Wayne State University BSW Program

The BSW program is offered both on campus and online. It teaches students how to ethically practice generalist social work to help diverse and vulnerable families and communities through difficult situations. The program prepares you to work to engage with research, practice strengths-based problem solving, work to eliminate inequality, and more. Students will complete 120 credits in the program, which includes 460 hours of field education.

Wayne State University MSW Program

The MSW program is included in one of the top 50 schools of the US News and World report of best social work graduate schools. This program intends to let students learn by letting them participate actively in their community. Students will learn how to implement what they have learned in the classroom into the field. They will complete 60 credits, unless they qualify for the advanced standing program in which case they will take 36 credits.

Wayne State University PhD in Social Work

The intention of the PhD in social work program is to produce students who work with the faculty to make a real impact on both the local community and globally through their research and innovation in the social work community. Students of the PhD program will produce a dissertation that will demonstrate their knowledge and professionalism. After graduation, PhD students will go on to be leaders in the social work profession.

Western Michigan University

Western Michigan University’s school of social work educates students using evidence-based practices through the lens of social justice. The goal of the program is to teach students the skills to advocate for those in need to enhance social and economic equality. WMU offers a bachelors of social work degree as well as masters of social work degree.

The bachelors of social work degree at WMU teaches students to identify the issues that cause a lack of human needs to be met and how to alleviate those issues. The program equips social work students with the skills to help promote social functioning of individuals who are struggling under systems that are creating systemic inequality. Students will also gain field experience where they can directly apply their knowledge.

The masters of social work degree at WMU offers two different concentrations between which students can choose. The first is Policy, Planning, and Administration. This concentration is intended for students who wish to go on to become leaders in organizations such as non-profits or government.

Leaders in those roles can make change on a big-picture level, such as advocating for equality with lawmakers. The other concentration is Clinical Social Work, which is for students who wish to assist individuals and families through therapeutic mental health services. This can help individuals recover from a variety of mental health conditions.

Eastern Michigan University

Eastern Michigan University prides itself on attracting a diverse population of students in their social work program that they prepare for a career in social work. The social work program prioritizes “empowerment-oriented” practice, as well as strong collaboration that is spurred by community need.

The BSW program prepares students for generalist social work practice in numerous settings and prepares them to work with populations that vary from individuals and families to larger communities as a whole. Courses in this program are offered during the day and during the evening as well for some flexibility.

Students will take part in a 400 hour agency-based internship, and in their fourth year of study will spend two days out of the week working on this requirement. Students will be connected to this internship through the connections that the university has developed with local social work agencies, who offer placements to students.

The MSW program is intended to be accessible to working professionals who are employed full-time. Courses are offered in the evening and on Saturdays. Per the EMU website, many of the social work students in the program earn their degree within four years by taking classes on a part-time basis in the evening, but are considered full-time students. The advanced standing students earn their degree in two years as opposed to one, as it is at most universities with an advanced standing program.

Students in either program take six credits per semester. In the MSW program, students learn critical thinking skills, ethical practices, and leadership skills that prepare them for the licensure exam. Students have the option of three concentrations: Families and Children, Health and Aging, and Mental Health and Substance Use Recovery.

CSWE Accredited Programs in Michigan

When researching what schools will meet your needs, an important factor to consider is if the program is CSWE-accredited. CSWE-accreditation is beneficial for the school, the students who attend the program, and, ultimately, the community as a whole.

What is CSWE Accreditation?

The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) was founded in 1952, and is the sole accrediting agency for social work educational programs within the United States. As an organization, it comprises approximately 800 social work programs. Additionally, the CSWE also consists of individuals who participate that feel particularly passionate about maintaining and innovating the quality of social work and social work education for future generations.

Why is CSWE Accreditation Important?

CSWE accreditation is important because it creates a sense of trust between students and the public that quality education is being provided by the institutions offering social work programs. This is because social work programs that are accredited have earned the title by undergoing rigorous evaluations by the CSWE’s Commission on Accreditation (COA).

