These MSW programs take an integrated approach, unlike other graduate programs with strict entry requirements. Perfect grades aren’t necessary – you can get in with a GPA as low as 2.5. Many schools have eliminated the GRE requirement, which makes your experience much easier.

The career rewards can make it worthwhile. MSW graduates start earning $40,000-$50,000 yearly, with experienced professionals making up to $62,310 annually. Your education costs can vary Program costs vary significantly from $16,920 at the University of South Dakota to $54,444 at Portland State University. This range gives you options that work with your budget.

Let’s explore 11 top MSW programs that welcome most applicants while providing quality education.

Western Kentucky University

Western Kentucky University stands out as one of the most available MSW programs with a remarkably high acceptance rate of 94%. Some sources report rates reaching 97%. This makes it an excellent choice if you want a program with generous admission policies.

Western Kentucky University MSW acceptance rate

WKU’s welcoming approach to admissions makes it one of the easiest MSW programs to join. The program aims to prepare social workers for rural populations instead of creating unnecessary barriers to entry. Students with potential get recognition beyond their academic records. The program’s international appeal shows in its student body, which has drawn learners from Taiwan, Jordan, and Oman since 2003.

Western Kentucky University MSW program structure

You can choose between two tracks based on your academic background:

Traditional Track: You’ll need 60 semester hours with a bachelor’s degree in any field except social work. Students complete this track in 2 years (full-time) or 3-4 years (part-time).
Advanced Standing Track: BSW graduates from CSWE-accredited programs need 30 semester hours. Your degree should be from the last seven years. Students finish this track in 1 year (full-time) or 2 years (part-time).

Campus-based and online options are available for both tracks. Online classes feature live discussions with your instructors and classmates. Part-time students attend web classes on Tuesdays from 5:30-7:30 CST. This schedule works well for professionals who need flexibility.

The curriculum teaches you to work at various levels – with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. Rural community practice gets special attention. Graduates learn skills needed for social work in Kentucky’s small cities, towns, and rural areas.

Western Kentucky University MSW admission requirements

Your application process involves two steps:

Department of Social Work application
Western Kentucky University Graduate School application (domestic students pay a $65 fee)

Traditional Program requirements:

2.75 or higher undergraduate GPA
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university
Liberal arts background (minimum 30 hours)
One course in sociology, psychology, OR anthropology
One course in American government, political science, OR economics

Advanced Standing Program needs:

BSW from a CSWE-accredited program within seven years
3.0 minimum GPA (2.75-2.99 might qualify with an interview)
400+ hours of field instruction in direct practice

Both tracks require your personal statement, writing sample, and three recommendations from academic or professional references.

Eastern Kentucky University

Eastern Kentucky University provides a fully online MSW program that combines accessibility with flexible learning options for aspiring social workers. The program’s structure, admission requirements, and delivery format make it an excellent choice for students who want to enter the field of social work. Their acceptance is reported to be 98%.

Eastern Kentucky University MSW program overview

EKU’s MSW program builds a generalist foundation to prepare students for interprofessional social work practice. The program earned CSWE accreditation in 2020, which ensures a recognized credential. The program stands out with its interprofessional approach that makes shared work possible across disciplines, settings, and populations.

The curriculum includes:

Generalist foundation courses for regular admission students
Concentration courses for both regular and advanced standing students
Participation in an Interdisciplinary University Certificate Program

This structure helps students combine social work theory, practice, and research while learning from interdisciplinary viewpoints. Studies end with an Interprofessional Practicum and Integrative Capstone project that shows how to apply classroom learning in real-life settings.

Eastern Kentucky University MSW GPA and prerequisites

The admission requirements show why EKU ranks among the easiest MSW programs to get into:

For the 63-hour regular program:

Baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university
Undergraduate GPA of 2.7 or higher
Minimum GPA of 3.0 on any previous graduate work

For advanced standing (31-hour program):

Undergraduate major in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited program
Cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher
Graduation within 5 years of entry to the MSW program

Work experience adds value but isn’t mandatory. GRE scores remain optional for admission, though they can boost your application.

