Colorado offers a robust selection of online MSW programs through state universities, making advanced social work education accessible to students across the Centennial State’s diverse geographic landscape. These CSWE-accredited programs have embraced the digital transformation of social work education, providing flexible learning opportunities that allow students to balance their studies with work and family commitments. The state’s online MSW offerings are recognized for being among the most affordable options in the United States, while maintaining rigorous academic standards that prepare graduates for comprehensive social work practice spanning clinical services, community organizing, policy advocacy, and healthcare social work.

The Colorado job market presents exceptional opportunities for MSW graduates. The state’s growing population, coupled with increased awareness of mental health needs and social service demands, creates a thriving environment for social work professionals. Whether pursuing licensure as an LCSW for clinical practice or focusing on macro-level interventions in policy and administration, Colorado’s online MSW programs prepare students with evidence-based practice skills, cultural competency, and extensive field experience necessary to address the unique challenges facing communities from Denver to rural mountain towns.

2026 Best Colorado MSW Programs Online

Masters in Social Work Online presents the definitive guide to the best Colorado MSW programs available through distance learning. Our comprehensive ranking highlights top-tier online social work degree options that provide flexible, high-quality education for aspiring social work professionals. These virtual programs enable students to advance their careers without geographic limitations, offering robust curriculum and convenient learning platforms. Colorado's online MSW programs empower working professionals and career changers to pursue advanced social work credentials from the comfort of their homes, making advanced education more accessible than ever. Our expert team has carefully evaluated each program based on academic rigor, faculty credentials, student support, and career outcomes. Review our comprehensive ranking methodology
#1

University of Denver

Denver, CO - Private 4-year - du.edu

Master's - Master of Social Work

Concentration: Mental Health and Trauma - Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Denver's online Master of Social Work (MSW) program specializing in Mental Health and Trauma offers a comprehensive pathway for aspiring social work professionals. Students can select from flexible full-time and part-time tracks, with an advanced-standing option for BSW graduates. The program emphasizes justice-oriented curriculum and provides extensive field internship opportunities across 750+ sites. Nationally ranked #11, the program prepares graduates to address complex mental health challenges through specialized training. Entrance exam requirements are not explicitly stated, so prospective students should confirm specific application requirements directly with the university.

  • Multiple campus locations in Colorado
  • Full and part-time options available
  • Eight specialization pathways
  • Advanced-standing program for BSW graduates
  • $9M in annual student scholarships
  • Average class size of 22 students
  • 750+ field internship sites
  • Online and on-campus programs
  • Justice-oriented curriculum

Master's - Master of Social Work

Concentration: Health, Equity and Wellness - Online Learning - Visit Website

University of Denver's online MSW program with a concentration in Health, Equity and Wellness delivers an innovative educational experience focused on addressing critical social challenges. The program offers multiple specialization pathways, including health-related tracks that explore intersectional approaches to wellness and social justice. With multiple campus locations and flexible learning options, students can customize their academic journey. The advanced-standing program accommodates BSW graduates, and the curriculum integrates practical fieldwork with theoretical foundations. Scholarship opportunities totaling $9M annually support student success in this transformative social work education.

  • Multiple campus locations
  • Full and part-time options
  • Eight specialization pathways
  • $9M annual student scholarships
  • Advanced-standing program available
  • 750+ field internship sites
  • Online MSW option
  • Average class size 22 students
  • Programs in Denver, Durango, Glenwood Springs
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#2

University of Colorado Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs, CO - Public 4-Year - uccs.edu

Master's - Master of Social Work

Concentration: Trauma-Informed Social Work - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Colorado Colorado Springs offers a cutting-edge online Master of Social Work program specializing in Trauma-Informed Social Work. Designed for aspiring professionals, this comprehensive 60-credit hybrid program prepares students to excel in behavioral health, child welfare, and military social work settings. Students benefit from flexible learning options, including full-time and extended study paths. The curriculum emphasizes ethical practice and includes 900 hours of practical experience. No GRE is required for admission, and the program is CSWE accredited, offering advanced standing options and competitive scholarship opportunities for those committed to making meaningful social impacts.

  • 60-credit traditional MSW program
  • Trauma-informed social work focus
  • On-campus, online, hybrid options
  • 900 hours practicum practice
  • No GRE required for admission
  • CSWE accredited program
  • Advanced Standing option available
  • Full-time and extended study plans
  • Fall admission for traditional track
  • Summer admission for Advanced Standing

Master's - Master of Social Work

Concentration: Behavioral Health - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

UCCS's online Master of Social Work program with a Behavioral Health concentration provides a transformative educational experience for future social work professionals. This hybrid 60-credit program offers flexibility through on-campus, online, and mixed delivery formats. Students develop advanced clinical skills across diverse practice areas, including healthcare and community services. The curriculum integrates 900 hours of practical experience, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for complex social work challenges. With no GRE requirement, CSWE accreditation, and options for traditional and advanced standing tracks, students can pursue a dynamic career path in behavioral health social work.

