These 10 top accredited MSW programs on-campus offer a traditional setting for students pursuing a master’s degree in social work. Getting your Master’s in Social Work (MSW) from an accredited college or university is a good way to further your career and advance your earnings potential.
There are many benefits to earning an MSW in a campus setting. From access to research opportunities and faculty mentorships to student support services (like tutoring and writing centers), on-campus MSW programs have a lot to offer. Here’s a look at the top 10 MSW programs in the US for campus study.
Our editors first ranked accredited campus MSW programs in September 2022. This ranking was updated March 2024.
How We Ranked the Best On-Campus MSW Programs
Editors at the Social Work Degree Center ranked the best on-campus MSW schools. We focused exclusively on accredited, reputable institutions. MSW program rankings were based on cost, student satisfaction, and alumni salary. Here are the top on-campus MSW programs.
| Rank | School Name | Location | Tuition |
| #1 | University of Maryland | Baltimore, MD | $15,750 |
| #2 | University of Pennsylvania | Philadelphia, PA | $41,544 |
| #3 | Columbia University | New York, NY | $53,576 |
| #4 | University of Washington | Seattle, WA | $17,514 |
| #5 | University of North Carolina | Chapel Hill, NC | $10,552 |
| #6 | UCLA | Los Angeles, CA | $12,264 |
| #7 | University of California | Berkeley, CA | $12,264 |
| #8 | University of Illinois | Champaign, IL | $15,545 |
| #9 | University of Michigan | Ann Arbor, MI | $27,192 |
| #10 | University of Illinois | Chicago, IL | $14,108 |
1. University of Maryland-Baltimore
The University of Maryland Baltimore has one of the best on-campus MSW programs. This highly-ranked program is a top choice for social work students. The program develops highly-skilled and passionate social workers, as students sharpen their love for social justice and inclusion. MSW students stay active in community service, so they get plenty of hands-on learning. Plus, UMB’s School of Social Work is one of the oldest and largest schools of social work in the United States.
UMB focuses on healthcare, law, and human services. This focus makes it a great choice for social work students since their program contains a lot of resources and funding. UMB students improve the public good by serving humanity. They have a passion for helping others. Furthermore, UMB produces cutting-edge research that takes its impact up a notch. This school values innovation, teamwork, and academic and professional excellence.
Pros
- Dual degree options
- Global learning opportunities
- Large alumni network
- Ranked in top 10% Best Schools for Social Work (US News & World Report)
- Undergraduate research opportunities
Cons
- Out-of-state tuition for non-residents
2. University of Pennsylvania
The University of Pennsylvania offers an MSW program that ranks as one of the best MSW programs, on campus or otherwise. The program comes from the School of Social Policy and Practice, and the curriculum consists of a foundation year and an advanced year. It addresses societal problems, both on a small scale and a large one. This MSW program empowers students to work with individuals and groups, ensuring the wellbeing of others. The program is one of the oldest social work programs in the United States, and its contemporary curriculum has roots in time-tested social justice principles.
UPenn is a private research university with a long history of academic excellence. It combines this academic excellence with a forward-thinking approach to learning. At the same time, UPenn remains rooted in the liberal arts and sciences, so students get a solid foundation no matter which degree they may pursue.
Pros
- Academic prestige and rankings
- Low student-to-faculty ratio (8:1)
- Over 300 volunteer programs, some in social justice
- Research opportunities
Cons
- 7% acceptance rate
- Higher tuition than some other schools
3. Columbia University
Columbia University offers one of the best MSW programs on campus. Its School of Social Work was the first social work school in the United States. It advances social work across the U.S., both with academics and professional practice. Columbia’s MSW combines theory with real-world applications, preparing students to learn how to enhance the quality of life for individuals and groups.
Columbia is a private, prestigious university, as well as a member of the Ivy League. Students at Columbia get to take their learning opportunities to the highest levels. The school is famous for its academic rigor, and it’s been a leader in college and graduate education for more than 250 years.
Pros
- Access to research opportunities
- 6:1 student-to-faculty ratio
- Generalist or specialized practice
- Practicum learning opportunity
- Specialized research course
Cons
- 4% acceptance rate
- Higher tuition than some other schools
4. University of Washington
At the University of Washington, the MSW program is for those who want to stand up for others and make the world a better place. It’s one of the best on-campus MSW programs. Students study advanced concepts in social work, deepening their skill sets to gain an edge in the field. UW also has connections to over 600 field sites for MSW students, which makes it a great choice for those who value hands-on experience. Plus, UW’s research and curriculum are based on real-world applications.
UW is one of the most impactful public research universities in the country. The school challenges students academically and has high standards, both for students and faculty. Students learn how to become informed global citizens, which makes the school appealing to social work students. Seven faculty members from the university have won the Nobel Prize.
Pros
- 14 American Academy of Social Work and Social Welfare Fellows
- Large research and training funding pool
- Nobel Prize winning faculty
- Over 600 field sites for BSW and MSW students
Cons
- Higher student-to-faculty ratio (21:1)
- Out-of-state tuition for non-residents
5. University of North Carolina
At the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, the on-campus MSW is one of the best programs in the nation. On-campus learners often choose this program because it focuses on the most pressing social justice concerns of today. Students learn how to respond to these concerns, building on the concepts they’ve learned in their bachelor’s degree programs. MSW students also build courage and persistence, and they get plenty of academic challenges along the way. At UNC-Chapel Hill, the mission of the School of Social Work is to “advance equity, transform systems, and improve lives.”
UNC-Chapel Hill is the flagship university of the University of North Carolina system. As the oldest public research university in the US, it has a long history of improving lives through academics and research. UNC research has made a difference in medicine, the social sciences, and many other areas.
