Massachusetts stands at the forefront of social work education innovation, with numerous CSWE-accredited online Master of Social Work programs that reflect the Commonwealth’s legacy of educational excellence and progressive social reform. The Bay State’s robust online MSW landscape serves students across its diverse regions, from the academic corridors of Boston and Cambridge to the post-industrial cities of Springfield and Worcester, and the scenic Berkshire communities, ensuring that advanced social work education remains accessible throughout Massachusetts’s varied urban, suburban, and rural environments. These programs showcase distinctive specialization areas that capitalize on Massachusetts’s strengths, including healthcare social work and medical ethics, educational advocacy and school-based interventions, technology-enhanced practice and digital mental health, immigrant and refugee services, and social entrepreneurship—tracks that prepare graduates to excel in the state’s knowledge-based economy and internationally recognized healthcare and education sectors.

The online MSW educational framework in Massachusetts emphasizes research-informed practice and social innovation, aligning with the state’s reputation for academic rigor and pioneering approaches to social justice. Programs are carefully structured to fulfill Massachusetts’s LICSW licensing pathway requirements while cultivating advanced competencies in evidence-based practice, program development, and interdisciplinary collaboration that are essential in the state’s highly competitive and credential-conscious professional environment. Massachusetts MSW graduates benefit from exceptional career opportunities within world-renowned healthcare networks, prestigious universities, cutting-edge technology companies with corporate social responsibility initiatives, influential advocacy organizations, and state government agencies, with particular demand for social workers skilled in areas such as autism spectrum services, elder care innovation, substance use treatment, and community-based participatory research that address the Commonwealth’s demographic trends and commitment to maintaining its position as a leader in social welfare innovation and implementation.

2026 Best Massachusetts MSW Programs Online

Discover the top Massachusetts MSW programs that can be completed online through our comprehensive rankings at MastersInSocialWorkOnline.org. Our expert team has carefully evaluated distance learning options that provide flexibility for working professionals seeking advanced social work education. These virtual programs offer students the opportunity to earn a high-quality Master of Social Work degree without geographic constraints, making advanced education more accessible than ever. Online MSW programs in Massachusetts combine rigorous academic training with the convenience of remote learning, allowing students to balance personal and professional commitments while advancing their careers in social services. Each program is assessed on critical factors including curriculum quality, faculty expertise, and student support services. Learn more about our ranking methodology.
#1

Simmons University

Boston, MA - Private 4-year - simmons.edu

Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)

Online Learning - Visit Website

Simmons University delivers a dynamic online Master of Social Work program meticulously designed for ambitious clinical social workers seeking comprehensive professional development. This CSWE-accredited curriculum empowers students through flexible learning pathways ranging from 9 to 40 months, accommodating diverse academic and professional schedules. Students complete 34-65 graduate credits while gaining substantial practical experience through over 1,000 practicum hours. Notably, the program requires no GRE for admission, offers three annual cohort start dates, and provides optional advanced certificate programs in Mental Health, Trauma, and Military Practice. As a military-friendly institution, Simmons University prioritizes accessibility and practical skill development for aspiring social work professionals.

  • CSWE-accredited online MSW program
  • 9-40 months completion time
  • Multiple program tracks available
  • Advanced Standing for BSW graduates
  • 1,000+ practicum hours
  • No GRE required
  • Three annual cohort start dates
  • Scholarships available
  • Optional certificate programs
  • Interactive online classroom
#2

Gordon College

Wenham, MA - Private 4-year - gordon.edu

Master's - 4+1 Master of Social Work

Concentration: Clinical Practice, Child and Family Services, Community Practice and Administration, Advanced Generalist - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Gordon College's 4+1 Master of Social Work program offers an innovative, hybrid online pathway for aspiring social work professionals. Specializing in Clinical Practice, the program enables students to complete their master's degree in just five years through a flexible digital learning environment. By partnering with Roberts Wesleyan and Dordt Universities, students can access a cost-effective curriculum that prepares them for LCSW licensure. The program uniquely integrates faith-based learning with comprehensive social work training, providing multiple concentration options including Child and Family Services, Community Practice, and Advanced Generalist tracks. Military-friendly and designed for working professionals, the program eliminates relocation requirements and offers accelerated scheduling.

