15 Most Affordable MSW Programs in North Carolina for 2025

MSW programs in North Carolina give you amazing value with tuition as low as $3,438 per year. Getting your master’s in social work makes sense both academically and financially. MSW graduates typically earn $13,000 more per year than their BSW counterparts.

North Carolina proves ideal for students watching their budget. Graduate tuition rates range from $197 to $411 per credit, making these programs surprisingly affordable. The job market looks bright, with estimates showing 54,700 new social work positions annually from 2023-2033. East Carolina University’s online program at $5,213 yearly stands out among the most budget-friendly online MSW options. Most NC online MSW programs cost less than traditional campus programs while maintaining high educational standards. The best MSW programs in NC blend affordability with stellar career preparation. Students can choose specialized paths like UNC Wilmington’s Macro social work focus or fast-track options like UNC Pembroke’s one-year advanced standing program.

Appalachian State University

Appalachian State University’s Beaver College of Health Sciences houses a CSWE-accredited MSW program. Students become skilled at advanced clinical practice, leadership, community development, and program administration.

Overview

The Department of Social Work at Appalachian State in Boone, North Carolina, shapes professionals who enhance the well-being of individuals, families, groups, and communities. Students learn to champion social and economic justice while working effectively in Appalachian culture and beyond national borders. The program connects graduates with healthcare professionals of all disciplines.

Tuition and Fees

The 2025-2026 academic year tuition and fees for in-state graduate students are $6,108 at half-time enrollment. Out-of-state students pay $17,556. Full-time tuition costs $9,040 for in-state and $26,211 for out-of-state students. The program costs less than the national average in-state tuition of $12,201.

Program Formats

The program features:

• Regular Program (60 credit hours): Students without a BSW degree can choose full-time (2 years) or part-time (4 years) options
• Advanced Standing (33 credit hours): BSW graduates from CSWE-accredited programs can complete the program full-time (1 year) or part-time (2 years)

Specializations

Students choose between two concentrations with a unique crossover design:

1. Community and Organizational Practice: Students develop leadership skills in community development, advocacy, and policy implementation
2. Individuals and Families: Students master advanced direct and clinical practice with diverse populations

Online Options

Working professionals can access the Advanced Standing MSW program completely online. Online classes meet Tuesdays and Thursdays, with new Wednesday evening options starting Fall 2024. Students complete practicum requirements in person while attending online seminars.

Admission Requirements

Applicants need a bachelor’s degree, 3.0 GPA (or 2.5 with qualifying test scores), three professional recommendation letters, and a personal statement. Advanced Standing candidates must complete their BSW within seven years with a 3.2 GPA in BSW courses. Students with a 3.2+ GPA or previous graduate degree can skip the GRE.

East Carolina University

ECU places great emphasis on hands-on experience. MSW students spend about half their time in field agencies to prepare for advanced careers through practical learning.

Overview

The Master of Social Work program at ECU trains students at an advanced practice level with a person-in-environment framework. Students learn to provide services at all levels of society while advocating for social, economic, and environmental justice. Social work continues to be one of the fastest-growing careers in the United States. The field shows projected growth of 12% from 2020 to 2030, which exceeds the average for all occupations.

Tuition and Fees

Graduate students at ECU pay $7,658 for on-campus tuition and fees if they’re in-state residents during the 2024-2025 academic year. Out-of-state students pay $20,807. ECU runs one of North Carolina’s most affordable MSW programs. Online programs cost $5,213 for in-state students and $19,302 for out-of-state students. Students should note that the MS in Social Work program charges an extra $75 per credit hour.

Program Formats

Students can choose from several program options:

• Full-time MSW (in-person): 2-year regular pathway or 1-year advanced standing
• Part-time MSW (online): 3-year program for both regular pathway and advanced standing

Specializations

Students focus on Clinical-Community Social Work Practice from a Relational Perspective. This specialized curriculum teaches students to provide services that promote client healing and wellness by combining clinical and community practice.

Online Options

Students can complete part-time MSW programs entirely online. The format combines synchronous Saturday courses with asynchronous coursework that fits students’ schedules. This online format makes ECU one of North Carolina’s most affordable online MSW options.

Admission Requirements

Students need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with a minimum 3.0 GPA overall and in their final 30 semester hours. Advanced Standing applicants must have earned their undergraduate social work degree from a CSWE-accredited program in the last 7 years. The program doesn’t give social work course credit for life experience or previous work experience.

