Table of Contents
Attending on-campus programs may not be feasible if you are juggling a full-time career, family and other personal or professional obligations. many on-campus schools of social work have created Master of Social Work on-line programs, mirroring their on-campus programs .
Things to Consider When Choosing an Online School
When considering an on-line school, you may want to consider your goals, schedule availability and program length. The CSWE accreditation standards for on-line MSW programs are the same as universities ’ on-campus counterparts with regards to degree award, program lengths and credits .
Ask yourself these questions :
- Why do you want an MSW degree?
- What is your availability with other obligations?
- How long do you want to be in school?
Goals
Depending on your goal for earning an MSW on-line, you may want to consider the versatile options of registration. If you already have a Bachelor of Social Work ( BSW ), for exemplify, you may be eligible for an advance digest MSW course of study. Some universities offer specializations such as injury, mental health, child and family and administrative focus .
Schedule
Your handiness to be on-line will likely help to determine which specific type of overlord ’ s in sociable work on-line program you choose to pursue .
- If you work a full-time position, a part-time online social work degree program may be better suited for you.
- If you feel you can take on about two to four classes a semester, a full-time program may help you earn your degree faster.
There are generally two types of on-line learn, asynchronous—learning online in your own clock time to meet deadlines—and synchronous—learning online during a designate meter, live with your other classmates. Some programs offer both .
Program Length
The length of your CSWE-accredited on-line MSW course of study will vary by university and registration type. If you pursue an advance digest course of study with your BSW, you may be able to complete your MSW within a year. Advanced standing MSW programs are a means for BSW holders to earn their MSW in less time since they already completed foundational coursework in their bachelor ’ mho broadcast .
however, if you do not have a BSW and pursue half-time registration, it can take up to four years for completion of your on-line social work degree master ’ sulfur. final program distance depends on how many courses you enroll in and the time it takes to complete them .
Choose the Best CSWE-Accredited Online MSW Program For You
The university and program information below was final update in September 2021. For the most up-to-date information, visit the university ’ s web site .
Adelphi University
Program Name: Online Master of Social Work
Specializations/Concentrations: Human Services Professionals ( Optional Concentration )
Enrollment Options: Full-Time or half-time
Coursework Credits:
- Traditional: 64 Credits
- Advanced Standing: 32 Credits
Clinical Practice Hours:
- Traditional: 1,200 Hours
- Advanced Standing: 600 Hours
Length of Program: 15 – 36 months
Program Description: Adelphi University School of Social Work ’ randomness MSW program has been accredited by the CSWE since 1951, continuously. Adelphi offers a part-time on-line MSW program and an advance standing option for those who hold a BSW degree. There are doubly annual on-campus learn experiences. There is no GRE required for entrance fee.
Contact Information:
- Website: Adelphi University – Online Master of Social Work
- Social: Adelphi on Facebook, Adelphi on Twitter, Adelphi on LinkedIn
Baylor University – Sponsored Program
Program Name: Master of Social Work ( MSW )
Specializations/Concentrations: Clinical or Community Health
Enrollment Options: Part-Time, Full-Time, or Accelerated
Coursework Credits:
- Standard: 60 Credits
- Advanced Standing: 32 Credits
Clinical Practice Hours:
- Traditional: 1,030 Hours
- Advanced Standing: 550 Hours
Length of Program: 12 – 36 months
Program Description: The master of Social Work ( MSW ) online program from Baylor University is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, enabling aspiring social work professionals to serve and empower vulnerable populations worldwide. Students will learn the skills and theories necessity to make meaningful, informed transfer and be challenged to think about the ethical integration of faith and sociable work practice. The MSW on-line program can be completed in arsenic few as 12 months. Baylor is now accepting applications, and GRE scores are not required to apply .
Learn more about the Master of Social Work online program from Baylor University. Sponsored Online MSW Program
Boise State University
Program Name: Online Master of Social Work ( MSW ) Graduate Program
Specializations/Concentrations: Advanced Social Work Practice with Individuals and Families
Enrollment Options: Full-Time or Part-Time
Coursework Credits:
- Traditional: 61 Credits
- Advanced Standing: 37 Credits
Clinical Practice Hours:
- Traditional: 1,000 Hours
- Advanced Standing: 600 Hours
Length of Program: 3 – 9 Semesters
Program Description: Boise State offers a traditional and advance standing on-line MSW with 100 % on-line, by and large asynchronous coursework, no out-of-state tuition and no campus visits required. Boise State ’ s School of Social Work has been continuously accredited by the CSWE since 1992.
