Graduates earning both a Master of Social Work (MSW) and Master of Public Health (MPH) are poised to make a difference in the community and around the globe. With a growing and complex healthcare system coupled with changing social needs, those with the MSW MPH dual degree can expect to be competitive in the workplace. This article lists the 20 most affordable MSW MPH dual degree programs for prospective students to investigate. Check out these affordable MSW MPH programs to find a program that meets your educational goals and budget.
Methodology for MPH MSW Programs
This ranking of MSW MPH dual degree programs is a list of the top 20 affordable MSW MPH dual degree programs. These programs are from an initial pool of 40 accredited MPH MSW dual degree programs. Programs include online, on-campus, and hybrid formats. Programs were ranked according to in-state tuition cost from the College Navigator website. Profile information was derived from individual school websites. Contact your school of interest for the most up-to-date program and tuition information.
- New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM
- The University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK
- Colorado School of Public Health and University of Denver Aschutz Medical Campus, Denver, CO
- San Diego State University, San Diego, CA
- University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
- University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
- University of South Florida, Tampa, FL
- University of Georgia, Athens, GA
- Florida International University, Miami, FL
- University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE
- The University of Memphis, Memphis, TN
- University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC
- University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI
- University of Alaska at Anchorage, Anchorage, AK
- University of Buffalo, Buffalo, NY
- University at Albany, SUNY, Albany, NY
- University of California, Los Angeles, CA
- University of California, Berkeley, CA
- Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
Reviewing the Top MPH MSW Degree Programs
20. Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
MSW MPH
In-State Tuition $11,560
Out-of-State Tuition $35,144
Ohio State University’s top Master of Public Health (MPH) and Master of Social Work (MSW) programs can be combined for an MPH MSW dual degree for students with interests in both social work and health. The MPH gives students a solid foundation and includes the Health Behavior and Health Promotion concentration. The MSW program promises to prepare students to practice directly with clients, as well as fill leadership roles. With the increased complexity of public health and health delivery systems, students are seeking dual degree programs such as the MSW/ MPH to prepare them for the work world and its intricacies. Check out Ohio State’s website for more information on the robust MSW MPH dual degree program.
19. University of California, Berkeley, CA
MSW MPH
In-State Tuition $11,442
Out-of-State Tuition $26,544
University of California Berkeley’s robust Master of Social Work/ Master of Public Health (MSW/MPH) dual degree program combines public health’s epidemiological approach with the bio-psychosocial approach of social work to combine the fields of public health and social welfare. Graduates of this MSW MPH dual degree program will be prepared to work in a broad range of settings with wide-reaching interventions for vulnerable populations. This is a full-time three-year program that promises to provide the knowledge and skills to promote and protect health in the community. Students take 6 semesters plus one summer to complete this demanding MSW MPH dual degree program in three years. See their website for information to apply to this MSW/MPH program.
18. University of California, Los Angeles, CA
MSW MPH
In-State Tuition $11,442
Out-of-State Tuition $26,544
Students enrolled in this MSW MPH dual degree program offered by UCLA’s nationally ranked Fielding School of Public Health can expect to graduate from this program in three years. The first year curriculum is completed in either the Social Welfare or Public Health. The second year, students complete the courses in the other department in addition to electives. Year three consists of completion of advanced practice methods, field internship in Social Welfare, and remaining requirements for both programs. Interested applicants should contact both the Social Welfare and Public Health departments for application information. Check out their website to see if this MSW MPH dual degree program is the one for you.
17. University at Albany SUNY, Albany, NY
MSW MPH
In-State Tuition $11,310
Out-of-State Tuition $23,100
University at Albany’s MPH MSW dual degree program allows students to save both time and money by earning both degrees in a shorter amount of time through overlapping program requirements. With 52 credits toward the MSW and 39 credits towards the MPH, 91 credits are required, including fieldwork and internship credits. With 16 credits of fieldwork and internships, students graduate with practical experience and networking. If you hope to promote wellness through management roles in health care and application of epidemiological approach to prevention and treatment of social issues, check out University at Albany’s MPH/MSW program to help get you on your way. Check out their website for more information.
16. University of Buffalo, Buffalo, NY
MSW MPH
In-State Tuition $11,310
Out-of-State Tuition $23,100
University of Buffalo’s MSW MPH dual degree program incorporates a public health mindset with social work practice. This collaborative program reduces times and cost to complete these two degrees. With two full-time study options, along with choices in focus, this program can get you out in the field in as little as two years for those with a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree. Students can complete this MPH/MSW program in three years with a Bachelor’s degree in any area of study. Choose an MPH with a concentration in Health Services Administration or Community Health and Health Behavior. Check out their website to see if this affordable, time-saving program is for you.