Fayetteville State University

Fayetteville State University’s Master of Social Work (MSW) program excels at preparing professionals to work with children, families, military populations, and in mental health settings. The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) has fully accredited this program, which gives students advanced practice skills for rural, urban, and military environments.

Overview

The MSW program at Fayetteville State focuses on ethical and evidence-based practice in prevention, treatment, intervention, and clinical practice. Students learn to ease oppression, poverty, and discrimination in multicultural settings. The program creates a rich learning environment where faculty, field instructors, social work professionals, and students work together.

Tuition and Fees

The 2024-2025 academic year costs include in-state graduate tuition of $3,438 plus $2,660 in fees, which adds up to $6,098. Out-of-state graduate students pay much more with $14,503 tuition and the same fees, totaling $17,163. North Carolina residents will find FSU’s MSW program among the state’s most budget-friendly options.

Program Formats

Students can choose from three study paths:

• Advanced Standing (35 credit hours): BSW graduates with a 3.0+ GPA can complete this program in one year
• Full-Time (61 credit hours): Students attend evening classes Monday through Thursday over two years
• Weekend Part-Time (61 credit hours): Classes meet Friday evenings and Saturdays across three years

Specializations

The program offers two concentration choices: Children and Family Services or Mental Health. On top of that, students can earn graduate certificates in Advanced Clinical Practice (21 credits), Substance Abuse Studies (12 credits), or Military Behavioral Health (18 credits).

Fayetteville State University Online Options

While some sources suggest online availability, newer information shows the MSW program runs mainly on campus.

Admission Requirements

Students need a bachelor’s degree with a 2.5 GPA minimum (or 3.0 in the last 60 hours). The prerequisites include 18 semester hours in social/behavioral sciences, 3 hours of human biology, and 3 hours of humanities. Applications must include three recommendations and a personal statement about the student’s interest in social work.

North Carolina Central University

North Carolina Central University (NCCU) in Durham prepares MSW students to become advanced generalist practice leaders. These leaders deliver culturally competent services at local, national, and global levels through multiple systems.

Overview

NCCU’s MSW program’s main goal focuses on improving population well-being through multiple systems. Students get leadership opportunities that drive positive social change. The curriculum helps future social workers work effectively with diverse communities like Durham’s population. The program builds student expertise in both micro and macro level practice interventions.

Tuition and Fees

In-state graduate students will pay approximately $7,668 per year for the 2025-2026 academic year. This makes it one of North Carolina’s more affordable MSW programs. Out-of-state students pay higher tuition at around $20,976 annually. NCCU offers a more economical option compared to the national average in-state tuition of $12,201. Students taking 12 credit hours per semester pay $4,573 for tuition and fees each semester.

Program Formats

NCCU offers two program options:

• Traditional MSW (58 credit hours): A two-year, full-time program
• Advanced Standing (35 credit hours): An intensive one-year option for students with a BSW degree from a CSWE-accredited program

Classes meet once weekly during evening hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6-8:30 p.m. or on Saturdays from 9 a.m.-6 p.m.. Students complete field practicum requirements of 16 hours weekly during the first year and 24 hours weekly during the second year.

Specializations

The program focuses on Advanced Generalist Practice and prepares graduates for careers in both macro and clinical practice social work. Students gain foundational knowledge needed to succeed in any area of the profession.

Online Options

NCCU’s MSW program offers some online classes but remains largely campus-based. Students living in Durham or those willing to relocate benefit most from this program as courses happen mainly in-person.

Admission Requirements

Traditional MSW applicants must meet these requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree with minimum 2.75 cumulative GPA and 3.0 major GPA
• Online graduate admission application with $50 non-refundable fee
• Two letters of recommendation
• Personal narrative and writing sample
• Professional resume
• Official transcripts from all schools attended

Advanced Standing applicants need a 3.0 cumulative GPA and 3.25 major GPA. They also need three recommendation letters, including one from their BSW field instructor. The program doesn’t require GRE scores. Students should apply by February 1 for Advanced Standing and March 1 for the traditional program.

University of North Carolina at Charlotte

UNC Charlotte’s MSW program stands out with its comprehensive approach. Students learn to tackle challenges at every level of society. The curriculum strongly emphasizes social justice principles.