  • 4+1 MSW partnership program
  • Two track options available
  • Online degree program
  • Multiple concentration choices
  • Prepares for LCSW licensure
  • Faith-integrated curriculum
  • Faster and cheaper option
  • No relocation required
  • Flexible course scheduling
  • Christian institutional partnership

Master's - 4+1 Master of Social Work

Concentration: Child and Family Services - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Gordon College's 4+1 Master of Social Work program with a Child and Family Services concentration provides a transformative online educational experience. Through a collaborative partnership with Roberts Wesleyan and Dordt Universities, students can complete their master's degree in an accelerated five-year timeline. The hybrid program emphasizes flexible learning, preparing graduates for clinical social work licensure while integrating faith-based perspectives. Designed for ambitious professionals, the curriculum offers comprehensive training in child welfare, community intervention, and social service administration. Students benefit from a career-focused approach, lower overall program costs, and the ability to pursue advanced social work practice without geographical constraints.

  • 4+1 MSW partnership program
  • Online degree options
  • Multiple concentration tracks
  • Integrates faith and learning
  • Prepares for LCSW licensure
  • Accelerated five-year timeline
  • Christian institutional partnership
  • Flexible course scheduling
  • Career-focused curriculum
  • No relocation required

Master's - 4+1 Master of Social Work

Concentration: Community Practice and Administration - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Gordon College's 4+1 Master of Social Work program, focusing on Community Practice and Administration, offers a dynamic online learning experience for aspiring social service leaders. This innovative degree pathway combines faith-integrated education with practical professional training, enabling students to complete their master's in just five years. The program provides specialized preparation in community development, organizational management, and social welfare administration. Through partnerships with Dordt and Roberts Wesleyan Universities, students access a flexible, cost-effective curriculum designed to prepare compassionate practitioners for diverse social work roles. The hybrid program supports LCSW licensure preparation and offers multiple concentration options.

  • 4+1 Accelerated MSW Program
  • Online and Flexible Learning
  • Two Partnership Track Options
  • Multiple Concentration Choices
  • Christian Faith Integration
  • Preparation for LCSW Licensure
  • Partnered with Dordt/Roberts Wesleyan
  • No Relocation Required
  • Faster Degree Completion
  • Lower Overall Program Cost
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#3

Springfield College

Springfield, MA - Private 4-year - springfield.edu

Master's - Master of Social Work

Concentration: Advanced Generalist Practice - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Springfield College's online Master of Social Work program specializes in Advanced Generalist Practice, offering a comprehensive 60-credit curriculum designed to cultivate transformative social work skills. The program provides flexible learning through fully online and hybrid formats with multiple semester start dates. CSWE-accredited and strategically structured, students develop expertise in addressing complex social challenges across individual, family, group, and community levels. Graduates can pursue professional licensure nationwide, with practicum experiences spanning four semesters. The program accommodates working professionals through synchronous and asynchronous class options, enabling students to complete their degree within 2-3 years while gaining advanced intervention capabilities.

  • 60-credit MSW program
  • 100% online and on-campus options
  • Advanced generalist practice concentration
  • CSWE accredited program
  • Flexible start dates: Fall, Spring, Summer
  • Complete in 2-3 years
  • Practicum required for four semesters
  • Classes weekday/evening options
  • Synchronous and asynchronous classes
  • Expert practitioner faculty

Master's - Master of Social Work: Advanced Standing Program

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Springfield College's Advanced Standing MSW program offers an accelerated 33-credit pathway specifically tailored for BSW graduates seeking rapid professional advancement. This online and hybrid program prepares social work professionals to address intricate social challenges through evidence-based interventions. Designed for working professionals, the program features flexible weekend and weekday learning formats with 100% online course options. Students complete a comprehensive 500-hour practicum internship while developing sophisticated skills in individual, family, and community interventions. With fall and summer start dates, the CSWE-accredited program emphasizes professional licensure preparation and promotes economic and social justice principles.

  • 33-credit advanced standing MSW
  • 100% online and on-campus options
  • CSWE accredited program
  • Fall and summer start dates
  • 500-hour practicum internship
  • BSW required within five years
  • Weekday and weekend programs
  • Evidence-based curriculum
  • Professional licensure preparation
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#4

College of Our Lady of the Elms

Chicopee, MA - Private 4-year - elms.edu

Master's - Master of Social Work

Concentration: Primary Care Clinical Social Work - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Elms College's online Master of Social Work (MSW) program specializing in Primary Care Clinical Social Work offers a dynamic learning experience. Through a hybrid format, students engage in flexible Saturday and weeknight classes, gaining comprehensive skills in clinical practice. The program stands out with no GRE requirement and advanced standing for BSW graduates, allowing faster degree completion. Students complete 900 hours of practicum, developing expertise in primary care settings. With pre-candidacy CSWE accreditation and a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA, the program prepares social work professionals for nuanced clinical interventions in healthcare environments.

