Whether you’re already in the field or ready to make a meaningful career shift, an online Master of Social Work (MSW) can prepare you for advanced roles in clinical practice, advocacy, healthcare, and other rewarding fields. This guide walks you through the value of an online MSW, what to expect from programs, and how to take the next step on a schedule that works for your life.
Author: Kyra Sutherland
Expertise: Graduate Ed.Online LearningStudent SuccessEditor: Kristin Marino
Reviewer: Ramona Beltrán, PhD, MSW
Expertise: Social WorkGraduate Ed.Online Learning- Inside Real Programs
An inside look at actual online programs, exploring their structure, curriculum, costs, admission criteria, and more…
Read more - FAQs
Insightful and guiding answers to common questions prospective students like myself have about earning this degree…
Read more - Licensing Requirements
An explanation of necessary licenses and certifications, including requirements and steps to achieve them…
Read more - Salary & Pay
Social Work Salary Outlook with an MSW
Read more - Top Schools
A list of the best schools currently offering the best online and hybrid master’s programs in the state...
Read more
Breaking Down Popular Online MSW Programs
To give you an idea of what to look for in a quality MSW program, we’ve analyzed three popular online master’s in social work programs currently available. All three rise to the top when it comes to affordability, convenience and flexibility, top-notch faculty and curriculum, and access to valuable student support services. See how the programs you’re considering compare to each other.
University of Southern California – Master of Social Work (MSW)
USC’s online MSW program brings the prestige of a top-ranked school of social work to students everywhere. The program is CSWE-accredited and offers multiple formats: full-time, part-time, and an accelerated Advanced Standing option for BSW holders.
Students take foundational classes in social work practice, policy, and research, then choose one of several specialized tracks (like Adult Mental Health, Children/Youth/Families, or Social Change) to tailor their studies. A hallmark of USC’s MSW is its extensive practicum training, over 1,000 hours of field education, which the school arranges in your local community. The program emphasizes interactive learning with both asynchronous online coursework and live virtual class discussions led by USC faculty.
Duration: 16 months – 2 years
Mode: Online, with an optional hybrid format available
Cost: 2,467 per unit
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 in undergraduate coursework
- Work/volunteer experience in social services preferred
- For Advanced Standing: CSWE-accredited BSW earned within last 5 years (with 3.0+ GPA)
- Completed online application
- Transcripts
- Resume
- Personal Statement
University of Denver – Master of Social Work (MSW)
The University of Denver’s MSW@Denver program features two tracks: a traditional program (for those without a BSW) and an Advanced Standing program (for BSW graduates). The traditional curriculum comprises 81 credits blending generalist social work courses and an individualized Advanced Practice concentration.
MSW@Denver requires two internships totaling 900 hours for traditional students, arranged near your home community with support from dedicated field placement specialists. Students can pursue optional focus areas in topics like mental health and trauma or health and wellness.
Career support is provided, and Denver reports that its MSW grads are well-equipped to seek licensure in their state. The curriculum meets requirements for the ASWB licensure exams.
Duration: 18 months (advanced standing), 27 months (full-time)
Mode: Online coursework with in-person field internships
Cost: $1,340 per credit
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university
- Transcripts showing a strong academic record (generally a 3.0 GPA is competitive)
- Resume highlighting relevant work or volunteer experience in human services
- Statement of Purpose
- Up to 2 letters of recommendation (optional)
- No GRE required; application fee can be waived for qualified applicants
Boston University – Master of Social Work (MSW)
Boston University’s online MSW program offers three track options to accommodate different backgrounds: a Traditional track for students without a BSW, a Human Service Experience (HSE) track for those with 2+ years of relevant work experience, and an Advanced Standing track for graduates of CSWE-accredited BSW programs.
Students can choose a major in Clinical Practice or Macro Practice, and even pursue a minor in the other area for a well-rounded skill set. The program requires two field internships for Traditional track students (totaling ~1,200 hours) or one 1,000-hour internship for HSE and Advanced Standing students. BU assists students in arranging field placements in their local region.
Duration: 2-3 years
Mode: Online with in-person field internship(s)
Cost: $998 per credit
Admissions Requirements:
- Three letters of recommendation
- Personal statement
- Resume
- No GRE required; application fee waiver available for qualified applicants
For Advanced Standing:
- BSW earned within the past 6 years from a CSWE-accredited program
- Submission of final field evaluation from the BSW program
- Minimum GPA 3.0 in undergraduate work (required for Advanced Standing)
For HSE track:
- At least 2 years of full-time human services work experience (with supervision)
FAQs from Prospective MSW Students
How long does it take to complete an online MSW program?
