The best social work schools in Florida with BSW and MSW programs offer affordable programs for professionals and new students. These Florida schools can help get your career started or advance your current social work career with a BSW or MSW.
There are 30,000 social workers in Florida, but not enough to fulfill demand. To practice social work in Florida, you need an accredited MSW degree, and to get the MSW, you need a BSW. Here’s a list of Florida’s best social work schools to help you get started on your social work journey.
Our editors first ranked social work schools in Florida with BSW and MSW programs in August 2023. This ranking was updated in March 2024.
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- Best CSWE Accredited Online MSW Programs
- Top Bachelor’s in Social Work Online SchoolsOnline Bachelor’s Degrees
How We Ranked the Best Social Work Schools in Florida
Social Work Degree Center editors focused on accredited, trusted institutions for our ranking of the Best Social Work Schools in Florida. We ranked programs according to student satisfaction, cost, and graduate salary. We use data from IPEDS and Niche to assess Florida colleges for social work programs. Here’s a look at the top 10 social work schools in Florida.
| Rank | School Name | Location | Undergraduate Tuition | Graduate Tuition |
| #1 | Florida State University | Tallahassee | $5,656 | $9,684 |
| #2 | Florida International University | Miami | $6,565 | $9,119 |
| #3 | Barry University | Miami | $33,450 | $17,820 |
| #4 | University of Central Florida | Orlando | $6,368 | $6,916 |
| #5 | Saint Leo University | Saint Leo | $28,360 | $15,840 |
| #6 | University of South Florida | Tampa | $6,410 | $8,350 |
| #7 | University of North Florida | Jacksonville | $6,389 | $8,570 |
| #8 | Florida Atlantic University | Boca Raton | $4,878 | $5,467 |
| #9 | Florida Gulf Coast University | Fort Myers | $6,118 | $6,974 |
| #10 | University of West Florida | Pensacola | $6,360 | $7,088 |
1. Florida State University
Florida State University is the first of the best social work schools In Florida. FSU’s College of Social Work offers both a bachelor’s degree in social work (BSW) and a master’s degree in social work (MSW).
Students gain experience in real-world settings as they complete this degree program. The school offers opportunities for students to participate in International Social Work. In addition, it strives to provide financial aid for as many students as possible and connects prospective students to the appropriate resources within the university.
The university has a long history of educating some of the brightest minds in the field and preparing students for entry-level to advanced jobs in the industry. FSW was established in 1928, and its social work education program was one of the first MSW programs available online.
Pros
- 17:1 student-to-faculty ratio
- 85% graduation rate
- Multiple focus areas
- Part- and full-time completion options
- Transfer credits accepted
Cons
- 25% acceptance rate (competitive for undergrads)
- Out-of-state tuition and fees for non-residents
2. Florida International University
Florida International University is another one of Florida’s best social work schools. The Robert Stempel College of Public Health & Social Work offers many social worker degrees, including bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and dual degree programs. Among the best social work schools Florida has to offer, FIU has unique classroom and field experiences. Students gain the skills they need to practice social work after graduation.
The research-intensive program includes internships at community programs throughout South Florida. Students perform over 100,000 internship hours, contributing to the various communities in which the school interacts.
Degrees: BSSW, MSW, MSW/MPH, MSW/JD
Pros
- Combined degree pathways with specializations
- CSWE-accreditation
- Extensive internship and outreach opportunities
- Low in-state tuition
- Rolling admission for MSW programs
Cons
- 24:1 student-to-faculty ratio (higher than some schools)
- Research-heavy courses and curriculum
3. Barry University
The Ellen Whiteside McDonnell School of Social Work at Barry University offers several of Florida’s best social work programs. The school’s programs include bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees.
Barry University’s accredited programs focus on empowering students to operate effectively in trauma-related situations. In addition, the program specializes in producing clinical leaders and uses a trauma-informed curriculum to help students better understand the evolution of abuse, neglect, and crisis.
