Tennessee Advanced Standing MSW Programs
List of Tennessee Colleges That Offer CSWE Accredited Advanced Standing MSW Programs in 2024
Middle Tennessee State University – Murfreesboro, TN
The Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) offers an advanced standing Master of Social Work (MSW) program that stands out for its commitment to preparing students to excel as social work practitioners, scholars, and leaders. Situated in Murfreesboro, TN, the Department of Social Work at MTSU is dedicated to equipping students with the necessary skills to positively impact individuals, families, groups, and communities on local, national, and international scales. The program emphasizes the development of culturally informed and community-engaged professionals who champion social justice, diversity, and human rights. The faculty at MTSU actively engages students in research, coursework, fieldwork, and public service to foster a comprehensive understanding of social work principles.
Accreditation: CSWE
Online Option: No, but hybrid available
Tennessee State University – Nashville, TN
The Master of Social Work (MSW) program at Tennessee State University in Nashville, TN, is a distinguished advanced standing program designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary for successful and impactful social work practice. Accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), the program reflects a commitment to maintaining the highest standards in social work education. One of the notable features of this MSW program is its advanced standing option, catering to individuals who have already completed a bachelor’s degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited program. This allows qualified students to streamline their education and focus on advanced coursework and field experiences, accelerating their path toward earning the MSW degree.
Accreditation: CSWE
Online Option: No, but hybrid available
Online MSW Programs With Advanced Standing Track Option in Tennessee
Austin Peay State University – Clarksville, TN
Austin Peay State University in Clarksville, Tennessee, offers the most affordable advanced-standing Master of Social Work (MSW) program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). This accreditation ensures that the program meets rigorous standards, providing students with a high-quality education in social work. The advanced standing option is designed for individuals who have already earned a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from a CSWE-accredited program. This allows them to streamline their graduate studies, completing the MSW in a shorter timeframe than traditional programs.
Accreditation: CSWE
Online Option: Yes
East Tennessee State University – Johnson City, TN
The Master of Social Work (MSW) program at East Tennessee State University in Johnson City, TN, is designed to equip students with the necessary knowledge, values, and skills for autonomous clinical practice. The program focuses on fostering competence and responsibility in clinical practice within both public and private agencies. With a commitment to ethical research, students are prepared to advance and enhance social work practice through rigorous academic training. The program’s curriculum aligns with the goals of preparing students for clinical roles, ensuring they are well-equipped to navigate the complexities of the field.
This MSW program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), attesting to its adherence to high-quality standards in social work education. The accreditation underscores the program’s commitment to meeting the rigorous criteria the CSWE sets, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for the demands of professional social work. Additionally, the availability of an online option provides flexibility for students, allowing them to pursue their MSW while accommodating their schedules and needs. As a result, the East Tennessee State University MSW program is a reputable and accredited choice for those seeking advanced standing in social work.
Accreditation: CSWE
Online Option: Yes
Union University – Jackson, TN
Union University in Jackson, TN, offers an advanced standing Master of Social Work (MSW) program designed to address the dynamic challenges within the evolving field of social work. Recognizing the strain on agency services grappling with limited resources amidst growing demands for intricate intervention strategies, the program focuses on cultivating professionals who are not only dedicated to honoring and prioritizing client needs but also adept in supervision and administration. This unique blend of direct practice skills and leadership abilities responds to the escalating demand for individuals capable of navigating the complexities of contemporary social work environments.
Accreditation: CSWE
Online Option: Yes
University of Memphis – Memphis, TN
The University of Memphis offers an exemplary Advanced Standing Master of Social Work (MSW) program in Memphis, Tennessee, distinguished by its Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accreditation. This accreditation ensures that the program meets the highest standards of social work education and prepares students for professional practice. One notable feature of the program is its flexibility, as it provides an online option for individuals seeking to advance their careers without compromising their existing commitments. This online option allows students to engage with coursework from anywhere, making it accessible to a diverse range of aspiring social workers. The program’s commitment to excellence, combined with its online accessibility, makes the University of Memphis a prime choice for those looking to pursue an advanced-standing MSW with the convenience of remote learning.
Accreditation: CSWE
Online Option: Yes
University of Tennessee – Knoxville & Nashville, TN
The University of Tennessee’s Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW) program, available at the Knoxville and Nashville campuses and online, is designed to contribute significantly to the well-being of Tennessee residents and beyond. Rooted in a commitment to culturally relevant and ethically sound social work practice, the program addresses the evolving global context impacting social work. The curriculum emphasizes cultivating sensitivity to the multifaceted needs of vulnerable and high-risk populations within the individual’s and their environment’s framework.
Aligned with professional social work’s ethical code and values, the MSSW program prioritizes client empowerment, individual and political advocacy, and the pursuit of greater social and economic justice. Students are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to challenge the oppression diverse and vulnerable populations face. The program offers Clinical Practice and Organizational Leadership specializations, allowing students to tailor their education to their specific career goals. Furthermore, the program’s accreditation by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) ensures a high education and professional preparation standard. With the flexibility of an online option, the MSSW program at the University of Tennessee provides a comprehensive and accessible path for aspiring social work professionals.
Accreditation: CSWE
Specializations:
- Clinical Practice
- Organizational Leadership
Online Option: Yes, along with hybrid option at Nashville location
Most Affordable Advanced Standing MSW Programs in Tennessee
Tennessee has a few Master in Social Work Advanced Standing offerings you might consider affordable. Below is a table breaking down the potential costs.
| School | Delivery | Credits | $/Credit | Cost |
| #1 – Austin Peay State University | Both | 30 | $488 | $14,640 |
| #2 – Middle Tennessee State University | Campus, Hybrid | 30 | $536 | $16,080 |
| #3 – Tennessee State University | Both | 30 | $575 | $17,250 |
| #4 – Union University | Online | 33 | $655 | $21,615 |
| #5 – East Tennessee State University | Online | 37 | $646 | $23,902 |
| #6 – University of Memphis | Both | 37 | $646 | $23,902 |
| #7 – University of Tennessee | Campus, Hybrid, Both | 36 | $744 | $26,784 |
Tennessee Social Worker Facts & Figures
- Tenneessee Department of Health – Board of Social Workers: Licensure
- ~ 1,820 Social Workers Employed*
- 15% Projected Employment Growth Thru 2033*
- Annual Median Wages = $47,060*
- Hourly Median Wages = $22.62*
* References
- https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_tn.htm
- https://www.onetonline.org/link/localtrends/21-1029.00?st=TN
- https://www.onetonline.org/link/localwages/21-1029.00?st=TN
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