Most Popular Online MSW Programs in Texas
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Online MSW programs in Texas focus on advanced clinical practice, policy analysis, and community welfare. Universities in Texas provide both full- and part-time options to accommodate working professionals. Accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), these programs ensure you receive a quality education that prepares you for licensure and advanced roles in the social work field.
Key Takeaways:
- The University of Texas at Arlington is the #1 most popular option, with over 6,000 online graduate students.
- Baylor University Stands out with an 81% graduation rate.
- The University of Texas - Rio Grande Valley results in median earnings of $59,435 among MSW graduates, ranking in the top 31% nationally among peers.
We use data from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) for online enrollment, and we also include other important data, like median starting salaries and accreditation information. For more details, please see our methodology.
List Of Accredited Online MSW Schools
| School | Online Enrollment | Annual Tuition | Median Earnings | CSWE Accredited | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The University of Texas at Arlington | N/A | Yes | |||
| Baylor University | 2,708 | $51,738 | N/A | Yes | |
| The University of Texas - Rio Grande Valley | 2,322 | $12,141 | N/A | Yes | |
| Texas A&M University - Commerce | 2,111 | $22,266 | N/A | Yes | |
| University of Houston | 1,404 | $21,891 | N/A | Yes | |
| Angelo State University | 1,164 | $17,978 | N/A | Yes | |
| Texas State University | 1,065 | $22,559 | N/A | Yes | |
| The University of Texas Permian Basin | 969 | $21,474 | N/A | No | |
| Our Lady of the Lake University | 645 | $31,124 | N/A | Yes |
Most Popular Online MSW Programs in Texas
The University of Texas at Arlington The University of Texas at Arlington The University of Texas at Arlington The University of Texas at Arlington
- Online Enrollment: 6,254
- Salary Score: N/A
- Annual Tuition: $29,299
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Accreditation: CSWE
Online degree: Master of Social Work
Why we like them: UTA ranks first in Texas for its online MSW program, boasting a significant total online graduate enrollment of 6,254 students. This strong presence places the university within the top 3% of institutions for online student engagement. The MSW program, accredited by the CSWE, offers concentrations in Clinical Social Work and Macro Social Work, enabling students to specialize in areas such as Aging, Mental Health, and Children and Families. UTA provides 100% online or on-campus flexibility, allowing students to choose from part- or full-time plans tailored to their needs.
Baylor University Baylor University Baylor University Baylor University
- Online Enrollment: 2,708
- Salary Score: N/A
- Annual Tuition: $51,738
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Accreditation: CSWE
Online degree: Master of Social Work - Non-Advanced Standing
Why we like them: BU stands out in online education with a total graduate online enrollment of 2,708 students, placing it in the top 10% of distance learning institutions. The MSW program at BU is designed for students with degrees in fields other than social work, requiring 58 credit hours. It offers concentrations in Clinical Practice and Community Practice, preparing graduates for healthcare and public service careers. The program features individualized field placements within a 75-mile radius, ensuring practical experience aligned with students' geographic preferences.
The University of Texas - Rio Grande Valley The University of Texas - Rio Grande Valley The University of Texas - Rio Grande Valley The University of Texas - Rio Grande Valley
- Online Enrollment: 2,322
- Salary Score: N/A
- Annual Tuition: $12,141
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Accreditation: CSWE
Online degree: Master of Social Work
Why we like them: UTRGV ranks among the top online graduate schools, achieving third place for total online enrollment with approximately 2,322 distance learners, positioning it within the top 12% of institutions. The MSW program, accredited by the CSWE, prepares graduates for diverse careers in social work. With a specialization in Administration and Community Practice available in both 33-hour- and 63-hour formats, students gain valuable leadership and social justice skills. Graduates are equipped to pursue Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) credentials, enhancing their professional opportunities.
Texas A&M University - Commerce Texas A&M University - Commerce Texas A&M University - Commerce Texas A&M University - Commerce
- Online Enrollment: 2,111
- Salary Score: N/A
- Annual Tuition: $22,266
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Accreditation: CSWE
Online degree: Master of Social Work
Why we like them: TAMUC ranks in the top 15% of online graduate enrollment, with 2,111 distance learners. The MSW program is entirely online, catering to the needs of working professionals with asynchronous coursework. It offers two tracks: the Foundation Generalist Practice Track, requiring 57 credit hours over 2-4 years for those with non-social work backgrounds, and the Advanced Generalist Practice Track, which can be completed in one year with 33 credit hours for recent Bachelor of Social Work graduates. The CSWE-accredited program ensures eligibility for LMSW licensure in Texas.
University of Houston University of Houston University of Houston University of Houston
- Online Enrollment: 1,404
- Salary Score: N/A
- Annual Tuition: $21,891
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Accreditation: CSWE
Online degree: Master of Social Work
Why we like them: UH boasts an outstanding total online enrollment at the graduate level, ranking as the 5th most popular option in Texas. The MSW program emphasizes fieldwork, requiring students to complete 900 hours of hands-on experience, 63 credit hours and a minimum graduate GPA of 3.0. Importantly, no standardized test scores are required for application. Accredited by a leading educational body, the program prepares students with social skills to design developmental programs and deliver direct services. With a collaborative approach, UH helps students secure vital fieldwork placements.
