Best MSW Programs in Michigan
Compare 15 CSWE-accredited Master of Social Work programs in Michigan. Real tuition, graduate counts, and licensing alignment — pulled from IPEDS 2024-25 institutional data and the live CSWE accreditation directory.
About MSW programs in Michigan
Michigan hosts 15 CSWE-accredited Master of Social Work programs across public, private nonprofit, and (in some states) for-profit institutions. Together, these programs awarded 1,150 MSW degrees in the 2023–24 academic year — feeding Michigan's pipeline of social workers in healthcare, schools, behavioral health, child welfare, and community practice.
The MSW pathway in Michigan typically leads to: LMSW first, then LCSW after 2yrs supervised hours. Time-to-license: 2 years post-MSW for LCSW. Median earnings: $60,000 (LMSW) → $75,000+ (LCSW).
Top programs by 2023-24 graduate output: University of Michigan, Wayne State University, Grand Valley State University.
All MSW Programs in Michigan
Sorted by 2023-24 graduate output. Click any program to see full details, contact info, and ROI breakdown.
Michigan Social Work Licensing
Every program on this page is CSWE-accredited, which is required for Michigan licensure. Each state's licensing board sets its own additional requirements — supervised hours, exams, fingerprinting, jurisprudence assessments, and renewal CEUs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many CSWE-accredited MSW programs are in Michigan?
There are 15 CSWE-accredited Master of Social Work programs in Michigan as of 2024-25 IPEDS reporting. Of those, 9 offer an online format option.
How much does a MSW program cost in Michigan?
In-state MSW tuition in Michigan ranges from $8.4K/yr at the most affordable program to $29K/yr, with an average of $18K/yr. Total program cost depends on duration: a 4-year BSW or 2-year MSW. Out-of-state students typically pay 1.5×–2× the in-state rate at public schools.
Can I get licensed to practice social work in Michigan after completing a MSW?
Yes. Michigan accepts CSWE-accredited MSW graduates for licensure. After graduation, you'd typically pursue the LMSW first, then LCSW after 2yrs supervised hours. See the full Michigan licensing path →
What's the typical career outlook for MSW graduates in Michigan?
BLS reports social workers in Michigan earn a median $60,000 (LMSW) → $75,000+ (LCSW). Demand for licensed social workers is projected to grow 7% nationally through 2032 — faster than average. Hospitals, schools, behavioral health agencies, and child welfare departments are the largest employers.
Should I consider an online MSW program in Michigan?
Online MSW programs offer flexibility for working adults but require self-discipline. Of Michigan's 15 MSW programs, 9 offer online or hybrid format. Verify your state's licensing board accepts online CSWE programs (most do, but some require in-state field placements). Field education hours are still in-person regardless of program format.
Related programs in Michigan
MSW programs in other states
Compare all 15 programs side-by-side
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