Texas has established itself as a leader in accessible social work education, with numerous universities across the Lone Star State offering comprehensive online Master of Social Work programs that meet the growing demand for flexible graduate education. From major metropolitan areas like Houston and Dallas to smaller communities throughout the state’s diverse regions, Texas institutions provide CSWE-accredited online MSW programs that maintain the same rigorous academic standards as their on-campus counterparts. These programs typically feature specialized concentrations in areas such as clinical practice, community organizing, school social work, and healthcare social work, reflecting Texas’ unique demographic needs and expansive healthcare infrastructure.

The online MSW landscape in Texas is particularly well-suited to address the state’s vast geography and diverse population, with programs designed to prepare graduates for licensure as Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSW) or Licensed Master Social Workers (LMSW) under Texas state regulations. Students benefit from innovative field placement coordination that connects them with agencies across Texas’ urban centers, rural communities, and border regions, ensuring practical experience that spans the state’s distinctive social service needs. Given Texas’ robust economy, growing population, and significant investment in healthcare and social services, MSW graduates find abundant career opportunities in hospitals, mental health centers, school districts, child welfare agencies, and private practice settings throughout the state’s major metropolitan areas and beyond.

2026 Best Texas MSW Programs Online

Exploring the best Texas MSW programs online has never been more crucial for aspiring social workers seeking flexible educational paths. Masters in Social Work Online has carefully evaluated top-tier online social work master's degree programs across the Lone Star State, understanding the growing importance of distance learning in modern education. Our comprehensive rankings consider factors like curriculum quality, faculty expertise, student support, and virtual learning experiences that prepare professionals for complex social service challenges. Online programs offer unprecedented accessibility, allowing students to balance professional responsibilities with advanced academic training without geographic constraints. These virtual educational opportunities ensure that passionate social workers can advance their careers while maintaining their current work and personal commitments. Learn more about our ranking methodology.
#1

Texas Christian University

Fort Worth, TX - Private 4-year - tcu.edu

Master's - Master of Social Work

Concentration: Health and Mental Health - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Texas Christian University's online Master of Social Work program offers a robust Health and Mental Health concentration, providing students with advanced generalist training through a flexible hybrid learning format. The program uniquely prepares culturally responsive practitioners with two specialized tracks, enabling full-time students to complete their degree in nine months to two years. With no GRE requirement and CSWE accreditation, students benefit from trauma-informed curriculum, hands-on experience, and leadership development. The program accommodates both traditional 60-credit and advanced standing 30-credit pathways, emphasizing comprehensive social work practice across micro, mezzo, and macro levels.

  • No GRE Required
  • Two Specialization Tracks
  • 30-60 Credit Hour Options
  • Full/Part-Time Enrollment
  • Hybrid Learning Format
  • Advanced Standing Available
  • CSWE Accredited Program
  • Transfers Up to 10 Credits
  • Dual Degree Opportunities
  • Trauma-Informed Curriculum

Master's - Master of Social Work

Concentration: Children and Families - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

TCU's online Master of Social Work program featuring a Children and Families concentration delivers comprehensive professional training through an innovative hybrid model. Students can complete their degree within nine to twenty-four months, choosing between traditional and advanced standing tracks. The program eliminates GRE requirements and offers up to four online courses, making advanced social work education accessible. Graduates emerge as culturally competent practitioners prepared to drive meaningful social change, with curriculum emphasizing trauma-informed approaches and multi-level practice strategies. The flexible format supports full and part-time enrollment, providing personalized pathways for aspiring social work professionals.