Contact Information:
- Website: Boise State University – Online MSW Degree Program
- Social: Boise State @ Facebook External link , Boise State @ Twitter , Boise State University @ Instagram
Back to Top
Boston University
Program Name: Online Master of Social Work ( MSW ) Program
Specializations/Concentrations: Clinical or Macro ; Human Service Experience Track
Enrollment Options: Part-Time
Coursework Credits:
- Traditional: 65 Credits
- Advanced Standing: 43 Credits
Clinical Practice Hours:
- Traditional: 1,200 Hours
- Human Service Experience: 1,000 Hours
- Advanced Standing: 1,000 Hours
Length of Program: 24 – 36 months
Program Description: The on-line MSW program at Boston University is offered in a half-time format with options to focus on clinical Practice with three cut options : traditional, homo service experience ( HSE ) and progress stand. No campus visits are required for this broadcast. The School of Social Work at Boston University ’ s MSW was initially accredited by the CSWE in 1939.
Contact Information:
- Website: Boston University – Online MSW Program
- Social: Boston University On Facebook, Boston University on Twitter, Boston University on Instagram, Boston University on Linkedin
Back to Top
Case Western Reserve University – Sponsored Program
Program Name: Online Social Work at CWRU
Degree Conferred: Master of Social Work
Specializations/Concentrations:
- Children, Youth and Families
- Mental Health with Adults
- Community Practice for Social Change
Coursework Credits:
- Traditional: 60 Credits
- Advanced Standing: Up to 24 Credits
Clinical Practice Hours:
- Traditional:
- Generalist Year: 450 hours total (10-12 hours per week) over the course of three semesters.
- Specialized Year: 600 hours total (10-12 hours per week) over the course of four semesters.
- Advanced Standing:
- 900 hours (10-12 hours per week) over the course of six semesters.
- Students begin this placement in the first semester of the MSSA program.
Length of Program: As few as two years
Program Description: At Case Western Reserve University ’ s CSWE-accredited Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences—ranked No. 9 in 2019 for social work by U.S. News & World Report —students can earn their overlord of Social Work ( MSW ) on-line. GRE scores are not required to apply .
Learn more about Online Social Work at CWRU. Sponsored Online Social Work Program
Columbia University
Program Name: Online Master of Science in Social Work
Specializations/Concentrations:
Clinical Practice Hours:
- Advanced Clinical Social Work Practice
- Social Enterprise Administration
Enrollment Options: Full-Time or part-time
Coursework Credits:
- Traditional: 60 Credits
- Advanced Standing: 33 Credits
Clinical Practice Hours:
- Traditional: 1,200 Hours
- Reduced Residency: 900 Hours
- Advanced Standing: 600 Hours
Length of Program: 12 – 48 months
Program Description: Columbia University offers an on-line passkey of Social Work ( MSW ) on-line with half-time, full-time and advance standing options. The broadcast is delivered on-line in synchronous and asynchronous formats with no compulsory campus visits. initial accreditation by the CSWE was granted to the MSW plan in 1919.
Contact Information:
- Website: Columbia University – Online MSW External link
- Social: Columbia University on Facebook, Columbia University of America on Twitter, Columbia University on Instagram
Back to Top
Florida State University
Program Name: Online MSW Program
Specializations/Concentrations: Clinical Social Work Practice
Enrollment Options: Part-Time
Coursework Credits:
- Traditional: 61 Credits
- Advanced Standing: 39 Credits
Clinical Practice Hours:
- Traditional: 944 Hours
- Advanced Standing: 512 Hours
Length of Program: 12 – 36 months
Program Description: FSU offers a traditional and advanced standing on-line MSW in part-time registration. FSU ’ s social work program focuses on clinical sociable work with a completion time between two to three years—depending on type of track. FSU ’ s Master of Social Work course of study was initially accredited by the CSWE in 1950.
Contact Information:
- Website: Florida State University – Online MSW Degree Program
- Social: @FSU_Socialwork on Twitter, Florida State University College of Social Work on Facebook, @fsu_csw on Instagram
Fordham University – Sponsored Program
Program Name: Master of Social Work
Areas of Focus:
- Individuals and Families
- Organizations and Community
- Evaluation
- Policy Practice and Advocacy
Enrollment Options: Full-Time, Part-Time, or Accelerated
Coursework Credits:
- Traditional: 66 Credits
- Advanced Standing: 32 Credits
Clinical Practice Hours:
- Traditional: 1,200 Hours
- Advanced Standing: 600 Hours
Length of Program: Complete the Advanced Standing Program in vitamin a few as 8 months ; Traditional program in ampere few as 16 months.
Program Description: Fordham University ’ s on-line Master of Social Work program features an integrated, forward-facing course of study that prepares aspiring practitioners to deliver responsive services to both individuals and communities. Delivered by the top-ranked Graduate School of Social Service, the platform has an intuitive on-line campus with multiple interactional features that create an engaging determine environment with interaction between students and faculty. Applicants must have a bachelor ’ s degree .
Learn more about the online Master of Social Work program from Fordham University. Sponsored Online Social Work Program
Howard University – Sponsored Program
Program Name: Master of Social Work ( MSW )
Specializations/Concentrations: Direct Practice of Community, Administration and Policy ( CAP ) Practice
Enrollment Options: Full-Time, Part-Time
Coursework Credits : 45-60 Credits
Clinical Practice Hours: 777-1,000 Hours
Length of Program: 12-36 months
Program Description: Earn your overlord of Social Work ( MSW ) on-line from the Howard University School of Social. Choose the Traditional MSW track, designed for students who are new to the field of social work ; or the Advanced Standing MSW lead, designed for students who hold a Bachelor of Social Work. Community, Administration and Policy ( CAP ) and Direct Practice concentrations are available .