  • Flexible Saturday/weeknight classes
  • Two specialized practice tracks
  • 900 hours practicum experience
  • No GRE required
  • 3.0 undergraduate GPA minimum
  • Advanced standing for BSW graduates
  • Elective options across graduate programs
  • Pre-candidacy CSWE accreditation
  • 500 hours practicum for advanced standing

Master's - Master of Social Work

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

The online MSW program at Elms College focuses on Macro Social Work, providing students an innovative pathway to create systemic change. Through a hybrid learning model, students explore community organization, policy development, and social justice strategies. The program requires no GRE and offers advanced standing for BSW graduates, enabling accelerated progression. With 900 practicum hours, students gain practical experience in creating organizational and community-level interventions. Featuring weeknight and Saturday classes, the program supports working professionals seeking to drive social transformation through strategic macro-level approaches.

  • Two specialization tracks available
  • No GRE required
  • 900 hours practicum experience
  • Advanced standing for BSW graduates
  • Weeknight and Saturday classes
  • 3.0 minimum undergraduate GPA
  • Pre-candidacy CSWE accreditation
  • Tuition discounts for partners
  • Electives across graduate programs
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#5

Anna Maria College

Paxton, MA - Private 4-year - annamaria.edu

Master's - MSW

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Anna Maria College offers a comprehensive online and hybrid Master of Social Work (MSW) program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education. Designed for aspiring social work professionals, the advanced generalist program provides flexible learning pathways including full-time, part-time, and advanced standing tracks. Students can start in fall or spring semesters, completing 62 credits with extensive fieldwork experience totaling 1,070 hours. The curriculum emphasizes social justice, diversity, and ethical practice, enabling students to develop critical skills for transformative community impact. As a Roman Catholic and military-friendly institution, the program offers unique opportunities for professional growth and meaningful social engagement.

  • CSWE Accredited Program
  • On-campus and online options
  • Full-time: 62 credits, 2 years
  • Part-time: 62 credits, 4 years
  • Advanced Standing available
  • 1,070 total field education hours
  • Advanced Generalist Practice Model
  • Concurrent classwork and fieldwork
  • Start terms: Fall and Spring
  • Alumni tuition discount
*Data source: NCES, IPEDS 2023 institutional survey.

List of Massachusetts Online MSW Programs

Jump to City:

Boston, MA

Simmons University

  • Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)

    Online Learning - Website

    • CSWE-accredited online MSW program
    • 9-40 months completion time
    • Multiple program tracks available
    • Advanced Standing for BSW graduates
    • 1,000+ practicum hours
    • No GRE required
    • Three annual cohort start dates
    • Scholarships available

Chicopee, MA

College of Our Lady of the Elms

  • Master's - Master of Social Work

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

    • Two specialization tracks available
    • No GRE required
    • 900 hours practicum experience
    • Advanced standing for BSW graduates
    • Weeknight and Saturday classes
    • 3.0 minimum undergraduate GPA
    • Pre-candidacy CSWE accreditation
    • Tuition discounts for partners
  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Primary Care Clinical Social Work - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Flexible Saturday/weeknight classes
    • Two specialized practice tracks
    • 900 hours practicum experience
    • No GRE required
    • 3.0 undergraduate GPA minimum
    • Advanced standing for BSW graduates
    • Elective options across graduate programs
    • Pre-candidacy CSWE accreditation

Paxton, MA

Anna Maria College

  • Master's - MSW

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • CSWE Accredited Program
    • On-campus and online options
    • Full-time: 62 credits, 2 years
    • Part-time: 62 credits, 4 years
    • Advanced Standing available
    • 1,070 total field education hours
    • Advanced Generalist Practice Model
    • Concurrent classwork and fieldwork

Springfield, MA

Springfield College

  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Advanced Generalist Practice - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 60-credit MSW program
    • 100% online and on-campus options
    • Advanced generalist practice concentration
    • CSWE accredited program
    • Flexible start dates: Fall, Spring, Summer
    • Complete in 2-3 years
    • Practicum required for four semesters
    • Classes weekday/evening options
  • Master's - Master of Social Work: Advanced Standing Program

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 33-credit advanced standing MSW
    • 100% online and on-campus options
    • CSWE accredited program
    • Fall and summer start dates
    • 500-hour practicum internship
    • BSW required within five years
    • Weekday and weekend programs
    • Evidence-based curriculum