  • MSW with two specialization tracks
  • No GRE required for admission
  • 30-60 credit hour options
  • Full-time completion: 9-24 months
  • Hybrid learning format available
  • Advanced Standing for BSW graduates
  • Traditional path for other majors
  • Up to 4 online courses option
  • Accepts 10 transfer credits
  • Dual degree opportunities

Master's - Master of Social Work

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Texas Christian University's comprehensive online Master of Social Work program cultivates advanced-generalist practitioners through a dynamic hybrid learning environment. Without GRE requirements, students can complete traditional 60-credit or advanced standing 30-credit pathways within nine to twenty-four months. The curriculum develops culturally responsive social workers equipped to address complex societal challenges through trauma-informed practices. Students explore two specialized tracks while receiving CSWE-accredited training that emphasizes research, mentorship, and transformative leadership. The program's flexible format supports diverse learning needs, preparing graduates to create meaningful social impact across various professional settings.

  • No GRE Required
  • Advanced Standing Option: 30 Credit Hours
  • Traditional Program: 60 Credit Hours
  • Full-time Students Complete in 9-24 Months
  • Hybrid Online/Campus Learning
  • Two Specialization Tracks Available
  • CSWE Accredited Program
  • Up to 10 Transfer Credits Accepted
  • Dual Degree Options with Divinity School
  • Trauma-Informed Practice Emphasis
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#2

Baylor University

Waco, TX - Private 4-year - baylor.edu

Master's - Master of Social Work

Online Learning - Visit Website

Baylor University's fully online Master of Social Work program provides a dynamic and flexible educational pathway for aspiring social work professionals. The curriculum integrates mental health training with social justice principles, offering 16, 24, and 32-month track options. Advanced standing is available for BSW graduates, enabling accelerated program completion. Students can specialize in clinical or community practice concentrations, enjoying 100% virtual coursework and localized internship placements. The program emphasizes faith-integrated education, competitive tuition at $1,100 per credit hour, and comprehensive financial aid opportunities. Military-friendly and designed for working professionals, Baylor's online MSW prepares students to make meaningful societal impacts through advanced social work practice.

  • Online 100% virtual program
  • 16-32 month flexible tracks
  • Advanced standing option
  • Clinical and community specializations
  • $1,100 per credit hour
  • Localized internship placements
  • Mental health and social justice focus
  • Summer 2025 application deadline: March 24
#3

Angelo State University

San Angelo, TX - Public 4-Year - angelo.edu

Master's - Master of Social Work

Concentration: Advanced Generalist Practice - Online Learning - Visit Website

Angelo State University's online Master of Social Work (M.S.W.) program in Advanced Generalist Practice empowers students to become comprehensive social service professionals. The curriculum provides rigorous training through a fully online format, enabling students to develop advanced intervention strategies across diverse populations. With CSWE accreditation and potential Advanced Standing options, students can complete the program in as little as 12 months. The program prepares graduates for Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) credentials, emphasizing systemic approaches to addressing complex social challenges. Military-friendly and offering small class sizes, the program stands out for its flexible learning environment and strong career preparation.

  • 100% online or on-campus
  • Advanced Standing option available
  • CSWE accredited program
  • Two practice specializations
  • Summer study abroad opportunity
  • National program rankings
  • Small class sizes
  • Licensed faculty
  • 12-month completion possible
  • Multiple career pathway options

Master's - Master of Social Work

Concentration: Clinical Practice - Online Learning - Visit Website

Angelo State University's online Master of Social Work (M.S.W.) program in Clinical Practice offers specialized training for aspiring mental health professionals. This comprehensive online degree focuses on developing advanced clinical intervention skills, therapeutic techniques, and comprehensive assessment strategies. Students receive CSWE-accredited instruction with opportunities for summer study abroad and potential licensure preparation as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). The program's flexibility allows students to balance academic pursuits with professional commitments, featuring small class sizes and licensed faculty. Graduates can expect robust career prospects in a field projected to grow significantly through 2030.