Learn more about the Master of Social Work online program from Howard University.
Indiana University
Program Name: Advanced Generalist MSW
Specializations/Concentrations: Advanced renaissance man program
Enrollment Options: Full-Time or Part-Time
Coursework Credits:
- Traditional: 60 Credits
- Advanced Standing: 41 Credits
Clinical Practice Hours:
- Traditional: 960 Hours
- Advanced Standing: 640 Hours
Length of Program: 24 – 60 months months
Program Description: IU ’ s MSW direct on-line program offers a concentration clinical or community commit with 100 % on-line coursework. Accredited by the CSWE since 1921, the MSW program is offered in part-time, full-time and advance standing options.
Contact Information:
- Website: Indiana University – Master of Social Work
- Social: Indiana University on Facebook, Indiana University on LinkedIn, Indiana University on Twitter
Back to Top
Louisiana State University
Program Name: Master of Social Work
Specializations/Concentrations: Advanced Direct Social Work Practice
Enrollment Options: Full-Time or Part-Time
Coursework Credits:
- Traditional: 60 Credits
- Advanced Standing: 33 Credits
Clinical Practice Hours:
- Traditional: 960 Hours
- Advanced Standing: 480 Hours
Length of Program: 12 – 36 months months
Program Description: LSU has part-time, full-time and gain stand options for their on-line MSW program with no command on-campus visits. The MSW on-line is offered in a seven-week module format with asynchronous learning. LSU ’ sulfur MSW program was initially accredited in 1940.
Contact Information:
- Website: Louisiana State University – Master of Social Work
- Social: @LSUSSW on Twitter, LSU School of Social Work on Facebook, @LSU on Instagram
Our Lady of the Lake University
Program Name: Foundation MSW Program
Specializations/Concentrations: Generalist broadcast with an stress on the Hispanic community
Enrollment Options: Full-Time or Part-Time
Coursework Credits:
- Traditional: 57 Credits
- Advanced Standing: 30 Credits
Clinical Practice Hours:
- Traditional: 900 Hours
- Advanced Standing: 500 Hours
Length of Program: 12 – 48 months months
Program Description: OLLU ’ s on-line MSW platform may be completed as part-time or full-time registration. As the first graduate-level social work program in Texas, the MSW was initially accredited in 1945 by the CSWE. The social work overlord ’ randomness platform on-line doesn ’ deoxythymidine monophosphate require any on campus visits and focuses on rehearse with spanish american communities.
Contact Information:
- Website: Our Lady of the Lake University – Online Master of Social Work
- Social: OLLU on Facebook, OLLU on Twitter, OLLU on YouTube
Back to Top
Portland State University
Program Name: Online MSW program
Specializations/Concentrations: Two advanced concentrations – Community and Organizational Practice ( Macro Practice ) and Health Across the Lifespan ( Integrated Health )
Enrollment Options: Full-Time or part-time
Coursework Credits:
- Traditional: 78 Credits
- Advanced Standing: 46 Credits
Clinical Practice Hours:
- Traditional: 1,000 Hours
- Advanced Standing: 500 Hours
Length of Program: 12 – 36 months months
Program Description: The MSW on-line option at PSU is a 3-year cohort model course of study with synchronous and asynchronous learning formats. Two advance concentrations are offered in macro practice or integrated health. The MSW at PSU has been accredited by the CSWE since 1964.
Contact Information:
- Website: Portland State University – MSW Online Option
- Social: Portland State on Facebook
Rutgers University
Program Name: Online MSW Program in Clinical Social Work
Specializations/Concentrations: Clinical Social Work
Enrollment Options: Full-Time or Part-Time
Coursework Credits:
- Traditional: 60 Credits
- Advanced Standing: 30 Credits
Clinical Practice Hours:
- Traditional: 1,125 Hours
- Advanced Standing: 885 Hours
Length of Program: 24 – 36 months months
Program Description: The Rutgers Master of Social Work ( MSW ) program on-line focuses on clinical social work with part-time, full-time and advanced stand options. A violence Against Women and Children Certificate ( VAWC ) program is besides offered to admitted on-line MSW students. The chief ’ sulfur in social work program in the School of Social Work was initially accredited by the CSWE in 1957.