Eastern Kentucky University MSW online flexibility

EKU’s 100% online MSW program focuses on student success. Students learn through 8-week asynchronous courses combined with field practicum hours. This setup works great for working professionals.

The program offers excellent flexibility through:

Accelerated 8-week terms
Six program start dates throughout the year
No campus visits required
Full-time and part-time options

Students can complete the full 63-credit program in 24 months, or the advanced standing track in as little as 12 months. They may also transfer up to 18 hours of credit from accredited institutions.

EKU assigns personal advisors who guide students from application to graduation, plus free online tutoring and career services assistance. Students receive detailed support throughout their educational experience.

Lancaster Bible College

Lancaster Bible College’s Master of Social Work program blends a biblical worldview with advanced social work education. The program earned full CSWE accreditation in February 2024. Students graduate with strong industry knowledge while building on their spiritual foundation. Their acceptance rate is reportedly 98%.

Lancaster Bible College MSW concentrations

Students can choose between two specialized paths:

Clinical Social Work – You’ll learn to become a skilled practitioner and leader who supports mental health needs of individuals and families
Advanced Child & Family Practice – You’ll become a leader in child welfare and develop your skills in every aspect of child welfare practice

These concentrations build on core practice skills and help you grow in your chosen specialty. Students get hands-on experience through field placements that put classroom learning into practice.

Lancaster Bible College MSW admission criteria

The MSW program requirements are:

A bachelor’s degree (BSW if you’re seeking Advanced Standing)
Official transcripts
A possible admission interview (the core team will reach out if needed)

International students must prove English language proficiency since classes are taught in English. The minimum required scores are:

TOEFL: 79
IELTS: 7.0
Duolingo: 105

Students can start their journey at three points during the year: Fall (August), Spring (January), and Summer (May).

Lancaster Bible College MSW program duration

Students can choose from several flexible timeline options:

One year – Advanced Standing, full-time
Two years – Advanced Standing, part-time OR Regular Standing, full-time
Three years – Regular Standing, part-time

Regular Standing students complete 60 semester hours and 900 hours of internship through four placements. Advanced Standing students need 30 semester hours with 500 hours of fieldwork.

The program uses a convenient online format with individual-specific residencies. Students experience both live and self-paced learning. Monthly Zoom sessions happen during evenings and weekends to fit your schedule.

Graduates can pursue licensure since the program meets all curriculum requirements to become a Licensed Social Worker in Pennsylvania after passing the LSW exam.

University of Kentucky

The University of Kentucky (UK) MSW program welcomes students from various academic backgrounds through multiple entry paths. Students get exceptional preparation for real-life practice. The program boasts Kentucky’s highest clinical licensing pass rates.

University of Kentucky MSW acceptance rate

UK doesn’t share specific acceptance rates publicly. Their admission process works through a dual review system. Both the College of Social Work and the Graduate School look at applications. Regular standing applicants need a minimum 3.0 GPA in their academic work. The college stays flexible with its “Petition for Exceptional Consideration” option. Students who don’t meet GPA requirements can use this option. This makes UK one of the more available programs for students with different academic backgrounds. Some sources report almost 98% acceptance rates due to their large cohorts.

University of Kentucky MSW advanced standing option

UK runs a 30-credit Advanced Standing option that accelerates completion. They also offer their traditional 60-credit program. Advanced Standing qualification needs:

A BSW from a CSWE-accredited program completed in the last seven years
A 3.5 GPA in social work courses
A 3.0 minimum overall GPA

Advanced Standing students complete 24 credits of classwork with 9 hours of electives and 6 credits of fieldwork. Regular Standing students need 51 credits of classwork and 9 credits of fieldwork. Field education requires 600 clinical social work practicum hours for advanced standing students. Regular standing students complete 900 hours.

