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All Master's & Doctoral Programs
MSW

Social Work

Format & Location

Online, Low Residency

School/College

School of Education & Human Development
Two students sit and talk to each other.

Start Dates

Spring (January), Summer (May), and Fall (September)

Application Deadline

Spring Priority: November 15 | Summer Priority: February 15 | Fall Priority: May 15

Completion

24-28 months

Schedule

Full-Time or Part-Time

credits

30-60

cost per credit

$975

Apply Now Request Information
Register for the Next Virtual Information Session April 8, 2026 at 12 p.m. ET

Fairfield University's low-residency Master of Social Work (MSW) program is designed as a clinical specialist program and prepares students to become leaders for social change.

What You'll Learn and Do

Customize, Empower, Succeed

Our clinical-focused curriculum, extensive field experience, empower you to choose your path and receive unrivaled support to make a difference in people’s lives. Our MSW curriculum is offered in a low-residency format with online courses with two required on-campus visits and one optional visit a term.

Develop Clinical Expertise

Gain specialized skills and knowledge in behavioral health assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and evaluation through a clinical curriculum. Master specialized knowledge and techniques tailored to today’s healthcare landscape.

Fully Accredited

Awarded initial accreditation through 2029 by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). The Commission found that the program was in full compliance with all accreditation standards and educational policies and granted accreditation for eight years. All students admitted to the two-year or advanced standing program will graduate from a fully vested CSWE-accredited program.

Master of Social Work Program Assessment Outcomes

Focus on Social Justice

Immerse yourself in a social justice-focused curriculum and fieldwork, promoting change for individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. Gain the skills to advocate for vulnerable populations and be an agent of change at all levels.

MSW Field Internship

Field learning is a cornerstone of our low-residency Master of Social Work program — it’s where classroom knowledge comes to life. In the spirit of Fairfield University’s Jesuit mission, students are encouraged to learn through service, reflection, and action. During your field internship, you’ll work in community agencies that align with the values and ethics of the social work profession. These experiences help you grow as a compassionate professional, strengthen your commitment to social justice, and prepare you to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

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Find Out More

Course Requirements

Master of Social Work - Two-Year Track

60 credits

Master of Social Work - Advanced Standing Track

30 credits

Contact Us

Graduate Admission
gradadmis@fairfield.edu
(203) 254-4184

Through my classes, faculty, peers, and in-field experience, I was able to uncover my passion for the social work I want to do within my career. Without this program, I would not have been able to receive the Yale Child Study Center Social Work Fellowship role that I was awarded."

– Allie Mascia MSW '25

Accreditations

Top Ranked Master's in Social Work Program. MSW Online.

#2 Ranked Master's in Social Work Online Program in Connecticut

Fairfield University's Master's in Social Work Online program has been recognized among the top programs in Connecticut for 2026 by MastersinSocialWorkOnline.org.

Learn From Industry Experts

Fairfield’s award-winning faculty have deep expertise in social work. Many are also contributors of the most respected publications in the industry. You’ll benefit from their firsthand insights and guidance on the way to your master of social work.

View All Faculty

Suzanne Marmo
Suzanne Marmo
Director and Associate Professor, Social Work

Admission Information

From your first admission conversation to graduation and beyond, you’ll find support at every turn. The Fairfield University student support network is dedicated to meeting your needs. You’ll receive personal, academic, and financial guidance as you complete your Master of Social Work.

Meet Your Graduate Admission Counselor

Latest Social Work News

Feature

A classroom filled with students using laptops, collaborating and learning together in an educational environment.

School of Education and Human Development’s MSW Program Ranked #2 in Connecticut

Fairfield University’s School of Education and Human Development’s Master of Social Work (MSW) program has been recognized among the top online programs in Connecticut by MastersinSocialWorkOnline.org.

A woman sitting in a chair, writing with a pen and paper, as a client talks to her.

How are Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy, and Clinical Social Work different?

A cheerful gathering of students standing in front of a festive Christmas fire place, capturing a joyful moment in a photo.

MSW Students Inducted Into Phi Alpha Social Work Honor Society

More SEHD News

Frequently Asked Questions

  • A professional resume. Applicants are required to submit a current resume that includes employment and education history (submit online).

  • A personal statement. Students should submit a 1–2-page statement describing why they want to undertake graduate studies in social work (submit online).  

    • What is your understanding of the role of social work in producing a more equitable world for all?
    • What is your personal commitment to ensuring equity and inclusion? Please be specific and identify observable behaviors you’ve taken, or intend to take.
    • What personal and professional factors have influenced your decision to pursue a career in clinical social work, at this time? How will you balance the demands of academic and field requirements while also managing personal responsibilities?
    • How will a social work education from Fairfield University, specifically, help you meet your professional goals?
  • Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended demonstrating a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0. All foreign transcripts must be evaluated by an approved evaluating service.
  • Two recommendation forms and letters, one of which is preferably from a current employer or supervisor. Recommendations are completed online. At the time of application, candidates must provide the email addresses and names of their two recommenders.

CT Health Horizons Scholarship

Students are eligible to receive up to $10,000 in tuition assistance from CT Health Horizons. Eligibility is need-based and determined upon acceptance. 
Learn More

Full-time is typically 5 courses per semester plus a 16-hour/week internship.

Part-time is typically 2-3 courses per semester plus a 16-hour/week internship (during the final 2 years of the program).

The Master of Social Work is a low residency program and cannot support international students seeking an I-20, which is needed to receive an F1 student visa.

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