Students can also choose from exceptional internship opportunities tailored toward various interests. Programs are offered online, on-campus, weekend, full-time, and part-time. There is also an advanced standing MSW degree.
Pros
- 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio
- 60% acceptance rate
- Diverse selection of courses and curriculum
- In-person or online options
Cons
- Clinical internship requirement for some degrees
- Higher tuition than some other social work schools
4. University of Central Florida
The University of Central Florida ranks as one of the state’s best Social Work schools. The UCF School of Social Work has both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in social work.
The UCF BSW program prepares social workers for generalist roles. Graduates gain skills in delivering social services across various practice settings. The MSW graduates are ready to work as advanced clinical social work practitioners. Two MSW tracks are available. Students can attend an in-person or entirely online program. In addition, an advanced standing option is available for students with a BSW.
Central Florida is a public university with more than 58,000 undergraduate students. It has a competitive admissions program and is also considered a top public university in the Sunshine State.
Pros
- Advanced standing admission pathway
- Clinical practice with families (evidence-based)
- Field education opportunities
- Optional certificates and minors
- Top-ranked university
Cons
- Competitive admissions (41% acceptance rate)
- Large student population (29:1 student-to-faculty ratio)
5. Saint Leo University
Another one of the best social work schools in Florida is Saint Leo University. The university offers both a BSW and a flexible online Master in Social Work (MSW). The online format provides both freedom and convenience to students.
Graduates emerge ready to take on advanced positions in real-world jobs. Many students go on to promote economic justice and human rights on the local and national levels. The program prepares students to serve various communities, including military personnel and the elderly. Other groups include individuals who face oppression or discrimination. This is a full-time program with demanding curricula. Students must be available for daytime internships and evening classes, and attend a weekend seminar during the summer.
Saint Leo is the oldest Catholic university in Florida and has served students for over a century. Located just north of Tampa, the school educates more than 10,000 students across its main and regional campuses.
Pros
- Accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of the Council on Social Work Education
- Hands-on, service learning
- On-campus or hybrid options
- Transfer credits accepted
Cons
- Daytime internships required
- Some evening classes
6. University of South Florida
University of South Florida has undergraduate and graduate-level Social Work programs and a dual degree option. Programs are available both on-campus and online. In addition, students can choose part-time or full-time paths.
Graduates emerge with advanced standing and master social work. This campus-based program provides students with direct access to prestigious professors with vast experience in the field. Thus, it is also one of the best social work schools Florida students can attend.
USF is a competitive school that offers affordable education to Florida students. The USF undergraduate social work program first received CSWE accreditation in 1976, and the graduate MSW program in 1983.
Pros
- Advanced standing online MSW option
- Career-focused courses and curriculum
- CSWE-accredited
- In-person and online cohorts
- In-state tuition for Florida residents
Cons
- 22:1 student-to-faculty ratio (higher than some Florida schools)
- 44% acceptance rate
7. University of North Florida
Another one of Florida’s best Social Work schools is at the University of North Florida. UNF offers both undergraduate and graduate social work programs.
The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program prepares students for generalist practice with vulnerable populations. Students attend the BSW program on campus. However, they can choose from a full-time or part-time program of study. The Master of Social Work (MSW) program is also campus-based. An advanced standing program is available for students with a BSW and also a traditional path for students new to the field.
UNF is in Jacksonville and is also part of the State University System of Florida. The Social Work program received CSWE accreditation in 2012.
Pros
- 19:1 student-to-faculty ratio
- 71% acceptance rate
- Advanced standing MSW program option
- CSWE-accredited
- Full- or part-time completion pathways
Cons
- Out-of-state tuition for non-residents
8. Florida Atlantic University
Among Florida’s best social work schools, Florida Atlantic University offers BSW, MSW, and DSW degrees. Graduates of the undergraduate program emerge ready for entry-level social work, while students obtaining advanced degrees sometimes seek out supervisory positions or clinical or research opportunities.
