Master's of Social Work: MSW Degree

Tuition fees for Master's of Social Work: MSW Degree are 26,755 USD per year.

Widener offers a CSWE-accredited Master of Social Work (MSW) program with options for on-campus or 100% online study. The curriculum is structured around a trauma-informed, clinical model that emphasizes social justice. Students prepare for advanced practice in various settings, becoming clinical social workers and agents of social change. A distinctive feature for select on-campus students is the availability of pro bono clinical supervision for licensure.

Focus areas include Regular Track, Advanced Standing Track, School Social Work Specialization.

The program structure includes core courses, advanced concentration courses, field placement, and electives. Total credits are 57 for the Regular Track, 36 for the Advanced Standing Track, and 60 for the School Social Work Specialization.

Graduates enter roles such as clinical social worker, medical social worker, trauma-informed therapist, substance abuse social worker, children and family services worker, and adoption specialist, working in settings like hospitals, schools, and mental health facilities.

Applicants need an earned baccalaureate degree (or CSWE-accredited BSW within 6 years for Advanced Standing) with a minimum 3.0 GPA (provisional admission possible). Required documents include an online application, $35 fee, two letters of recommendation (one from BSW field instructor/director for Advanced Standing), and all undergraduate transcripts. Personal qualities for social work practice are also assessed.

The programme totals about 57 credit hours. Available on-campus or 100% online, full-time or part-time. Typical completion is 1-3 years (2 years full-time, less than 4 years part-time). For international students, tuition is above the median for US programmes. The institution admits about 84% of applicants.

A Foundation of History and Academic Excellence

Widener University traces its history back to the Pennsylvania Military College, an origin that continues to influence the institution's commitment to leadership and service. Today, the university has evolved into a comprehensive private institution that emphasizes both intellectual growth and real-world application. Its academic landscape is expansive, featuring over 50 graduate programs and a wide array of undergraduate degrees designed to meet the demands of a modern, global economy.

Research and Hands-On Learning

A core component of the Widener experience is its dedication to experiential learning. The university manages between $8 million and $10 million in annual research grant funding, providing students with unique opportunities to work alongside faculty mentors. This emphasis on discovery is matched by a strong focus on career readiness, with 66% of students participating in co-ops or internships—a figure significantly higher than the national average. Programs such as the 8-month paid co-op allow students to gain professional experience while staying on track to graduate within four years.

Campus Life and Community

The campus serves as a dynamic hub for over 300 annual events, fostering a vibrant social and professional environment. With more than 90 student clubs and organizations, international students have ample opportunities to engage with the campus community, develop leadership skills, and build a network that extends to 65,000+ alumni worldwide. Civic engagement is a pillar of the Widener identity, with participation rates significantly outpacing national benchmarks, reflecting the university's commitment to developing well-rounded, socially conscious individuals.

International Student Context

Widener’s commitment to student success is evidenced by the 93% of the class of 2025 who achieved their career goals within six months of graduation. The university provides a pathway for students to excel in various high-demand fields, supported by a network of faculty and staff dedicated to individual student achievement. By fostering an environment where nearly every undergraduate receives some form of financial aid, the university ensures that a high-quality education remains accessible to a diverse and global student body.