  • 100% online or on-campus
  • Advanced Standing option
  • CSWE accredited program
  • Two specialization tracks
  • Summer study abroad
  • Small class sizes
  • National program rankings
  • Licensed faculty
  • Licensure preparation
  • Career demand through 2030
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#4

Prairie View A & M University

Prairie View, TX - Public 4-Year - pvamu.edu

Master's - Master of Social Work

Concentration: Medical Social Work - Online Learning - Visit Website

Prairie View A&M University's online Master of Social Work specializing in Medical Social Work provides a cutting-edge clinical program with a distinctive Africentric perspective. This comprehensive program prepares advanced practitioners to address healthcare disparities through evidence-based interventions. Tailored for BSW graduates and professionals from diverse backgrounds, students can pursue the Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) designation. The program offers traditional and part-time formats, with a minimum 2.75 GPA requirement and supervised internship opportunities. As the only HBCU MSW program in Texas, it uniquely emphasizes medical and behavioral health specializations within a culturally sensitive learning environment.

  • Only HBCU MSW program in Texas
  • Medical and Behavioral Health specializations
  • Advanced Standing option available
  • Minimum 2.75 GPA required
  • Traditional and Part-time formats
  • Supervised internship opportunities
  • Focus on healthcare social work
  • Africentric learning environment
  • Statistics course prerequisite
  • CSWE-aligned curriculum

Master's - Master of Social Work

Concentration: Behavioral Health - Online Learning - Visit Website

The online Master of Social Work at Prairie View A&M University offers a transformative educational experience focusing on Behavioral Health. As the sole HBCU MSW program in Texas, this program provides specialized training with an Africentric perspective. Students develop advanced clinical skills through innovative internships, preparing for the LCSW certification while addressing critical health disparities. The program features multiple entry pathways, including traditional and advanced standing options, with a focus on healthcare social work. With a minimum 2.75 GPA requirement and comprehensive curriculum aligned with CSWE standards, graduates are equipped to make meaningful interventions in diverse community settings.

  • Clinical MSW Program
  • Medical and Behavioral Health Specializations
  • HBCU Unique Program
  • LCSW Certification Track
  • 2.75 Minimum GPA Required
  • Traditional and Advanced Standing Options
  • Statistics Course Prerequisite
  • Supervised Internship Opportunities
  • Healthcare Social Work Focus
  • Africentric Learning Environment
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#5

The University of Texas Permian Basin

Odessa, TX - Public 4-Year - utpb.edu

Master's - Master of Social Work

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Texas Permian Basin offers a transformative online Master of Social Work program tailored for professionals seeking advanced practice in rural healthcare settings. This comprehensive digital learning experience eliminates GRE requirements and provides a flexible curriculum designed for working professionals. Students receive robust training in evidence-based interventions, cultural competence, and ethical social work practices. With a strategic 12:1 student-faculty ratio and 900 practicum hours, the program ensures comprehensive professional development. Graduates are well-prepared for LMSW licensure, with specialized emphasis on healthcare and rural community practice, making it an ideal pathway for social workers committed to meaningful community impact.

  • No GRE required for admission
  • 65 total credit program
  • Online flexible format
  • 900 practicum hours
  • 12:1 student-faculty ratio
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
  • LMSW exam preparation
  • Healthcare settings focus
  • Rural practice emphasis

Master's - Master of Social Work

Concentration: Clinical Social Work - Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Texas Permian Basin's online Clinical Social Work MSW program represents an advanced educational pathway for aspiring mental health professionals. Focused specifically on clinical interventions, the 65-credit curriculum provides intensive training in trauma-informed care, therapeutic techniques, and comprehensive mental health assessment. Students benefit from an innovative online platform that supports extensive field practicums and interdisciplinary collaboration. With no GRE admission requirement, competitive tuition, and dedicated preparation for LMSW/LCSW examinations, this program equips students with sophisticated clinical skills targeting diverse populations and complex healthcare challenges, particularly in rural and underserved communities.

