Best Online MSW Programs in New Mexico
An online MSW program in New Mexico provides a CSWE-accredited education that prepares you for clinical practice, policy analysis, and community engagement. New Mexico's online MSW programs provide flexibility, catering to working professionals seeking advanced degrees without sacrificing their current obligations.
Key Takeaway:
- New Mexico State University is the #1 most popular online graduate school with an MSW program.
- Each of the three schools lists host MSWs online and have at least over 500 enrolled as online graduate students, making them popular options.
Our rankings highlight the top online degrees in each state, leveraging online enrollment data from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Key considerations include median starting salaries, accreditation status, and additional relevant factors. For a deeper dive into our criteria, visit our detailed methodology.
Best Online MSW Programs in New Mexico
New Mexico State University New Mexico State University New Mexico State University New Mexico State University
- Online Enrollment: 1,083
- Salary Score: N/A
- Annual Tuition: $24,751
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Accreditation: CSWE
Online degree: Master of Social Work
Why we like them: NMSU ranks first among institutions for total online enrollment at the graduate level, with over 1,000 students studying remotely. It is among the most popular online graduate schools in New Mexico. The MSW program at NMSU Global Campus emphasizes advanced generalist practice in multicultural settings. Students can complete 60 credits for traditional students or 30 for advanced-standing students. The program is delivered entirely online with some synchronous components, incorporating essential practicum placements that require 500 or 950 hours of fieldwork, depending on prior qualifications.
Key Metrics:
- Acceptance Rate: 64%
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 51%
- Retention Rate: 72%
- Recommend Rate: 89%
- Financial Aid Recipients: 96%
- Avg. Aid Package: $13,168
- Repayment Rate: 80%
- School Type: Nonprofit (Public)
New Mexico Highlands University New Mexico Highlands University New Mexico Highlands University New Mexico Highlands University
- Online Enrollment: 595
- Salary Score: N/A
- Annual Tuition: $11,988
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Accreditation: CSWE
Online degree: Master of Social Work
Why we like them: NMHU ranks second with a total online graduate enrollment of 595 students. The MSW program is accredited by CSWE until 2028. This program features three concentration options for you to choose from: Clinical Practice, Leadership and Administration, and Bilingual/Bicultural Clinical Practice. Students can complete the degree in 24 months full-time or 36 months part-time, participating in one weekly Zoom session while managing coursework online. NMHU provides flexible paths, including Advanced Standing options based on previous qualifications.
Key Metrics:
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 25%
- Retention Rate: 63%
- Recommend Rate: 92%
- Financial Aid Recipients: 100%
- Avg. Aid Package: $9,093
- Repayment Rate: 84%
- School Type: Nonprofit (Public)
Western New Mexico University Western New Mexico University Western New Mexico University Western New Mexico University
- Online Enrollment: 539
- Salary Score: N/A
- Annual Tuition: $14,287
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Accreditation: CSWE
Online degree: Master of Social Work - Non-Advanced Standing
Why we like them: WNMU has a total online enrollment of 539 graduate students, ranking in the top 23% nationally for popularity. Among the most popular online graduate schools in New Mexico offering an MSW, WNMU stands out with its CSWE-accredited program that emphasizes flexibility through online and distance learning options. Students can start the MSW program in the fall, spring, or summer semesters and benefit from an innovative mid-semester block schedule. The curriculum prepares graduates for diverse social work career opportunities, building on a legacy of academic excellence since its accreditation in 1994.
Key Metrics:
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 33%
- Retention Rate: 62%
- Recommend Rate: N/A
- Financial Aid Recipients: 94%
- Avg. Aid Package: $8,967
- Repayment Rate: 72%
- School Type: Nonprofit (Public)
List Of Accredited Online MSW Schools
| School | Online Enrollment | Annual Tuition | Median Earnings | CSWE Accredited | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Mexico State University | N/A | Yes | |||
| New Mexico Highlands University | 595 | $11,988 | N/A | Yes | |
| Western New Mexico University | 539 | $14,287 | N/A | Yes |
Overview of Online MSW Programs in New Mexico
New Mexico offers multiple pathways for social work licensure, ensuring opportunities for graduates at different educational levels to enter the field. The three main types of social work licenses in New Mexico include the Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW), Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW), and Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW). Each license corresponds to a specific level of education and allows for a range of professional roles, from entry-level positions to independent practice. This tiered system ensures that individuals with a bachelor's or master's in social work, or even a more advanced degree in the field, can pursue careers aligned with their training and experience.
