Online MSW Degrees.org is solely dedicated to MSW programs that are at least offered partially online, and most are offered 100% online. All schools on this website are accredited, with many being CSWE accredited.
We have reviewed each school that offers a MSW program online, creating a comprehensive list of information for those looking for a MSW degree.
You can view all MSW program types here or MSW programs by state. Alternatively, you can review the top CSWE accredited MSW programs online, including different types of the most popular social work degrees.
Find All Types of Online MSW Degrees
Here are some of the most popular MSW programs:
- 100% Online MSW programs
- 1 year MSW programs
- MSW programs with no GRE requirements
- Advanced Standing MSW programs
- Clinical MSW
- MSW in Substance Abuse
- MSW in Mental Health & Trauma
- MSW for Individuals & Families
Online MSW Degrees
MSW programs were developed in an effort to help students gain knowledge of the social environment and the people within it. There are many fields that focus on individuals directly or the improvement of society, but this is the only field that blends both entities. The advancement of individuals and the environment rely heavily on the utilization of public services, advocacy, and support. This is exactly what MSW programs help to promote within their students.
The Proliferation of the Online MSW
In response to the high popularity of these degree programs, universities across the country are offering MSW programs online, in addition to the traditional on-campus format. Colleges are also offering unique MSW programs that help more students enter an accredited program, including: MSW programs with no GRE requirements, Online programs are becoming a powerhouse for students seeking this degree program, due to the flexible nature of instruction and time-frames.
As of 2024, the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE, cswe.org) currently accredits 198 online MSW programs in the U.S., and is continuing to accept applications from accreditation from universities seeking accreditation.
i Consider a sponsored online MSW program that is taking applications for 2024.
School | Program | CSWE Accredited? |
---|---|---|
Fordham University | Master of Social Work Online
Traditional and advanced standing online MSW options are available. Four areas of focus: Individuals and Families, Organizations and Community, Evaluation, and Policy Practice and Advocacy. |
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Virginia Commonwealth University | Online Master's in Social Work
Part-time and full-time online options, with three intakes throughout the year, let you learn from anywhere in the country. |
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University of Kentucky | Online Master of Social Work
CSWE Accredited, 100% online. Regular and Advanced Standing MSW tracks. 7 different certificates available (Clinical, Child Welfare, School, Substance Abuse, Trauma, more). |
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University of West Florida | Online Master of Social Work
CSWE Accredited, 100% online. Traditional and Advanced Standing MSW tracks. |
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Syracuse University | Online Master of Social Work
CSWE accredited. No GRE required. Traditional and Advanced Standing tracks. |
Why Consider Working in Social Work?
The world that you live in contains many different professional areas for people that love helping others. One field that is popular for students with altruistic ideations is Social Work. This incredible field plays a role in the betterment of society from an inside perspective. In order to increase the quality of life for people within a community or neighborhood, Social Work professionals must be able to increase the positive interactions between people and their environment.
One of the most applied for MSW programs focuses on Child and Family Social Work. As of our review in 2024, there are 344,770 social work professionals all over the country (BLS) with a mean annual wage of $56,680. Actual salaries vary on where you work and actual location. Other specialty fields such as Mental Health Social Work and Healthcare Social Workers are also among some of the top employers for professionals in this field.
Online MSW programs are becoming an excellent option for current social workers, or those looking to advance to an LCSW, due to the flexibility of online degrees.
Types of MSW Programs Online
- 100% Online MSW Programs: Many Master of Social Work programs are 100% online, and many are CSWE accredited.
- 1-Year Online MSW Programs: Some advanced-standing MSW programs have one-year curriculum.
- Online MSW Programs with No GRE Required for Admission: For many graduate Master's-level programs, a GRE (or similar standardized advanced testing) scores are required, but not for all.
- Part Time Online MSW Programs: Catered more toward adults that are currently working in the profession or a related field, part-time MSW programs are a great fit to balance.
- Hybrid On-Campus/Online MSW Programs: For those located near a college campus, you might consider a hybrid program.
- Online Clinical MSW Programs: Clinical social work is a specific field, and colleges are offering online clinical MSW programs.
- CSWE Accredited Online MSW Programs: Perhaps the most important consideration is to find an Online MSW program that is CSWE accredited.