Learn More: CSWE Accredited Online MSW Programs

CSWE Accredited programs also ensure that students are adequately educated to take their licensing exams, which are the same exam across the US. As a result, the CSWE accreditation also ensures consistency across schools. This holds the benefit for students that they can cross state lines more easily should they choose to move by having more knowledge of what the other state might expect from them if they need to transfer their Michigan social work license to that state.

Online Social Work Programs in Michigan

Michigan offers the beneficial option of online degree programs through several of their accredited universities. Students can appreciate having these options available for several reasons. The universities offering online social work degree programs in Michigan include:

Wayne State University – BSW, MSW
Spring Arbor University – BSW
University of Michigan – MSW
Michigan State University – MSW
Grand Valley State University – MSW

Learn More About Online Social Work Programs:

Curriculum

In each semester of your MSW program, you can expect to take courses in counseling and therapy techniques, the needs of different populations, and ethics in the field of social work. In addition to your traditional educational obligations, you will need to complete a set amount of field hours each semester. Your field hours may take you into hospitals, mental health clinics, rehabilitation centers, and more. Most schools in Michigan require between 700 and 1,000 hours of field experience.

What Are the Benefits of an Online Social Work Degree?

Earning a Michigan social work degree online can be very helpful and have multiple benefits to many students for a variety of reasons.

One reason might be because a student is already working full-time and needs the flexibility of an online degree program so they can work and complete schoolwork when they have the chance. Students may also have families that they are taking care of, and an online curriculum offers more flexibility in that area as well, especially for parents or guardians of very young children.

Even students without a full-time job or a family can benefit from online classes. This is because some individuals benefit from an environment where they have more control over their surroundings and the pace in which they complete their schoolwork.

Social Work Licensure in Michigan

In Michigan, there are two types of social work licenses: a Licensed Bachelor’s Social Worker (LBSW), and a Licensed Master’s Social Worker (LMSW). The requirements for each are similar, but have some differences. In regards to the job duties, the main difference is that a LMSW can perform clinical services, such as diagnosing and treating clients for mental health conditions.

LBSW Licensure Steps:

Earn a BSW degree from an CSWE-accredited institution.
Apply for a limited LBSW license to complete required supervised experience hours.
Complete the required 4,000 hours of supervised experience hours. In this step, you will work 16-40 hours under a licensed social worker. You will also need to document that you received at least two hours of individual supervision meetings each month.
Pass the ASWB licensing exam.
Apply for your LBSW license. If you already hold the status of LBSW, you simply need to apply with the reclassification form.
Receive your license.

LMSW Licensure Steps:

Earn a MSW degree from a CSWE-accredited institution.
Apply for a limited LMSW license.
Complete the required 4,000 hours of supervised experience hours. Similar to LBSWs, you will need to work 16-40 hours per week and receive two hours of individual supervision meetings per month. However, you can’t earn more than 2,000 hours each calendar year, so it will take at least two years to earn these.
Pass the ASWB clinical licensing exam.
Apply for your LMSW license.
Receive your license. ‘

Social Work Salary & Job Outlook in Michigan

The average social work salary in MI will depend on many factors such as a professional’s level of education, their years of experience in the field, what type of organization they work for, how long they have been employed there, where they live in Michigan, and possibly even more. Regardless of salary, every employee is vital in contributing towards helping their community.

Social Worker Salary in Michigan

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, (BLS) the average salary for a social worker is $65,180. Comparatively, the BLS reports that the average salary in the entire United States for social workers was $50,390 in 2021. The average salary has been broken down below for social workers based on factors including their education and credentials/licenses:

BSW average salary in MI: The average salary for a social worker with their bachelor’s degree is about $62,159. However, this salary typically falls between $55,557-$69,340.
MSW average salary in MI: The average salary for a social worker with their master’s degree is about $69,034. However, this salary typically falls between $62,363 and $76,147.
LMSW average salary in MI: The average salary for a licensed social worker is about $58,639. However, this salary typically falls between $70,793 and $85,280.
PhD or DSW average salary in MI: Someone with their PhD in social work might make a salary that is approximately $103,488 if they are a professor. However, someone with a PhD or DSW (doctorate in social work) might go on to a variety of careers that have salaries that can range from $50,000 a year to over $100,000 a year. Some of the careers that people with these degrees often have are administrators of nonprofits, clinical directors, and more.