Contact Information:
- Website: Rutgers University – Master’s of Social Work Online
- Social: Rutgers on Facebook, Rutgers on Twitter, Rutgers on LinkedIn
Simmons University – Sponsored Program
Program Name: Master of Social Work
Certificate Options:
- Practice with Groups & Families
- Mental Health Practice
- Trauma Practice
Enrollment Options: Advanced Standing, Full-Time, Part-Time and Accelerated Tracks
Coursework Credits:
- Traditional: 65 Credits
- Advanced Standing: 37 Credits
Required Field Education Hours:
- Traditional: 1,000 Hours
- Advanced Standing: 1,000 Hours
Length of Program: As few as 16 months
Program Description: Simmons University offers its master of Social Work program on-line so draw a bead on clinical social workers can earn their degree without relocating. Students are prepared to pursue employment in schools, courts, clinics, and other aim exercise settings. The program can be completed in equally few as 16 months, and accelerated, full-time, and part-time tracks are besides available. An advance stand track is available for BSW graduates. GRE scores are not required for entree .
Learn more about the online Master of Social Work program from Simmons University. Sponsored Online Social Work Program
Temple University
Program Name: Master of Social Work
Specializations/Concentrations:
- Clinical Practice with individuals and families
- Macro Practice in Organizations
- Communities and Policy Arenas
- Health and Mental Health
- Individualized Specialization
Enrollment Options: Part-Time
Clinical Practice Hours: 1,050 hours
Length of Program: Up to three years
Program Description: Temple University was initially accredited by the CSWE in 1969 and today offers an on-line MSW program with two concentrations and three specializations. Temple besides offers a MSW-MPH dual degree on-line.
Contact Information:
- Website: Temple University – Master of Social Work
- Social: @TempleCPH on Twitter, Temple University College of Public Health on Facebook, @Temple_CPH on Instagram
Back to Top
Read more: Cheap Car Insurance in Delaware – NerdWallet
Texas State University, San Marcos
Program Name: Online MSW Degree Program
Specializations/Concentrations: Administrative Leadership
Enrollment Options: Full-Time or Part-Time
Coursework Credits:
- Traditional: 62 Credits
- Advanced Standing: 36 Credits
Clinical Practice Hours:
- Traditional: N/A Hours
- Advanced Standing: N/A Hours
Length of Program: 2 – 4 years
Program Description: The on-line MSW at Texas State University – San Marcos is offered for non-BSW and BSW degree holders. Accredited by the CSWE initially in 1997, the MSW on-line platform focuses on send practice and administrative services for individuals and families across the life.
Contact Information:
- Website: Texas State University – Advanced Practice Leadership MSW online
- Social: Texas State University on Twitter, Texas State University on Facebook
Back to Top
University of Central Florida
Program Name: Master of Social Work Online MSW
Specializations/Concentrations:
- Behavioral Health
- Child Welfare Services
Enrollment Options: half-time
Coursework Credits:
- Traditional: 62 Credits
- Advanced Standing: 32 Credits
Clinical Practice Hours:
- Traditional: 1,000 Hours
- Advanced Standing: 600 Hours
Length of Program: 12 – 36 months
Program Description: University of Central Florida offers a part-time on-line MSW for non-BSW and BSW holders. Accredited by the CSWE since 1996, the course of study can be completed in one year for advance standing students.
Contact Information:
- Website: University of Central Florida – Master of Social Work Online MSW
- Social: @UCF on Instagram, UCF Online at Facebook, @UCF on Twitter
University of Denver – Sponsored Program
Program Name: Master of Social Work
Specializations/Concentrations:
- Mental Health and Trauma
- Health, Equity and Wellness
Enrollment Options: Full-Time or Accelerated
Coursework Credits:
- Traditional: 81 Quarter Units
- Advanced Standing: 54 Quarter Units
Clinical Practice Hours:
- Foundation Year Internship – 10.5 hours a week
- Concentration Year Internship – 12 hours a week
Length of Program: As few as 18 months for the Advanced Standing MSW and adenine few as 21 months for the Traditional MSW.
Program Description: The on-line Master of Social Work platform delivered by the University of Denver ’ sulfur ( DU ) top-ranked school of social work1 offers a assiduity in Mental Health and Trauma, preparing students to work with divers populations impacted by oppression. All classes are taught by DU staff and are limited to approximately 15 students. As members of the University ’ mho academician community, students work close with staff who have a stove of community experiences and research interests, from social and economic department of justice to multicultural communities .
1 U.S. News & World Report – Best Social Work Programs – Updated 2019
Learn more about the online Master of Social Work program from University of Denver. Sponsored Online Social Work Program
University of Houston
Program Name: Online MSW Program
Specializations/Concentrations:
- Clinical Practice: Health
- Behavioral Health
- Political Social Work Specialization
- Individualized Specialization
Enrollment Options: Full-Time or half-time
Coursework Credits:
- Traditional: 63 Credits
- Advanced Standing: 38 Credits
Clinical Practice Hours:
- Traditional: 900 Hours
- Advanced Standing: 500 Hours
Length of Program: 24 – 36 months
Program Description: Since 1970, the MSW broadcast at the University of Houston has been accredited by the CSWE.The on-line MSW begins with a 16 semester citation foundation across two semesters with field exercise.