Wenham, MA

Gordon College

  • Master's - 4+1 Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Child and Family Services - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 4+1 MSW partnership program
    • Online degree options
    • Multiple concentration tracks
    • Integrates faith and learning
    • Prepares for LCSW licensure
    • Accelerated five-year timeline
    • Christian institutional partnership
    • Flexible course scheduling
  • Master's - 4+1 Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Clinical Practice, Child and Family Services, Community Practice and Administration, Advanced Generalist - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 4+1 MSW partnership program
    • Two track options available
    • Online degree program
    • Multiple concentration choices
    • Prepares for LCSW licensure
    • Faith-integrated curriculum
    • Faster and cheaper option
    • No relocation required
  • Master's - 4+1 Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Community Practice and Administration - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 4+1 Accelerated MSW Program
    • Online and Flexible Learning
    • Two Partnership Track Options
    • Multiple Concentration Choices
    • Christian Faith Integration
    • Preparation for LCSW Licensure
    • Partnered with Dordt/Roberts Wesleyan
    • No Relocation Required
*Based on data from: IPEDS 2023, provided by the National Center for Education Statistics.

2026 Affordable Online Massachusetts MSW Program Options

Massachusetts offers several flexible online programs for students pursuing social work education across various degree levels. With options ranging from bachelor's to doctoral degrees, learners can access high-quality distance learning opportunities that accommodate busy schedules and personal commitments. Virtual social work programs provide critical pathways for professionals and students in major urban areas like Boston, Worcester, and Springfield, enabling accessible education without geographical constraints. These remote learning options help students develop essential skills while maintaining work and family responsibilities. Online platforms allow Massachusetts residents and out-of-state students to engage with comprehensive curricula, preparing them for meaningful careers in social services, counseling, and community development.
Gordon College
  • 4+1 Accelerated MSW Program
  • Online and Flexible Learning
  • Two Partnership Track Options
  • Multiple Concentration Choices
  • Christian Faith Integration
  • Preparation for LCSW Licensure
  • Partnered with Dordt/Roberts Wesleyan
  • No Relocation Required
  • $6,500 - $9,700 (Graduate)
Anna Maria College
  • CSWE Accredited Program
  • On-campus and online options
  • Full-time: 62 credits, 2 years
  • Part-time: 62 credits, 4 years
  • Advanced Standing available
  • 1,070 total field education hours
  • Advanced Generalist Practice Model
  • Concurrent classwork and fieldwork
  • $9,800 - $14,600 (Graduate)
College of Our Lady of the Elms
  • Two specialization tracks available
  • No GRE required
  • 900 hours practicum experience
  • Advanced standing for BSW graduates
  • Weeknight and Saturday classes
  • 3.0 minimum undergraduate GPA
  • Pre-candidacy CSWE accreditation
  • Tuition discounts for partners
  • $14,100 - $21,200 (Graduate)
Simmons University
  • CSWE-accredited online MSW program
  • 9-40 months completion time
  • Multiple program tracks available
  • Advanced Standing for BSW graduates
  • 1,000+ practicum hours
  • No GRE required
  • Three annual cohort start dates
  • Scholarships available
  • $22,900 - $34,400 (Graduate)
Springfield College
  • 33-credit advanced standing MSW
  • 100% online and on-campus options
  • CSWE accredited program
  • Fall and summer start dates
  • 500-hour practicum internship
  • BSW required within five years
  • Weekday and weekend programs
  • Evidence-based curriculum
  • $29,000 - $43,600 (Graduate)
*Original data from: National Center for Education Statistics' IPEDS program (2023).

List of Massachusetts Advanced Standing Online MSW Programs

Advanced standing MSW programs in Massachusetts offer an accelerated educational pathway for students with a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from a CSWE-accredited program, enabling them to complete their master’s degree in a condensed format. These programs prioritize advanced therapeutic interventions, social justice advocacy, and innovative practice models to address the complex social challenges facing Massachusetts’ diverse metropolitan and suburban communities.

Jump to City:

Boston, MA

Boston University

  • Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW) Advanced Standing

    Online Learning - Website

    • Part-time online format.
    • Advanced Standing track.
    • Clinical or macro practice majors.
    • 6 semesters completion.
    • Weekly live classroom sessions.
    • 1,000-hour field internship.
    • Accredited by CSWE.
    • Focus on diversity and ethics.

Simmons University

  • Master's - Master of Social Work Advanced Standing

    Online Learning - Website

    • 9-month program duration.
    • Advanced clinical practicum.
    • Full-time or part-time options.
    • Prepares for LCSW licensure.
    • BSW degree required.
    • Focus on clinical social work.
    • Includes specialized seminar.
    • 24-hour weekly practicum.

