New York Advanced Standing MSW Programs
List of New York Colleges That Offer CSWE Accredited Advanced Standing MSW Programs in 2024
New York has 17 CSWE accredited advanced standing MSW programs: 3 campus-based, 10 with both online and campus, and 4 online.
City University of New York – New York, NY
The City University of New York (CUNY) in New York, NY, offers an advanced standing Master of Social Work (MSW) program that holds accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), ensuring high standards of education and professional preparation. This program is designed for individuals who have already earned a bachelor’s degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited program and are seeking an expedited path to obtaining their MSW.
Within the program, students can choose from specializations that cater to diverse career aspirations. These specializations include Clinical Practice with Individuals, Families, and Groups, emphasizing direct client intervention and therapeutic skills; Community Organization, focusing on empowering communities and addressing systemic issues; as well as Planning and Development, which equips students with the knowledge and skills to engage in social policy and program development. The absence of an online option indicates a commitment to in-person, hands-on learning experiences, fostering a collaborative and interactive educational environment. This advanced-standing MSW program at CUNY is designed to prepare social work professionals for impactful and meaningful contributions to diverse communities.
Accreditation: CSWE
Specializations:
- Clinical Practice with Individuals, Families, and Groups
- Community Organization
- Planning
- Development
Online Option: No
Lehman College – New York, NY
Lehman College, located in New York, NY, is the state’s most affordable MSW campus option. It offers an advanced standing Master of Social Work (MSW) program that holds accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), ensuring high education and professional preparation standards. This advanced standing program is designed for individuals who have earned a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from a CSWE-accredited program, allowing them to complete their MSW acceleratedly.
While Lehman College’s advanced standing MSW program doesn’t offer an online option, it provides students with a robust and immersive learning experience on campus. This in-person format allows for valuable face-to-face interactions with faculty and peers, fostering a supportive and collaborative learning environment. Students can expect a curriculum that combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, preparing them for advanced social work practice and leadership roles. The program’s location in New York, a dynamic and diverse city, further enriches the educational experience by providing students with opportunities to engage with various social issues and communities.
Accreditation: CSWE
Online Option: No
Long Island University – New York, NY
The Master of Social Work (MSW) Program at Long Island University is committed to equipping professional social workers with a comprehensive understanding of the profession’s history, purpose, and philosophy. Located in the vibrant context of New York City and beyond, the program emphasizes competence in working with diverse client populations. The curriculum fosters interdisciplinary collaboration, a crucial component of effective social work practice. Accredited by the Council of Social Work Education (CSWE), the LIU MSW Program adheres to the highest standards of academic excellence and collaborates between the LIU Brooklyn and LIU Post campuses.
Structured to provide a sequential and thorough educational experience, the program introduces students to generalist social work practice, covering foundational areas such as policy, human behavior, research, and social justice. The field education component allows students to apply these principles practically. In the advanced year, the curriculum delves deeper into psycho-social assessment, administrative theory and practice, and diversity-sensitive approaches. Students choose a concentration in Child and Family Welfare, Forensic Social Work, or Substance Use and Addictive Behavior, tailoring their education to specific practice areas. The second-year field experience offers a platform for applying specialized knowledge and skills gained through concentration coursework, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the dynamic landscape of social work.
Accreditation: CSWE
Specializations:
- Child and Family Welfare
- Forensic Social Work
- Substance Use and Addictive Behavior
Online Option: No
Stony Brook University – Stony Brook, NY
Stony Brook University’s advanced standing Master of Social Work (MSW) program in Stony Brook, NY, stands out as a distinguished and accredited offering in the field. Endorsed by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), the program adheres to rigorous standards, ensuring students receive a high-quality education aligned with industry benchmarks. What sets this program apart is its advanced standing option, which caters to individuals who have already earned a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from a CSWE-accredited institution.
This unique feature enables students to complete their MSW in a shorter timeframe than traditional programs, making it an ideal choice for those with a solid foundation in social work.