University of Kentucky MSW application materials

UK stands out by not requiring GRE scores. Your application package should include:

Application form
Transcripts from all higher education institutions attended
Two letters of recommendation (from professors, social workers, or work/volunteer supervisors)
Four-page autobiographical personal statement about motivation, personal experiences, and capacities for social work education
250-word ethical dilemma essay
Personal résumé

Students can start in different seasons with specific deadlines. Fall entry has Priority (June 1) and Final (July 15) deadlines. Spring entry deadlines are Priority (November 1) and Final (December 1). Summer entry deadline is April 1. Admission decisions come within 2-3 weeks. This quick response time makes the program great for students who need fast application decisions.

University of Montana

The University of Montana’s MSW program features an integrated-practice approach that readies students to work at multiple levels of social work intervention. Students get quality education with reasonable entry requirements through this program, which stays true to social justice principles while remaining available to more people.

University of Montana MSW specializations

The program uses an integrated-practice curriculum that helps you work with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities at the same time. This method recognizes how personal challenges connect with broader social issues such as poverty, discrimination, and oppression.

Students build on their foundation knowledge during the specialization year to develop advanced integrated practice skills. The curriculum focuses on these key areas:

Social work values and critical thinking fundamentals
Understanding historical and political contexts
Connecting direct practice with community building
Research integration, policy analysis, and advocacy skills

This specialization shapes you into a social work leader who promotes empowering, participatory, and social justice-oriented practice in a variety of settings.

University of Montana MSW GPA requirements

The University of Montana has straightforward GPA requirements, making it one of the more available MSW programs to think about:

Minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
Students whose GPAs fall below 3.0 can still apply with a brief statement that explains the low GPA and outlines plans to maintain a 3.0 or higher in graduate school

The online program requires applicants to have:

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
At least a 3.0 GPA
Two years of relevant work experience

The program doesn’t require GRE scores, which aligns with many available MSW programs that look beyond standardized testing to evaluate student potential.

University of Montana MSW online learning format

Working professionals benefit from exceptional flexibility through the online MSW program’s asynchronous format. The program structure has:

60 credits completed over three years (part-time)
Online course delivery without campus visits
450-hour practicum placements in years 2 and 3 (about 15 hours/week)

You can keep your job while earning your degree, which solves a common barrier that stops qualified candidates from pursuing graduate education. The course content prepares you for modern social justice work and 21st-century challenges.

The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) fully accredits the online program, which means your degree meets national professional practice standards. After graduation, you’ll be ready to get licensed and work in multiple settings with diverse populations.

Portland State University

Portland State University ranks among the nation’s top MSW programs according to U.S. News & World Report. The program stands out with its focus on dismantling oppressive systems and building racial equity. PSU’s MSW degree holds CSWE accreditation and remains Oregon’s only public offering of its kind.

Portland State University MSW concentrations

Students can choose between two advanced concentrations that align with their career paths:

Advanced Macro Practice (MACRO) – This path prepares students for leadership roles in policy-making and community response, while building on critical race theory and strengths-based practices
Advanced Clinical Practice (CLIN) – The focus here lies on direct practice skills when working with individuals, families, and groups

These concentrations help students master advanced social work practice and leadership skills. Your choice of concentration won’t limit you – all graduates can apply for Oregon’s clinical social work license. Students in Eugene and Central Oregon can only pursue the clinical concentration.

Portland State University MSW acceptance rate

PSU welcomes about half of all qualified candidates who submit applications (50% acceptance rate). The Portland Campus Option takes in 150 students each fall. Distance Option cohorts accept 30 students, while the Online Option accommodates 120 students. The online MSW program shows a higher acceptance rate at 89%.

Candidates need a minimum 2.75 undergraduate GPA or 3.0 graduate GPA. The MSW Admissions Committee reviews all application components thoroughly before making final decisions.

Portland State University MSW program cost

Program costs vary based on length and residency:

Advanced Standing Option (46 credits): $27,708 (Resident), $38,472 (Non-Resident)
2-year Option (78 credits): $46,984 (Resident), $65,236 (Non-Resident)
3-year Option (78 credits): $48,464 (Resident), $66,716 (Non-Resident)
4-year Option (78 credits): $50,096 (Resident), $68,348 (Non-Resident)

MSW students pay $542 (Oregon Resident) or $776 (Non-Resident) per credit. Students can access multiple financial support options including research assistantships, teaching assistantships, scholarships, and loans to help manage program costs.

