Does the state where you get your MSW matter?

[amb039]

I have been accepted into University of Maryland Baltimore and Columbia University and am leaning towards Columbia because it is such an amazing program. I am going to to practice as a social worker in Maryland (take my licensure exam in Maryland once I graduate, work for 2 years then take the exam to be a LCSW in the state of Maryland). My question is will it make a big difference in my preparedness for the exam if I go to school in a different state? Has anyone gotten their MSW in a different state from where they took their licensure exam? Any help is appreciated!

[michigan girl]

I think you should consider the financial aspects of your MSW education. If you plan to work as a clinical social worker in Maryland, I don't see why you want to pass up on Maryland-Baltimore County. While Columbia is a fantastic program, I don't think it's worth the extra amount (thousands) of debt.