Pursuing a Master of Social Work (MSW) in Michigan can lead to meaningful, in-demand roles in clinical and community practice. With a growing need for licensed social workers across the state, an MSW helps you build advanced skills and meet that demand. Michigan’s accredited online and hybrid MSW programs provide the flexibility working adults need without sacrificing quality. This OMD guide will help you explore top programs, licensure options, and how to take the next step in your career.
- Inside Real Programs
An inside look at actual online programs, exploring their structure, curriculum, costs, admission criteria, and more…
Read more - Top Fields in Michigan
Insightful and guiding answers to common questions prospective students like myself have about earning this degree…
Read more - Accreditation Details
What accreditation is, why it matters, and the accrediting bodies relevant for students in this state…
Read more - Program Types
The variety of online master’s programs offered in the state, from full-time and part-time to accelerated formats…
Read more - Cost Breakdown
A clear overview of how much my degree might cost and the factors influencing total expenses…
Read more - FAQs
Insightful and guiding answers to common questions prospective students like myself have about earning this degree…
Read more - Salary & Pay
How much I can expect to earn after graduation, what national averages are, and what the overall outlook is for this field…
Read more
Spotlight Schools: Inside Online MSW Programs
Michigan is home to several regionally accredited universities offering MSW programs in online or hybrid formats. Below, we spotlight three popular options – each accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) – including key details like duration, delivery mode, cost, and admission requirements.
University of Michigan – Online MSW Program
The University of Michigan School of Social Work now offers an online MSW pathway that mirrors its top-ranked campus program. Students receive the same curriculum in a flexible online format focused on interpersonal practice.
You can study from anywhere while still benefiting from U-M’s resources – for example, the program arranges local field placements so you can complete required internships in your own community. Faculty hold virtual office hours to support online students one-on-one. This MSW is ideal for working professionals seeking a high-quality, renowned education without relocating to Ann Arbor.
- Duration: ~Three years part-time (or ~two years full-time option)
- Mode: Fully online (asynchronous coursework; no set class times) with local field internships
- Cost: ~$1,047 per credit (Michigan resident); 60 credits total (about $62.8k tuition for residents). Non-resident online students pay about $1,675/credit.
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree (in any field) from a regionally accredited institution
- Minimum 3.0 GPA recommended (holistic review)
- Academic transcripts
- Résumé and statement of purpose
- Three letters of recommendation (academic or professional)
- For Advanced Standing: CSWE-accredited BSW within the last 5 years + 3.5 GPA
Michigan State University – Statewide Blended MSW
As part of MSU’s Statewide Blended MSW program, students meet one Saturday per month via Zoom for interactive lessons, with the rest of the coursework completed online. This program lets you keep your day job while earning an MSW from MSU’s respected School of Social Work.
You can choose a Clinical Practice focus or an Organization and Community Leadership (macro practice) focus, gaining broad skills to serve individuals, families, and communities. All required field placements can be done in your local area. An advanced standing track for BSW grads is also available.
Duration: Three years (part-time cohort); advanced standing track takes ~two years part-time.
Mode: Hybrid
Cost: $867 per credit (in-state rate); 57 credits for regular program (~$49.4k tuition for MI residents). Out-of-state students pay about $1,703/credit.
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college
- 3.0 GPA preferred (last 60 credits)
- Prerequisite: undergraduate coursework in social/behavioral sciences
- Professional résumé
- Personal statement outlining interest in social work
- Three reference letters (with at least one academic)
- Advanced standing: CSWE-accredited BSW with a minimum 3.25 GPA
Wayne State University – Online MSW (Interpersonal Practice)
Interpersonal practice in clinical social work, ideal if you plan to become a therapist or clinical social worker, is the focus of WSU’s online MSW. It features the same faculty and curriculum as its on-campus program, emphasizing evidence-based therapy approaches, assessment skills, and social justice values in practice.
Courses are delivered asynchronously (no set login times), giving flexibility for working students. Wayne State’s program stands out for its urban context and commitment to underserved communities. Students can pursue either the clinical or the macro concentration for policy and leadership roles.
Duration: Two years full-time, or three years part-time (extended track). Advanced standing can reduce the duration to one year full-time.
Mode: 100% online courses (asynchronous).
Cost: About $885 per credit for online graduate students. The MSW requires 60 credits ($53k total tuition).
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- 2.75 minimum GPA
- Completion of an introductory statistics course (grade C or higher)
- Statement of purpose detailing social work interests and experience
- Résumé of human service or volunteer experience
- Three recommendations
- Advanced Standing: CSWE-accredited BSW (earned within 5 years) + 3.0 GPA in undergraduate social work courses
Top 5 Fields of Study for MSW Graduates
In Michigan’s job market, certain social work specialties stand out for high demand, good salaries, and community need – all important when considering student loan ROI and where you can make the biggest impact. Based on employment trends, state data, and program offerings, here are 5 high-potential fields for MSW grads in Michigan.