  • 60 credit total program
  • On-campus, online, hybrid options
  • CSWE accredited program
  • No GRE required
  • Trauma-informed focus
  • Advanced Standing option available
  • Application deadline April 15
  • 3.0 GPA recommended
  • 900 hours practicum experience
  • Full-time and extended study paths

Master's - Master of Social Work

Concentration: Military Social Work - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Colorado Colorado Springs presents a specialized online Master of Social Work program focusing on Military Social Work. This innovative 60-credit hybrid degree prepares students to support military personnel, veterans, and their families through trauma-informed practice. Featuring comprehensive training in clinical skills, advocacy, and leadership, the program offers flexible learning options and 900 hours of practical experience. CSWE accredited and GRE-free, students can choose between traditional and advanced standing paths. With priority scholarship opportunities and a commitment to addressing complex social challenges, graduates are equipped to make significant contributions in military and related social service sectors.

  • 60 total credit hours
  • Trauma-informed social work focus
  • On-campus, online, hybrid options
  • 900 hours practicum experience
  • CSWE accredited program
  • No GRE required for admission
  • Traditional and Advanced Standing paths
  • Fall admission for traditional program
  • Summer admission for Advanced Standing
  • 3.0 GPA recommended
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#3

Metropolitan State University of Denver

Denver, CO - Public 4-Year - msudenver.edu

Master's - Master of Social Work - Advanced Standing

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Metropolitan State University of Denver's Advanced Standing MSW program offers a dynamic online and hybrid pathway for experienced social work professionals seeking advanced credentials. Designed for students with a bachelor's in social work, this fully CSWE-accredited program emphasizes justice-oriented training with 1080 hours of comprehensive field practicum. Students benefit from flexible course delivery, affordable tuition, and expert faculty mentorship. The program cultivates culturally responsive leadership through small class sizes and diverse learning formats, preparing graduates to create meaningful systemic change across complex social environments.

  • Fully CSWE accredited program
  • Flexible course delivery options
  • 1080 hours field practicum
  • Small class sizes
  • Affordable graduate education
  • Diverse student body
  • Multiple enrollment options
  • Day, night, weekend classes
  • Online and hybrid formats
  • Scholarship programs available

Master's - Master of Social Work - Regular Program

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Metropolitan State University of Denver's Regular MSW program provides a comprehensive online and hybrid educational experience for aspiring social work professionals. The curriculum strategically blends academic research, clinical skills training, and extensive field experience to develop ethical practitioners. Students engage in 1080 hours of hands-on practicum, gaining practical expertise across individual, group, and community practice domains. With multiple enrollment options, affordable tuition, and experienced faculty, the program equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to address complex social challenges and promote meaningful societal transformation.

  • Fully accredited by CSWE
  • Flexible course delivery options
  • 1080 hours field practicum
  • Affordable graduate education
  • Multiple enrollment options
  • Small class sizes
  • Diverse student body
  • Scholarship programs available
  • Clinical and community focus
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#4

Colorado State University Pueblo

Pueblo, CO - Public 4-Year - csupueblo.edu

Master's - Master of Social Work

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Colorado State University Pueblo's hybrid Master of Social Work program provides comprehensive training for aspiring social work professionals seeking advanced practice skills. Uniquely designed with two entry pathways—a generalist track for diverse undergraduate backgrounds and an advanced standing track for BSW graduates—the program offers an innovative approach to social justice education. Students complete 948 total placement hours, gaining hands-on experience while developing critical intervention strategies. CSWE-accredited since 2019, the program emphasizes creating meaningful social change and supporting vulnerable populations. With no GRE/GMAT requirement and flexible weekend course options, students can conveniently pursue their advanced social work education across Colorado Springs and Pueblo locations.

  • CSWE Accredited since 2019
  • Two entry pathway options
  • 948 total placement hours
  • Face-to-face weekend courses
  • No GRE/GMAT required
  • Colorado Springs/Pueblo locations
  • 30 credits per program year
*Data obtained from: NCES IPEDS 2023 database. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

List of Colorado Online MSW Programs

Jump to City:

Colorado Springs, CO

University of Colorado Colorado Springs

  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Behavioral Health - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 60 credit total program
    • On-campus, online, hybrid options
    • CSWE accredited program
    • No GRE required
    • Trauma-informed focus
    • Advanced Standing option available
    • Application deadline April 15
    • 3.0 GPA recommended
  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Military Social Work - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 60 total credit hours
    • Trauma-informed social work focus
    • On-campus, online, hybrid options
    • 900 hours practicum experience
    • CSWE accredited program
    • No GRE required for admission
    • Traditional and Advanced Standing paths
    • Fall admission for traditional program
  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Trauma-Informed Social Work - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 60-credit traditional MSW program
    • Trauma-informed social work focus
    • On-campus, online, hybrid options
    • 900 hours practicum practice
    • No GRE required for admission
    • CSWE accredited program
    • Advanced Standing option available
    • Full-time and extended study plans