  • Online Clinical Social Work program
  • No GRE required for admission
  • 65 total credit hours
  • 12:1 student-faculty ratio
  • 900 total practicum hours
  • Focus on rural healthcare settings
  • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
  • LMSW/LCSW exam preparation
  • Diverse elective course options
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#6

Texas Tech University

Lubbock, TX - Public 4-Year - ttu.edu

Master's - Master of Social Work

Concentration: Advanced Generalist - Online Learning - Visit Website

Texas Tech University's fully online Master of Social Work (MSW) program provides a comprehensive advanced generalist approach targeting health and well-being domains. Designed with flexible admission pathways, students can choose between one-year advanced and two-year standard tracks, accommodating diverse academic backgrounds. The CSWE-accredited curriculum prepares students for national licensure, emphasizing complex social challenges across varied populations. Part-time options and a focus on diverse population preparation make this program uniquely adaptable. Graduates are equipped with advanced skills to address intricate social service needs, with particular attention to healthcare and community wellness contexts.

  • CSWE Accredited through 2031
  • Advanced Generalist Approach
  • One or Two-Year Tracks
  • Part-Time Options Available
  • National Exam Eligibility
  • Focus on Health/Well-being
  • Diverse Population Preparation
  • MSW Licensure Preparation
#7

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

Edinburg, TX - Public 4-Year - utrgv.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Social Work

Concentration: Direct Practice with Latino Individuals, Families, and Groups - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley's online Master of Science in Social Work specializes in Direct Practice with Latino Individuals, Families, and Groups. This CSWE-accredited hybrid program offers a unique blend of online and on-campus learning, enabling students to develop advanced skills in social justice and community engagement. Graduates can pursue the LMSW credential while focusing on specialized interventions for Latino populations. The 33 and 63-hour program tracks provide flexible pathways for students interested in direct practice, with opportunities to study in multiple campus locations including Edinburg, Brownsville, and Laredo. Entrance exam requirements may apply, with potential GRE or alternative assessment options.

  • CSWE Accredited Program
  • Multiple Specialization Options
  • On-Campus and Online Tracks
  • 33 and 63 Hour Programs
  • Eligible for LMSW Credentials
  • Courses in Edinburg, Brownsville, Laredo
  • Direct Practice and Administration Concentrations
  • Latino Individuals/Families Focus
  • Graduate Select Scholarship Available
  • Diverse Career Opportunity Paths

Master's - Master of Science in Social Work

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

UTRGV's online Master of Social Work in Community Practice and Administration prepares students to become transformative leaders in social service systems. This hybrid program focuses on developing advanced administrative skills, social justice strategies, and community-centered interventions. Students can pursue LMSW credentials through a comprehensive curriculum that balances theoretical knowledge with practical applications. The program offers flexible 33 and 63-hour tracks with online and on-campus options, emphasizing Latino community engagement and diverse career opportunities. With multiple campus locations and a Graduate Select Scholarship available, students can gain specialized skills in community administration and practice.

  • CSWE Accredited Program
  • On-campus and Online Options
  • 33 and 63 Hour Programs
  • Direct Practice Specializations
  • Administration Specializations
  • Latino Community Focus
  • Multiple Campus Locations
  • LMSW Credential Preparation
  • Diverse Career Opportunities
  • Graduate Select Scholarship Available
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#8

Tarleton State University

Stephenville, TX - Public 4-Year - tarleton.edu

Master's - Master of Social Work

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Tarleton State University offers a dynamic Master of Social Work program designed for aspiring professionals seeking flexible online and hybrid learning opportunities. Uniquely structured with full and part-time tracks, students can complete their degree in as little as eight months while gaining advanced clinical skills. The program boasts an impressive 100% first-time licensing exam pass rate and provides comprehensive coursework across multiple campuses in Stephenville, Fort Worth, and Waco. Emphasizing transformative leadership, the MSW curriculum prepares graduates to address complex social challenges through rigorous academic training and practical experiences. Scholarship opportunities and evening course formats make this program particularly accessible for working professionals seeking advanced social work credentials.