Most online MSW programs can be finished in about 2 years of full-time study, which is similar to on-campus programs. This typically involves two academic years plus a summer, including completion of required field internship hours.
Many online students opt for part-time enrollment, which can extend the timeline to 3 or more years. If you qualify for an Advanced Standing track (with a recent BSW), you may complete your MSW in as little as 12–18 months.
Can I work while earning my MSW online?
Yes – in fact, online MSW programs are designed for working professionals, with flexible schedules and part-time options. Many programs use asynchronous coursework that you can complete during evenings or weekends, combined with occasional live sessions.
This format makes it feasible to continue working full- or part-time. Keep in mind you’ll also need to complete field internships, which can require around 15–20 hours per week during certain terms.
Do online MSW programs include internships or fieldwork?
Absolutely – field education is an essential part of any MSW, online or on-campus. All accredited programs require students to complete supervised internships (field placements) totaling around 900–1,200 hours.
In an online MSW, you’ll work with the school’s field education office to arrange internships at social service agencies in your local community. You’ll be supervised by a qualified social worker at the site and guided by a faculty field liaison from your program.
Some programs require a single extended internship. While the coursework is online, internships are in-person. Schools often have a dedicated field team to help match you with appropriate internship opportunities nearby.
How much do online MSW programs cost?
A full 60-credit MSW program might cost anywhere from about $30,000 to over $80,000 in tuition. Tuition for online MSW programs varies widely. At the lower end, public universities may charge around $500–$700 per credit (sometimes less for in-state students), while private universities often range from $900 to $1,300+ per credit. For example, here’s a comparison of three online MSW programs:
| School Name | Number of Credits | Cost per Credit | Total Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Southern California | 48 | 2,467 | $105,656 |
| Rutgers University | 60 | $1,099 | $62,820 |
| Univ. of Texas Rio Grande Valley | 63 | $753 | $27,972 |
Financial aid is available for online MSW students: you can apply for federal loans (by submitting FAFSA), and many programs offer scholarships or grants. Some employers also provide tuition assistance for employees pursuing an MSW.
What are the admissions requirements for an MSW program?
You’ll need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college, but it doesn’t have to be in social work. A minimum GPA of around 3.0 in undergraduate coursework is typically expected.
All applicants generally must submit: official transcripts, a resume, and a personal statement or statement of purpose explaining why you want the MSW and highlighting any relevant experience. Letters of recommendation are usually required – most programs ask for 2 or 3 references from academic instructors or professional supervisors who can speak to your abilities.
The good news: GRE scores are rarely required for MSW programs nowadays, as many schools have dropped the GRE to make applications more accessible. Also, if you have a Bachelor of Social Work, you may be eligible for Advanced Standing entry, but usually schools require that BSW to be from a CSWE-accredited program.
While specifics vary by school, most MSW programs have similar admissions criteria.
Understanding Social Work Licensing Requirements
Earning your MSW is a crucial step toward becoming a licensed social worker, but licensure involves additional requirements beyond the degree. Here’s an overview of the process:
Graduate from a CSWE-Accredited MSW Program: In all states, you must complete an MSW from a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education to be license-eligible. Some states also license bachelor’s-level social workers, but clinical practice generally requires an MSW.
Apply for Your Initial License: Most new MSW graduates first pursue a master’s level license (often called Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW), Licensed Social Worker, or similar, depending on the state). You’ll apply to your state’s social work regulatory board and submit an application with your transcripts and sometimes a background check. Some states allow you to take the licensing exam in your final semester of the MSW program, but the license itself is typically issued after you graduate.
Pass the ASWB Exam: All states require a passing score on the appropriate Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) exam. For the LMSW or equivalent, you’ll take the ASWB Master’s exam (a 170-question standardized test covering social work practice).
Some jurisdictions might instead use an “Advanced Generalist” exam for macro practice roles, but the Master’s exam is most common for non-clinical licensure. Once you pass, you become eligible for the master’s level license. This license allows you to practice generalist social work under supervision.
Complete Post-MSW Supervised Experience: To attain a clinical social work license (often called LCSW, LICSW, or similar), you must work under supervision after earning your LMSW. States mandate anywhere from about 1,500 to 4,000 hours of supervised clinical experience (approximately 2 years of full-time work) under a licensed clinical social worker.