The program addresses social work among many populations. So, graduates find work in criminal justice, schools, gerontology, and child welfare. A bachelor’s degree prepares students for both master’s studies and entry-level employment. Some graduates study for master’s in other programs such as political science or law.
FAU serves nearly 30,000 students. The FAU Phyllis and Harvey Sandler School of Social Work first received CSWE accreditation in 1982.
Pros
- 62% graduation rate
- Acceptance rate of 81%
- Career-focused courses and curriculum
- Preparation for graduate MSW programs and doctoral degrees
Cons
- Higher tuition for out-of-state students
- MSW candidates must earn degree in 5 consecutive years
9. Florida Gulf Coast University
With both undergraduate and graduate programs, Florida Gulf Coast University is one of Florida’s best Social Work schools. Graduates emerge from working in nonprofit, public, and human service positions. The school’s social work programs are rigorous but also student-friendly.
Both the BSW and MSW programs feature on-campus classes that students attend one day a week. Then, for the remainder of the week, students participate in fieldwork and clinical experiences. The undergraduate program is transfer-friendly and also receives students with associate’s degrees. In addition, BSW graduates who want to attend an online MSW program can qualify for advanced standing programs.
Florida Gulf Coast is a large university with almost 16,000 students. The school offers dozens of degrees and is a top public university in the Sunshine State. The Social Work school first received CSWE accreditation in 2000.
Pros
- 74% acceptance rate
- Advanced standing MSW degree options (for students with BSW degrees)
- Fieldwork and clinical experiences
- Generous transfer credit policy
Cons
- 59% graduation rate
- Out-of-state tuition for non-residents
10. University of West Florida
One of the best social work schools Florida students can attend is the University of West Florida. UWF takes pride in its students and helps them connect with the community. Students who complete the UWF Bachelor’s in Social Work can either enroll in a master’s program or look for entry-level jobs.
The Master of Social Work degree is available both online and in-person at the Pensacola location. In addition, students have both a traditional and an advanced standing path of study.
UWF Social Work School is a well-known division of the university and first received CSWE accreditation in 1974.
Pros
- Access to large, prominent employers
- Adheres to CSWE guidelines and the National Association of Social Workers Code of Ethics
- Internship opportunities
- Large and active alumni network
- Minors in aging studies, child welfare, social welfare, and substance abuse
Cons
- Out-of-state tuition for non-residents
- Selective admissions (48% acceptance rate)
Frequently Asked Questions
The school you choose depends on your career goals. Some Florida schools offer specializations you can earn alongside your degree. Others don’t. But here’s a list of questions to ask yourself when comparing social work schools and programs in Florida:
• Does the school offer both online and in-person classes?
• Are there programs for advanced-standing students?
• Are there research opportunities for undergrads and grad students?
• Is the school accredited (CSWE)?
• What is the class size?
There are many Florida schools with online social work degree programs. Few have online BSW programs, but there are many online MSW programs. A few schools with online programs include:
• Florida State University
• Saint Leo University
• University of Central Florida
• University of South Florida
According to Salary.com, social workers with a master’s degree can make an average of $74,072 in Florida. However, the typical pay range falls between $61,000 and $80,000. In addition, higher levels of education open doors to supervisory positions, which can lead to more pay.
According to Indeed.com, Florida is neither in the top 10 or in the bottom 10 states for social work. The average pay for social workers in Florida is $74,072. Florida has a relatively high quotient for social workers when compared to other states.
A BSW in Florida can prepare you for entry-level social work jobs, such as child welfare specialist or client advocate. You can also qualify for work as a case manager or probation officer. But if you want more responsibility, you’ll need an advanced degree (MSW).
An MSW in Florida can qualify you for jobs in clinical settings and private practice. With an MSW, you can become certified and licensed. This will help you gain an established career in child welfare or mental health services.