  • Accredited MSW program
  • Two program tracks available
  • 30-60 credit hours
  • Face-to-face and online options
  • Stephenville, Fort Worth, Waco campuses
  • 100% first-time licensing exam pass rate
  • Evening and hybrid course formats
  • No thesis required
  • Scholarship opportunities available
  • Advanced and foundational tracks
#9

West Texas A & M University

Canyon, TX - Public 4-Year - wtamu.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Social Work

Concentration: Rural Social Work - Online Learning - Visit Website

West Texas A&M University's online Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW) specializes in Rural Social Work, offering a transformative educational experience for aspiring practitioners. This CSWE-accredited program provides two flexible tracks—Foundation and Advanced Standing—enabling students to complete their degree within 1-2 years. Uniquely designed for rural community intervention, the curriculum prepares advanced generalist practitioners with comprehensive skills in individual, family, group, and community-level strategies. Students complete 900 total internship hours across two placements, gaining practical experience while positioning themselves for clinical licensure. The program welcomes students from diverse academic backgrounds and requires a minimum 3.0 GPA for admission. No specific entrance exam is mentioned, potentially offering a more accessible pathway for social work professionals.

  • 100% Online Program
  • Two Program Tracks: Foundation/Advanced Standing
  • 1-2 Year Completion Options
  • 900 Total Internship Hours
  • CSWE Accredited Program
  • Rural Social Work Specialty
  • Start with Any Bachelor's Degree
  • Fast Track Option Available
  • Application Deadline: June 30, 2024
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA Required
*Information derived from: IPEDS 2023 survey, conducted by NCES.

List of Texas Online MSW Programs

Jump to City:

Canyon, TX

West Texas A & M University

  • Master's - Master of Science in Social Work

    Concentration: Rural Social Work - Online Learning - Website

    • 100% Online Program
    • Two Program Tracks: Foundation/Advanced Standing
    • 1-2 Year Completion Options
    • 900 Total Internship Hours
    • CSWE Accredited Program
    • Rural Social Work Specialty
    • Start with Any Bachelor's Degree
    • Fast Track Option Available

Edinburg, TX

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

  • Master's - Master of Science in Social Work

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

    • CSWE Accredited Program
    • On-campus and Online Options
    • 33 and 63 Hour Programs
    • Direct Practice Specializations
    • Administration Specializations
    • Latino Community Focus
    • Multiple Campus Locations
    • LMSW Credential Preparation
  • Master's - Master of Science in Social Work

    Concentration: Direct Practice with Latino Individuals, Families, and Groups - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • CSWE Accredited Program
    • Multiple Specialization Options
    • On-Campus and Online Tracks
    • 33 and 63 Hour Programs
    • Eligible for LMSW Credentials
    • Courses in Edinburg, Brownsville, Laredo
    • Direct Practice and Administration Concentrations
    • Latino Individuals/Families Focus

Fort Worth, TX

Texas Christian University

  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • No GRE Required
    • Advanced Standing Option: 30 Credit Hours
    • Traditional Program: 60 Credit Hours
    • Full-time Students Complete in 9-24 Months
    • Hybrid Online/Campus Learning
    • Two Specialization Tracks Available
    • CSWE Accredited Program
    • Up to 10 Transfer Credits Accepted
  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Children and Families - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • MSW with two specialization tracks
    • No GRE required for admission
    • 30-60 credit hour options
    • Full-time completion: 9-24 months
    • Hybrid learning format available
    • Advanced Standing for BSW graduates
    • Traditional path for other majors
    • Up to 4 online courses option
  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Health and Mental Health - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • No GRE Required
    • Two Specialization Tracks
    • 30-60 Credit Hour Options
    • Full/Part-Time Enrollment
    • Hybrid Learning Format
    • Advanced Standing Available
    • CSWE Accredited Program
    • Transfers Up to 10 Credits

Lubbock, TX

Texas Tech University

  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Advanced Generalist - Online Learning - Website

    • CSWE Accredited through 2031
    • Advanced Generalist Approach
    • One or Two-Year Tracks
    • Part-Time Options Available
    • National Exam Eligibility
    • Focus on Health/Well-being
    • Diverse Population Preparation
    • MSW Licensure Preparation

Odessa, TX

The University of Texas Permian Basin

  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Online Learning - Website

    • No GRE required for admission
    • 65 total credit program
    • Online flexible format
    • 900 practicum hours
    • 12:1 student-faculty ratio
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
    • LMSW exam preparation
    • Healthcare settings focus
  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Clinical Social Work - Online Learning - Website