15. University of Alaska at Anchorage, Anchorage, AK
MSW MPH
In-State Tuition $11,286
Out-of-State Tuition $23,738
The University of Alaska at Anchorage’s MSW/MPH dual degree program is an affordable program that promises to train leaders with the skills needed to address social and public health issues facing Alaska, the country, and the world. With some requirements overlapping to satisfy both degrees, students in this program save both time and money. This MSW/MPH dual degree program can be completed through full-time study in approximately three years. Each degree can be granted independently once that degree’s requirements are complete. Check out this program website to see if this MSW/MPH dual degree program offered in Alaska is the one for you.
14. University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI
MSW MPH
In-State Tuition $10,728
Out-of-State Tuition $24,054
The University of Wisconsin’s MPH MSW Coordinated Degree Program promises to equip students with an advanced interdisciplinary education in both public health and social work. Graduates of this MPH/MSW program will be positioned to address health and social issues in a variety of settings and have the knowledge and skills to effect change in areas of social, economic, and health disparities. Students are admitted to the MPH MSW dual degree program as full-time students in the fall semester and can expect to graduate in about three years. Students entering this program without a BSW will need foundational Social Work courses. Students gain practical application of their skills and knowledge through a combined Social Work and Public Health internship. Check out the University of Wisconsin’s website for more information on this program.
13. University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC
MSW MPH
In-State tuition $10,552
Out-of-State tuition $28,278
This MSW MPH dual degree program from University of North Carolina is a cooperative program between the highly regarded UNC Gillings School of Public Health and the School of Social Work. Interested applicants apply to both schools simultaneously, with the most competitive applicants having at least one year of work experience. This program can be completed in 3 years full-time, with 77 credits required. The first year is mainly social work courses, and years two and three mainly public health courses. During the second summer students complete their specialized field placement, gaining valuable professional experience and networking opportunities. Check their website for more information on this affordable MSW MPH dual degree program.
12. The University of Memphis, Memphis, TN
MSW MPH
In-State Tuition $9,216
Out-of-State Tuition $25,677
Earning your MSW MPH dual degree from The University of Memphis may be your ticket to a meaningful career. Students can earn up to fifteen credit hours of dual credit in this affordable MSW/MPH program. Interested students must apply to both programs individually before being integrated into the MSW MPH dual degree program. This program allows 8 years for completion, adding flexibility for working students. Field experience requirement helps students solidify knowledge and skills learned in the classroom, as well as expand professional contacts. Check out The University of Memphis website to see how this affordable and flexible program can help your career.
11. University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE
MSW MPH
In-State Tuition $8,964
Out-of-State Tuition $25,677
University of Nebraska Medical Center’s MSW MPH dual degree program is an affordable collaborative program offered by University of Nebraska Medical Center, College of Public Health; and the University of Nebraska Omaha, School of Social Work. Graduates of this program will have the MPH with a concentration in Public Health Administration, in addition to the MSW. This MSW MPH dual degree program promises to increase career possibilities by developing two skill sets that are complementary: clinical social work skills and population-focused public health skills. Check out University of Nebraska’s website for information on applying to this affordable MSW MPH dual degree program.
10. Florida International University, Miami, FL
MSW MPH
In-State Tuition $8,912
Out-of-State Tuition $21,393
Florida International University’s Robert Stempel College of Public Health and Social Work offers this affordable MSW MPH dual degree. Students at Stempel College experience the opportunity for firsthand experience in their state of the art research facilities. MSW MPH dual degree students examine interconnections between social, biological, environmental and cultural factors, and learn to be innovative change agents. FIU’s full-time or part-time offerings makes completing this MSW MPH dual degree program a flexible and affordable option. Interested students must complete separate applications for each program, which include three letters of recommendations. Check out the website of this nationally ranked MSW/MPH program to see if this program is for you.