Overview

The nationally-ranked Master of Social Work program at UNC Charlotte shapes future social work professionals and leaders. Students receive training in culturally-informed, community-engaged practice, policy, and research. The program provides advanced generalist social work education. Students can specialize through electives and practicum experiences. The university’s location offers both urban and rural learning opportunities. This helps students understand different communities better.

Tuition and Fees

The 2025 tuition rates show in-state graduate students pay $256.32 per credit hour. Out-of-state students pay $740.09 per credit hour. Additional fees bring the total cost for in-state students between $404 for one credit and $3,120.19 for nine credits. Out-of-state students’ costs range from $887.77 to $7,474.12 for the same credit loads.

Program Formats

Students can choose between two options:

• Advanced Standing (39 credits): BSW graduates from the last seven years can apply
  • On-campus: Complete in 1 year
  • Online: Complete in 2 years
• Traditional (60 credits): This path covers generalist and specialized curricula
  • On-campus: Complete in 2 years
  • Online: Complete in 3 years

Specializations

The program follows an advanced generalist curriculum. Students take courses in practice with individuals, groups, families, organizations, and communities. They can develop expertise through elective courses from the School of Social Work or other departments.

Online Options

The online program offers flexible course delivery. Most classes meet virtually on weekday evenings or Saturdays. Students complete their practicum experiences in person with support from over 200 partner agencies.

Admission Requirements

The program looks at your undergraduate preparation (3.0 GPA preferred), professional recommendations, and relevant experience. You’ll need to submit a personal statement. The program doesn’t require GRE scores.

University of North Carolina at Greensboro / NC A&T

The Joint Masters of Social Work (JMSW) program showcases a groundbreaking partnership between North Carolina A&T State University and UNC Greensboro. This 23-year-old collaboration stands as the first between a predominantly white institution and a Historically Black College/University in the United States.

Overview

The JMSW program has managed to keep its Council on Social Work Education accreditation since 2000 and recently secured re-accreditation through 2028. Students enjoy a unique setup that lets them take classes on both campuses just 2 miles apart. They learn from faculty at both universities and earn a joint degree with diplomas bearing both institutions’ seals. The program’s excellence shows in its rankings – #77 nationally and #3 in North Carolina for Best Schools for Social Work by U.S. News & World Report.

Tuition and Fees

UNCG’s annual tuition and fees cost $8,684 for in-state graduate students and $24,001 for out-of-state students. These rates make the program more affordable than most graduate programs nationwide. NC A&T’s tuition follows the same structure, which North Carolina’s legislature sets and the Board of Trustees reviews yearly.

Program Formats

Students can pick between two options:

• Two-Year Option (60 credit hours): Traditional full-time format
• Advanced Standing Option (42 credit hours): For BSW graduates, completed in one calendar year

Specializations

The curriculum centers on Multicultural Clinical Social Work practice. This focus acknowledges “the culture, history, and identities of all peoples with emphasis on people who are oppressed, marginalized, and traumatized”. Students can choose electives in school social work, children’s social services, and trauma-informed practice.

Online Options

The program runs mostly on campus with face-to-face classes at both university locations. Unlike other MSW programs in NC, this collaborative program doesn’t offer online learning as its main option.

Admission Requirements

Candidates need to provide:

• Bachelor’s degree with minimum 3.0 GPA
• Personal statement and case analysis
• Three recommendations
• Liberal arts foundation including 18 credits of Social and Behavioral Sciences, 6 credits of Humanities, 3 credits of Human Biology/Development, and 3 credits of Statistics

Advanced Standing applicants must have earned their BSW within the past ten years with a 3.0 overall GPA and 3.5 GPA in social work major courses. The program has dropped the GRE requirement. Students can only start in fall, with applications due by January 15.

University of North Carolina at Pembroke

UNC Pembroke stands out as one of North Carolina’s most affordable options for future social workers. The MSW program caters to students who need to balance their studies with other life commitments.

Overview

UNC Pembroke’s Master of Social Work program shapes professionals through an advanced generalist model that focuses on rural and indigenous communities. Students learn to excel in clinical and healthcare settings and get the tools they need for evidence-based practices. UNCP proudly serves as a historically Native American Institution and ranks among the nation’s most diverse universities.

Tuition and Fees

Graduate students pay $4,280 yearly for in-state tuition. The total cost including fees comes to $6,891 for residents and $19,950 for non-residents. North Carolina residents looking for quality education at reasonable prices will find UNCP’s MSW program quite attractive.