Denver, CO

Metropolitan State University of Denver

  • Master's - Master of Social Work - Advanced Standing

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Fully CSWE accredited program
    • Flexible course delivery options
    • 1080 hours field practicum
    • Small class sizes
    • Affordable graduate education
    • Diverse student body
    • Multiple enrollment options
    • Day, night, weekend classes
  • Master's - Master of Social Work - Regular Program

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Fully accredited by CSWE
    • Flexible course delivery options
    • 1080 hours field practicum
    • Affordable graduate education
    • Multiple enrollment options
    • Small class sizes
    • Diverse student body
    • Scholarship programs available

University of Denver

  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Health, Equity and Wellness - Online Learning - Website

    • Ranked #11 nationally
    • Multiple campus locations
    • Full and part-time options
    • Eight specialization pathways
    • $9M annual student scholarships
    • Advanced-standing program available
    • 750+ field internship sites
    • Online MSW option
  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Mental Health and Trauma - Online Learning - Website

    • Nationally ranked #11 MSW program
    • Multiple campus locations in Colorado
    • Full and part-time options available
    • Eight specialization pathways
    • Advanced-standing program for BSW graduates
    • $9M in annual student scholarships
    • Average class size of 22 students
    • 750+ field internship sites

Pueblo, CO

Colorado State University Pueblo

  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • CSWE Accredited since 2019
    • Two entry pathway options
    • 948 total placement hours
    • Face-to-face weekend courses
    • No GRE/GMAT required
    • Colorado Springs/Pueblo locations
    • 30 credits per program year
*IPEDS 2023 data, National Center for Education Statistics, U.S. Department of Education.

2026 Affordable Online CO MSW Program Options

Exploring online social work degree options in Colorado offers students flexible pathways to advance their education and professional goals. With multiple schools providing virtual learning opportunities across Denver, Colorado Springs, and Boulder regions, aspiring social workers can now access quality education without geographical constraints. Distance learning programs make advanced degrees more accessible, especially for working professionals or those with family commitments. These online options cover various degree levels, including bachelor's, master's, graduate certificates, and doctoral programs. Students can pursue their academic and career objectives while maintaining personal and professional responsibilities. Remote learning platforms enable comprehensive social work education that prepares graduates for impactful roles in community service, healthcare, and social support systems. Affordable and adaptable online programs are transforming educational access in the social work field.
Metropolitan State University of Denver
  • Fully accredited by CSWE
  • Flexible course delivery options
  • 1080 hours field practicum
  • Affordable graduate education
  • Multiple enrollment options
  • Small class sizes
  • Diverse student body
  • Scholarship programs available
  • $8,500 - $12,800 (Graduate In-State)
  • $10,200 - $15,300 (Graduate Non-Resident)
Colorado State University Pueblo
  • CSWE Accredited since 2019
  • Two entry pathway options
  • 948 total placement hours
  • Face-to-face weekend courses
  • No GRE/GMAT required
  • Colorado Springs/Pueblo locations
  • 30 credits per program year
  • $7,700 - $11,600 (Graduate In-State)
  • $12,800 - $19,200 (Graduate Non-Resident)
University of Colorado Colorado Springs
  • 60 total credit hours
  • Trauma-informed social work focus
  • On-campus, online, hybrid options
  • 900 hours practicum experience
  • CSWE accredited program
  • No GRE required for admission
  • Traditional and Advanced Standing paths
  • Fall admission for traditional program
  • $12,100 - $18,200 (Graduate In-State)
  • $20,900 - $31,300 (Graduate Non-Resident)
University of Denver
  • Ranked #11 nationally
  • Multiple campus locations
  • Full and part-time options
  • Eight specialization pathways
  • $9M annual student scholarships
  • Advanced-standing program available
  • 750+ field internship sites
  • Online MSW option
  • $46,700 - $70,000 (Graduate)
*Institutional data extracted from: IPEDS 2023, NCES.

List of Colorado Advanced Standing Online MSW Programs

Advanced standing MSW programs in Colorado are tailored for students who possess a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from a CSWE-accredited institution, providing an expedited route to complete their master’s degree. These programs emphasize advanced practice skills, social justice advocacy, and innovative intervention strategies to address Colorado’s distinctive challenges, including homelessness, mental health needs, and the social impacts of rapid population growth and urbanization. Students gain expertise in areas such as behavioral health integration, disaster response, and multicultural practice while preparing to serve diverse communities ranging from mountain rural areas to bustling metropolitan regions.

