MSW Online – Master of Social Work Programs

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“Choosing a master’s in social work rather than counseling was intentional, as it provided a broader range of options within the field. Should I ever decide to explore other paths, social work offers the flexibility to work in various settings, which was a key factor in my decision.”

Abby Wilson, LCSW

Pursuing a master’s in social work (MSW) offers an enriching journey towards advanced professional practice, extending beyond the foundational knowledge of a bachelor’s degree in social work (BSW). An online MSW program dives deeper into the field, allowing students to specialize and focus on their areas of interest within social work without having to relocate or stop working. This could include clinical practice, policy development, administration, community-based practice, or research. The rigorous curriculum and hands-on fieldwork equip graduates with the high-level skills required for leadership roles and specialized practice within diverse settings.

Earning an MSW can open doors to many opportunities in social work and beyond. It is the stepping stone to becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), a credential that allows practitioners to provide mental health services independently. Additionally, many policy-making, administration, and advocacy roles often require or prefer candidates with an MSW degree. This advanced degree also provides a pathway to teaching or research roles in higher education, contributing to the growth and development of the field.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS 2024), the job outlook for social workers is projected to grow 7 percent from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations. Moreover, the median annual wage for social workers was $58,380 in 2023, but those with an MSW and relevant licensure can earn significantly more. The bottom 10 percent earns $38,400 on average, and the top 10 percent earns more than $94,910 (BLS May 2023). Pursuing an MSW degree, therefore, not only enhances professional competence but also contributes to career advancement and economic growth.

Read on to learn about MSW programs, including admissions requirements, accreditation information, ten featured online MSW programs, professors, and three types of careers for MSW graduates.

Meet the Expert: Abby Wilson, LCSW

Abby Wilson is a dedicated mental health therapist specializing in supporting young professional women in Texas as they navigate challenges related to anxiety, relationships, attachment trauma, and the complexities of quarter-life transitions. With a trauma-informed, person-centered approach, her practice is deeply rooted in humanistic and existential philosophy, focusing on empowering clients to find meaning and resilience in their personal journeys.

Wilson holds a master’s degree in clinical social work from the University of Houston, where she developed a strong foundation in therapeutic techniques and mental health advocacy. Her commitment to creating a safe and supportive environment for her clients led her to establish her own private therapy practice in September 2021. Since then, she has passionately worked to help individuals overcome their struggles and build fulfilling lives through personalized, compassionate care. Her approach emphasizes the importance of understanding each client’s unique experiences and fostering growth through self-awareness and empowerment.

CounselingSchools.com: How has graduating from a social work program enhanced your career?

Wilson: Becoming a therapist has allowed me to pursue something I’m deeply passionate about, and it enabled me to start my private practice, giving me the autonomy and freedom to work for myself. This decision not only transformed my career trajectory but also significantly enriched it by allowing me to focus on mental health and work with the population I’m most dedicated to helping.

Choosing a Master’s in social work rather than counseling was intentional, as it provided a broader range of options within the field. Should I ever decide to explore other paths, social work offers the flexibility to work in various settings, which was a key factor in my decision.

CounselingSchools.com: What is one piece of advice you would give to a prospective social work student?

Wilson: One piece of advice I’d offer is that doubting yourself is completely normal. If possible, reach out to those who are already in the field with experience, and request a conversation to learn about their journey. It’s easy to get caught up in online searches, reading about the challenges and high burnout rates in social work or mental health counseling.

While these concerns are valid, it’s also important to remember that many professionals in this field are genuinely passionate and fulfilled by their work. Connecting with those who have found success can provide valuable insight and hope, showing you what’s possible in this line of work. Many are happy to share their experiences and pay it forward, as they once faced the same uncertainties when starting their careers.

Meet the Expert: Melissa Tract, LCSW

Melissa Tract specializes in child and young adult behavioral and mental health. With over eight years of experience, she has established herself as a compassionate and knowledgeable licensed clinical social worker (LCSW).

Tract holds a BA in psychology with a minor in child and adolescent studies and a master’s degree in social work from New York University (NYU). Her commitment to professional growth is evident through her numerous trainings and certifications, which she actively pursues to stay updated in her field. Her therapy practice, Mindful with Mel, focuses on helping children and young adults navigate the complexities of their emotional and psychological well-being. She employs various therapeutic techniques tailored to meet each client’s unique needs.

CounselingSchools.com: What’s something most people don’t know about your field?

Tract: One thing people often don’t realize is that working as a child therapist can be incredibly fun. Many assume that therapy with children is always hard and sad, but that’s not the full picture. I often get to be a kid again during sessions, and it’s a joy to be creative alongside these little humans. As someone who has always been creative and even performed growing up, this aspect of my job is immensely fulfilling. Of course, there are challenging moments when dealing with an upset child, but something is refreshing about connecting with a child on their level.