While Stony Brook University’s advanced standing MSW program does not offer an online option, the in-person experience provides students with valuable hands-on learning, networking, and mentorship opportunities. The program’s location in Stony Brook, NY, offers students access to a rich and diverse community, enhancing their exposure to real-world social work challenges. Overall, this MSW program at Stony Brook University is a comprehensive and accredited pathway for individuals seeking to advance their career in social work, particularly for those with a BSW looking to specialize further and excel in the field.
Accreditation: CSWE
Online Option: No
Touro University – New York, NY
Touro University’s advanced standing Master of Social Work (MSW) program in New York, NY, stands out as a reputable and accredited program recognized by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). The program is designed for individuals who have already earned a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree from a CSWE-accredited institution, allowing them to pursue an accelerated path toward obtaining their MSW. The curriculum emphasizes advanced clinical skills, theoretical knowledge, and ethical practices, preparing students for leadership roles in various social work settings.
One distinctive feature of the program is its lack of an online option, underscoring a commitment to in-person, hands-on learning experiences. This approach enables students to interact with faculty and peers, fostering a collaborative and supportive learning environment. The absence of an online option may appeal to those who value the immersive nature of traditional classroom settings and seek a more interpersonal approach to their education. Touro University’s MSW program is a dynamic platform for aspiring social workers to deepen their expertise and contribute meaningfully to the field, aligning with its dedication to producing competent and compassionate professionals.
Accreditation: CSWE
Online Option: No
Online MSW Programs With Advanced Standing Track Option in New York
Adelphi University – Garden City, NY
Adelphi University’s Advanced Standing Master of Social Work (MSW) program in Garden City, NY, stands out as a streamlined and cost-effective pathway for graduates of accredited BSW programs within the last five years. This 32-credit program, available both online and on campus, uniquely enables students to complete their MSW part-time in just 15 months at half the cost of a traditional program. Upon successful completion, graduates can apply for licensure as a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW).
The virtual learning environment mirrors the traditional Online MSW program, providing Advanced Standing students with personalized instruction, live and asynchronous class sessions weekly, and intensive learning residencies twice a year. Students interested in the intersection of social work and health can specialize in Health Across the Life Course. Practical experience is a cornerstone of the program, with practicum placements arranged in the New York City area or near students’ communities, drawing from Adelphi’s affiliation with over 1,000 human services agencies in the metropolitan region. The program’s flexibility, coupled with diverse specializations such as Social Work Practice in Healthcare and Practice in End of Life Care, positions graduates for a rewarding career in social work. Accredited by CSWE, Adelphi University’s MSW program combines academic rigor with practical training to prepare professionals for the dynamic field of social work.
Accreditation: CSWE
Specializations:
- Social Work Practice in Healthcare
- Practice in End of Life Care
- Contemporary Social Work: An Integrative Approach
- Social Work Practice with Older Adults
- Stress, Crisis, Trauma and Coping
- Social Work Practice with People Living with Dementia
Online Option: Yes
Columbia University – New York, NY
Columbia University’s advanced standing Master of Social Work (MSW) program in New York, NY, stands as a distinguished offering in the field, holding accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). This program is tailored for individuals with a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree, enabling them to fast-track their education and professional advancement. The curriculum comprises four specialized tracks: Advanced Clinical Practice, Integrated Practice and Programming, Policy Practice, and Leadership, Management, and Entrepreneurship for Social Justice. Each track is designed to hone specific skills and expertise essential for addressing the multifaceted challenges within social work.
What sets this program apart is its commitment to flexibility. It offers an online option that accommodates students’ diverse needs. This format ensures accessibility without compromising the quality of education, making it a viable choice for individuals who may be balancing work or other commitments while pursuing an advanced degree. Columbia University’s MSW program not only equips students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed for advanced social work roles but also emphasizes a commitment to social justice, preparing graduates to make meaningful contributions to their communities and society.