    • Online Clinical Social Work program
    • No GRE required for admission
    • 65 total credit hours
    • 12:1 student-faculty ratio
    • 900 total practicum hours
    • Focus on rural healthcare settings
    • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
    • LMSW/LCSW exam preparation

Prairie View, TX

Prairie View A & M University

  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Behavioral Health - Online Learning - Website

    • Clinical MSW Program
    • Medical and Behavioral Health Specializations
    • HBCU Unique Program
    • LCSW Certification Track
    • 2.75 Minimum GPA Required
    • Traditional and Advanced Standing Options
    • Statistics Course Prerequisite
    • Supervised Internship Opportunities
  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Medical Social Work - Online Learning - Website

    • Only HBCU MSW program in Texas
    • Medical and Behavioral Health specializations
    • Advanced Standing option available
    • Minimum 2.75 GPA required
    • Traditional and Part-time formats
    • Supervised internship opportunities
    • Focus on healthcare social work
    • Africentric learning environment

San Angelo, TX

Angelo State University

  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Advanced Generalist Practice - Online Learning - Website

    • 100% online or on-campus
    • Advanced Standing option available
    • CSWE accredited program
    • Two practice specializations
    • Summer study abroad opportunity
    • National program rankings
    • Small class sizes
    • Licensed faculty
  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Clinical Practice - Online Learning - Website

    • 100% online or on-campus
    • Advanced Standing option
    • CSWE accredited program
    • Two specialization tracks
    • Summer study abroad
    • Small class sizes
    • National program rankings
    • Licensed faculty

Stephenville, TX

Tarleton State University

  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Accredited MSW program
    • Two program tracks available
    • 30-60 credit hours
    • Face-to-face and online options
    • Stephenville, Fort Worth, Waco campuses
    • 100% first-time licensing exam pass rate
    • Evening and hybrid course formats
    • No thesis required

Waco, TX

Baylor University

  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online 100% virtual program
    • 16-32 month flexible tracks
    • Advanced standing option
    • Clinical and community specializations
    • $1,100 per credit hour
    • Localized internship placements
    • Mental health and social justice focus
    • Summer 2025 application deadline: March 24
*Original data from: National Center for Education Statistics' IPEDS program (2023).

2026 Affordable Online TX MSW Program Options

Alabama offers several compelling online social work education options for students seeking flexible learning paths. Distance learning programs provide exceptional opportunities for working professionals and those balancing personal commitments. These virtual academic routes enable students across Alabama—including major regions like Birmingham, Montgomery, and Mobile—to access quality social work education without geographical limitations. Online programs frequently accommodate diverse learner needs, offering various degree levels from bachelor's to doctoral credentials. Aspiring social work professionals can now pursue advanced training through remote learning platforms that match traditional classroom experiences while providing greater accessibility and convenience. These innovative educational approaches help students overcome traditional barriers to higher education and professional development in the social work field.
University of North Alabama
  • Fully online MSW program
  • CSWE accredited degree
  • One-year advanced standing option
  • $495 per credit hour
  • Advanced Standing: $16,650 total
  • Traditional MSW: $33,300 total
  • No GRE required
  • 2.85 GPA minimum requirement
  • $8,000 - $12,000 (Graduate In-State)
  • $15,100 - $22,700 (Graduate Non-Resident)
The University of Alabama
  • Primarily online MSW program
  • Two program options: 42 and 60 credits
  • CSWE accredited program
  • Tuition: $440 per credit hour
  • Advanced Generalist Concentration
  • Virtual skills labs synchronous
  • 500 hours practicum required
  • Application deadline: April 1
  • $9,400 - $14,100 (Graduate In-State)
  • $26,400 - $39,600 (Graduate Non-Resident)
Troy University
  • Direct Practice Specialization
  • One and Two-Year Programs
  • Online and Campus Options
  • No Entrance Exams Required
  • CSWE Accredited Program
  • Military Family Focus
  • Application Deadlines: May 15, Oct. 15
  • Professional Licensure Preparation
  • $6,800 - $10,300 (Graduate In-State)
  • $13,700 - $20,500 (Graduate Non-Resident)
Alabama A & M University
  • Fully CSWE accredited program
  • Two concentration options
  • Advanced standing available
  • 2-year and part-time tracks
  • Multiple campus options
  • Prepares Licensed Clinical Social Workers
  • Rural and urban community focus
  • 60 credit hour traditional program
  • $9,200 - $13,900 (Graduate In-State)
  • $17,300 - $25,900 (Graduate Non-Resident)
Tuskegee University
  • 100% Online MSW Program
  • Advanced Generalist Clinical Practice
  • Trauma-Informed Practice Focus
  • Pre-Candidacy CSWE Accreditation
  • Diverse Internship Opportunities
  • Telehealth Service Training
  • Global Social Work Perspective
  • Interprofessional Education
  • $19,400 - $29,100 (Graduate)
*Source: U.S. DOE National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2023 collection.