Clinical Mental Health Social Work
Clinical social workers (LMSWs with a clinical designation) provide therapy and mental health services, a field experiencing robust growth. Clinical MSWs can diagnose and treat mental health and substance use disorders, often serving in community mental health agencies, private practice, or healthcare settings. All Michigan MSW programs offer clinical training pathways.
Demand is fueled by increased awareness of behavioral health, the opioid crisis, and efforts to improve access to care statewide. Salaries are competitive; Michigan clinical social workers average around $64,000 annually, and licensed clinicians can earn more (the average LCSW salary in MI is ~$82,000 in some cities).
Healthcare/Medical Social Work
Vital in Michigan’s extensive hospital and healthcare networks, healthcare social workers help patients navigate illness, hospital discharge, and community resources. Michigan’s aging population and large hospital systems (Beaumont, Spectrum Health) drive demand for MSWs in healthcare. Medical social workers often work in hospitals, hospices, nursing homes, and clinics, addressing psychosocial needs and care coordination.
This specialization offers strong job opportunities – social workers in healthcare settings are among the fastest-growing occupations as healthcare expands. In terms of pay, healthcare social workers in Michigan earn a median wage comparable to or slightly above other MSW roles (national median ~$60k).
School Social Work
School social work is a top field in Michigan due to state investments in student mental health and school safety. MSW-level school social workers address barriers to learning by providing counseling, crisis intervention, and family support in K-12 settings.
In recent years, Michigan has funded hundreds of new mental health staff positions in schools, adding ~355 school social workers in two years. This reflects high demand as districts strive to meet recommended ratios. With an MSW and a School Social Worker certification, graduates can secure jobs in public schools statewide. These positions often pay well, as school social workers are frequently on teacher salary scales, which can exceed $70k with experience.
Child and Family Services
Professionals in this arena work in agencies like the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS), adoption and foster care agencies, family service nonprofits, and community mental health centers. Demand is consistently high – roles such as Child Protective Services investigator, foster care case manager, or family therapist often have vacancies due to workforce shortages.
The work can be challenging but impactful: you’re safeguarding children, strengthening families, and addressing issues like abuse, neglect, juvenile justice, or family homelessness. Michigan has emphasized improving child welfare outcomes, which means hiring qualified MSWs is a priority. In terms of salary, Child Welfare Specialists in Michigan earn about $48,000 on average.
Macro and Community Social Work Administration
Not all MSW graduates become therapists – some lead programs and shape policy. Community practice, administration, and policy advocacy is a strong path in Michigan for those interested in systemic change. MSWs in these roles may manage nonprofits, develop social policies, or direct community initiatives.
Detroit and other Michigan cities have a rich landscape of community organizations and NGOs focusing on poverty reduction, community development, and social justice, providing ample opportunities for macro practitioners.. With an MSW and licensure, you’ll be well-positioned to take on leadership roles that shape the future of social services in Michigan.
Why It Matters for Online MSW Programs To Be Accredited
When choosing an online MSW, accreditation is crucial. Accreditation is a stamp of quality assurance: it means the program meets rigorous academic and professional standards. In Michigan, the key accreditors to look for are:
Regional Accreditation: This affirms the university’s overall quality. Michigan universities are typically accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), a regional accreditor recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
Programmatic (CSWE) Accreditation: MSW programs should be accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). This is the national accrediting body for social work education. This is critical because Michigan’s social work licensing board requires an MSW from a CSWE-accredited program.
Types of Online MSW Programs in Michigan
Prospective students in Michigan can choose from different MSW program types depending on their academic background and scheduling needs. In general, Michigan schools offer traditional MSW programs for those without a BSW, advanced standing programs for BSW graduates, and a variety of delivery formats (fully online vs. hybrid).
Traditional Online MSW Programs
A traditional MSW program is the full-length pathway for students who do not have a Bachelor of Social Work. In Michigan, these programs are typically about 60 credit hours and take two years of full-time study or around three to four years part-time. You’ll cover foundational social work courses in the first year and advanced specialized courses in the second.
Advanced Standing Online MSW Programs
Advanced Standing programs are accelerated MSW tracks for students who already hold a CSWE-accredited BSW degree. These recognize your prior social work education, allowing you to skip the foundational courses and complete the MSW faster. In Michigan, an advanced standing MSW is typically 32–36 credits and can be finished in about 1 year full-time (or ~2 years part-time).
Hybrid and Online Program Formats
Online MSW programs in Michigan come in different formats: some are fully online, while others are hybrid. A fully online program means you can complete all coursework remotely, usually through asynchronous classes, so you can follow your own schedule (as offered by Wayne State and the University of Michigan). Hybrid programs blend online learning with some on-site or real-time components.
What Are The Costs for an Online MSW Degree?
