Colby-Sawyer College’s Master of Social Work program is the best in New Hampshire, according to an expert group that provides prospective students with information about schools offering counseling and psychology degrees. 

CounselingPsychology.org ranked the college’s MSW program No. 1 in the state based on acceptance and completion rates, tuition and fees in relation to the local cost of living, accreditation status, competitiveness of the institution, diversity of programs offered, size of the school and department, and years of experience/tenure of faculty. 

“It’s terrific to be recognized in this way, as we have worked hard to design and grow a smaller, student-centered program to be a great fit for different types of learners,” said Dr. Kate Turcotte, who developed and directs the MSW program, which launched in 2023 and graduated its first cohort this spring.  

“Virtually all of our MSW students work full time, and it’s thrilling to see them gain valuable social work experience while earning the degree that allows them to become leaders in the field.” 

Colby-Sawyer offers a 24-month track for traditional students and a 12-month advanced option for students who hold a Bachelor of Social Work. The program is designed so students can either attend live online classes or view recorded classes when their schedule allows. The eight-week sessions do not have residency or in-person requirements. 

Jody Thompson, ’25 MSW, who will complete her degree in August, said access to an excellent, high-quality education with a flexible structure is exactly what she has needed to succeed.  

“Going back to graduate school as a working, single parent never seemed achievable, but Colby-Sawyer was a unique, incredible experience,” said Thompson, a forensic interview specialist and team lead at Dartmouth Health Children’s Child Advocacy Center.

“I had a strong community with my cohort mates, was completely supported by the MSW faculty and felt like a member of the greater CSC community. The educational experience of an MSW from CSC is the model for the gold standard.” 

Jennifer Crossett had a similar positive experience.  

She said returning to school to change careers could have been overwhelming, but it wasn’t because of Turcotte’s guidance during the admission process. 

“That personalized experience has extended to my education, as Dr. Turcotte and the other MSW faculty members have been there to support me along the way,” she said. “The MSW program also has a dedicated practicum director who worked with me to help secure my practicum placement and provide support throughout my internship.” 

The asynchronous program also gave Crossett the flexibility she needed to complete coursework on her time, while she balanced her busy life.  

“And, you're never in this alone. We all support one another as we're all going through it together,” she said. “I highly recommend the MSW program at Colby-Sawyer if you're looking for a program that is flexible, supportive and truly feels like being part of a family.” 

Turcotte said the skills and education that Thompson, Crossett and others in the cohort have are in demand as the United States — and the Northeast in particular — is grappling with a shortage of social workers while the need for mental health and other services is increasing. 

“It is wonderful that Colby-Sawyer's Master of Social Work program is able to help alleviate this shortage by training students to provide critical services to individuals, families and organizations,” said Turcotte, who will be seated as a Sonja C. and William H. Davidow Endowed Chair in the School of Business & Social Sciences in the fall. 

Like Turcotte, other MSW faculty hold or are pursuing a Ph.D. or DSW degree and clinical licensure, and have research experience. 

The curriculum emphasizes social justice and allows students to focus on any number of areas of specialization in social work, from clinical work as a licensed therapist to policy development and advocacy.  

Through coursework and individually tailored, in-the-field practicum experiences, students connect theory and evidence-based practices to real-world settings in a wide variety of agencies and organizations. Colby-Sawyer, which partners with Dartmouth Health, also has an optional clinical track that prepares students for social work licensure.  

The MSW program is a candidate for accreditation by the Council on Social Work Education. Full accreditation is expected in early 2026, said Turcotte, so all successful current and future students will earn an accredited MSW degree. 

People interested in learning more or applying can do so on the MSW website.