Social Worker Job Outlook in Michigan

According to O*Net Online, the jobs for social workers are projected to grow 12% in the next decade, which is much faster than usual for most careers, with 1,420 annual jobs opening up annually. Comparatively, the BLS reports that the job outlook for social work in the United States is 9%, which is also faster than most careers.

Popular Social Work Careers in Michigan

Each state is unique, with their own particular needs. Social workers can assist in addressing some of those needs. Some of the most in-demand and popular social work careers in Michigan include:

School Social Worker. A school social worker is responsible for the well-being of students in school, such as working directly with families to provide them with resources to help connect them to needed services. They also assess the services that are available in the school and make recommendations to improve said services. Their priority is ensuring equitable learning experience for all students.
- Average Salary: $38,870-$48,536
Medical Social Worker. A medical social worker works directly with clients and completes a variety of important administrative tasks. The social worker might provide emotional support to clients to help them understand the medical system that they or a loved one is going through and provide them empathy. They should be knowledgeable and be able to multitask.
- Average Salary: $62,120-$75,170
Social Worker. In Michigan, there is a demand for generalist social workers, as they perform a number of important duties. Social workers can manage cases, advocate for clients, and those with a license can provide therapy. Social workers are trained to assist many diverse groups of people in a non-discriminatory way and identify who in the community needs help and the best steps to help them.
- Average Salary: $55,557-$69,340

What is the Typical Cost of a Social Work Program in Michigan

Planning for the cost of schooling may be an important factor in determining where you are going to attend your Michigan social work program. Having a general idea of how much it might cost ahead of time can provide some peace of mind. Below is a summary of the average cost of social work programs in the state.

Bachelor’s of Social Work Program: $47,900
Master’s of Social Work Program: approximately $38,457
Doctorate of Social Work Program: Financial information was not available for Michigan doctoral programs, however, the programs stated that financial aid may be available to help students with all four years of their PhD education.

Social Work Scholarships

If you are unsure of where to start when it comes to paying for your social work degree, this is a good place to start. There are many scholarships and grants available online that can help make the process of funding your education a little easier.

First, a good website to know about when you begin to fill out your school applications is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This application can be filled out every year that you are in school. It determines any grants and low-interest federal loans that you may be eligible for based on you or your family income and a few other factors. It is often the biggest provider of aid for many students across the country.

Another option to consider is that individual universities frequently feature their own scholarships, especially for specific programs such as social work. It’s worth asking your chosen university’s financial aid department or your advisor what is available. Information is also often available on the university website.

Additionally, there are many websites online that have compiled scholarships over the years. They usually have a filter option so you can search for the ones that are right for you. The main websites include:

Key Social Work Areas in Michigan

Michigan is a wonderful state with a lot to offer those who live there. However, that doesn’t mean that it’s not without its problems. Like all other states, MI has social issues, and a need for social workers to help promote the wellbeing of the community and improve the community. In the past, Michigan has seen some issues regarding opioid overdose deaths per 100,00 people. Per the Kaiser Family Foundation, Michigan had 18.5 deaths as compared to the United States 15.5 deaths in 2019. Additionally, Michigan also has seen that 29% of adults who reported symptoms of anxiety or depression had an unmet need for therapy in 2021. In general, there is a shortage of mental health care in the state, including lack of inpatient care. Part of the reason for this is due to poor distribution of mental health professionals to people who need assistance. However, Michigan’s governor has expressed a plan to expand and fund mental healthcare, and social workers at all levels, particularly those with influence, could certainly be of help. Social workers who are interested in working in mental health are very much in demand and will be even more so in the future.