School | Program | Admissions |
---|---|---|
Fordham University | Master of Social Work Online
CSWE Accredited |
Website |
Virginia Commonwealth University | Online Master's in Social Work
CSWE Accredited |
Website |
University of Kentucky | Online Master of Social Work
CSWE Accredited |
Website |
University of West Florida | Online Master of Social Work
CSWE Accredited |
Website |
Syracuse University | Online Master of Social Work
CSWE Accredited |
Website |
University of Denver | Online Master of Social Work
CSWE Accredited |
Website |
Our Lady of the Lake University | Online Master of Social Work
CSWE Accredited |
Website |
Hawai'i Pacific University | Online Master of Social Work
Pending accreditation by the CSWE. |
Website |
Simmons University | Online Master of Social Work
CSWE Accredited |
Website |
Click to view all online MSW programs that are currently accepting applications.
MSW Program Tracks, Admissions Requirements and Eligibility
If you are interested in pursuing your Master's in Social Work online, you may be pleased to learn that these online programs have different eligibility criteria for graduates from undergraduate social work programs as well as for graduates of unrelated undergraduate degree programs. This aspect of online MSW programs allows for all bachelor's earners to pursue a degree in this field under different requirements.
Advanced Standing MSW Program Tracks
The advanced standing track is the most common option for students that have previously obtained a Bachelor’s in Social Work. This track is typically shorter than other MSW programs and allows students to complete the program in 1-2 years. In order to be accepted into advanced educational tracks such as this one, students should be able to provide proof of completion of an undergraduate degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited educational program. Students may also be required to provide proof of 2-4 years of relevant work experience in the field of Social Work.
Human Services Experience MSW Track
Another track option for incoming students is the Human Service Experience track. This option is for students that have completed an undergraduate degree in another subject area, but have more than 2 years of work experience in human services. In order to be accepted into this program, students must provide proof of completion of a bachelor’s level degree as well as documentation of relevant work experience.
Traditional MSW Track
The final option for students that desire a MSW is the traditional track. This option takes the longest to complete, but requires less documentation at the forefront. Students enrolling in this program must provide proof of completion of a bachelor’s level degree from an accredited university and meet all other admissions requirements.
Admissions requirements that are included in all tracks include the submission of a completed application, application fee, and all required documentation (transcripts, GPA, GRE test scores, work experience). Students may also be required to turn in a professional resume or personal statement and sit for a formal interview. The GPA requirement may vary depending on the university, but some information regarding this requirement is listed in the next section.
Some Online MSW programs do not require a GRE: view our guide to Online MSW Programs with No GRE Requirement.
One Year Online MSW Programs
One of the most interesting concepts associated with online MSW programs is their versatility in terms of degree completion. The field of Social Work is increasingly reliant on a person’s ability to provide great services to the public. This is why you might see shorter degree programs for people that either have extensive experience in the field or have completed Bachelor’s in Social Work programs.
One year online MSW programs have become a popular choice for Social Work graduates that are looking for quick entry into the field. These advanced programs have fast-paced scheduling that allows students to complete their degree program and begin pursuing licensure within 12 months of their start date. In order to be considered for acceptance into these programs, students must meet the recommendations of the university in which they are applying.
Some of the requirements for entry into these programs include a previous completion of a Bachelor’s in Social Work degree from a CSWE-accredited degree program, have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0, and a minimum GPA of 3.0 in social work-related course work. Some example universities offering the one year option are listed below.
- The University of Southern California – Online MSW: USC’s online MSW program currently has 3 different options, including the one year online MSW. This program is catered to individuals that have completed a BSW and are looking for a fast-paced degree program to advance their career. This program requires that students complete 37 credit hours of advanced course work and choose from 3 specializations including Adult Mental Health and Wellness, Children, Youth, and Families, and Social Change and Innovation.
- Florida State University – Online MSW: Florida State University is another university that offers students the option of pursuing an online MSW that has a shorter completion date that traditional programs. As with other schools offering this option, students that are interested in this program must complete a Bachelor’s in Social Work from an accredited university prior to being admitted. This entire program consists of 39 credit hours of core courses and electives, which can all be completed within 12 months.
Online MSW Programs with Spring Admission
Making the decision to move forward into a graduate-level program is often one that is common in working adults looking for advancement in their careers. While there are still students that continue on into MSW programs after their bachelor’s program, most online MSW programs cater to the needs of the busy working adult.