Contact Information:
- Website: University of Houston – Online MSW Program
- Social: @UH_SocialWork on Twitter, UH Graduate School of Social Work on Facebook, @uhgradschool on Instagram
Back to Top
University of New England
Program Name: Master of Social Work
Specializations/Concentrations:
- Clinical Practice: Individual, Families and Groups (IFG)
- Community Practice: Organizational and Community Practice (OCP)
Enrollment Options: part-time
Coursework Credits:
- Traditional: 64 Credits
- Advanced Standing: 35 Credits
Clinical Practice Hours:
- Traditional: 1,120 Hours
- Advanced Standing: 560 Hours
Length of Program: 16 – 36+ months
Program Description: Both traditional and boost standing tracks are available on-line at the University of New England with no campus visits required.The latest CSWE accredited follow-up for UNE was in February 2020 and UNE presently holds this accreditation.
Contact Information:
- Website: University of New England – Master of Social Work Degree
- Social: University of New England on Facebook, UNE School of Social Work on Instagram
Back to Top
University of South Florida
Program Name: Master of Social Work
Specializations/Concentrations: Clinical Social Work Practice
Enrollment Options: Full-Time or Part-Time
Coursework Credits:
- Traditional: 60 Credits
- Advanced Standing: 35 Credits
Clinical Practice Hours: 980 Hours
Length of Program: 18 months – 36 months
Program Description: The on-line Master of Social Work at UCF is designed to prepare leaders in social shape clinical practice in traditional or initiation tracks. UCF ’ s MSW course of study was initially accredited in 1983.
Contact Information:
- Website: University of South Florida – Online Master of Social Work
- Social: @usfsocialwork on Twitter, University of South Florida on Facebook
University of Southern California – Sponsored Program
Program Name: Master of Social Work
Departments:
- Adult Mental Health and Wellness
- Children, Youth and Families
- Social Change and Innovation
Tracks:
- Military Social Work
- School Social Work
Enrollment Options: Full-Time or half-time
Coursework Credits:
- Traditional: 60 Units
- Advanced Standing: 37 Units
Clinical Practice Hours:
- Traditional: 1,000 Hours
- Advanced Standing: 790 Hours
Length of Program: As few as 12 months
Program Description: The USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work offers its advanced headmaster of Social Work broadcast on-line so students can make a last positive shock in their communities. Aspiring practitioners attend on-line classes with an median of barely 12 students so they can get to know each early and adept staff. The program besides offers comprehensive student patronize, including placement specialists who identify suitable sites near students ’ local areas .
Learn more about the online Master of Social Work program from University of Southern California. Sponsored Online Social Work Program
Western New Mexico University
Program Name: Master of Social Work
Specializations/Concentrations: Advanced Generalist with Electives
Enrollment Options: Full-Time or Part-Time
Coursework Credits:
- Traditional: 60 Credits
- Advanced Standing: 39 Credits
Clinical Practice Hours:
- Traditional: 900 Hours
- Advanced Standing: 450 Hours
Length of Program: 12 months – 36 months
Program Description: Offered in non-advanced and advance stand, WNMU ’ s on-line MSW broadcast doesn ’ thyroxine require any on-campus visits. initially accredited by the CSWE in 2010, the Master of Social Work program at WNMU emphasizes social judge, integrity and overhaul.
Contact Information:
- Website: Western New Mexico University – School of Social Work
- Social: @WNMUon Twitter, Western New Mexico University on Facebook , @WNMU on Instagram
Back to Top
Online Master’s in Social Work (MSW) Program Overview
There are many victor ’ second in sociable work on-line programs available to you, from full-time and half-time options to programs that incorporate fieldwork placements and offer specialization areas of your interest. When choosing a overlord ’ second in social work on-line course of study, it is crucial to make sure that the broadcast is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education ( CSWE ) .
CSWE-accredited schools have gone through a rigorous process administered by the accrediting mental hospital, that ensures that the school meets their standards and is qualified to teach students. More so, CSWE-accredited programs are required for state licensure .
What is an MSW program?
A overcome of Social Work ( MSW ), or passkey ’ randomness in social work, program is a graduate advance course of study that equips students with the cognition and skills needed to support the wellbeing of individuals and boastfully customer populations, particularly those who are vulnerable. An on-line MSW degree typically takes two years to complete and requires a minimal of 900 hours of fieldwork .
presently, the MSW degree is considered a terminal degree for social work, though there are higher degrees available such as a Doctor of Social Work ( DSW ) .
Compared to a bachelor ’ sulfur in social employment ( BSW ), an MSW may offer opportunities for specialization and career progress. While a DSW is recommended for those who want to teach or conduct research, the path to this academic degree is often lengthier and costlier than the MSW track .
What is CSWE accreditation of an online social work program?
The Council on Social Work Education ( CSWE ) sets forth standards for Bachelor and Master of Social Work programs that align education with practice. Some of these include : incorporation of social make competencies in ethics, human rights, assessments and interventions, explicit course of study for renaissance man and specialist rehearse and an implicit course of study that supports student development, retentiveness and participation .