Tuition and Curriculum Information for MSW Programs in Michigan

If you want to earn an MSW in Michigan, there are 15 schools within the state that can help you reach this goal. Two of these schools, Michigan Technological University and Northern Michigan University, are located in the Upper Peninsula. The other 13 schools are located in the Lower Peninsula. There is a wide range of tuition costs in Michigan, leading to an average tuition cost of $14,347. You may be able to significantly reduce your financial obligations by applying for scholarships, as the average scholarship award in Michigan is $7076.

If you already have a Bachelor’s degree in social work, you may want to look for a program that offers Advanced Standing options. These programs allow you to earn your degree in as little as one year, since you already know the basic foundations of social work. For instance, Wayne State University offers an Advanced Standing program in two specialties: Innovation in Community, Policy, & Leadership, and Interpersonal Practice

Masters in Social Work Degree Programs in Michigan

Andrews University

(Berrien Springs, MI)

Masters in Community and Social Psychology
Masters in Social Work (MSW)
$23,700 Tuition Cost
$9,242 Scholarship and Financial Aid Awards
Suburban Campus Setting

Central Michigan University

(Mount Pleasant, MI)

Masters in Human Development and Family Studies
$9,855 Tuition Cost
$5,971 Scholarship and Financial Aid Awards
Suburban Campus Setting

Eastern Michigan University

(Ypsilanti, MI)

Masters in Social Development
Masters in Social Work (MSW)
Masters in Social Work and Public Administration Policy
$7,701 Tuition Cost
$4,660 Scholarship and Financial Aid Awards
Suburban Campus Setting

Grand Valley State University

(Allendale, MI)

Masters in Social Work (MSW)
$10,078 Tuition Cost
$3,573 Scholarship and Financial Aid Awards
Suburban Campus Setting

Madonna University

(Livonia, MI)

Masters in Social Development
$15,180 Tuition Cost
$6,117 Scholarship and Financial Aid Awards
Urban Campus Setting

Michigan State University

(East Lansing, MI)

Masters in Family and Community Services
Masters in Human Development and Family Studies
Masters in Public Policy Analysis
Masters in Social and Family Systems
Masters in Social Work (MSW)
$13,211 Tuition Cost
$7,534 Scholarship and Financial Aid Awards
Urban Campus Setting

Michigan Technological University

(Houghton, MI)

Masters in Public Policy Analysis
$13,095 Tuition Cost
$8,521 Scholarship and Financial Aid Awards
Rural Campus Setting

Northern Michigan University

(Marquette, MI)

Masters in Social Work and Public Administration Policy
$8,064 Tuition Cost
$3,452 Scholarship and Financial Aid Awards
Rural Campus Setting

Spring Arbor University

(Spring Arbor, MI)

Masters in Human Development and Family Studies
$21,998 Tuition Cost
$10,391 Scholarship and Financial Aid Awards
Suburban Campus Setting

University of Detroit Mercy

(Detroit, MI)

Masters in Social Work and Public Administration Policy
$34,530 Tuition Cost
$20,104 Scholarship and Financial Aid Awards
Urban Campus Setting

University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

(Ann Arbor, MI)

Masters in Public Policy Analysis
Masters in Social Work (MSW)
$13,625 Tuition Cost
$11,704 Scholarship and Financial Aid Awards
Urban Campus Setting

University of Michigan-Dearborn

(Dearborn, MI)

Masters in Public Policy Analysis
$9,876 Tuition Cost
$3,318 Scholarship and Financial Aid Awards
Urban Campus Setting

University of Michigan-Flint

(Flint, MI)

Masters in Social Work (MSW)
$8,676 Tuition Cost
$3,130 Scholarship and Financial Aid Awards
Urban Campus Setting

Wayne State University

(Detroit, MI)

Masters in Social Work (MSW)
$9,747 Tuition Cost
$4,715 Scholarship and Financial Aid Awards
Urban Campus Setting

Western Michigan University

(Kalamazoo, MI)

Masters in Social Work (MSW)
$9,138 Tuition Cost
$3,705 Scholarship and Financial Aid Awards
Urban Campus Setting