Jump to City:

Denver, CO

Metropolitan State University of Denver

  • Master's - MSW Advanced Standing Program

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 36 credit hours
    • Full-time or part-time
    • Fully online or mixed traditional
    • Starts summer semesters only
    • Field placement required
    • 500 hours field work
    • Advanced standing for BSW graduates
    • Focus on justice and equity

Pueblo, CO

Colorado State University Pueblo

  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • CSWE-accredited since 2019.
    • Two entry options available.
    • Requires 900 clock hours placement.
    • Face-to-face learning format.
    • Advocacy and social justice focus.
    • Generalist and Advanced Standing paths.
    • Courses in Colorado Springs and Pueblo.
    • Prepares for advanced social work practice.
*Original data: IPEDS 2023, NCES, U.S. Department of Education.

2026 Affordable Online Colorado Advanced Standing MSW Programs

Exploring advanced standing Master of Social Work (MSW) programs across New York state offers aspiring social work professionals flexible online learning opportunities. With distance learning options expanding, students from urban centers like New York City, Buffalo, and Rochester can access high-quality graduate education without geographical limitations. These virtual programs provide critical pathways for working professionals and students seeking affordable, convenient educational routes to advance their social work careers. Online formats enable students to balance academic pursuits with personal and professional commitments while gaining advanced credentials. Across various academic levels including graduate certificates and master's degrees, these programs represent an innovative approach to social work education in the digital age.
Roberts Wesleyan University
  • 100% online format.
  • 24-48 months completion.
  • 60 credits required.
  • Advanced standing option.
  • $805 per credit cost.
  • Mental Health concentration.
  • Child & Family Services concentration.
  • Fieldwork included.
  • $12,400 - $18,500 (Graduate)
Daemen University
  • CSWE-accredited program.
  • Hybrid learning format.
  • 30% tuition discount.
  • Full-time and advanced standing options.
  • 450-500 hour internships.
  • Focus on Child and Family.
  • Licensure preparation included.
  • Afternoon and evening courses.
  • $20,700 - $31,000 (Graduate)
Keuka College
  • CSWE-accredited program.
  • 33 credit hours required.
  • 500 field practicum hours.
  • 1.7 years to complete.
  • 100% online coursework.
  • Dedicated field placement support.
  • Affordable at $824 per credit.
  • 3.0 GPA admission requirement.
  • $21,000 - $31,500 (Graduate)
Adelphi University
  • 15-month program
  • 32 credits
  • Part-time schedule
  • Half the cost
  • Half practicum hours
  • CSWE-accredited
  • Online format
  • Live sessions
  • $38,500 - $57,700 (Graduate)
Binghamton University
  • Advanced Standing MSW Program
  • Online or traditional options
  • Up to 29 credits waived
  • BSW degree required
  • B or better in BSW courses
  • Includes field instruction
  • Elective options available
  • Focus on advanced practice
  • $11,000 - $16,500 (Graduate In-State)
  • $21,000 - $31,500 (Graduate Non-Resident)
Fordham University
  • Accelerated nine-month completion.
  • Save over $30,000.
  • Part-time two-year option.
  • 500-hour field internship.
  • Online study available.
  • Specialized Organizations and Community focus.
  • CSWE-accredited B.S.W. required.
  • Enhanced earning potential.
  • $20,800 - $31,100 (Graduate)
Marist College
  • 100% online curriculum
  • Trauma-informed social work focus
  • Advanced standing option
  • Two-year degree option
  • CSWE accreditation candidacy
  • Clinical internship training
  • Scholarships and aid available
  • Licensure preparation
  • $13,300 - $20,000 (Graduate)
Molloy University
  • Hybrid program flexibility.
  • 1,200 hours of fieldwork.
  • Accredited by CSWE.
  • Scholarships available.
  • Flexible study options.
  • Combines online and in-person.
  • Prepares for social work careers.
  • Grounded in theory and ethics.
  • $21,000 - $31,500 (Graduate)
Yeshiva University
  • Online program format.
  • 18 months completion time.
  • CSWE-accredited.
  • 3.0 GPA requirement.
  • BSW degree prerequisite.
  • Personal statement needed.
  • One recommendation letter.
  • Official transcripts required.
  • $28,100 - $42,200 (Graduate)
Columbia University in the City of New York
  • One-year program duration.
  • Up to 27 transfer credits.
  • Blend of coursework and practicum.
  • Focus on anti-oppressive practice.
  • Specialization areas available.
  • BSW graduates eligible.
  • B or better required for admission.
  • Intensive six-week start.
  • $45,000 - $67,500 (Graduate)
*U.S. Department of Education, NCES, IPEDS 2023 data files.