Start your journey
Complete your MSW coursework online
Be part of the first online cohort of the University of Minnesota masters of social work (MSW) program, ranked #1 in the state (US News & World Report, 2025).
Our online MSW courses allow students to take classes remotely, offering more flexibility to complete their degree. Students will focus their studies on the advanced direct practice of social work.
When you request information, you will be notified as soon as applications open for this new degree format.
Careers
Master of Social Work (MSW) graduates build careers as:
- case managers
- policy analysts
- clinicians
- community organizers
- and more
Tuition
The full online MSW program requires 53 credits and 1,020 practicum hours to graduate.
Find the MSW program on the full list of 2025-2026 professional graduate program costs for the College of Education and Human Development.
For the most current cost per credit for professional graduate studies at the University of Minnesota, we well as information about fees and cost of attendance, visit OneStop Services, Twin Cities.
Financial aid
Graduate students in the UMN-Twin Cities MSW program are eligible for funding awards from the School of Social Work, College of Education and Human Development and the University of Minnesota.
School of Social Work training grants and fellowships
The School of Social Work offers training grants and fellowships to MSW students who either will or have worked with specific populations, or in specific settings. See SSW grants and Fellowships.
College of Education and Human Development scholarships and awards
As a graduate student in CEHD, you may be eligible for fellowships, grants, and scholarships from the University of Minnesota, from our college, and from your academic department. Learn about graduate funding opportunities from CEHD.
Scholarships and awards through the University
Learn about merit-based graduate funding opportunities open to all students at the University of Minnesota.
Questions about University funding opportunities? Contact the Office of Graduate Studies at 612-625-7579 or gsfellow@umn.edu
Coursework
Learning environment
Our program places particular importance on preparing social work professionals to have a practical understanding of how power and privilege, and their opposites, shape the roles that all of us play in society.
We strive to create an online learning environment that is diverse in all aspects, and we use this environment to help all students develop the sensitivity and skills necessary to work effectively in diverse communities.
MSW specializations
Advanced direct practice
In our online MSW program, students focus on coursework related to advanced direct practice.
Our faculty
Our MSW faculty bring a wide-range of expertise and scholarship to the classroom, with significant contributions to research at both the local and global levels. These lifelong scholars actively contribute to both academics and the community.
Contact us
Questions about applying? You can schedule a one-on-one appointment with Director of Admissions, Larissa Lavrov.