9. University of Georgia, Athens, GA
MSW MPH
In-State Tuition $8,878
Out-of-State Tuition $25,186
University of Georgia’s MSW MPH dual degree program is the only dual MSW MPH program in the Southeast. Offered with multiple concentrations, this MSW MPH program may have what you are looking for. There are Social Work concentrations in Micro, Macro or Dual; Public Health Concentrations are Health Promotion and Behavior, and Gerontology; students can pursue a number of concentration combinations. This program promises students will have the knowledge and skills to combine social work assessments and interventions with public health goals to improve health for the individual and community. UG’s program focuses on health disparities, promoting social justice when combining both professions. This on-campus, full-time, 90-credit program can be completed in as little as 7 consecutive semesters in 2 ½ years. Students enrolling with Advanced Standing can complete this program in 6 semesters. Classes are conducted at both the Athens campus and nearby Health Sciences Campus. Check out UG’s website for more information on applying to this robust MSW MPH dual degree program.
8. University of South Florida, Tampa, FL
MSW MPH
In-State Tuition $8,350
Out-of-State Tuition $19,048
University of South Florida’s dual MSW MPH degree program can be completed in 68 credit hours and two to three years of full time study. Students in this dual degree program can choose from a MPH in either Maternal and Child Health, or Behavioral Health, concentrations. Those with a BSW in Social Work can be admitted as an Advanced Standing MSW student. Social Work students working on this dual MSW MPH degree benefit from the expanded public health education which broadens a macro-micro orientation in clinical practice, providing skills in effective interventions in the health care setting. Using the tools of public health, biostatistics, epidemiology, and health management and evaluation, social workers are equipped to target the needs of communities and individuals. Check out the University of South Florida’s website to find out more about this affordable MSW MPH dual degree program.
7. University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
MSW MPH
WEBSITE
In-State Tuition $8,100
Out-of-State Tuition $19,188
This dual MPH MSW degree from University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) is offered through the School of Public Health and the School of Social Work. Students earn their MPH with a concentration in Population Health, gaining a foundation in public health through the MPH core courses and an internship and capstone project. By choosing public health electives, students can build a curriculum unique to their career goals. The MPH MSW dual degree program students gain management and leadership skills needed for administrative positions in a wide range of settings. Students graduate as professionally trained social workers prepared to improve the health and well-being of individuals, families and larger populations, at home or abroad. This 90-credit-hour program saves time and money by requiring 12 credits less than if degrees were pursued separately. This robust program can be completed in an online or on-campus format, with online students paying the in-state tuition rate for the MPH portion of the program. Check out UAB’s website for more information on how to apply to this exciting MPH MSW dual degree program.
6. University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston,TX
MSW MPH
In-State Tuition $7,729
Out-of-State Tuition $30,787
This dual MSW MPH program, offered through the University of Houston Graduate College of Social Work and the University of Texas School of Public Health, is a concurrent degree program. Graduates of his vigorous program can expect to be prepared with knowledge and skills to go on to an exciting career where skills in both fields are critical. Graduates go on to a variety of employment, including policy analysis, healthcare administration, and research. Students in this on-campus MSW MPH program can expect to graduate in three years of study. Check out their website for details on how to apply to this affordable MSW MPH dual degree program.
5. University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
MSW MPH
In-State Tuition $7,211
Out-of-State Tuition $25,455
University of Utah’s MSW MPH dual degree program can be completed in three years (six semesters). The MSW is awarded by the College of Social Work and the MPH is awarded by the Department of Family and Preventive Medicine. Graduates of this vigorous and affordable program will have skills and knowledge in planning, management and delivery of human and health services at the micro, mezzo and macro levels. Students develop an understanding of human behavior and how individuals and communities are impacted by health-focused programs. With 52 credits of MSW coursework and 30 credits of MPH coursework, students save 23 credit hours by doing the dual degree program. Check out the University of Utah’s website for more information on this affordable on-campus MSW MPH dual degree program.
4. San Diego State University, San Diego, CA
MSW MPH
In-State Tuition $7,176
Out-of-State Tuition $16,680
San Diego State University’s concurrent MSW MPH degree program can be completed in three years, requiring 93 credit units. This program, offered by the SDSU School of Social Work and SDSU School of Public Health, leads to a MPH in Health Management and Policy (HMP) and a MSW with a concentration in Administration and Community Development. This MSW MPH program promises to provide the knowledge and skills needed to promote health, prevent disease and enhance social and health services delivery in the community. The MSW concentration prepares students for two areas of macro practice: Administration (including strategic management and program design and evaluation, financial management, leadership and supervision), and Community Development (including grant writing, program development, and community engagement). Learn more about this robust and affordable program on their website.