One of the perks of pursuing your MSW online is the option of enrolling any time of year. Multiple start dates can allow students to begin their journey to degree advancement without having to wait for the school year to begin. When the time is right to enroll in a degree program, a person may want immediate satisfaction rather than having to sit back and wait.
Schools that offer enrollment in the spring can be found easily through online searches. Our team of experts has chosen a few of the most popular universities for online MSWs with spring admission for you to review. In addition to having start dates in the spring, these schools also have multiple start dates that can be taken advantage of year-round. Take a look at a short list of schools below.
- Florida State University – Online MSW
- Walden University – Online MSW
- Louisiana State University – Online MSW
- The University of Southern California – Online MSW
- Rutger’s University – Online MSW
CSWE Accredited Online MSW Programs
With online MSW programs on the rise, it is vital to address reliability for students that are interested in becoming a part of these programs. In the past, online degree programs have moved mountains to earn their worth within educational society, since attending college from anywhere other than a traditional institution was unheard of for college students.
The most prominent and reliable accreditation agency for MSW programs is the Council on Social Work Education. This organization was created in 1952, and provides important quality standards for educational programs that offer Social Work degrees.
While you are seeking out the right university for your education, be sure to locate the accreditation information on your degree’s website. This information can help ensure that you are getting a high quality education that has the potential to lead to licensure in the future.
100% Online MSW Programs
If you are currently a hard-working professional, the likelihood of halting your career to pursue a higher degree is probably small. Educational programs at the master’s level have been innovated in an effort to allow even more busy professionals, like you, to move into a higher degree without having to think about lost time and wages that can result from traditional education programs. There are colleges all over the country that offer students the option of 100% online MSW programs with CSWE accreditation.
- Campbellsville University – Kentucky
- Indiana Wesleyan University
- Metropolitan State University of Denver – Colorado
- Northern Arizona University
- Northwestern State University – Louisiana
Hybrid MSW Programs
Students that still enjoy the traditional aspects of a college education do not have to sacrifice the flexibility of online learning or the face-to-face aspect of college courses through hybrid learning programs. These types of programs provide both in-person courses and online options for students that have the ability to attend school on a part-time basis, but want to complete their program in a shorter time period.
Hybrid MSW program can also be found at colleges around the country, due to the subtle blend of both traditional and online aspects. Check out our list of hybrid educational programs below.
- Metropolitan State University of Denver – Colorado
- San Jose State University – California
- Colorado State University
- Fordham University – New York
- Michigan State University
Full Time vs. Part Time Programs
Depending on your needs as a professional, family member, or individual, you may find that full-time programs may not be the best option for you. People talk a lot about the need for a fast result when enrolling in educational programs. However, this may not be the right option for some people. Taking it slow and steady through the degree earning process is a great option for people that have a full load at home or at work.
Part-time programs may include a curriculum in which courses can be taken 1 at a time, rather than 2 or more. These programs may take more time to complete overall, but can help busy people obtain their degree without having to make any drastic changes to their everyday lives.
Here are some CSWE-accredited universities that provide programs for students that are looking for part-time options with their degree program.
- Arizona State University
- Boise State University – Idaho
- Case Western Reserve University – Ohio
- Louisiana State University
- Radford University – Virginia
Types of Masters in Social Work Degrees
Advanced Generalist
The generalist program is an excellent choice for individuals that wish to have a broad influence on the field of Social Work. This specialization is suitable for people that wish to pursue careers in leadership, research, policy development, or even applied Social Work within the field.
Child and Family Social Work
Child and family programs focus on the needs of children and their families. This concentration helps students understand the different programs and funding provided for care of people in this group, as well as the advocacy, legal processes, and care of young children within the community.
Community Development
This specialization focuses on a broader aspect of Social Work that includes developing communities for better support of the people within. This is a great option for individuals that want to better their society for all people.
Social Work Policy and Change
At the top of the Social Work tier, professionals work hard to improve and develop social policies that have a direct effect on people seeking assistance from human services, social services, and public programming. If you want to influence the policies that surround Social Work in general, this is the best option for you.
Clinical Social Work
Clinical Social Work is a branch of social science that includes aspects of counseling and one-on-one/group interaction. This concentration can help students move forward into licensure after graduation and future service with people that are dealing with the stresses of everyday life.