Becoming a Social Worker in New Mexico
For graduates wishing to become a social worker in New Mexico, applicants can choose one of three paths to licensure. The first is by becoming a licensed bachelor of social work (LBSW). As the name implies, it only requires a bachelor’s degree in the field of social work.
The next option is to become an LMSW, which requires a master’s in social work (MSW). An applicant can earn this degree from New Mexico Highlands University, New Mexico State University or Western New Mexico University. Finally, applicants can get a social work license as a licensed independent social worker. This also requires a master’s degree, in addition to supervised field work after graduation.
Licensed Bachelor of Social Work
At the most basic level, aspiring social workers can practice in New Mexico by becoming a licensed bachelor of social work. In order to obtain an LBSW, applicants must first earn a bachelor’s degree in social work from a college or university whose program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). If a degree is obtained outside of New Mexico, graduates must also take a cultural course on the state’s demographics.
Next, applicants need to submit an application. This social work license application includes a fee. In addition to completing the form, applicants must submit two personal character references and an original personal photograph. Graduates are also required to take and pass the ASWB’s bachelor’s examination as part of the application process. Test scores can be sent directly from ASWB to the Board.
Licensed Master of Social Work
For a more advanced social work license, aspiring professionals can apply to be a licensed master of social work. First, applicants must earn a master’s in social work from a CSWE-accredited program. Transcripts should be sent directly from the school to the New Mexico Board. Applicants must also complete a cultural awareness course. For those who completed their degree outside of New Mexico, they must also take this course to gain better insight into the state’s population.
The next step is submitting an application. To practice New Mexico social work as an LMSW, applicants must pay a fee when submitting their application. Other requirements include two personal character references and a personal photograph. Finally, the LMSW license requires that graduates pass the ASWB’s master’s examination. Test results should be sent from the ASWB directly to the Board.
Licensed Independent Social Worker
The LISW is the most advanced social work license that can be earned in the state of New Mexico. Similar to the LMSW, applicants need an MSW from a CSWE-accredited program in order to apply for a LISW license and practice New Mexico social work in this way. It’s also required to take the New Mexico cultural course for those who haven’t studied or worked in the state.
Once graduates earn an MSW, they need to work in a supervised practice setting for at least two years and no more than five years. Applicants must accumulate 3,600 hours before completing this post-graduate requirement. Additionally, at least one hour of supervision must be documented for every 40 hours worked. After these conditions have been met, aspiring social workers are ready to submit the application. Applicants need to fill out the paperwork and also include two personal references and a personal photo. There’s also an application fee for the LISW license. The final step is to pass the ASWB’s advanced or clinical examination.
Navigating Social Work License Reciprocity and Renewal in New Mexico
Social Work License Reciprocity in New Mexico
The reciprocity process for those who are already licensed in another state entails applying to be licensed for New Mexico social work with just a few extra steps. In addition to completing the application for the specific social work license that’s currently held, applicants also need to have the previous state send verification of the current license. The form is called “Statement of Registration, or Certification of Licensure in Another State.” Two personal character references are also required and ASWB test scores must also be sent. Finally, applicants must complete the New Mexico Cultural Course, which is offered both online and in person.
Licensing Renewal and Continuing Education Information
In New Mexico social work, the renewal process happens every two years, starting July 1 and ending June 30. Thirty hours of continuing education must be completed during that period. Of these course hours, six must be in the subject area of cultural awareness. There is a fee associated with license renewal, and the biennial renewal fees vary based on the social work license type. Applicants can complete the renewal application online. Information can be entered into an online account, including each course taken throughout the two-year period.
Bottom Line
Online MSW programs in New Mexico provide flexible, CSWE-accredited pathways for students to advance their careers in social work. Institutions like New Mexico State University, New Mexico Highlands University, and Western New Mexico University offer solid programs with options for traditional and advanced standing tracks, accommodating both full-time students and working professionals. With practical field placements and online course delivery, these programs prepare graduates for licensure and a range of roles in clinical and community-based social work.
Prospective students should familiarize themselves with New Mexico's tiered licensing system, which offers pathways for bachelor's, master's, and independent social work practice. Completing the required New Mexico Cultural Course and supervised fieldwork are essential for advanced licensure. Choosing an MSW program that's worth it means that it must align with your career goals and supports local community engagement is key to success in the field.
If you're looking for more options, check out our page on the most affordable online MSW programs based on tuition rates.