4 Online MSW Programs With No Letter of Recommendation 2026

If you're thinking about going back to school for your Master of Social Work (MSW) degree, you may be wondering about the admissions process. Specifically, you'd like to know more about schools that don't require letters of recommendation.

Keep reading as we explore this topic in greater detail. We'll look at a handful of online MSW programs with no letters of recommendation requirements and provide answers to various questions you may have.

Do MSW Programs Require a Letter of Recommendation?

Though there are a few graduate schools without letter of recommendation requirements, the vast majority of colleges and universities do require these letters as part of the admissions process.

Letters of recommendation serve a similar role as references on a job application; they are beneficial in helping schools determine whether you are a good candidate for their programs. Students often obtain these letters from instructors or supervisors willing to vouch for their skills and potential.

The schools that don't require these letters are few and far between — and even MSW programs that don't require letters of recommendation may still give preference to applicants who provide them.

Admissions Requirements at MSW Programs Without Recommendations

Even if you apply to a school that doesn't require letters of recommendation, you will still need to meet other admission requirements. These can vary from school to school, but often include:

• a bachelor's degree
• an undergraduate GPA of 2.5 to 3.0
• GRE/GMAT scores (may be optional)
• personal essay or statement
• resume
• application and application fee

4 Online MSW Programs With No Letter of Recommendation

If you're ready to find your ideal MSW program, keep reading. Below, we'll look at four top schools in the U.S. that provide online MSW programs without requiring letters of recommendation.

1. Arkansas State University

Arkansas State University is a large public school in Jonesboro, AR. It offers an online MSW program with flexible admissions requirements: students must hold a bachelor's degree and have a 3.0 GPA in the last 60 hours of their undergraduate education. They must also take specific foundation coursework and pass a background check.

This program is highly flexible and affordable, with courses that students complete online on their own time. With multiple yearly start dates, they can enroll in the program and begin taking classes whenever it's convenient for them.

• Estimated tuition cost: $350 per credit hour
• Accreditation: HLC

2. University of Massachusetts Global

The University of Massachusetts Global is a private online school in California, though it's affiliated with the University of Massachusetts System. Students can earn a Master of Social Work through this school's instructor-led format. Admission requirements include a GPA of 3.0, a personal narrative, a bachelor's degree, and a completed application.

The flexible degree program follows eight-week course sessions and multiple yearly start dates for maximum convenience. Both standard and advanced-standing options are available.

• Estimated tuition cost: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
• Accreditation: $750 per credit hour

3. California State University, Northridge

California State University, Northridge is a public school in the California State University System. Students are considered for this program as long as they have earned a bachelor's degree, have a 2.5 GPA, and are in good standing with the last school they attended. Those with related work experience are given preference.

The program typically takes about two to three years to complete and is cohort-based, so you'll work through the online course with a close-knit group of like-minded peers. Supportive faculty and weekly assignments give students structure to help them stay on track.

• Estimated tuition cost: $813 per credit hour
• Accreditation: WSCUC

4. University of Denver

The University of Denver is a private school located in Denver, CO. Its MSW program accepts up to two letters of recommendation but does not require them. Admission requirements include a bachelor's degree, 2.5 GPA, resume, and personal statement.

The program offers both standard and advanced-standing tracks, making it convenient for students with or without a background in social work. Students enjoy the flexibility of four start dates per year and a rolling admissions process, which allows them to apply and begin classes at their convenience.

• Estimated tuition cost: $1,200 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

How We Rank Schools

We strive to choose top programs when creating our school rank lists. We used the following selection criteria when choosing the programs featured above:

• Accreditation: All of the institutions are regionally accredited, and the MSW programs maintain specialized accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).
• Admission flexibility: The programs have flexible admission requirements, including allowing students the option of not submitting letters of recommendation.
• Tuition cost and financial aid: All of the schools provide affordable tuition rates and/or generous financial aid opportunities to help students graduate without breaking the bank.

FAQs About Online MSW Programs Without Recommendations

If you still have questions about attending a school that doesn't require letters of recommendation, you're not alone. Read on as we provide answers to some frequently asked questions.

Do All MSW Programs Require Recommendations?

No, there are a few online MSW schools that allow students to enroll without submitting letters of recommendation. These schools are rare; however, the vast majority of MSW programs require students to submit either two or three letters of recommendation.

Can I Still Get Into Competitive MSW Programs Without Letters?

Generally speaking, the most competitive MSW programs require letters or recommendation. Still, a few top schools list these letters as optional or not required, including California State University Northridge and the University of Denver.

These programs are still competitive, but admission decisions are based on other factors, such as undergraduate grades, resume, and personal statement.

What Other Materials Are Needed for Admission?

Different schools have different admission requirements; as such, they do not all require the same application materials. That said, some common materials you may need to submit with your application include:

• official transcripts
• resume
• personal statement or essay

What Careers Can I Pursue With an MSW?

There are various advanced careers in social and human services that you can pursue with an MSW degree. Common job titles include:

• licensed social worker
• substance abuse counselor
• special education advocate
• clinical case manager
• policy analyst

Discover MSW Programs

If you're ready to begin your academic journey toward an MSW degree, explore the schools featured on Learn.org. Reach out to any of the colleges today for more information on their social work programs and to find the right one for you.