Cleveland State University

Cleveland State University makes education accessible through its MSW program. Students benefit from detailed support services and achievable admission requirements. The CSWE-accredited program blends academic excellence with hands-on field experience to help students launch successful social work careers. Their acceptance rate is listed at 78%.

Cleveland State University MSW program structure

CSU tailors two educational paths based on your academic background:

Traditional Track: A 60-credit program that welcomes students with bachelor’s degrees in any field
Advanced Standing: A 30-credit accelerated option that serves BSW graduates from CSWE-accredited programs

Your schedule priorities determine how long you’ll spend in the program. Traditional students who study full-time can graduate in 5-6 semesters (1.7-2 years). Part-time students usually need 8-10 semesters (2.7-3.3 years). Advanced Standing students can finish even quicker—in just 7 months with full-time study or within 1.7 years part-time.

The program offers two professional specializations:

Clinical Social Work: Students learn psychotherapy skills to assess and treat individuals, families and groups
Advanced Generalist Practice: Students prepare to help individuals, families, organizations and communities through multi-level interventions

Cleveland State University MSW GPA and fieldwork

Traditional track students need a minimum 2.75 GPA while Advanced Standing applicants must have a 3.0 GPA. The program considers field education its “signature pedagogy”.

Traditional students must complete 900 field practicum hours. These hours split between generalist practice (400 hours) and specialization (500 hours). Advanced Standing students focus on 500 hours in their chosen specialization. CSU’s dedicated team helps students find quality learning sites that match their career goals through free placement services.

Cleveland State University MSW online options

Students enjoy maximum flexibility through the online program:

100% asynchronous coursework without campus visits
Full-time and part-time schedule options
Field experiences in your community
Guidance from dedicated Online Experience Coaches

Graduates qualify to become Licensed Independent Social Workers. They work to address human needs, social justice, and oppression through policy practice and clinical interventions.

University of Maine

The University of Maine’s MSW program features a reliable advanced generalist focus. This program specifically meets the social work needs of rural communities. Since earning CSWE accreditation in 1991, the program has maintained its status through 2027. Students receive quality education that professionals recognize nationwide. Their acceptance rate is listed at 77%.

University of Maine MSW advanced generalist track

The School of Social Work’s curriculum focuses on advanced generalist social work practice as its only concentration. The university chose this approach because of its rural setting. Students learn to handle complex social issues in Maine’s communities. The program gives you tools to address “personal troubles and public issues.” Students become practitioners who excel at advanced reasoning and problem-solving.

Many programs focus on specific intervention methods. Maine’s advanced generalist practitioners stand out with their critical thinking abilities and complete knowledge application. Students can pursue clinical licensing after graduation and qualify for LMSW status right after completing the program.

University of Maine MSW admission requirements

Students must meet these requirements:

Bachelor’s degree with minimum 3.0 GPA (probationary admission possible for lower GPAs)
Four courses in social/behavioral sciences
Two courses in humanities
Statistics/research course with C or better (can be completed during first semester)
Relevant volunteer/work experience

Advanced Standing candidates need a BSW from a CSWE-accredited program earned in the last seven years. Both summer (advanced standing) and fall (regular) programs have a priority application deadline of January 1, 2025.

University of Maine MSW online delivery

Students complete most coursework asynchronously in the online-blended MSW program. The program builds cohort connections through regular meetings. Each course has two required Saturday in-person sessions per semester at the Orono campus. Field practicum remains essential. Faculty visit students at their placement sites once each semester.

Program options include:

Regular MSW: 63 credits, 900 field hours (400 generalist, 500 specialized)
Advanced Standing: 46 credits, 500 field hours

Students can complete the program at different speeds. Advanced standing students finish in two years while part-time regular standing takes three years.