When I work with children, I don’t see myself strictly as the “therapist” and them as the “child.” Instead, I approach it as being there to work with them, adapting to whatever role I need to play in the moment. This often means being playful, genuine, and open, willing to do silly things if it helps. For instance, a couple of weeks ago, a child started speaking in different accents, so I joined in. This playful interaction eventually led to a meaningful conversation about their feelings. This ability to engage creatively with children is one of the most rewarding aspects of my work.

CounselingSchools.com: What is one piece of advice you would give to a prospective professional in this area?

Tract: I will share the same advice a famous clinician once gave me: do it. Commit to it and dive in fully. Why? Because the field of child therapists and child psychiatrists is significantly underserved. Many therapists shy away from this area because working with children can be challenging—you’re not just working with them but also with their parents, which can be daunting.

However, if you are interested in this field, I suggest you immerse yourself in it. Work with kids at a summer camp, join social groups, or find internships that allow you hands-on experience with children in various settings. Become genuinely passionate about it and commit wholeheartedly. Know that your work is incredibly meaningful because so few professionals are willing to take on this vital role.

Typical Admissions Requirements for Online Master’s Degrees in Social Work

Admission requirements for master of social work (MSW) programs can vary by institution, but several common elements exist. Typically, universities seek students with a solid academic record, professional or volunteer experience in the field, and a demonstrated commitment to social work values and ethics. It’s important to note that while some MSW programs prefer or require applicants to have a bachelor’s degree in social work (BSW), many also welcome students from other academic backgrounds, often requiring specific prerequisite coursework.

Typical admissions requirements for those with a bachelor’s degree in social work (BSW):

Bachelor’s degree in social work from a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
Minimum GPA: often a 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale
Letters of recommendation: usually from academic or professional references
Statement of purpose or personal essay: detailing interest in social work, career goals, and reasons for choosing the specific MSW program
Resume or CV: highlighting relevant work, volunteer, or research experience

Typical admissions requirements for those without a bachelor’s degree in social work:

Bachelor’s degree in any field from an accredited institution
Prerequisite coursework: Some programs require courses in social sciences such as psychology, sociology, or statistics
Minimum GPA: often a 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale
Letters of recommendation: Usually from academic or professional references
Statement of purpose or personal essay: Detailing interest in social work, career goals, and reasons for choosing the specific MSW program
Resume or CV: Highlighting relevant work, volunteer, or research experience

In both cases, applicants may also need to undergo an interview process. Some programs may further require or recommend fieldwork or volunteer experience in the social services sector. Always check the specific requirements of the prospective programs.

Courses in Online Master’s Degrees in Social Work

Master of social work (MSW) programs typically offer a comprehensive curriculum to give students a deep understanding of social work principles, ethics, and practice methods. These programs prepare students for advanced practice roles in social work by emphasizing the development of skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, leadership, and communication. They also focus on understanding and addressing social issues, promoting social justice, and enhancing human well-being.

Common courses in MSW programs often include:

Advanced social work practice: this course focuses on advanced practice skills, such as case management, advocacy, and community organization
Assessment and diagnosis in social work practice
Diversity and social justice: this course addresses the role of diversity in social work practice and promotes an understanding of social justice issues
Ethics and values in social work
Field education
Human behavior and the social environment
Research methods in social work
Social welfare policy
Social work practice
Social work with groups, families, and individuals

Supervised Clinical Hour Requirements & Internships: Online MSW

Supervised clinical hours are crucial for master’s of social work programs. After earning a master’s degree in social work, students are typically required to complete several supervised clinical hours before becoming licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs). This requirement varies by state but is generally around 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience.

For example, North Carolina requires 3,000 hours of supervised clinical practice in two years, and Connecticut requires 3,000 hours of post-master’s social work experience and 100 hours of professional supervision by a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW).

Program Accreditation for Online Master’s Degrees in Social Work

The primary accreditor for social work programs in the United States is the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). CSWE accreditation ensures that a social work program meets national standards of quality and relevance to the profession. The process involves rigorous review and assessment of a program’s curriculum, faculty qualifications, student services, and more. Graduates from CSWE-accredited programs are more likely to be accepted by employers and qualify for licensure.

Featured Online Master’s Degrees in Social Work

Arizona State University (Online)

Arizona State University Online offers an online master of social work (MSW) program accredited by the Council of Social Work Education (CSWE). The program is designed to deliver culturally-adapted, knowledge-informed, ethical interventions at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels. The curriculum includes courses in advanced generalist social work practice, assessment of mental disorders, diversity, oppression, and social justice in social work, foundation practice, and human behavior/social environment, among others.

The faculty comprises Fellows of the American Academy of Social Work and Social Welfare, Fellows of the Society for Social Work and Research, and Fulbright Scholars. The program prepares students for various roles in public and private human service agencies, research organizations, schools, nonprofits, governments, private practice settings, and hospitals.