North Andover, MA

Merrimack College

  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • CSWE-accredited program
    • Hybrid learning format
    • 2 years full-time
    • Part-time study available
    • 56 credits required
    • 36 credits for advanced standing
    • $1,100 per credit
    • 900 hours field experience

Springfield, MA

Springfield College

  • Master's - Social Work: Advanced Standing Program

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 33-credit program
    • Hybrid online and campus
    • 500-hour practicum
    • CSWE-accredited
    • Flexible class schedules
    • Focus on evidence-based practice
    • Prepares for licensure
    • For BSW graduates

Westfield, MA

Westfield State University

  • Master's - Advanced Standing MSW Degree Program

    Concentration: Child, Youth, and Family - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid program format
    • CSWE accredited
    • Focus on Child, Youth, and Family
    • 500-hour clinical practicum
    • Prepares for LCSW licensure
    • Flexible scheduling
    • Emphasis on social justice
    • Advanced Standing option
  • Master's - Advanced Standing MSW Degree Program

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

    • 37-credit program
    • Hybrid learning format
    • Health Social Work concentration
    • 500-hour clinical practicum
    • No tuition difference by state
    • BSW from CSWE-accredited program required
    • 3.0 social work GPA needed
    • Prepares for LCSW licensure
  • Master's - Advanced Standing MSW Degree Program

    Concentration: Latinx Community Health - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 37-credit program
    • Bilingual English/Spanish courses
    • Hybrid learning format
    • Focus on Latinx Community Health
    • Prepares for LCSW licensure
    • Ethical practice emphasis
    • Social justice focus
    • Hands-on practicum experiences

Weston, MA

Regis College

  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Clinical Social Work - Online Learning - Website

    • Accredited by CSWE.
    • No GRE required.
    • Flexible online format.
    • Two track options.
    • 60 credits Traditional.
    • 30 credits Advanced.
    • Complete in 16-32 months.
    • Clinical Social Work focus.
*Data reference: IPEDS 2023, U.S. Department of Education, NCES.

2026 Affordable Online Massachusetts Advanced Standing MSW Programs

Massachusetts offers a diverse range of affordable online advanced standing programs for social work students seeking to advance their education. These virtual learning opportunities provide flexible options for working professionals and students across Boston, Worcester, Springfield, and other major metropolitan areas. Online programs enable students to balance personal and professional commitments while pursuing graduate-level credentials in social work. Distance learning platforms have transformed educational accessibility, allowing learners to complete rigorous coursework from the comfort of their homes. Whether targeting bachelor's, master's, graduate certificate, or doctoral levels, these programs create pathways for aspiring social work professionals to enhance their skills and expand their career potential. The digital landscape continues to support educational innovation and professional development in this critical field.
Westfield State University
  • 37-credit program
  • Bilingual English/Spanish courses
  • Hybrid learning format
  • Focus on Latinx Community Health
  • Prepares for LCSW licensure
  • Ethical practice emphasis
  • Social justice focus
  • Hands-on practicum experiences
  • $6,600 - $9,900 (Graduate)
Regis College
  • Accredited by CSWE.
  • No GRE required.
  • Flexible online format.
  • Two track options.
  • 60 credits Traditional.
  • 30 credits Advanced.
  • Complete in 16-32 months.
  • Clinical Social Work focus.
  • $19,000 - $28,400 (Graduate)
Merrimack College
  • CSWE-accredited program
  • Hybrid learning format
  • 2 years full-time
  • Part-time study available
  • 56 credits required
  • 36 credits for advanced standing
  • $1,100 per credit
  • 900 hours field experience
  • $28,400 - $42,600 (Graduate)
Simmons University
  • 9-month program duration.
  • Advanced clinical practicum.
  • Full-time or part-time options.
  • Prepares for LCSW licensure.
  • BSW degree required.
  • Focus on clinical social work.
  • Includes specialized seminar.
  • 24-hour weekly practicum.
  • $22,900 - $34,400 (Graduate)
Springfield College
  • 33-credit program
  • Hybrid online and campus
  • 500-hour practicum
  • CSWE-accredited
  • Flexible class schedules
  • Focus on evidence-based practice
  • Prepares for licensure
  • For BSW graduates
  • $29,000 - $43,600 (Graduate)
Boston University
  • Part-time online format.
  • Advanced Standing track.
  • Clinical or macro practice majors.
  • 6 semesters completion.
  • Weekly live classroom sessions.
  • 1,000-hour field internship.
  • Accredited by CSWE.
  • Focus on diversity and ethics.
  • $51,800 - $77,700 (Graduate)
*National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2023. Retrieved from https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/