Program Formats

The program offers several flexible paths:

• Full-time MSW (2 years, 50-62 credits)
• Part-time MSW (3 years, 50-62 credits)
• Full-time Advanced Standing (1 year, 35 credits)
• Part-time Advanced Standing (2 years, 35 credits)

Regular programs kick off in Fall (August), and Advanced Standing programs begin in Summer (May).

Specializations

The curriculum centers on Advanced Generalist practice, with special attention to rural communities and Native American indigenous populations. Students can also earn additional certifications in school social work or pursue the Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist (LCAS) credential.

Online Options

Students can choose between fully online and hybrid formats. The hybrid option usually needs one campus visit weekly from 3:00-8:30pm. Students must complete their field practicum in person at North Carolina locations.

Admission Requirements

Each program format has specific requirements:

• Fully online option: Bachelor’s degree with minimum 3.0 GPA
• Hybrid option: Bachelor’s degree with minimum 2.75 GPA
• Advanced Standing: BSW within past 5 years with 3.2 GPA

The application deadline falls on February 15, and students receive notifications shortly after.

University of North Carolina at Wilmington

UNC Wilmington’s Master of Social Work program has given students the skills to tackle society’s problems since 2005. The program addresses social, racial, economic, health, and mental health inequity through field placements and shared projects that focus on belonging and integrity.

Overview

UNCW grew from Wilmington College (1947) to become a research institution with nearly 19,000 students. The School of Social Work’s faculty brings unique field experience to prepare graduates. Students find jobs in public and private settings that touch every part of life. The Council on Social Work Education fully accredits both the baccalaureate and master programs.

Tuition and Fees

In-state graduate students pay $293.23 per credit hour for 2024-2025, while out-of-state students pay $1,186.89 per credit hour. Full-time in-state students taking 9+ credits pay $4,095.25 each semester, and out-of-state students pay $12,138.25. The total estimated costs for 2025-2026 reach $29,596 for in-state graduate students, which includes tuition ($5,595), fees ($2,823), and living expenses.

Program Formats

Students can choose from three formats:

• Full-Time (62 credit hours with 900 field hours): Students complete this two-year program by attending classes 2-3 days weekly
• Part-Time (62 credit hours with 900 field hours): This three-year hybrid program works well for professionals and military-affiliated students
• Advanced Standing (39 credit hours with 600 field hours): BSW graduates from CSWE-accredited programs can take this option

Specializations

The program offers two distinct tracks:

• Clinical Social Work: Students learn assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental illness through individual, group, and family therapy
• Macro Social Work: This track covers client-system interactions, advocacy, policy influence, and social justice work

Students can also earn certificates in addictions, veterinary social work, School Social Work credentials, or join the Child Welfare Collaborative.

Online Options

UNCW’s three-year hybrid program combines online and face-to-face instruction. This format works great for working professionals and makes the program more available than campus-only options.

Admission Requirements

Students need a bachelor’s degree with a 3.0 GPA (3.5 for Advanced Standing). The application package should include a resume, three recommendations, and a statement of interest. The program doesn’t give credit for life experience. Graduates can qualify for North Carolina’s three licensing levels: Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Certified Master Social Worker, and Certified Social Work Manager.

North Carolina State University

NC State University started its MSW program in 2005. The Council on Social Work Education fully accredited the program in 2009, and granted reaccreditation for eight years in 2021. Students learn valuable skills to help people and improve lives at local, national, and global levels.

Overview

NC State’s MSW program prepares students to work with people from different backgrounds. Students learn to meet service needs and support underserved populations effectively. Professional ethics, belonging, and community involvement are key program values. Graduates can tackle complex social issues through various intervention approaches.

Tuition and Fees

Full-time in-state graduate students (9+ credits) pay $6,367.25 each semester for 2025-2026. This includes $5,115 for tuition and $1,252.25 for required fees. Out-of-state students pay $17,016.25 per semester, which is much higher. In-state students living off-campus should budget around $34,503 yearly for all expenses including housing, food, and personal needs.

Program Formats

Students can choose between two options:

• Traditional MSW: A two-year, full-time program that needs 60 credit hours and starts in August
• Advanced Standing MSW: A 12-month intensive program with 39 credit hours beginning in May, only for BSW graduates

Specializations

The program builds strong knowledge for multi-level interventions through advanced generalist practice. Students can then focus on specific areas:

• School Social Work Licensure
• Child Welfare Education Collaborative
• Addiction and Recovery Licensure to become a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist

Online Options

NC State currently offers all MSW courses on campus only. There’s no online option available.