There are over 100 accredit on-line or distance education MSW programs recognized by the CSWE. Some of these programs are not offered to students from any state and/or may be offered in conjunction with numerous on-campus visits .
What are the benefits of CSWE-accredited MSW online programs?
According to the Benefits of CSWE Accreditation, all states in the U.S. require a social work degree accredited by the CSWE in order to sit for licensing exams. CSWE accreditation, which is required by some employers, means a plan meets quality and academic standards .
Additional Types of CSWE-Accredited Online MSW Programs
Should I Enroll into an Online MSW Program?
many people choose to earn an MSW to pursue licensure in their country and to learn more about the intricacies of social cultivate practice, research and policy. ultimately, the decisiveness is based on your goals. If you choose to enroll into an on-line accredited MSW program, hera are some opportunities you may come into, deoxyadenosine monophosphate well as the typical broadcast entrance fee requirements .
Benefits and Opportunities
An MSW may provide a nerve pathway to licensure for sociable workers who want to work independently with two years post-MSW experience. Although there are some BSW programs that provide concentrations, a graduate degree frequently offers a diverseness of concentration opportunities to grow and fine tune your skills in your social work practice .
As with other genial health professionals and social service degrees, the field is rewarding for individuals who enjoy helping others improve their wellbeing .
In addition, social work is a aggressive field. The Bureau of Labor Statistics ( BLS ) reports that job growth of social workers is expected to increase by 12 % from 2020 to 2030. The BLS suggests this growth is ascribable to an increase in demand for healthcare and social services, with the highest growth in genial health and meaning abuse sociable workers at 18 percentage .
Program Admissions Requirements
admission requirements for chief ’ mho in social make programs will differ between schools and programs, however, schools typically require the keep up :
- A bachelor’s degree from an accredited school
- A minimum GPA requirement, often 3.0
- Official transcripts
- A personal statement/letters of recommendation (amount varies by school)
- An application fee (amount varies by school)
- Technical requirements to access any online courses (personal computer, internet access, etc.)
today, many MSW programs do not require a GRE test score. If your undergraduate was not in social work, then your MSW program may vary from the path of a student with a BSW, adding core requirements that you may not have taken during your undergraduate studies .
What Should I Expect from an Online MSW Program?
Your on-line MSW program is likely to mirror any on-campus MSW from your prefer university. As a CSWE-accredited program, all social work headmaster ’ second programs online must have specific coursework offered as a contribution of their accreditation. In your on-line social work platform, you may expect exist classes, self-paced learn, tests, quizzes, inquiry papers and more. Just because a plan is on-line, doesn ’ thyroxine average that the MSW degree varies in timbre .
Core Concepts and Curriculum
With technical advancements, online social bring course of study can more well mirror the traditional in-class course of study. Depending on if you are enrolled as a standard or progress standing student, master ’ mho of social work on-line programs may typically range from 12 to 32 months until completion. In the first gear class, core courses are the independent focus. Foundational courses may include :
- Sociocultural Concepts
- Social Welfare Policy
- Human Behavior/Psychology
- Community Practice
During the second year, students begin to specialize and identify areas to begin fieldwork. The fieldwork part is an authoritative part of the MSW degree, as it gives students thousands of hours ’ deserving of hands-on experience within their particular specialization. This fieldwork can be through internships or a specific count of Hours within certifiable organizations, ranging from schools to hospitals and more .
What Can I Do Once I Complete an Online MSW Program?
once you graduate from an MSW on-line program, you may be qualified to apply for licensure in your country. It ’ sulfur important to note that there is likely post-graduate field know required to independently practice. Be certain to check with your state of matter ’ south specific requirements for more information .
Career opportunities for social workers who earned an MSW can be extremely diverse, and can be rewarding excessively. There are a phone number of social worker careers that range from clinical practice to roles in the government or corporate sector. If you decide to earn your MSW, and don ’ t have previous social make feel, you are besides one step closer to becoming a social proletarian. here are some careers you may pursue after you complete an on-line MSW program :
With an MSW, you may be able to take advantage of job opportunities in the mental health field and expand your career into new areas. Depending on the state you want to work in, you may need to pursue a license. typically to pursue express licensure as a social worker, you ’ ll need to pass an examination from the Association for Social Work Boards ( ASWB ) .
“ When I looked at social work, I was very drawn to the fact that you can go toward a micro steering in individual therapy or a macro management in terms of policy and guiding organizations. Social study actually appealed to me because of its flexibility and the fact that if I did finally want to make changes in my career, I ’ d be able to do that. ” – Morgan Gregg, Social Worker
Read more in our consultation with Morgan Gregg on Working with Law Enforcement .
Social Work Practice Levels
Online MSW programs offer a variety of program concentrations from Mental Health and Trauma to Policy Practice and Advocacy. Depending on your assiduity, you could focus on programs at the broad level or become more chondritic with your career. Most programs are spliced into categories called macro, mezzo-soprano or micro social work, which is used to define the telescope of the work involved. Learn more about each of these categories below :
Macro social work: Macro horizontal surface social workers use their MSW to make large-scale affect in the field, whether it be at the express level or even nationally. They may look to solve issues and implement switch at the solution, rather of counseling clients affected at a personal degree. Macro social workers may design and implement social services programs, examine the lawsuit of social issues within their communities and recommend for policy changes at a politics level .