Pros
- Access to research opportunities and internships
- Dual degree programs
- Large research institution
- Multiple MSW completion pathways
- Preparation for doctoral programs
Cons
- Competitive admissions
- Out-of-state tuition for non-residents
6. University of California Los Angeles
The University of California, Los Angeles has one of the best MSW programs. It has MSW and PhD options, as well as dual degree options for students who want to take their skills even further. UCLA’s MSW program helps students impact social welfare policy. That includes improving equity among families, aging populations, mental healthcare, and more. Students also use their knowledge to take their own lives to the next level, advancing their careers and broadening their own possibilities. UCLA’s MSW program combines both theory and research for a broad educational experience.
UCLA is a top choice for high-achieving students, thanks to its challenging academics and high standards. The school is well recognized all across the United States, so it can provide a springboard into fulfilling careers.
Pros
- Access to many research opportunities
- Concurrent degree programs
- Generalist and specialized fields of practice
- Long-standing partnership with Department of Social Welfare
- Part- and full-time completion options
Cons
- Large university campus setting
- Out-of-state tuition for non-residents
7. University of California Berkeley
The University of California, Berkeley Social Welfare programs are all about promoting social good. These programs make a difference in local communities, communities across the globe, and throughout the United States. The MSW is one of the best MSW programs on campus. It has talented faculty members with public service experience and a deep passion for equity. Students in this program learn theory and practical application. They also learn advocacy, communication, and other important social work skills.
UC Berkeley is a respected school. It contributes to both scholarship and research. It has strong academics, and it values curiosity and discovery. At UC Berkeley, students learn how to apply and expand their knowledge to gain a leg up in their careers.
Pros
- Large alumni network
- Prestigious academic reputation and notoriety
- Relevant, industry-related course topics
- Research opportunities
Cons
- Highly selective admission
- Out-of-state tuition for non-residents
8. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
The University of Illinois’s MSW program empowers students to join the fight against injustice. The social work programs make a difference on an individual level and a policy level. Students in this program learn how to develop real solutions to pressing social problems. The program enhances career preparedness, which offers a deeply relevant and contemporary education. Students also gain real-world social work experience as they study.
The University of Illinois is UI’s flagship campus. It is a leader in public engagement and helps students through excellence and opportunity. It also helps the surrounding community through impactful programs and discovery.
Pros
- Adheres to NASW Code of Ethics
- PhD preparation
- Research lab and extensive opportunities
- Small class sizes
- Top rankings with U.S. News & World Report
Cons
- Large campus setting (56,900+ students)
- Out-of-state tuition for non-residents
9. University of Michigan
At the University of Michigan Ann Arbor, the School of Social Work recently celebrated its 100th birthday. This school’s MSW program is one of the best MSW programs on campus. The program delves into advanced topics, taking bachelor’s degree knowledge to the next level. The program also includes many options for specialization, including Global Social Work, Welfare of Children and Families, and much more. This highly-ranked MSW program combines scholarship and research to tackle today’s most relevant social concerns.
UMich combines deep-rooted traditions with contemporary education. It is a well-respected school across a variety of career fields. The community atmosphere means that students can build important career connections. As a result, this education can benefit students long after graduation.
Pros
- Access to campus and community events and resources
- Dual degree options
- Over 300 scholarship opportunities for MSW students
- Part-time options
- Specializations in policy and political social work
Cons
- Large student body population
- Out-of-state tuition for non-residents
10. University of Illinois at Chicago
At the University of Illinois at Chicago, the MSW program is a top on-campus program. It advances social justice across multiple areas. For example, one of its focuses is racial justice and equity. In this program, students are socially active, and the school of social work is a big reason for that. The MSW focuses on advanced concepts, preparing students to work with disadvantaged communities. The program combines theoretical instruction with field instruction, so students get a balanced experience.
The UI Chicago is a thriving, challenging, and diverse school. Ranked for its diversity, the climate is inclusive. It maintains a low student-to-faculty ratio despite its large size. The Jane Addams College of Social work consistently ranks among the top 10% of social work programs in the US.
Pros
- Consistently ranks in top 10% of graduate social work programs
- Diverse student body
- Faculty who are researchers and scholars
- Real-world social work opportunities
Cons
- Out-of-state tuition for non-residents
Other Campus MSW Programs to Consider
- Arizona State University
- Boston College
- CUNY Hunter College
- Indiana University
- Michigan State University
- Rutgers University
- San Diego State University
- Stony Brook University
- University at Albany
- University of Connecticut
- University of Houston
- University of Utah
- University of Texas Arlington
- University of Texas Austin
- University of Wisconsin-Madison
Frequently Asked Questions
On-campus MSW programs offer in-person interaction and networking opportunities, while online options provide flexibility. Which program you choose depends on your preference. If you want a class setting with structure and deadlines, on-campus might work better for you. But if you prefer more freedom with your schedule, online is the way to go.
Many on-campus MSW programs offer internship opportunities. Some programs require them as part of the degree. Your program might even help you find an internship, paid or volunteer. These practical experiences help students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world social work settings.
There are over 320 CSWE-accredited MSW programs in the United States. Some of these programs are online, while most are on-campus. There are programs that offer advance standing if you have a BSW, and others that have different specializations that help you tailor your degree toward your career goals.
With an MSW, the average pay is $55,350/year. The lowest 10% of earners in this career make less than $36,600/year, while the highest 10% make over $87,300/year. Healthcare social workers make an average of $60,280/year.
Yes. If you’re passionate about social services and advocacy, an MSW can lead to a valuable career. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for social workers should grow 7% over the next decade. Projected growth will lead to about 63,800 new jobs for college graduates, making the MSW degree worth it.
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