Tuition in Michigan for an online MSW program can vary widely by school and your residency status. Each program sets a rate per credit hour. In Michigan, MSW tuition ranges roughly from $765 to $1,700 per credit across schools. Public universities often have lower in-state rates and higher non-resident rates, whereas private schools charge one rate.
MSW programs are usually 60 credits (for traditional) or around 36 credits (for advanced standing). Expect total tuition for a full program to be anywhere from ~$40,000 (cheaper public or advanced standing) to $60,000+ (higher-priced or private).
To compare costs, below is a snapshot of three MSW programs in Michigan.
| School | Credits | Cost per Credit | Total Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Michigan | 60 | $1,047 | $62,852 |
| Michigan State University | 57 | $867 | $49,419 |
| Western Michigan University | 60 | $764.76 | $45,886 |
Note: Tuition figures above are approximate for illustration and assume Michigan residency. Always check the latest tuition schedules.
FAQs From MSW Students
What are the licensing requirements for MSW graduates in Michigan? Do I become a social worker automatically with my degree?
Earning your MSW is the first step, but to practice as a licensed social worker (LMSW) in Michigan, you must also complete post-grad requirements. After graduation, you’ll apply for a Limited LMSW and complete 4,000 hours of supervised social work experience (about 2 years full-time) under a licensed supervisor.
Once your hours are done, you’re eligible to take the ASWB licensing exam – Michigan accepts either the Clinical or Advanced Generalist exam, depending on whether you want a clinical or macro designation. Keep in mind you’ll also need to complete background checks and an application through the state.
Do I need a Bachelor’s in Social Work (BSW) to apply for an MSW program?
No, Michigan’s MSW programs welcome students from all academic backgrounds. If your bachelor’s is in another field (psychology, sociology, education, business), you simply apply to the traditional MSW program.
These standard MSW tracks (around 60 credits) will include foundational social work coursework in your first year to get you up to speed. For example, someone with a bachelor’s in English or Biology can enter an MSW program and, in the first semester, take courses in social work practice, human behavior, and policy. You might need to show your understanding of the field in your personal statement.
Can I work while in the MSW online program?
Working while in an MSW program is very common, especially in online and part-time tracks. Students often continue at least part-time employment. Full-time MSW study (especially with the field practicum, which is 16–20 hours/week) can be like a full-time job itself, so many full-time students work only minimally or not at all.
Part-time students, taking fewer classes at once, are more likely to work 20+ hours a week alongside school. The flexibility of online classes (asynchronous lectures you can watch at night or on weekends) is a huge help in balancing work. Just be realistic about your time management: expect to spend around eight hours per week on coursework for each class.
How do field placements/internships work for online MSW students?
Online MSW students complete internships just like on-campus students. The difference is location flexibility. Online programs will help arrange your field placement at a social service agency in your local community (or region).
Schools have relationships with agencies across Michigan (and nationwide) or will establish a learning agreement with a new agency for you. Typically, you’ll work with the school’s Field Education Office to identify a suitable placement that meets MSW requirements. The first placement often focuses on generalist practice, and the second on your concentration. These could be at hospitals, mental health clinics, child welfare offices, schools, or non-profits.
Is an online degree as good as an on-campus degree?
Yes, employers in Michigan will respect it just as much as a traditional degree. Your diploma typically doesn’t even specify the mode of delivery. Employers care that you graduated from a CSWE-accredited program and that you have the LMSW license (or are at least in pursuit of it).
An online MSW from, for example, the University of Michigan or Spring Arbor University carries the same accreditation and curriculum standards as their campus programs. Often, the same faculty teach both. Importantly, online students still complete the required field internships and meet Michigan’s licensing requirements, so your training is equivalent.
Career Prospects for Social Workers
| Area ↕ | Occupation ↕ | 10th Percentile ↕ | 90th Percentile ↕ | Median ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. | Social Workers | $39,580 | $104,580 | $63,770 |
| Michigan | Social Workers | $38,230 | $101,940 | $61,710 |
| Ann Arbor, MI | Social Workers | $45,980 | $106,540 | $78,420 |
| Battle Creek, MI | Social Workers | $65,500 | $107,660 | $94,990 |
| Detroit-Warren-Dearborn, MI | Social Workers | $38,230 | $103,440 | $62,920 |
| Flint, MI | Social Workers | $36,980 | $82,300 | $42,250 |
| Grand Rapids-Wyoming, MI | Social Workers | $37,920 | $94,990 | $47,840 |
| Kalamazoo-Portage, MI | Social Workers | $36,630 | $60,580 | $48,100 |
| Lansing-East Lansing, MI | Social Workers | $37,990 | $98,180 | $49,630 |
Source: Social Workers, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2023, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
| Area ↕ | Occupation ↕ | Curr. Jobs ↕ | Proj. Jobs ↕ | New Jobs ↕ | Growth % ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | Social Workers | 68,400 | 72,900 | 4,500 | 6.6% |
| Michigan | Social Workers | 1,160 | 1,230 | 70 | 6.0% |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.