Angelo State University Angelo State University Angelo State University Angelo State University
- Online Enrollment: 1,164
- Salary Score: N/A
- Annual Tuition: $17,978
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Accreditation: CSWE
Online degree: Master of Social Work
Why we like them: ASU has achieved a remarkable online enrollment of 1,164 graduate students, positioning it at the top among institutions offering similar programs. This commitment to accessible education is underscored by an 83% recommendation rate, reflecting high student satisfaction. The flexible Online MSW program is accredited by the CSWE and can be completed entirely online, with opportunities for practical field experience. Students can specialize in Advanced Generalist or Clinical Practice, preparing for licensure. The curriculum addresses diverse social issues, further enhanced by options for global exposure through a study abroad program in Europe.
Texas State University Texas State University Texas State University Texas State University
- Online Enrollment: 1,065
- Salary Score: N/A
- Annual Tuition: $22,559
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Accreditation: CSWE
Online degree: Master of Social Work
Why we like them: TXST boasts a total online enrollment of 1,065 at the graduate level, ranking in the top quartile for distance learning engagement. The Texas social work master's program, accredited by the CSWE, offers two tracks: the Foundation Track, requiring 62 credit hours for those without a Bachelor of Social Work, and the Advanced Standing Track, which requires 36 credit hours for BSW graduates. Emphasizing Advanced Practice Leadership, the curriculum integrates social justice and professional ethics, with options for both on-campus and fully online studies.
The University of Texas Permian Basin The University of Texas Permian Basin The University of Texas Permian Basin The University of Texas Permian Basin
- Online Enrollment: 969
- Salary Score: N/A
- Annual Tuition: $21,474
- Median Earnings: N/A
Online degree: Master of Social Work
Why we like them: UTPB ranks 8th among online graduate programs and is committed to engaging distance learners. The university offers an online social work master's in Texas for those interested in clinical social work, particularly in rural healthcare and behavioral health settings. The 65-credit program includes practical courses, such as Social Justice, Psychopathology, and Social Work Research Methods, with electives like Working with Latinx Families and Children and Adolescents. Students benefit from a faculty-to-student ratio of 12:1, ensuring personalized support as they prepare for licensure exams.
Our Lady of the Lake University Our Lady of the Lake University Our Lady of the Lake University Our Lady of the Lake University
- Online Enrollment: 645
- Salary Score: N/A
- Annual Tuition: $31,124
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Accreditation: CSWE
Online degree: Master of Social Work
Why we like them: OLLU has a total online enrollment of 645 graduate students, ranking 9th among popular online graduate schools in Texas for the MSW. Accredited by the CSWE, this program offers advanced standing and foundation options to accommodate various academic backgrounds. The curriculum emphasizes the needs of the growing Hispanic population, integrating field education with local practicums to enhance cultural competency. Students can complete the MSW in as little as 11 months for advanced standing or within 24-38 months for the foundation track.
Overview of Online MSW Programs in Texas
Texas social work is overseen by the Texas State Board of Social Work Examiners, a governing body that is appointed by the state’s governor and which is part of the Texas Department of State Health Services. Social workers in the state of Texas work in a variety of communities and settings to provide critical social services.
There are three levels of licensure that applicants can pursue in the state of Texas: LBSW, BSW, and LCSW.
There are three levels of licensure that applicants can pursue in the state of Texas: Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW), Licensed Master Social Worker (BSW), and Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). Independent Practice Recognition (IPR) is available to LMSWs and LBSWs.
Students with a master’s degree in social work enjoy career opportunities across a variety of areas, including local and state government, communities, hospitals, private organizations, and more. Texas social work is carried out in many other diverse sectors as well, including schools, municipal buildings, and even private homes.
Each institution is unique in terms of its admissions requirements. However, most MSW programs require applicants to have earned a bachelor’s degree in social work, or a related field, and a minimum undergraduate GPA between 2.5 and 3.0, with a GRE score only necessary to help evaluate a student not meeting minimum GPA requirements.
While bachelor’s degree recipients in social work or a related field can obtain a LBSW license, a master’s degree is required for those seeking licensure as an LMSW or LCSW. Upon completing their degree, students must pass the respective licensure exam from the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) and apply with the Texas State Board of Social Work Examiners. Individuals seeking certification beyond the LBSW level are also required to obtain a set number of documented practice hours.
How Do I Become a Social Worker in Texas?
A student in their last term of an online master’s degree program in Texas may start their desired licensure exam application with the ASWB. Upon earning a master’s degree in social work, completing the required hours of experience, and successfully passing a licensure exam, a student may begin the licensure application on the online licensing system.
Licensed social workers in Texas must also pass the Jurisprudence Exam, which tests a social worker’s knowledge of the Social Work Practice Act, Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council rules, and other laws specific to the field of social work.
Resources
The resource links below can provide prospective master’s students with expert insights, a list of different professional organizations to consider joining, and information from the Texas State Board of Social Work Examiners:
How Long Does It Take To Become a Social Worker in Texas?
After earning a bachelor’s degree in social work — which typically takes four years — a student must complete their desired master’s program in social work. Depending on the number of courses a student takes each term, a master’s degree program can take anywhere from two to four years to complete. Once a student has earned a master’s degree in social work, they must complete up to 3,000 hours of clinical experience to earn certification.
Altogether, it takes anywhere from seven to eight years to become a licensed social worker in Texas when seeking a master’s degree-level certification.
Bottom Line
Texas offers a variety of accredited online MSW programs tailored to prepare students for advanced roles in social work, with options for full-time, part-time, and specialized tracks. Schools like UT Arlington and Baylor stand out for their large enrollments, high graduation rates, and diverse concentration options. Programs are designed for accessibility, with no GRE requirements at many schools, and focus on practical skills through fieldwork and licensure preparation. These programs emphasize flexibility and career readiness, making them ideal for working professionals and those seeking to serve diverse communities.
If you want to explore more options, check out our list of the most affordable online MSWs.