List of Texas Advanced Standing Online MSW Programs

Advanced standing online Master of Social Work (MSW) programs in Texas provide a streamlined pathway for students who already hold a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from a CSWE-accredited institution. These programs allow qualified students to build on their prior education and professional experience, reducing both the time and cost required to earn a graduate degree. With a growing demand for licensed clinical social workers across healthcare, education, and community-based organizations, Texas offers a dynamic environment where advanced standing MSW graduates can make an immediate impact in addressing critical social needs.

Jump to City:

Abilene, TX

Abilene Christian University

  • Master's - Master of Science in Social Work

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online program available.
    • 12 months completion time.
    • 33 credit hours required.
    • $1,390 per credit hour.
    • 500-hour practicum included.
    • 3.0 GPA admission requirement.
    • Three letters of recommendation needed.
    • Personal statement required.

Edinburg, TX

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

  • Master's - Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW)

    Online Learning - Website

    • Accredited by CSWE.
    • Offers online and traditional formats.
    • Regular program: 63 credit hours.
    • Advanced program: 33 credit hours.
    • Requires 3.0 GPA for admission.
    • Personal statement needed.
    • Three recommendations required.
    • Focus on research and theory.

Houston, TX

University of Houston

  • Master's - MSW Program

    Online Learning - Website

    • Accredited by CSWE since 1970.
    • Offers full and advanced standing options.
    • Face-to-face, hybrid, online models available.
    • 51 credit hours for full program.
    • 34 credit hours for BSW holders.
    • Focuses on social and economic justice.
    • Addresses racism, sexism, and other societal issues.
    • Prepares students for professional practice.

Lubbock, TX

Texas Tech University

  • Master's - MSW Program

    Online Learning - Website

    • Advanced generalist approach
    • Focus on health and well-being
    • One-year option for recent graduates
    • Two-year option for other disciplines
    • CSWE accredited
    • Eligible for licensure exams
    • Part-time schedules available
    • Emphasizes social justice

San Antonio, TX

Our Lady of the Lake University

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

    Online Learning - Website

    • 30-credit hour program.
    • Hybrid evening and online classes.
    • Focus on Hispanic children and families.
    • CSWE-accredited.
    • Requires BSW from accredited program.
    • 3.0 GPA for admission.
    • Personal statement required.
    • Three recommendations needed.

San Marcos, TX

Texas State University

  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Advanced Practice Leadership - Online Learning - Website

    • Online program available.
    • Advanced Practice Leadership concentration.
    • Accredited by CSWE.
    • Two track options.
    • Focus on social justice.
    • Emphasizes professional ethics.
    • Foundation Track: 62 credits.
    • Advanced Standing Track: 36 credits.