Admission Requirements

Traditional program students need:

• Bachelor’s degree with 3.0 GPA
• Courses in social sciences, humanities, biology, and statistics
• Three references (two professional, one academic)
• Relevant life/work experience

Advanced Standing applicants must have:

• BSW degree with 3.5 cumulative GPA
• “B” or better in all social work courses
• Three references (one professional, one academic, one from field education designee)

Western Carolina University

Western Carolina University’s MSW program stands out by focusing on advanced generalist practice. The program caters to rural communities in Southern Appalachia and maintains strong connections with the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.

Overview

WCU’s Department of Social Work serves as North Carolina’s regional comprehensive university. The department prepares professionals who work in public agencies and private clinical practice. Students gain skills in micro and macro level interventions while promoting social and economic justice. The program holds full CSWE accreditation and offers classes at both Cullowhee and Asheville locations.

Tuition and Fees

Full-time in-state graduate students will pay $5,447.78 per semester during the 2025-2026 academic year. This amount includes a tuition differential specific to the MSW program. Out-of-state students pay $10,807.28 per semester. Summer courses cost $403.70 per credit hour for in-state and $584.70 for out-of-state students. Students also pay a Social Work fee of $14.60 per semester hour.

Program Formats

Students can select from these options:

• Traditional MSW (54-60 credit hours): Students complete 900 field practicum hours
  • Full-time: 2 years to complete
  • Part-time: 4 years to complete
• Advanced Standing (33 credit hours): BSW graduates complete 600 field hours
  • Full-time: 10 months to complete (3 semesters)
  • Part-time: 2 years to complete (5 semesters)

Specializations

The curriculum centers on advanced generalist practice in rural communities. Students take foundation courses in diversity, human behavior, research, and practice during their first year. The second year covers clinical interventions, leadership, and rural community advocacy. Additional certifications available:

• Addiction Studies
• School Social Work
• Child Welfare
• Integrated Health
• Culturally Based Native Health

Online Options

The program uses hybrid learning with some distance education courses. Most courses meet face-to-face with full-time faculty. Some classes use synchronous streaming technology between locations.

Admission Requirements

Students need a bachelor’s degree with a 3.0 GPA for the last 60 hours or 2.85 cumulative GPA (3.2 for Advanced Standing). Applications should include three recommendation letters, a professional resume, personal narrative, and $65 application fee. The program doesn’t require GRE scores.

Johnson C. Smith University

Johnson C. Smith University, a private historically Black university in Charlotte, runs a high-quality Master of Social Work program. The program caters to students who need to balance their education with work and family life.

Overview

JCSU’s MSW program stands out with unique advantages that help students reach their professional goals through flexible learning options. Field experience serves as the life-blood of the program. Students gain hands-on practice at approved social work agencies throughout their studies. These real-life experiences help students put their classroom knowledge to work and prepare them for career challenges. The Council on Social Work Education’s Commission on Accreditation reaffirmed the program in 2019.

Tuition and Fees

The 2025-2026 academic year full-time tuition costs $11,075 per semester ($22,150 annually). Students living off-campus should budget $12,900 per semester ($25,800 annually) with a meal plan. Duke Hall residents and other on-campus students pay $16,190 per semester ($32,380 annually) for room and board. Part-time students’ tuition runs $923 per credit hour.

Program Formats

JCSU offers two paths to earn your degree:

• Advanced Standing (39 credit hours): A one-year program for qualified BSW graduates
• Traditional Full-time (60 credit hours): A two-year program with 900 clock hours of field experience

Specializations

The curriculum emphasizes Advanced Generalist Social Work Practice and prepares students for clinical and macro practice careers. The coursework covers cultural competence, human behavior, research methods, data analysis, and generalist practice with organizations and communities. Students can customize their education by choosing electives that match their interests.

Online Options

JCSU arranges evening and weekend classes instead of fully online programs. This setup lets students keep their jobs while pursuing graduate education. Class schedules work well for candidates who need to manage both school and work.