Mezzo social work: The exploit of mezzo-soprano level social workers involves enacting change within smaller groups or institutions and is normally thought to be focused on more midsize groups that fall between the macro and micro side of the practice spectrum. For exercise, mezzo social workers may organize local health or department of education initiatives, have frequent contact with residential district members and may not constantly provide the lapp clinical or personal treatment as sociable workers who entirely solve at the micro level .
Micro social work: This work is often identified as the most common type of drill that involves work with an individual or a family. train in micro social exploit aims to give social workers the cognition required to be able to identify problems that individual clients may have and support them appropriately. Micro social workers may help clients with challenges relating to housing, employment, family, fiscal constancy, mental health, aesculapian issues and more .
Online MSW Program Concentrations
There are many concentrations in on-line MSW programs to choose from. social workers may work with children in curative settings, visiting children in their homes as a social worker, or advocate for policy change to support communities at large. Discover the variety of concentrations available to help you fine-tune your social work career .
| MSW Concentration | Description |
|---|---|
| Additions and Substance Abuse | Focus on the root of addictions and/or substance abuse, client assessments, and choosing the best approach to treatment. |
| Administrative Leadership | Integration of both direct practice and social work administration such as program planning and grant resources development. |
| Behavioral Health | Understand different behavioral health disorders, assessments, and interventions. |
| Child Welfare Services | Focus on providing a continuum of care to children, youth and families within the child welfare systems. |
| Children, Youth and Families | Focus on advocacy and intervention on behalf of children and youth within the social environments they live. |
| Clinical Social Work | Application of theories and techniques to address mental, behavioral, emotional, and social function concerns with individuals and groups. |
| Community Health and Practice | Focus on working with public and nonprofit organizations, communities and other agencies to develop programs and systems. |
| Disabilities | Integrating therapeutic approaches and resources to support the well-being and overall independent functioning of individuals with developmental disabilities. |
| Forensic Social Work | Focus on support, navigation, resources, interventions and other types of assistance for individuals navigating legal/court systems. |
| Gerontology | Understand therapeutic interventions and approaches to older adults with regards to challenges from aging such as independence, autonomy, and dignity. |
| Hospice | Focus on improving physical, psychosocial, and spiritual quality of life for those living with serious illness. |
| Individualized Specialization | Custom concentration from various electives. |
| Macro Social Work | Combining social work research with program development, community-based initiatives and more to serve communities in need. |
| Mental Health Practice | Addressing mental illnesses and related events with individuals through assessments, interventions, and therapeutic approaches and support. |
| Military Social Work | Focus on providing mental health and other supportive services to military personnel and their families. |
| Policy Practice and Advocacy | Understand how to manage organizations, navigate systems and create policy to advance social change and advocate for individuals and communities. |
| School Social Work | Focus on approaches and techniques for students on academic, behavioral, emotional, and social concerns while removing barriers to education. |
Licenses an Online MSW Program May Prepare You For
People who presently hold a BSW academic degree or work in like fields and backgrounds may often make the choice to earn their MSW. For social workers with a Bachelor of Social Work ( BSW ), they may be qualified for bachelor ’ s-level licenses such as becoming a license Bachelor Social Worker ( LBSW ). This varies from submit to state, so be certain to check with your department of state ’ s social work board for more information. It ’ sulfur important to note that not every state offers this flush of opportunity .
An on-line MSW course of study may prepare you for licensure as :
These titles change depending on the state you apply for licensure. Be indisputable that your on-line MSW program is accredited by the CSWE, as mentioned previously, all 50 U.S. states require a CSWE-accredited MSW program for examination at the victor ’ s flush. Be surely to check with your submit for specific requirements .
Online MSW Program vs. Social Services Programs
Social service degree programs encompass many mental health professions, such as psychology and guidance. While social employment, psychology, and counseling all provide services to individuals and communities, the course of study often varies. Online MSW programs that are accredited by the CSWE frequently have the coursework meeting the nine social work competencies ( PDF, 381 KB ) :
- Ethical and Professional Behavior
- Diversity and Difference in Practice
- Human Rights and Social, Economic, and Environmental Justice Advancement
- Practice-Informed Research and Research-Informed Practice
- Policy Practice
- Engage, Assess, Intervene with, and Evaluate Practice with Individuals, Families, Groups, Organizations, and Communities
While psychology and counseling programs may have alike coursework, their focus may be more on the individual and environment than policy and macro worldviews. All three sociable serve degrees require some degree of field experience or internship, applying their erudite skills under the supervision of a professor and approved, licensed professional .
While future social workers study environmental impacts and removal of barriers to overall health of communities, future counselors may be focused on the psychological and behavioral exploitation of an individual, rooted in hypothesis. Both careers, however, may choose to work with individuals or groups. Learn more about the differences between sociable work and rede .
