Hawaii MSW Programs
Schools with MSW Programs
Social Work Careers
Hawaii Social Worker Careers with an MSW Degree
Hawaii Social Work Licensure
Pursuing a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree in Hawaii offers unique opportunities to serve diverse island communities while developing expertise in culturally responsive practice. Whether you’re interested in working with Native Hawaiian families, addressing mental health challenges in rural areas, or supporting military families, Hawaii’s MSW programs prepare you for meaningful careers across the islands.
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Quick Answer:
Hawaii offers 2 CSWE-accredited MSW programs: University of Hawaii at Manoa (online and on-campus options starting at $12,672/year for residents) and Hawaii Pacific University in Honolulu ($30,420/year). Both programs prepare students for Hawaii’s LSW licensure and offer specializations in Children/Families, Mental Health, Health, and Gerontology, with 2024 social work salaries ranging from $58,550 to $108,780 depending on specialization.
MSW Programs Overview
Hawaii’s approach to social work education reflects the state’s unique cultural diversity and geographic challenges. Both MSW programs emphasize Native Hawaiian values, Pacific Islander perspectives, and culturally responsive practice methods essential for working effectively in island communities.
The state’s limited number of programs means competition can be significant, but both universities offer distinct advantages. The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa provides the state’s only public MSW program with lower tuition rates for residents. At the same time, the Hawaiʻi option, offering Pacific University, offers smaller class sizes and flexible evening schedules ideal for working professionals.
Given Hawaii’s remote location and inter-island travel challenges, online education has become increasingly important. Students from neighboring islands, such as Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island, particularly benefit from distance learning options that eliminate the need to relocate to Oahu.
Hawaii’s CSWE-Accredited MSW Programs
University of Hawaii at Manoa – Myron B. Thompson School of Social Work
Location: Honolulu, Oahu
Format: On-campus and online options
Accreditation: CSWE-accredited since 1975
Program Length: 2 years full-time, 3-4 years part-time
The University of Hawaii at Manoa’s Myron B. Thompson School of Social Work stands as the state’s flagship social work program. As Hawaii’s only public university offering an MSW, it provides affordable education with strong connections to state agencies and community organizations throughout the islands.
The program offers four specialization tracks aligned with Hawaii’s workforce needs:
- Children and Families: Focusing on child welfare, family preservation, and culturally responsive interventions
- Behavioral Mental Health: Addressing substance abuse, severe mental illness, and trauma-informed care
- Health: Medical social work in hospitals, clinics, and community health centers
- Gerontology: Supporting Hawaii’s rapidly aging population and multigenerational families
UH Manoa’s distance education program serves students across all Hawaiian islands and beyond, using synchronous online classes that maintain the interactive nature of traditional classroom learning.
Hawaii Pacific University – College of Health and Society
Location: Honolulu, Oahu
Format: On-campus (evening/weekend options available)
CSWE Accreditation: Initial accreditation 2015
Program Length: 2 years full-time, 3 years part-time
Hawaii Pacific University offers an intimate MSW program with a strong emphasis on clinical practice and community partnerships. The program’s location in downtown Honolulu provides easy access to internship sites, including hospitals, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations.
HPU’s MSW curriculum emphasizes:
- Clinical social work practice with individuals and families
- Military social work (serving Hawaii’s large military population)
- International and immigrant populations
- Trauma-informed and culturally responsive practice
Program Comparison
| Program Feature | UH Manoa | Hawaii Pacific University |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Tuition (2024-25) | Resident: $12,672 Non-resident: $31,008 |
$30,420 (all students) |
| Credit Hours | 60 credits | 60 credits |
| Online Option | Yes (entirely online available) | No |
| Evening/Weekend Classes | Limited | Yes |
| Advanced Standing | Yes (BSW holders) | Yes (BSW holders) |
| Field Education Hours | 900+ hours | 900+ hours |
| Specializations | 4 tracks available | Clinical focus |
| Average Class Size | 20-25 students | 15-20 students |
Online MSW Options in Hawaii
The University of Hawaii at Manoa’s online MSW program stands out as one of the few distance education options specifically designed for Hawaii’s unique context. The program uses real-time video conferencing to maintain the interactive discussion-based learning essential to social work education.
Key features of UH Manoa’s online program include:
- Synchronous Classes: Live sessions are typically scheduled evenings in Hawaii Standard Time
- Island-Based Field Placements: Students complete internships in their home communities
- Technology Support: Comprehensive tech assistance for neighbor island students
- Cohort Model: Building connections with classmates across the islands
Students should note that “online” doesn’t mean self-paced. The program requires regular attendance at scheduled class sessions and active participation in discussions. However, this format eliminates costly inter-island travel and allows students to remain in their communities while pursuing their degree.
For those seeking additional online options, several mainland universities offer online CSWE-accredited MSW programs that accept Hawaii residents. However, students should verify that these programs meet Hawaii’s specific licensing requirements before enrolling.
Admission Requirements
Both Hawaii MSW programs maintain competitive admission standards while seeking to build diverse cohorts that reflect Hawaii’s multicultural population.
General Requirements (Both Programs)
- Bachelor’s Degree: From an accredited institution (any major accepted)
- GPA: Minimum 3.0 recommended (UH Manoa), 2.75 minimum (HPU)
- Liberal Arts Foundation: Including courses in social sciences, humanities, and biological sciences
- Statistics Course: Required prerequisite for both programs
- Letters of Recommendation: 3 professional or academic references
- Personal Statement: Addressing motivation, relevant experience, and career goals
- Resume: Highlighting relevant work, volunteer, and life experiences
Additional Considerations
- GRE: Not required by either program
- Experience: Volunteer or work experience in human services strongly preferred
- Interviews: HPU conducts admission interviews; UH Manoa may request interviews
- Advanced Standing: BSW graduates from CSWE-accredited programs may apply for one-year programs
Career Outlook & Salaries in Hawaii
Hawaii’s social workers enjoy strong job prospects due to the state’s growing population, aging demographics, and unique social challenges. According to 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics data, social work employment in Hawaii continues to grow, with competitive salaries that reflect the state’s high cost of living.