Admission Requirements

Students need a 3.0 GPA and an undergraduate degree from a regionally accredited institution. The application package should include a $40 fee, three recommendations (at least 1-2 academic references), and official transcripts from all colleges attended. Students must also submit a 3-5 page personal statement. Note that the program doesn’t require GRE scores or give credit for life experience.

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Ranked as the #2 public university social work program in the country, UNC Chapel Hill delivers outstanding education through its MSW degree program.

Overview

The School of Social Work at UNC-Chapel Hill welcomes about 300 students each year. Students learn through evidence-based education. The program values equal access to services, human dignity, self-determination, and meeting human needs. More than 6,000 alumni have graduated from this program. The success rates speak for themselves: 95% first-time masters level examination pass rate and 88% clinical examination pass rate.

Tuition and Fees

The 2024-2025 tuition costs $7,301 annually for in-state graduate students, with mandatory fees of $1,036.50 per semester. Out-of-state students pay $16,572 annually. Part-time students pay $811 per credit (in-state) and $1,841 per credit (out-of-state). UNC’s tuition remains competitive compared to similar institutions.

Program Formats

Students can choose from four options:

• 12-Month Advanced Standing (for BSW graduates)
• 2-Year MSW Program (62 credit hours, traditional full-time)
• 3-Year MSW Program (for working professionals within commuting distance)
• Online MSW Program (62 credit hours, 100% online)

Specializations

The program offers two concentrations:

• Direct Practice: Students learn to work with individuals, families, and groups in clinical settings
• Community, Management, and Policy Practice (CMPP): Students develop leadership skills in community organizing, administration, and advocacy

Online Options

The new online MSW program combines asynchronous and synchronous courses. Working professionals can balance their studies with other commitments while learning from the same world-class faculty as on-campus students.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree (no specific GPA requirement stated) and submit:

• Personal statement (4-5 pages)
• Three letters of recommendation
• Resume/CV
• Transcripts from all institutions attended

Advanced Standing applicants need a BSW with “B” or higher grades in all required courses.

Methodist University

Methodist University runs an accredited Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program through the Council on Social Work Education. The program focuses on rural communities in Cumberland County, North Carolina and nearby areas.

Overview

The Social Work program at Methodist University gives you the tools to pursue human well-being and reduce oppression by serving individuals, families, groups, and communities. Students benefit from a 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio that creates tailored learning experiences. BSW graduates can earn 15-30 credits toward their Master of Social Work degree, which opens doors to advanced clinical practice.

Tuition and Fees

Annual full-time undergraduate tuition costs $42,424. New freshmen receive an average financial aid award of $38,452, and 97% of students get some form of assistance. The online BSW program costs $445 per credit, while active military, reservists, or National Guard members pay $250 per credit. New residential freshmen pay an average net cost of $15,421 after financial aid.

Program Formats

Students can choose between a traditional on-campus BSW program and a flexible online format that suits working professionals. The curriculum starts with foundation courses before moving into specialized practice areas. Field experience is the life-blood of both formats and provides hands-on learning throughout the program.

Specializations

The university offers licensure in School Social Work if you have interest in school settings. Methodist stands out as the first private university in the North Carolina Child Welfare Education Collaborative, offering specialized training for child welfare positions. Students who complete the SWK 3750 Child Welfare course with a ‘B’ or better qualify for collaborative funding.

Online Options

Students can access the BSW program through an affordable online format. The university also offers School Social Work licensure online alongside the BSW program.

Admission Requirements

Students must meet these criteria:

• Minimum 2.25 GPA (for students entering after Fall 2013)
• Grade of C or better in ENG 1010 and ENG 1020/1040
• 75 GPA in courses with SWK prefix

Field internship candidates need program admission, a completed field application, and C grades or higher in all required social work courses.

Wingate University

Wingate University plans to welcome its first MSW program cohort in August 2024. The program stands out among North Carolina’s social work programs with its unique focus on Transformative Social Work in the Beloved Community.

Overview

Wingate University’s Master of Social Work program aims to create “exemplary difference makers” equipped with professional knowledge and skills for transformative social work practice. The program envisions the beloved community as a space free from racism and marginalization, where people receive care and value. The program’s founding director, Wendy Sellers, brings more than 20 years of higher education teaching experience. The Council on Social Work Education’s Board of Accreditation currently reviews the program for candidacy.

Tuition and Fees

Students at Wingate University pay $440 per credit hour for graduate tuition. This rate makes Wingate one of the budget-friendly private universities offering MSW degrees in North Carolina. The university lets students split their tuition into five monthly payments each semester. Families can better manage educational costs through this interest-free payment plan.