Accreditation: CSWE
Specializations:
- Advanced Clinical Practice
- Integrated Practice and Programming
- Policy Practice
- Leadership, Management, and Entrepreneurship for Social Justice
Online Option: Yes
Daemen University – Amherst, NY
Daemen University, located in Amherst, NY, offers an advanced standing Master of Social Work (MSW) program that stands out for its commitment to excellence and flexibility. The program holds accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), ensuring that students receive a high-quality education that meets the rigorous standards of the social work profession.
One notable feature of the Daemen University MSW program is its online option, allowing students to pursue their graduate education from anywhere. This online format caters to individuals with professional or personal commitments, enabling them to balance their studies with other responsibilities. Integrating technology and a robust online learning platform allows students to engage in coursework, collaborate with peers, and connect with faculty members seamlessly. This innovative approach to education not only facilitates accessibility but also promotes a dynamic and interactive learning experience for aspiring social work professionals.
Accreditation: CSWE
Online Option: Yes
Fordham University – New York, NY
Fordham University in New York, NY, offers an advanced standing Master of Social Work (MSW) program to prepare students with the skills needed to excel in diverse social work environments. The curriculum is structured in two phases. The first phase focuses on foundational master’ s-level social work concepts encompassing theory and practice. In the second phase, students delve into advanced integrated practice courses. They can concentrate on specific areas of practice, guided by an academic adviser who assists in crafting a personalized curriculum tailored to individual career goals.
This forward-looking program offers online flexibility and emphasizes four key areas of focus: Individuals and Families, where students learn to provide direct services addressing clients’ environmental and overall well-being; Organizations and Community, preparing graduates to work effectively with diverse communities and various types of organizations; Evaluation, fostering versatility as students study and apply innovative ideas in the field; and Policy Practice and Advocacy, developing skills related to managing organizations, navigating systems, creating policy, and advancing social, economic, and political change. The program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) and offers specializations in Individuals and Families, Organizations and Communities, Evaluation, and Policy Practice and Advocacy. The online option provides additional flexibility for students seeking a dynamic and accessible educational experience.
Accreditation: CSWE
Specializations:
- Individuals and Families
- Organizations and Community
- Evaluation
- Policy Practice and Advocacy
Online Option: Yes
Keuka College – Keuka, NY
Keuka College in Keuka, NY, offers an advanced-standing Master of Social Work (MSW) program that stands out for its comprehensive approach to preparing students for advanced clinical practice. With a strong emphasis on providing effective psychotherapy and psychosocial services at the individual, family, and group levels, this program equips students with the necessary knowledge and skills for success in the field. One distinctive feature is the inclusion of a 500-hour clinical field residency, ensuring that students gain hands-on, practical experience, enhancing their readiness for the workforce. The program focuses on advanced clinical practice and positions graduates for administrative roles and leadership positions within diverse organizations and communities.
Moreover, the MSW program at Keuka College holds accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), signifying a commitment to maintaining high educational standards. Additionally, the availability of an online option provides flexibility for students, allowing them to pursue their advanced degrees while accommodating other commitments. The Keuka College MSW program offers a well-rounded and accredited education that prepares graduates to excel in various social work roles and positively impact individuals and communities.
Accreditation: CSWE
Online Option: Yes
Nazareth University – Rochester, NY
Nazareth University in Rochester, NY, offers an exceptional Advanced Standing Master of Social Work (MSW) program that distinguishes itself through its innovative approach to preparing experienced social work professionals for advanced practice. Designed for individuals with a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree, the program strongly emphasizes building upon existing knowledge and skills. Nazareth University is committed to experiential learning, providing students with immersive field experiences that bridge theory and practice. The program’s curriculum is tailored to meet the evolving demands of the social work field, integrating contemporary issues and evidence-based practices. Nazareth University’s MSW program also stands out for its supportive and collaborative learning environment, fostering a sense of community among students and faculty. The university’s dedication to social justice is interwoven throughout the program, equipping graduates with the tools to address complex societal challenges. This advanced standing program at Nazareth University truly stands as a beacon for those seeking to advance their careers and make a meaningful impact in social work.