2024 Social Work Salaries in Hawaii
| Specialization | Median Annual Salary | Entry Level (25th %ile) | Experienced (75th %ile) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Healthcare Social Workers | $84,640 | $58,270 | $95,520 |
| Child, Family, and School Social Workers | $58,550 | $48,740 | $73,190 |
| Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers | $83,430 | $53,720 | $99,770 |
| Social Workers, All Other | $108,780 | $77,210 | $125,120 |
Hawaii’s social work salaries often exceed national averages, particularly for specialized roles in healthcare and private practice. The “Social Workers, All Other” category, which encompasses private practitioners and specialized consultants, exhibits significant earning potential in Hawaii’s market.
High-Demand Practice Areas
Hawaii faces unique social challenges that create a strong demand for MSW graduates in specific areas:
- Native Hawaiian Health: Addressing health disparities and providing culturally appropriate services
- Military and Veterans Services: Supporting service members and families at Hawaii’s multiple military installations
- Gerontology: Hawaii has one of the nation’s fastest-aging populations
- Substance Abuse Treatment: Particularly methamphetamine and alcohol addiction services
- Rural Healthcare: Serving neighbor islands and remote communities
- School Social Work: Supporting Hawaii’s diverse student population
Hawaii Social Work Licensing
The Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs Professional & Vocational Licensing Division oversees social work licensure in the state. Hawaii offers several license levels for MSW graduates:
Licensed Social Worker (LSW)
- Requirements: MSW from a CSWE-accredited program + application
- Exam: None required for LSW
- Timeline: Can apply immediately upon graduation
- Scope: Non-clinical social work practice under supervision
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
- Requirements: MSW + 3,000 hours supervised clinical experience
- Exam: ASWB Clinical exam (passing score: 75)
- Supervision: Must be provided by a Hawaii LCSW
- Scope: Independent clinical practice, diagnosis, psychotherapy
Hawaii participates in the Social Work Licensure Compact, potentially allowing more effortless mobility for licensed social workers between participating states.
Native Hawaiian Cultural Competency
Both Hawaii MSW programs emphasize cultural competency, particularly understanding Native Hawaiian values and practices. This includes:
- ‘Ohana (Family): Extended family networks and collective decision-making
- Ho’oponopono: Traditional conflict resolution and healing practices
- Aloha Spirit: Compassion, kindness, and mutual respect in practice
- Place-Based Practice: Understanding the connection between land, culture, and wellbeing
Students learn to integrate these cultural concepts with Western social work theories, creating a hybrid approach that is practical in Hawaii’s multicultural environment.
Financial Aid & Scholarships
Several funding opportunities exist specifically for Hawaii MSW students:
Federal and State Programs
- Title IV-E Child Welfare Program: Full tuition support for students committing to child welfare careers
- HRSA Behavioral Health Workforce Program: Scholarships for mental health and substance abuse focus
- Hawaii Community Foundation Scholarships: Multiple scholarships for Hawaii residents
University-Specific Aid
- UH Manoa: Graduate assistantships, diversity scholarships, and need-based aid
- HPU: Merit scholarships, military discounts, and employer partnerships
Students should also explore the CSWE Minority Fellowship Program and other national scholarships for social work students.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to complete an MSW in Hawaii?
Full-time students complete their MSW in 2 years (4 semesters), while part-time students typically take 3-4 years. Advanced standing students with a BSW from a CSWE-accredited program can complete their degree in just one year.
What’s the total cost of getting an MSW in Hawaii?
Total program costs range from approximately $25,344 (UH Manoa resident, 2 years) to $60,840 (HPU, 2 years), not including books, fees, and living expenses. Financial aid can significantly reduce these costs.
Can I complete field placements on neighbor islands?
Yes, UH Manoa’s program specifically accommodates neighbor island students with local field placement options. Students work with field coordinators to identify appropriate agencies in their communities.
Do I need to speak Hawaiian to practice social work in Hawaii?
While Hawaiian language skills aren’t required, cultural competency is essential. Both programs include coursework on Hawaiian culture, values, and culturally responsive practice methods.
Which specialization has the best job prospects in Hawaii?
Healthcare social work and gerontology show strongest growth due to Hawaii’s aging population. Military social work also offers excellent opportunities given Hawaii’s large military presence.
Next Steps for Prospective Students
If you’re considering pursuing your MSW in Hawaii, take these critical next steps:
- Attend Information Sessions: Both universities offer virtual and in-person information sessions
- Connect with Current Students: Request to speak with current students or recent graduates
- Gain Experience: Volunteer with local social service agencies to strengthen your application
- Prepare Prerequisites: Complete required statistics and liberal arts courses
- Apply Early: Both programs have competitive admission, so submit applications well before deadlines
For those not yet ready for graduate school, consider exploring BSW programs in Hawaii as a stepping stone to your MSW.
Hawaii’s MSW programs offer unique opportunities to develop culturally responsive social work skills while serving diverse island communities. Whether you choose UH Manoa’s established program with online options or HPU’s intimate clinical-focused curriculum, you’ll gain the knowledge and experience needed to make a meaningful difference in Hawaii’s communities.
2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary and employment figures for Child, Family, and School Social Workers; Healthcare Social Workers; Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers; Social Workers, All other, reflect state data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed September 2025.