Program Formats

The MSW program requires 48 credit hours, with 12 hours dedicated to practicum settings. Students have several completion options:

• Full-time students can earn their degree in two years
• Students with BSW degrees qualify for advanced standing and can graduate in one year
• The program offers part-time options for additional flexibility

Specializations

The program features a single specialization in Transformative Social Work in the Beloved Community. Students learn to merge micro, mezzo, and macro practice levels using the person-in-environment framework. This approach prepares graduates to enhance human and community well-being while focusing on social justice and professional values.

Online Options

The MSW program runs completely online in an asynchronous format. Working professionals can advance their careers while completing coursework. Wingate University’s approval under the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA-NC) ensures national standards for distance education.

Admission Requirements

The program launches in 2024, so admission details continue to develop. Applicants typically need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. BSW graduates seeking advanced standing must meet GPA requirements that align with other accredited programs, based on CSWE standards.

North Carolina A&T State University

North Carolina A&T State University, a leading historically Black institution, works together with UNC Greensboro to create a groundbreaking Master of Social Work degree that champions multicultural viewpoints and social justice principles.

Overview

The Joint Master of Social Work Degree program between North Carolina A&T and UNC Greensboro has managed to keep Council on Social Work Education accreditation since 2000. This innovative partnership stems from a multicultural historical viewpoint and shows how institutions can work together effectively. Students get access to instructional and research support from both universities. This creates a rich educational environment that prepares graduates to work in many different settings.

Tuition and Fees

In-state graduate students at NC A&T pay $4,896 for tuition and $3,208 in fees annually for 2024-2025. Out-of-state graduate students pay much more at $17,696 for tuition with the same fees. Students living on campus should budget around $30,558 for in-state and $43,358 for out-of-state total costs, which cover housing, food, and personal expenses. The Joint MSW program charges an extra fee of $137.45 per credit for in-state and $167.67 for out-of-state students.

Program Formats

Two main formats are available:

• Two-Year Option (60 credit hours): Traditional full-time curriculum
• Advanced Standing (42 credit hours): For BSW graduates, completed in one calendar year

Specializations

The curriculum focuses solely on Multicultural Clinical Social Work practice. Students learn to work independently in clinical social work with individuals, families, and small groups while tackling social justice issues effectively.

Online Options

The MSW program runs mostly on campus with face-to-face classes. NC A&T offers many other graduate degrees fully online, but the MSW program isn’t available in this format yet.

Admission Requirements

Students must submit an online application with a $60 fee, unofficial transcripts, three recommendations, and personal statement. Advanced standing applicants need a BSW earned within the last ten years with a minimum 3.0 overall GPA and 3.5 GPA in social work courses. The program takes applications only for fall admission, and the priority deadline is January 15.

Comparing Affordable MSWs in North Carolina

Choose Your Affordable MSW Today

You need to think about several key factors when choosing the right MSW program. Cost, specialization options, program format, and accessibility are the foundations of making this choice. North Carolina’s affordable MSW programs offer great value and high-quality education standards. Students find budget-friendly options like Fayetteville State University at $3,438 per year. East Carolina University’s online program costs $5,213 annually.

BSW degree holders should look into Advanced Standing programs. These fast-track options cut your program length from two years to just one year. You’ll save both time and money. The programs come in different formats – full-time, part-time, weekend, or online. This lets you fit your education around your life and work.

Each university’s specialization areas differ by a lot. UNC Wilmington gives you options in both Clinical and Macro Social Work. Other schools focus only on Advanced Generalist practice. Your career success depends on picking a specialization that matches your goals.

MSW graduates have excellent job prospects. The field expects 54,700 new social work positions each year between 2023-2033. MSW holders earn about $13,000 more per year than professionals with just a BSW. This makes the degree a smart financial move.

These fifteen programs have different costs, formats, and focus areas. Yet they share a steadfast dedication to creating culturally competent practitioners who support social justice and serve diverse communities. North Carolina gives you great options. You might prefer NC A&T State University’s rich history, Fayetteville State’s affordability, or UNC Chapel Hill’s prestigious #2 ranked public university program.

Your choice depends on your situation – your finances, location, career goals, and schedule. This complete comparison helps you pick a program that fits both your career dreams and practical needs.