Mental Health
If you have a desire to provide support and advocacy to people that have been diagnosed with mental illnesses, this is the concentration for you. Programs with this concentration focus on overseeing mental health care of patients, referring patient to the right services, and acting as a liaison between patients and their providers.
Substance Abuse
Students that choose this specialty can learn how to address addiction within their client network. This can include helping clients find the right services, rehabilitation facilities, and support networks for their individual needs.
Healthcare
Healthcare specializations include a look into how insurance, healthcare delivery, and advocacy affect patient care in the healthcare system. This concentration can help prepare Social Work students for careers assisting people with important healthcare decisions and responsibilities.
Research
As society learns more about interactions between people and the environment, policies and programming can change. Pursuing a concentration in research can help you pursue a career that focuses on observation of these interactions to find better means for connecting people with the resources around them.
Advanced Leadership
In addition to specialty groups and tasks, concentrations in leadership are also available to interested students. These programs focus on the need for proper leadership techniques within the social service field, and include topics such as Effective Leadership, Finance, and Employee Selection.
MSW Programs by State
MSW Programs by State
Online Programs
Alabama
Alaska
Arizona
Arkansas
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Delaware
Florida
Georgia
Hawaii
Idaho
Illinois
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Maine
Maryland
Massachusetts
Michigan
Minnesota
Mississippi
Missouri
Frequently asked questions for social work students
Are there any online MSW programs for non-BSW students?
Yes. It is common for online MSW programs to offer at least two program tracks: one track for non-BSW students (traditional) and one track for BSW students (advanced standing).
The CSWE has accredited many online MSW programs across the country that can be accessible from anywhere for both BSW and non-BSW students.
Are there any online MSW programs that do not require the GRE?
Yes. Most online MSW programs do not require GRE scores in order to be accepted into the program. However, there are some programs that may require GRE scores if the applicant earned a GPA during his or her Bachelor’s degree program that is lower than the minimum GPA requirement. To confirm each program’s GRE requirements, applicants can contact each program’s Admission’s Office.
Are there any online MSW programs that have multiple start dates?
Due to the flexible nature of online programs, there are many online MSW programs that offer more than one start date. Generally, it is most common for online MSW programs to offer between 1 and 3 start dates. However, some programs offered by larger universities may offer as many as five start dates throughout the calendar year.
For example, the online MSW program through Simmons University offers start dates in January, March, May, September, and November, and admission occurs on a rolling basis. Each start date corresponds to a cohort, which means that applicants who apply to begin the program in January are enrolled into the “January Cohort,” if accepted into the program. Students complete the entire program with this same cohort of peers.
In addition, start dates for each program can be found on each program’s website.
Are there any online MSW programs that start in the Spring?
Yes, there are online MSW programs that offer spring start dates. In addition to Simmons University, other online MSW programs that offer spring start dates include Fordham University and the University of Denver. For a more comprehensive list of online MSW programs and information about program start dates, view our writeup or visit the CSWE’s website.
Are there any online MSW programs with a trauma concentration?
It is common for MSW programs as a whole to offer a trauma concentration, as social workers frequently work with clients who have a trauma history. However, the majority of MSW programs only offer the trauma concentration at on-campus programs.
Even still, there are some online MSW programs that offer a trauma concentration, or even elective courses on trauma, for students to take advantage of. There are multiple universities that offer certificate options for students to earn along with the MSW degree, such as Trauma Practice, Practice with Groups & Families, and Mental Health Practice.
One example is the online MSW program through Widener University. Not only does the curriculum use a trauma-focused lens, but students are also able to earn a Trauma Certificate during the program.
Are there any two year online MSW programs?
Yes, there are two year online MSW programs. MSW programs may take anywhere from one to four years to complete. This depends on if students hold a BSW, and if students are enrolled on a full-time or part-time basis.
- Students enrolled in the traditional (non-BSW) full-time track can typically finish an online MSW program in two years. Students enrolled in the part-time traditional program may finish in two and a half to three years.
- For students with a BSW, online MSW programs may take as little as one year to complete, if enrolled in full-time status. Students with a BSW enrolled in a part-time advanced standing online MSW program may finish in two years.
Overall, there are many timeline options that applicants can choose from that best meet their individual needs and lifestyle.
Can you get an MSW without a BSW?
Yes, you can earn an MSW without a BSW. Most MSW programs require that applicants have a Bachelor’s degree, but a degree in the human service field is not necessarily required. Students who do not hold a BSW have more requirements to graduate with an MSW and the program may take more time to complete.
