Consider Featured Online Social Work Programs
University of Kentucky - Online Master of Social Work - CSWE accredited program. Regular and Advanced Standing MSW tracks.
Ohio University - Online Master of Social Work - CSWE accredited, 100% online.
University of Southern California - Online Master of Social Work | Online Doctor of Social Work - CSWE Accredited.
Fordham University - Online Master of Social Work - Traditional and advanced standing online MSW options are available. CSWE Accredited.
Our Lady of the Lake University - Online Master of Social Work (MSW) - No GRE or GMAT is required for admission. CSWE Accredited.
George Mason University - Online MSW - CSWE Accredited MSW Program, Focus on Social JusticeThe most common online degree within the Social Work area of study is the Online MSW Program. The Online Master of Social Work is typically the degree that students seek while they are currently employed. Many have earned their BSW degree, are employed within the area of social work, but see greater employment opportunities and impact if they attain their Master of Social Work.
Online MSW Programs
The online version of the MSW degree may be quickly becoming one of the most beneficial degree programs available at this time. Online MSW programs include flexibility and versatility that may not be present in traditional degree programs, which is one of the reasons that upcoming students are more drawn to online options.
Here is a quick list of online MSW programs. Click to jump to the fully reviewed list of MSW programs available online.
- Arizona State University: Online MSW: Advanced Generalist
- Baylor University: Online Master of Social Work
- Campbellsville University: Online MSW: Advanced Generalist
- Florida State University: Online MSW program
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill: Online MSW, multiple tracks
- University of Kentucky: Online MSW program
Consider a Featured Online Master of Social Work Program
There are a number of online MSW programs in our database, including multiple featured online MSW programs that are currently accepting applicants. The below programs are currently seeking applicants for their MSW program and are entirely online. We have provided quick information on these, including accreditation (most are CSWE accredited), if they have an Advanced Standing MSW program for those with a BSW, and more. Click to go directly to their MSW program website to review more information about their admissions requirements and to get with their admissions department to ask further questions.
Consider a Featured Online Social Work Program
| School / Program | Online Program / Entry Reqs | Advanced Standing Availability / Course Information |
|---|---|---|
| University of Kentucky | ✔ Online | Advanced Standing Program available. MSW program includes options for an advanced-standing program (30 credits) and a 60-credit regular standing program. Learn More |
| Ohio University | ✔ Online | No GRE or GMAT required. Complete in as few as 24 months. Adult Mental Health, Child, Family, and School, and Social Policy. Learn More |
| University of Southern California | ✔ Online | Earn a Master of Social Work online in as few as 12 months if you have a Bachelor of Social Work. Doctor of Social Work online can be completed through an accelerated 24 month track (master’s req.). Learn More |
| Fordham University | ✔ Online | Advanced Standing Program available. Advanced standing and traditional MSW options. Four areas of focus: Individuals and Families, Organizations and Community, Evaluation, and Policy Practice and Advocacy. Learn More |
| University of Denver | ✔ Online No GRE Required | Advanced Standing Program available. Two online graduate programs: a traditional MSW and an advanced standing MSW. Learn More |
| Baylor University | ✔ Online No GRE Scores Required | Advanced Standing Program available. 2 Specializations: Clinical Practice or Community Practice. Standard MSW and Advanced Standing MSW. Learn More |
MSW Degree Specialties
At the master’s level, students can choose a specialty such as Mental Health, Clinical or Child/Adult Social Work. Most online Master’s degrees in Social Work require that students complete various research assignments alongside the standard discussions and quizzes.
Research assignments at this level urge learners to become involved in the community in different ways in order to truly grasp the concept of the social environment.
Different Types of MSW Degrees
- 100% Online MSW Programs – Online Master of Social Work programs, where courses are offered 100% online in either an asynchronous or synchronous format.
- Advanced Standing MSW Programs – for Bachelor of Social Work degree holders, an Advanced Standing MSW can be a fast track to a Master of Social Work degree.
- One Year MSW Programs – MSW programs that are less than 12 months. One Year MSW Programs are usually an Advanced Standing MSW program for BSW degree holders.
- MSW Programs with No GRE Requirement – MSW Program that does not require Graduate Record Examination (GRE) prior to admission to their program. Other programs may grant a GRE waiver for qualified applicants.
- Clinical MSW Programs – If you are considering pursuing a social work career in a hospital or private practice, the Clinical Social Work area of study is likely the best fit.
- MSW Degrees by State – View different MSW programs in each state.
Broad Categories and Types of Social Work Practice Areas
Social work can be split into three separate practicum areas (then divided into further subcategories). At the most broad level, here are the major areas:
1. Micro
Direct practice with individuals or families.
2. Mezzo
Intermediate based, within small groups or communities.
3. Macro
Large-scale, systemic and community-based or larger care.
What Can You Do With an Online MSW Degree?
Since social workers will work primarily in the public sector, students are encouraged to properly analyze and report on specific aspect of the community through essays and research paper assignments.
Students are provided access to a plentiful supply of resources, both for research and for information regarding the course. Students are regularly required to take part in online discussions, which can compare and debate opinions of students in a respectful and scholarly fashion.
Top 5 Sample MSW Courses
| MSW COURSE | COURSE DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy | Reviews CBT theories, helps students develop an understanding of required technique and development of case conceptualizations. |
Advanced Cognitive Behavioral Therapy | This course provides advanced learning that covers specific protocols and cognitive behavior therapy interventions for various disorders. |
Addictions and Dual Diagnosis Treatment | Thoroughly examines the relationship of addiction and other mental health disorders. Focuses on assessment and intervention of multiply diagnosed patients. |
Clinical Research | Teaches students the user of quantitative and qualitative research methods and statistics that will be used in clinical research. |
Clinical Management | Teaches students the concepts of leadership and management in a clinical setting. Touches on strategic planning, program design and financial management. |
CSWE Accredited Social Work Certificates
What Can You Do With an MSW Degree?
Social workers assist with making society more productive by providing their clients with resources and contacts within the community environment. They also master human behavior and how it relates to a public lifestyle. Professionals in the social work field can be found in almost every aspect of the public domain. Social workers are present in hospitals – helping families with healthcare planning and referring patients to helpful community resources.
They are also found in state and government agencies – providing vital healthcare, food assistance, and welfare management for families in need. In the judicial system, social workers play an important role in child and adult welfare and mental health services. The social worker works hard with the client’s well-being in mind, regardless of the sector.
The hard work and determination that goes into pursuing a degree in social work pays off not only for the individual that is being served, but also for society as a whole. There is truly no better option for professionals that have a passion for helping people and making a notable difference within their communities.