Stephenville, TX

Tarleton State University

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

    Online Learning - Website

    • Flexible cohort model
    • Online and hybrid courses
    • Full- and part-time options
    • 8-month completion possible
    • Prepares for Texas licensing exam
    • 100% first-time pass rate
    • Financial aid available
    • Scholarships for eligible students
  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Advanced Integrative Social Work Practice - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid program format.
    • Focus on Advanced Integrative Social Work Practice.
    • Requires BSW from CSWE-accredited program.
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA for admission.
    • Emphasizes social justice and human rights.
    • Includes field placement opportunities.
    • Prepares for leadership and advocacy roles.
    • Evidence-based research focus.
  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Advanced Integrative Social Work Practice (Advanced Standing) - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid program format.
    • Advanced Standing option.
    • 24 credit hours required.
    • Focus on integrative approaches.
    • Advanced field placements.
    • DSM for Social Workers course.
    • Program Development course.
    • 3.0 GPA admission requirement.

Waco, TX

Baylor University

  • Master's - Master of Social Work Advanced Standing

    Online Learning - Website

    • CSWE-accredited program.
    • Clinical or Community Practice specializations.
    • Full-time or part-time tracks.
    • Complete in 12-20 months.
    • 550 internship hours required.
    • Local internship placements.
    • Dedicated placement team.
    • Live weekly classes via Zoom.
*Institutional data extracted from: IPEDS 2023, NCES.

2026 Affordable Online Texas Advanced Standing MSW Programs

Texas offers several affordable online advanced standing programs for students seeking graduate-level social work education. These distance learning opportunities provide flexible pathways for working professionals and students across major metropolitan areas like Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, and Austin. Online programs enable students to advance their careers without relocating or disrupting current employment, making advanced social work credentials more accessible. Virtual learning formats allow students to complete rigorous graduate coursework from home while maintaining professional and personal commitments. With multiple institutions offering advanced standing options, aspiring social work professionals can find programs tailored to their academic and career goals. These comprehensive online programs support students in developing critical skills and credentials needed for leadership roles in social services, healthcare, and community organizations.
Tarleton State University
  • Hybrid program format.
  • Advanced Standing option.
  • 24 credit hours required.
  • Focus on integrative approaches.
  • Advanced field placements.
  • DSM for Social Workers course.
  • Program Development course.
  • 3.0 GPA admission requirement.
  • $6,000 - $9,000 (Graduate In-State)
  • $12,000 - $18,100 (Graduate Non-Resident)
Abilene Christian University
  • Online program available.
  • 12 months completion time.
  • 33 credit hours required.
  • $1,390 per credit hour.
  • 500-hour practicum included.
  • 3.0 GPA admission requirement.
  • Three letters of recommendation needed.
  • Personal statement required.
  • $19,300 - $29,000 (Graduate)
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
  • Accredited by CSWE.
  • Offers online and traditional formats.
  • Regular program: 63 credit hours.
  • Advanced program: 33 credit hours.
  • Requires 3.0 GPA for admission.
  • Personal statement needed.
  • Three recommendations required.
  • Focus on research and theory.
  • $6,800 - $10,100 (Graduate In-State)
  • $12,800 - $19,200 (Graduate Non-Resident)
University of Houston
  • Accredited by CSWE since 1970.
  • Offers full and advanced standing options.
  • Face-to-face, hybrid, online models available.
  • 51 credit hours for full program.
  • 34 credit hours for BSW holders.
  • Focuses on social and economic justice.
  • Addresses racism, sexism, and other societal issues.
  • Prepares students for professional practice.
  • $7,800 - $11,700 (Graduate In-State)
  • $15,300 - $22,900 (Graduate Non-Resident)
Texas State University
  • Online program available.
  • Advanced Practice Leadership concentration.
  • Accredited by CSWE.
  • Two track options.
  • Focus on social justice.
  • Emphasizes professional ethics.
  • Foundation Track: 62 credits.
  • Advanced Standing Track: 36 credits.
  • $7,900 - $11,900 (Graduate In-State)
  • $14,600 - $22,000 (Graduate Non-Resident)
*Dataset citation: NCES. (2023). IPEDS Data Center. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/