3. Colorado School of Public Health and University of Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Denver, CO
MSW MPH
In-State Tuition $6,786
Out-of-State Tuition $22,590
This MSW MPH dual degree program is offered through a collaboration between the University of Denver and the Colorado School of Public Health at the Anschutz Medical Campus. This dual degree program recognizes the commonalities between public health and social work, with both working to improve health and social functioning through public health’s focus on physical health and social work’s focus on social, emotional and mental health. Graduates of this program work in a broad range of occupations including medical and public health services, substance abuse programs, mental health, and child welfare, among others. Check out their website for more information on this dual MSW MPH program and how to apply.
2. The University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK
MSW MPH
In-State Tuition $5,119
Out-of-State Tuition $19,778
The University of Oklahoma is one of only a few research universities in the United States to offer a dual MSW MPH program. This dual MSW MPH degree is offered full or part-time or as advanced standing. Students in this robust and affordable program learn to approach social issues through a public health paradigm and a strengths-based, solution-focused concentration in social work. This program focuses on health promotion science through evidence-based practice. Students learn to apply public health knowledge in the health issues that social workers face in the community, groups and populations. With opportunities to integrate public health and social work in field education, students have ample opportunity to network with students and faculty. See their website for more information on how to apply to this exciting MSW MPH dual degree program.
1. New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM
MSW MPH
WEBSITE
In-State Tuition $4,844
Out-of-State Tuition $16,834
New Mexico State University’s dual MSW MPH degree program is offered with a concentration in Health Behavior and Health Promotion. With a Public Health focus on populations and a Social Work focus on individuals, groups and communities, these programs both emphasize cross-cultural content and social justice. Many students enter this program with an interest in community development and outreach. Public Health focuses on populations of people and is highly analytical, and Social Work focuses on individuals, groups, and communities within the social environment. By completing both degrees as a dual degree instead of separately, students complete both programs with 96 credit hours, saving the time and expense of 12 credits if taken separately. Check out New Mexico State’s website for more information on applying to this affordable MSW MPH dual degree program.
FAQs
Why get a MSW MPH dual degree?
The MSW MPH dual degree is often a good fit for those wishing to combat health issues by developing interventions ,while providing individualized care to the public, especially the disadvantaged and underserved. Both fields are concerned for human and social well-being, at both the micro (clinical practice) and macro (societal and policy) levels. This dual degree draws from the discipline of social work and public health theory, framework, research and practice.
What can those pursuing the MSW MPH dual degree expect to learn?
This dual degree promises to teach students to improve health and wellbeing through use of evidence-based practices as well as multi-level interventions. Students learn to collaborate to reach individuals, communities and populations to reduce health risks and health disparities.
What kinds of courses can I expect to take?
Students in a dual MSW MPH program will develop skills and knowledge through courses such as biostatistics and research, epidemiology, human behavior in the social environment, and public health policy and administration. In addition to courses, students often have a clinical practice or internship component, as well as a capstone project to solidify their knowledge and develop their professional network.
Is it really cost- and time-saving to combine these two degrees?
Students can expect to save up to 12 credits or more due to overlapping classes, saving both time and money. This can get graduates out in the field with less financial and time commitment.
What are some of the overlapping issues in public health and social work?
Access to health care, substance abuse, behavior and mental health policies and practice, violence prevention, and suicide prevention are just some of the overlapping areas of public health and social work. Deepening knowledge and skills through advanced study in public health and social work make MSW MPH dual degree program graduates enticing candidates in the job market.
What kinds of positions can a graduate of a MSW MPH dual degree program expect to assume?
Graduates of a MSW MPH dual degree program are prepared to assume leadership roles in managed care organizations and hospitals, health departments, federal health agencies, and community-based advocacy organizations. This training also prepared graduates for direct patient care along with management and planning roles.
What are some common job titles for someone holding a dual MPH MSW degree?
Common titles may include: Health Educator, Clinical Research Assistant, Behavioral Health Clinician, Program Coordinator, Health Advocacy Director, Health Policy Analyst, Health Commissioner, Hospital Administrator, Mental Health Research. The list goes on, with a wide range of job titles and opportunities.
What is the job outlook for those with a MSW MPH dual degree?
Both Social Work and Public Health fields are growing at a rate higher than average. Salaries vary depending on geographical location and the type of organization one is employed at. This dual degree increases career options by providing two complementary skill sets: clinical social work skills, and population public health skills.
By Carol Dolan BS RN BSN CDCES
October 2020
Carol graduated with her BS in Nutrition from Montclair State University and her BSN in Nursing from Rowan University. She is a Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) currently working with adults and children living with diabetes in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
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