Southern Illinois University

Southern Illinois University welcomes students with GPAs as low as 2.7, making it one of the most available MSW programs for applicants with less competitive academic backgrounds. Students learn skills to meet human service needs and promote social and economic justice, particularly in rural communities. Their acceptance rate is about 63%.

Southern Illinois University MSW concentrations

Students can choose between two specialized areas that match their career goals:

Health/Mental Health – Prepares you for clinical roles and advanced practice in healthcare settings
Children, Youth & Families – Focuses on child welfare, youth services, and family support systems

Students can improve their credentials through additional options in both concentrations. The School Social Work sub-specialty leads to Illinois licensure eligibility. A Gerontology certificate helps specialize in working with elderly populations. These options let students customize their degree based on specific career goals.

Southern Illinois University MSW GPA and prerequisites

The program’s academic requirements are more relaxed compared to selective institutions. Admission requirements include:

Minimum 2.7 GPA from the last two years of undergraduate studies
Bachelor’s degree showing broad liberal arts preparation
Content knowledge in human biology and introductory statistics

Advanced Standing applicants need a BSW from a CSWE-accredited program with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Students must submit materials to both the Graduate School and Social Work department. The program doesn’t require GRE scores.

Southern Illinois University MSW program length

The complete program requires 60 credit hours—30 for foundation courses and 30 for advanced curriculum. Full-time students finish in two years, while part-time students can take 3-4 years with reduced-load scheduling.

Advanced Standing students complete 39 credit hours, including 9 transition credits and 30 advanced credits. Field practicum plays a crucial role—traditional students complete 967 field hours throughout the program, while Advanced Standing students complete 607 hours.

The university’s online MSW option offers a similar curriculum and requirements as the on-campus program.

Herzing University

Herzing University started its Master of Social Work program in 2022. The program offers flexible online education for clinical social work practice and received full accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). This accreditation proves its quality and professional standing. Their acceptance rate is 94% for the entire university.

Herzing University MSW specializations

Students can choose electives from three career-focused areas of practice:

Mental Health – Prepares you to work as behavioral health therapists and mental health social workers
Medical Social Work – Gives you the skills needed for positions in healthcare settings like hospitals and hospice
Children, Families, and Aging Services – Takes a deep dive into child welfare and family support systems

Online delivery covers all didactic, lecture-style courses. These courses pair with hands-on field practicum hours that are the life-blood of your education. Students learn culturally informed clinical practice and lifelong learning skills while following the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Code of Ethics.

Herzing University MSW admission process

The traditional MSW program track requires a minimum 2.5 GPA in your baccalaureate degree. Students must complete an application and submit their degree program’s transcripts. The process includes writing a personal statement that addresses MSW-specific prompts.

The university offers an efficient application process with rolling, continuous admissions. Students don’t need to worry about application deadlines. GRE or GMAT scores remain optional instead of mandatory. This makes Herzing one of the easiest MSW programs to get into.

Herzing University MSW online flexibility

Students enjoy unique flexibility through 100% online asynchronous coursework. Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSW) lead all classes, which ensures expert guidance from experienced professionals.

The program offers traditional (60-credit) and Advanced Standing (36-credit) options. BSW holders can complete their degree in as few as 12 months through the Advanced Standing track. Field education combines smoothly with coursework. This allows students to apply clinical skills in their community while making positive changes in clients’ lives.

University of South Dakota

The University of South Dakota (USD) stands out with an exceptional 99% acceptance rate, making it one of the most available MSW programs in the country. The program has managed to keep its full CSWE accreditation since 1974, which ensures graduates get quality education recognized across the profession.

University of South Dakota MSW acceptance rate

Students looking for programs with generous admission policies will find USD’s high acceptance rate appealing. The program shows impressive results – 84% of graduates have passed the national master-level exam since 2017. This is a big deal as it means that the national average by 17%. USD proves itself as one of the easiest MSW programs to get into while maintaining high educational standards.