Location: Phoenix, AZ
Duration: Two years
Accreditation: Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)

Indiana University (Online)

Indiana University offers an online master of social work (MSW) program fully accredited by the Council on Social Work Education. The 60-credit-hour curriculum encompasses core courses and specialized fields of practice such as military social work, e-social work, telebehavioral health social work, mental health, and addictions. The program also includes foundation coursework in diversity, human rights, social justice; social policy; and social work practice in organizations, communities, and societies.

The program prepares graduates for various professional settings, including community mental health agencies, nursing homes, hospitals, schools, employee assistance programs, family service agencies, and community service agencies. Graduates can pursue careers as geriatric case managers, family service workers, child protective services (CPS) social workers, foster care social workers, adult protective services agents, youth services specialists, developmental disabilities specialists, clinical social workers, alcohol and drug abuse specialists, and hospital social workers.

Location: Bloomington, IN
Duration: Two years
Accreditation: Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)

Louisiana State University (Online)

Louisiana State University (LSU) offers an online master of social work (MSW) program that is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). This comprehensive program, which can be completed in around two years, prepares students for diverse career paths in business, criminal justice, education, healthcare, human services, liberal arts, technology, and more.

The curriculum includes graduate and undergraduate programs, online college credit courses, and professional certificates. It can lead to roles in private practice therapy, child and family social work, mental health counseling, school counseling, and substance abuse counseling. The program blends online education with real-world internships and a robust professional network, equipping students with theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

Location: Baton Rouge, LA
Duration: One to two years
Accreditation: Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)

Simmons University (Online)

Simmons University offers an online master of social work (MSW) program deeply rooted in social justice values and a multicultural perspective. The curriculum, accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), prepares students to advocate for social justice and provide psychosocial support in their communities. The program offers several tracks, including advanced standing, full-time, and extended, to cater to student needs and schedules.

Alongside the core curriculum, students can pursue certificate programs to specialize in specific areas of interest. A defining feature of the program is its practical experience through practicum education, allowing students to apply their theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. Classes are interactive and small, with an average of 20 or fewer students, fostering a close-knit learning community.

Location: Boston, MA
Duration: Nine to 32 months
Accreditation: Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)

University of Alabama (Online)

The University of Alabama offers a master of social work (MSW) program, accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, that provides flexibility through its online platform. The program offers two paths to earn the MSW degree: the Advanced-Standing Program, a 42-credit-hour program for those who hold a CSWE-accredited BSW, and the 60-credit-hour program for those who do not currently hold a CSWE-accredited BSW.

Students can concentrate in areas such as Children, Adolescents and Their Families, and Adults and Their Families. In addition, the program offers dual degree options, including MSW/JD and MSW/MPH, which prepare students for leadership roles in social work and law or public health, respectively.

Location: Tuscaloosa, AL
Duration: Two years
Accreditation: Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)

University at Buffalo (Online)

The University at Buffalo School of Social Work offers an online master of social work (MSW) program incorporating trauma-informed and human rights perspectives into the curriculum. The program offers traditional and advanced standing options, catering to students with different academic backgrounds and experiences.

Field placements, completed over two semesters, are integral to the program, providing students with specialized field training opportunities to apply their knowledge in real-world contexts. To facilitate effective learning, the program has specific technology requirements that students must meet. This program is fully accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), ensuring that the education provided meets the highest standards in the field of social work.

Location: Buffalo, NY
Duration: Two years
Accreditation: Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)

University of Central Florida (Online)

The University of Central Florida offers an online master of social work (MSW) program to prepare students for careers in diverse fields such as social and community service management, substance abuse and behavioral disorder counseling, and marriage and family therapy. The program, accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), is crafted to address national and global health challenges in today’s world.

Two tracks are available: a Traditional Track that can be completed in three years and an Advanced Standing Track that can be finished in 16 months. The curriculum covers many topics, including practice with diverse client populations, clinical social work practice with LGBTQ+ individuals, and practice with families. Field experience is a crucial part of the program, with traditional track students required to complete 1,000 field hours and advanced standing track students completing 600 field hours. The part-time program offers online courses with an accelerated pace of seven-week terms.

Location: Orlando, FL
Duration: Three years
Accreditation: Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)

University of Houston – Graduate College of Social Work (Online)

The University of Houston offers an online master of social work (MSW) program for independent, self-motivated learners who need a flexible schedule. The program assigns students to a cohort with whom they take online classes throughout the program. The curriculum starts with a 15-credit hour foundation offered across two semesters, including practicum. This foundation curriculum focuses on generalist practice in professional social work, emphasizing social, economic, and political justice and critical thinking skills.

Practicum placements provide students with hands-on social work practice experience under the supervision of a degreed master social worker. The Practicum Education Office staff works closely with online students to identify qualified agencies in their area for the practicum.