Psychologists may focus on discovering genial, emotional, or behavioral health concerns with clients and addressing those through the telescope of a particular theoretical orientation course. social workers, on the other hand, armed with theories adenine well, set about make with clients through the lens of the environmental, socioeconomic, cultural and other lenses. Learn more about the differences between sociable shape and psychology .
Scholarship Options for MSW Students
There are over 50 options for scholarships that we were able to collect in our social influence scholarships scout. There are scholarships for minority students entering the mental health or social work airfield, military fiscal aid, scholarships specifically for women applicants and more. The amounts awarded change greatly with some covering the cost of books and fees while others may offer awards for every year of your degree. here are some examples :
- Hispanic Scholarship Fund (HSF): Awarding $500-$5,000, the HSF offers this scholarship to students of Hispanic heritage.
- Juliette Derricotte Scholarship: Offering up to $2,000, this scholarship is awarded to members of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. for students enrolled in a graduate program for group social work.
- The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF): The NIAF awards up to $12,000 to students who are Italian American or with Italian descent, based on merit and academic achievements.
Organizations for MSW Graduates
Students who are concern in enrolling in an on-line MSW platform have a huge array of organizations available, providing digest and continuing education. These organizations besides offer their members resources pertaining to certifications, events and networking opportunities, and much more. Some examples of social ferment organizations at the macro, mezzo-soprano and micro levels are :
- Association of Veterans Affairs Social Workers (AVASW): This professional association encourages the development of social work services for veterans by sharing information with practitioners in the field as well as their client groups. The AVASW believes transparency enhances the effectiveness of VA social work.
- Clinical Social Work Association (CSWA): This national network of psychosocial care professionals is dedicated to providing the most current information, resources, updates, and alerts on emerging education and research best practices in social work and behavioral/mental healthcare. CSWA is dedicated to providing clinical social workers with networking opportunities.
- Council on Social Work Education (CSWE): When you begin to search for the best online MSW program for you, make sure the one you choose is accredited. CSWE is the accrediting body for many schools that offer online MSW programs. They ensure that the educational institutions adhere to their set of standards for social work curricula.
- International Association for Social Work with Groups (IASWG): This group works alongside social workers engaged in group work. This member-driven organization strives to promote excellence in local and international group work practices through education, field instruction, research and publication.
- National Association of Social Workers (NASW): Known as one of the largest social work organizations, the NASW has about 120,000 members and offers guidance and research for social workers, but also advocates for them.
- Social Welfare Action Alliance (SWAA): This 35-year-old national organization has chapters in New York and Oregon, and even offers social workers to start a chapter anywhere in the country. Each chapter determines their own agenda and provides forums for discussion around local and national social work needs and issues.
Online MSW Program FAQs
Earning your MSW on-line is an educational choice that is both gettable and flexible for both full-time students and working professionals alike. The on-line format of the MSW broadcast, coupled with the command battlefield coach, provides social work students with a singular memorize experience. If you ’ re still thinking about whether an on-line MSW is the best fit for you, you can ask yourself the following questions :
How long does it take to get an MSW online?
Depending on the school and the program you pick, the clock time to graduate with your MSW can vary from one to three years. Most on-line MSW programs offer the flexibility for you to choose between half-time and full-time study, providing ample opportunities to complete your MSW .
Will an online MSW program provide me with the skills I need?
An MSW may prepare you for licensure as a master ’ second level social actor. typically CSWE-accredited MSW programs offer coursework that covers such as therapy skills, working with individuals and groups, active listen, critical think and proper client software documentation .
Will an online MSW program work with my schedule?
An MSW on-line program provides electric potential students with multiple options based on their schedule. Depending on the time you have available to attend class you can choose between an asynchronous and synchronous broadcast and choose between enrolling share prison term or full time .
Is an online or hybrid MSW program as valuable as an on-campus MSW?
In most cases online, hybrid and distance determine MSW programs give students the same benefits of an on-campus program, but with possibly greater flexibility and public toilet. Whichever mode you choose, be indisputable that the MSW is accredited by the CSWE .
Can I get an MSW without a BSW?
The dim-witted answer is yes. MSW programs for students who do not have a BSW are referred to as traditional or standard cut programs. Programs for those who have a BSW are called boost stand MSW programs. In holy order to be able to take the traditional/standard track, you are required to have a bachelor ’ s degree from any accredit initiation.
How much will I make with an MSW?
The medial annual yield for social workers was $ 51,760 in 2020, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.However, social proletarian salaries vary from country to express and can be importantly higher for those who have many years of feel or hold a dominate ’ south in the field. Your rehearse set may besides dictate your earning likely .
How do I pay for an MSW program?
While some on-line programs are more low-cost than those offered on campus, pursuing a graduate-level degree placid requires meaning finance. Some students might be able to pay for their education through savings or loans, but others might seek out extra fund such as social work scholarships .
Information on this page was last retrieved in September 2021.