Accreditation: CSWE
Online Option: Yes
Specializations:
- Play Therapy
- Trauma-Informed Care
- Evidence-Based Practice in Mental Health
- School Social Work
- Interdisciplinary Specialty Program in Autism
- Early intervention, which includes participation in Project RISE
- Gerontology
New York University – New York, NY
The Advanced Standing Master of Social Work (MSW) program at New York University (NYU) stands out as a beacon of excellence in clinical social work practice, enriched by a steadfast commitment to a social justice perspective. NYU Silver’s curriculum is thoughtfully crafted to imbue students with research-informed, direct practice skills applicable to working with individuals, groups, and families.
The program’s comprehensive approach extends beyond clinical practice, offering avenues to delve into policy, community practice, and global social work. It is noteworthy that the opportunity for students to engage in enriching study abroad experiences broadens their understanding of social work within diverse global contexts. The faculty at NYU Silver comprises leading scholars dedicated to creating cutting-edge knowledge, ensuring that students are equipped with the latest insights that will shape their social work careers. Moreover, the program’s accreditation by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) underlines its commitment to maintaining rigorous standards of excellence. NYU Silver provides an online option for those seeking flexibility, catering to the diverse needs of aspiring social work professionals.
Accreditation: CSWE
Online Option: Yes
Roberts Wesleyan University – Rochester, NY
Roberts Wesleyan University in Rochester boasts an exceptional Advanced Standing Master of Social Work (MSW) program that sets itself apart through its comprehensive and dynamic approach to advanced social work education. The program places a strong emphasis on practical skills development and evidence-based practice. What makes the Roberts Wesleyan program distinctive is its commitment to flexibility. It offers a condensed schedule with a reduced total credit requirement, enabling students to complete their MSW efficiently while maintaining academic rigor. The program provides specialization opportunities, allowing students to tailor their studies to their specific interests, whether in clinical practice, community development, or other areas. Furthermore, Roberts Wesleyan University emphasizes a collaborative learning environment where students benefit from small class sizes and close mentorship from experienced faculty members. Focusing on integrating faith-based principles with social work ethics, the program equips graduates to impact diverse and challenging social work settings positively.
Accreditation: CSWE
Specializations:
- Mental Health
- Child/Family Services
Online Option: Yes
State University of New York – Buffalo, NY
The State University of New York (SUNY) in Buffalo, NY, offers an Advanced Standing Master of Social Work (MSW) program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). This program is tailored for students who have graduated from a BSW program within the last five years, providing a streamlined pathway to earn their MSW degree. With a commitment to delivering high-quality education, SUNY Buffalo ensures that the program meets the rigorous standards set by the CSWE, assuring students of a comprehensive and accredited learning experience.
One notable aspect of the Advanced Standing program at SUNY Buffalo is its flexibility, as it includes an online option. This feature allows students to engage with the curriculum from various locations, catering to individuals who may be working or have other commitments. The online format not only enhances accessibility but also facilitates a dynamic learning environment. Whether students choose to pursue their studies on campus or through the online platform, SUNY Buffalo’s Advanced Standing MSW program reflects its dedication to preparing socially conscious and competent professionals for social work.
Accreditation: CSWE
Online Option: Yes
Syracuse University – Syracuse, NY
Syracuse, NY, stands out as a distinguished option for individuals seeking a terminal professional degree in social work. The program, accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), offers advanced concentrations in Advanced Clinical Practice and Integrated Social Work Practice. The former caters to those aspiring to become mental health clinicians, while the latter prepares students for direct practice and leadership roles within a diverse array of human service organizations. The program strongly emphasizes experiential learning through field placements, integrated throughout the graduate study, providing students with hands-on experience in various settings such as child welfare, health, mental health, gerontology, schools, and substance use disorders.
Syracuse University’s commitment to meeting society’s evolving needs is evident in its inclusion of specializations, such as Military Culture and Mental Health Practice, reflecting a recognition of the unique challenges specific populations face. Additionally, the program offers an online option, providing flexibility for students to pursue their education while accommodating their professional and personal commitments. The advanced standing MSW program at Syracuse University thus combines academic rigor, practical experience, and flexibility to prepare social work professionals for impactful and diverse roles in the field.