Location: Houston, TX
Duration: Two to three years
Accreditation: Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)

University of Maine (Hybrid)

The University of Maine offers an online master of social work (MSW) program to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to become competent and effective social workers. The program emphasizes social change and the advancement of social and economic justice. It offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes courses in social welfare policy, human behavior, social work practice, and field practicum. Students must complete a Generalist Year practicum of 400 hours and a Specialized Year practicum of 500 hours.

The program provides both regular and Advanced Standing formats, with the latter allowing students with a bachelor’s in social work (BSW) degree to complete their MSW in two years. Elective courses are also offered, allowing students to tailor their education based on their interests. Upon completing specific clinical social work courses and appropriate supervised work experience, graduates can apply for licensure at the State of Maine Board of Social Work Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) level.

Location: Orono, ME
Duration: Three years
Accreditation: Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)

University of Michigan – School of Social Work (Online)

The University of Michigan School of Social Work offers an online master of social work (MSW) degree program, allowing students to balance their careers while pursuing an advanced degree in social work. This versatile program offers both full-time and part-time options, catering to the different needs of students. It currently features a specialized curricular pathway in Interpersonal Practice in Integrated Health, Mental Health, & Substance Abuse, with an additional pathway in the Welfare of Children & Families becoming available in the fall of 2024.

For students with a bachelor’s in social work (BSW) degree and a GPA of 3.5 or higher, there’s an Advanced Standing option available. Alternatively, the Master Track option is offered for those not eligible for Advanced Standing. Other options are also available for U-M Sociology and Social Work (Ann Arbor) and UM-Dearborn Human Services and Social Work students

Location: Ann Arbor, MI
Duration: Two years
Accreditation: Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)

What Can I Do with a Master’s Degree in Social Work?

With a master’s degree in social work, graduates can pursue careers such as clinical social workers, healthcare workers, mental health counselors, or social and community service managers. This degree also opens doors to policy-making roles, research positions, and teaching opportunities at the university level.

Here are three potential careers for those with a master’s in social work (MSW).

Alcohol and Drug Abuse Specialist

An alcohol and drug abuse specialist, also known as a substance abuse counselor, uses their master’s in social work (MSW) degree and experience to provide expert care and support to people with substance use disorders. They conduct individual, group, and family counseling to help clients and their families cope with addiction. These specialists are trained to understand the underlying causes of addiction, help patients develop coping strategies, and recognize triggers that could lead to relapse.

In addition to counseling, these specialists may also provide interventions and crisis responses, which involve acting swiftly to prevent harmful situations related to substance abuse. They might also design a program of treatment and rehabilitation tailored to each patient’s situation, based on their knowledge of alcohol and drug dependence.

Clinical Social Worker

A clinical social worker uses their MSW degree and experience to provide mental health services to prevent, diagnose, and treat mental, behavioral, and emotional disorders in individuals, families, and groups. Their work often involves therapy, counseling, and assistance with social and psychological issues associated with mental illness or life stressors.

They are trained to comprehensively understand complex situations, identify social and emotional needs, and devise treatment plans to improve their clients’ well-being. They may also coordinate with other healthcare professionals to ensure holistic care for their clients. The MSW degree equips them with advanced assessment, diagnosis, intervention, evaluation, advocacy, consultation, social and health policies, and program development skills. Their degree gives them a strong foundation in theories of human behavior, social systems, and ethical practices.

Foster Care Social Worker

A foster care worker, often called a child welfare social worker, uses their MSW degree and experience to provide support and services to children in foster care and their foster families. Their responsibilities include assessing the needs of the children, coordinating services such as counseling or therapy, conducting home studies for potential foster families, and ensuring the child’s well-being and safety in the foster home.

They also assist in developing and implementing a case plan, which may involve reunification with the biological family, adoption, or independent living for older youth. They are responsible for regular check-ins with the children and their foster families and reporting on their adjustment and progress. The MSW degree provides them with advanced knowledge of child development, family systems, social policy, and skills in assessment, intervention, and case management. This education, combined with field experience, prepares them to handle the complex emotional, behavioral, and societal issues that children in foster care and their families often face.

Rachel Drummond, MEd

Writer

Rachel Drummond has used her expertise in education and mindfulness to guide aspiring counselors since 2020. Her work emphasizes the importance of integrating reflective mindfulness into counseling techniques, helping readers understand how mental and physical well-being can enhance their professional practice and personal development in counseling.

Rachel is a writer, educator, and coach from Oregon. She has a master’s degree in education (MEd) and has over 15 years of experience teaching English, public speaking, and mindfulness to international audiences in the United States, Japan, and Spain. She writes about the mind-body benefits of contemplative movement practices like yoga on her blog, inviting people to prioritize their unique version of well-being and empowering everyone to live healthier and more balanced lives.