University of South Dakota MSW program cost

USD’s tuition rates are notably lower than many other schools:

Annual tuition: $12,768 (2025)
Resident rate per credit: $340.15 plus $55.30 GAF fee ($395.45 total)
Non-resident rate: $654.05 plus $55.30 GAF fee ($709.35 total)
Online rate: $470.45 per credit (no additional fees)

Students can take advantage of substantial discounts through graduate assistantships, military benefits, and the SDAdvantage program. These financial opportunities, along with graduate assistantships and fellowships, make USD a cost-effective choice.

University of South Dakota MSW admission checklist

USD’s MSW program requires these items to apply:

Completed application with $35 application fee
Official transcripts
Letters of recommendation
Statement of purpose
Resume/CV

Students need a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or a graduate GPA of 3.0 or higher to qualify for full admission. The program lets you choose between full-time and part-time tracks – 60 credit hours for non-BSW holders and 36 credit hours for those with a BSW from a CSWE-accredited program.

Comparing Acceptance Rates of MSW Programs

University	Minimum GPA Requirement	Program Length/Credits	Acceptance Rate	Delivery Format	Special Features/Concentrations
Western Kentucky University	2.75 (Traditional), 3.0 (Advanced)	60 credits (Traditional), 30 credits (Advanced)	94-97%	On-campus and Online	Focus on rural communities
Eastern Kentucky University	2.7 (Regular), 3.0 (Advanced)	63 credits (Regular), 31 credits (Advanced)	98%	100% Online	Team-based learning approach
Lancaster Bible College	Not mentioned	60 credits (Regular), 30 credits (Advanced)	98%	Online with residencies	Clinical Social Work, Child & Family Practice specialty
University of Kentucky	3.0 (Regular), 3.5 (Advanced)	60 credits (Regular), 30 credits (Advanced)	Not mentioned	Not mentioned	Best clinical licensing exam results in Kentucky
University of Montana	3.0	60 credits	Not mentioned	Asynchronous Online	Practice-based learning model
Portland State University	2.75	78 credits (Regular), 46 credits (Advanced)	50% (89% Online)	Multiple options	Advanced Community Practice, Clinical Practice tracks
Cleveland State University	2.75 (Traditional), 3.0 (Advanced)	60 credits (Traditional), 30 credits (Advanced)	78%	100% Online	Clinical Social Work, Broad Practice focus
University of Maine	3.0	63 credits (Regular), 46 credits (Advanced)	77%	Online-blended	Comprehensive practice approach
Southern Illinois University	2.7	60 credits	63%	100% Online	Health/Mental Health, Youth & Family Services
Herzing University	2.5	60 credits (Traditional), 36 credits (Advanced)	94%	100% Online	Mental Health, Medical Social Work, Family Services
University of South Dakota	3.0	60 credits (Regular), 36 credits (Advanced)	99%	Not mentioned	84% success rate on national exams

Find Your High Acceptance Rate MSW Today

These available MSW programs show you don’t need perfect grades or face huge barriers to pursue graduate social work education. Schools like Western Kentucky University and University of South Dakota accept most applicants while delivering quality education and professional results.

Each school brings something different to the table. Western Kentucky boasts a 94% acceptance rate. Portland State offers specialized focus areas. Many schools now let you learn online, so you can earn your advanced degree while keeping your current commitments.

The costs can vary quite a bit. University of South Dakota’s annual tuition starts at $12,768, while Portland State University charges $54,444. You’ll need to look into financial aid options and compare total costs to pick the right program.

Most schools have dropped GRE requirements and accept GPAs as low as 2.5. They still keep their CSWE accreditation and their graduates pass licensing exams at high rates. This mix of easy entry and solid quality will give you the preparation you need for clinical licensure and success in your chosen field.

These programs show that getting an MSW degree is possible whatever your academic history. Take time to research and compare programs. You’ll find one that matches your needs in terms of admission requirements, specialty options, and class format to start your advanced social work career.

11 Most Accessible MSW Programs With High Acceptance Rates [2025 Guide]