Accreditation: CSWE
Specializations:
- Military Culture and Mental Health Practice
Online Option: Yes
Utica University – Utica, NY
Utica University’s advanced standing Master of Social Work (MSW) program, located in Utica, NY, stands out for its innovative approach to bridging the gap between clinical practice and recovery-oriented care. This online program is NY’s most affordable online MSW option. It is tailored for individuals passionate about advocating for mental health and empowering diverse and marginalized populations through a psychodynamic, recovery-oriented, and social justice lens. A distinctive feature of Utica’s MSW program is the four-hour personal psychotherapy requirement, emphasizing the significance of self-awareness in clinical social work and providing students with a firsthand understanding of the client’s perspective.
This program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), ensuring high standards in education and practice. The online option allows students to engage with the curriculum while accommodating their schedules. Utica University prioritizes hands-on experience, and the faculty works closely with students to secure field placements that offer relevant and meaningful opportunities for learning. The support structure, including success and career coaches, enhances the overall learning experience, guiding students to develop the skills to advocate for individuals, families, and groups in various social service settings, including hospitals and schools.
Accreditation: CSWE
Online Option: Yes
Yeshiva University – New York, NY
Yeshiva University’s advanced standing Master of Social Work (MSW) program, located in the heart of New York City, stands as a distinguished offering in social work education. The program holds accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), ensuring a curriculum that meets rigorous standards and prepares students for professional excellence. What sets Yeshiva University apart is its advanced standing option, allowing individuals with a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree to streamline their path toward an MSW. This option is designed for those who have already gained foundational knowledge and practical experience in social work, enabling them to complete the program in an accelerated timeframe. Furthermore, Yeshiva University recognizes the evolving landscape of education, offering an online option for students who seek the flexibility of remote learning, making this MSW program accessible to a diverse range of aspiring social workers.
Accreditation: CSWE
Online Option: Yes
Most Affordable Advanced Standing MSW Programs in New York
New York has several Master in Social Work (MSW) Advanced Standing offerings you consider affordable. Below is a table breaking down the potential costs.
| School | Delivery | Credits | $/Credit | Cost |
| #1 – Lehman College | Campus | 34 | $620.00 | $21,080 |
| #2 – City University of New York | Campus | 36 | $620 | $22,320 |
| #3 – Utica University | Online | 30 | $775 | $23,250 |
| #4 – Roberts Wesleyan University | Online | 30 | $782 | $23,460 |
| #5 – Stony Brook University | Online | 36 | $654.80 | $23,572.80 |
| #6 – State University of New York | Both | 35 | $711.16 | $24,890.60 |
| #7 – Touro University | Online | 33 | $855 | $28,215 |
| #8 – Keuka College | Both | 35 | $824 | $28,840 |
| #9 – Nazareth University | Both | 36 | $820 | $29,520 |
| #10 – Adelphi University | Both | 32 | $975 | $31,200 |
| #11 – Fordham University | Both | 31 | $1,076 | $33,356 |
| #12 – Yeshiva University | Both | 30 | $1,178 | $35,340 |
| #13 – Daemen University | Both | 33 | $1,118 | $36,894 |
| #14 – Syracuse University | Both | 36 | $1,167 | $42,012 |
| #15 – Long Island University | Campus | 33 | $1,379 | $45,507 |
| #16 – New York University | Both | 32 | $1,652 | $52,864 |
| #17 – Columbia University | Both | 33 | $2,023.27 | $66,768 |
New York Social Worker Facts & Figures
- New York State Education Department – License Requirements for LCSW
- ~ 4,390 Social Workers Employed*
- 13% Projected Employment Growth Thru 2033*
- Annual Median Wages = $79,040*
- Hourly Median Wages = $38*
* References
- https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_ny.htm
- https://www.onetonline.org/link/localtrends/21-1029.00?st=NY
- https://www.onetonline.org/link/localwages/21-1029.00?st=NY
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