What is the difference between the MSW and the LCSW?
The primary difference between the Master of Social work (MSW) and the Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) is that the MSW is an educational degree, whereas the LCSW is a form of social work licensure.
In order to practice clinical social work, such as in a hospital setting or in an outpatient mental health clinic, social workers must have earned a MSW degree and either hold a LCSW or are working towards obtaining a LCSW (or another clinical social work license equivalent).
Once a social worker completes a MSW degree, he or she is eligible to apply for and earn the Master of Social Work level licensure in the current state in which he or she wishes to practice in. The name of this licensure varies by state, but all are equivalent to one another. For example, this license is called the Licensed Masters-Level Social Worker (LMSW) in Connecticut, but is called the LCSW in Massachusetts. Once the individual earns a specified number of clinical hours under this licensure, the individual is eligible to obtain a higher licensure, which enables the social worker to engage in private practice.
What are the GPA requirements for online MSW programs?
Similar to on-campus MSW programs, in order to be accepted into an online MSW program, applicants must have achieved a specific GPA requirement during their undergraduate degree programs. For some programs, GRE exam scores are required if a student’s GPA is lower than the specified requirement.
While these GPA requirements vary by university, the general range for acceptable GPAs is 2.8 and above. Some programs require that applicants earned a minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or above. Other programs have a lower minimum GPA requirement.
What is the difference between micro, mezzo and macro social work?
There are many different kinds of social work practice. Social work practice can be divided into three levels: micro, mezzo, and macro practice. While the work involved in each of these practice levels differs from one another, each of these levels are interconnected, resulting in one whole society.
In micro social work practice, social workers are delivering services directly to the client. Clients may include individuals, couples, families, and groups, and service may be provided in a variety of settings, such as clinics, hospitals, correctional facilities, and schools.
Mezzo social work involves creating community-level resources that can be utilized to provide services to clients. This can include developing social services agencies, such as food pantries, health centers, and financial resources, and also contributing to broad community development, such as schools. Mezzo social workers may conduct needs assessments in communities to determine needed resources.
Finally, macro social work involves social work at the government/policy level. Macro social workers advocate for the creation and implementation of policies that promote social justice and allow clients at the micro level to be able to access services created at the mezzo level.
What social work organizations should I know about?
The following are some of the top social worker organizations:
Council on Social Work Education – CSWE
website
The national association representing social work education in the United States.
National Association of Social Workers – NASW
website
Works to enhance the professional growth and development of its members, to create and maintain professional standards, and to advance sound social policies.
National Association of Black Social Workers – NABSW
website
Comprised of people of African ancestry, is committed to enhancing the quality of life and empowering people of African ancestry through advocacy, human services delivery, and research.
Clinical Social Workers Association – CSWA
website
National individual membership organization dedicated to providing essential services, products, professional support, and national identity for Clinical Social Workers.
What are the highest-paying social work jobs?
Social work salaries vary based on multiple factors. Not only do salaries vary by state, but they also vary based on education, license level, and specific occupation within the field. However, in general, social workers typically earn anywhere between $40,000 and $80,000 per year.
Bachelors level social workers earn less money than Masters level social workers. Additionally, social workers who hold a clinical license that allows them to engage in private practice earn more than those who hold a lower level license.
In terms of occupation, the highest paying social work jobs include medical social workers, social workers in private practice, schools, government workers, and professors.
Contributors to OnlineMSWDegrees.org
Top MSW Programs
- Best Online CSWE Accredited MSW Programs
- 100% Online MSW Programs
- 1 Year Online MSW
- Online MSW with No GRE
- Online Clinical MSW
- All MSW Program Areas
- Online MSW Programs by State
Types of Social Work Programs
- Online MSW Programs
- Online MSW in Clinical Social Work
- 1 Year Online MSW
- Online MSW with No GRE
- Online MSW in Substance Abuse
- Online MSW in Adult Practice
- Online MSW in Medical Social Work
- Online MSW in Mental Health and Trauma
- Online MSW in Urban Family Studies
- Online MSW in Geriatric Social Work
- Online MSW in Human Rights
- Online MSW in Human Services
- Online MSW in Individuals and Families
- Online MSW in Hispanic Children and Families
- Online Domestic Violence MSW
- All Online MSW Programs
- All MSW Programs by State