You’ll need to document these hours according to your state board’s guidelines. During this time, you’re usually considered an “LMSW working toward clinical licensure” and must practice with supervision (you cannot independently counsel/diagnose as an LMSW in most states).
Pass the Clinical Exam: After completing the required supervision period, you can apply to take the ASWB Clinical exam. This test focuses on advanced clinical practice (assessment, diagnosis, psychotherapy, ethics, etc.).
With a passing score, you can then apply for the Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) credential in your state. The LCSW allows independent practice – you can provide clinical services without supervision, bill insurance, and even start a private practice. Note that some states might also require an additional jurisprudence (law/ethics) exam or other minor steps as part of the clinical licensing process.
State Variations: Licensing titles and rules vary by state. Not all states use the exact “LMSW/LCSW” terminology – for instance, California’s licenses are ACSW (Associate Clinical Social Worker) and LCSW, while Massachusetts has LCSW (which is equivalent to LMSW elsewhere) and LICSW (clinical).
Some states offer multiple levels (LSW, LMSW, LCSW, etc.), while others may combine the generalist and clinical practice into one license. Despite different names, the general pathway is similar: graduate, pass a masters exam, gain supervised experience, and pass a clinical exam.
Always check your state social work board for the specific requirements where you plan to practice. You can usually find a summary on the state board’s website or via ASWB’s directory of state requirements.
Maintenance and Continuing Education: Once licensed, social workers must renew their license periodically (typically every 1–2 years) and complete continuing education (CE) credits to stay current. For example, a state might require 30 hours of CE (including ethics training) every two years for renewal. Maintaining your license is crucial; lapses can require catching up on missed CE or even re-taking exams.
Social Work Salary Outlook with an MSW
A Master of Social Work is the standard credential for advanced clinical social work practice and leadership. Graduates work as licensed clinical social workers, healthcare social workers, school social workers, and program directors — supporting individuals and families navigating mental health challenges, substance abuse, poverty, trauma, and illness. The degree is required for LCSW licensure and leadership roles in social service organizations.
Healthcare social workers — particularly those in hospital systems, integrated care settings, and behavioral health — tend to earn more than those in community or nonprofit settings. Earnings grow with licensure level, specialization, and administrative responsibility.
Browse the salary table below to explore healthcare social worker earnings by state, and get a realistic picture of MSW career compensation in your area.
Healthcare Social Workers
| Area | Median | 75th Percentile | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. | $67,880 | $82,240 | $100,360 |
| Alabama | $60,000 | $65,710 | $74,440 |
| Alaska | $62,000 | $84,990 | $97,810 |
| Arizona | $64,030 | $80,100 | $96,470 |
| Arkansas | $55,640 | $65,910 | $76,850 |
| California | $89,660 | $118,740 | $134,880 |
| Colorado | $63,480 | $81,030 | $95,230 |
| Connecticut | $79,900 | $96,470 | $104,900 |
| Delaware | $64,620 | $79,420 | $88,760 |
| District of Columbia | $94,100 | $107,500 | $124,230 |
| Florida | $64,820 | $76,280 | $88,470 |
| Georgia | $62,420 | $76,450 | $86,990 |
| Hawaii | $85,420 | $96,190 | $102,670 |
| Idaho | $74,500 | $80,460 | $97,670 |
| Illinois | $64,270 | $78,610 | $96,970 |
| Indiana | $64,580 | $78,880 | $93,510 |
| Iowa | $63,050 | $74,320 | $80,360 |
| Kansas | $64,440 | $75,200 | $79,680 |
| Kentucky | $64,080 | $77,660 | $86,240 |
| Louisiana | $61,080 | $73,340 | $79,170 |
| Maine | $71,610 | $78,810 | $85,640 |
| Maryland | $76,440 | $85,150 | $96,340 |
| Massachusetts | $76,440 | $92,110 | $102,070 |
| Michigan | $67,600 | $79,310 | $91,190 |
| Minnesota | $73,970 | $84,260 | $95,200 |
| Mississippi | $62,250 | $67,530 | $78,520 |
| Missouri | $59,870 | $73,740 | $79,560 |
| Montana | $57,090 | $68,240 | $77,730 |
| Nebraska | $62,420 | $74,060 | $82,780 |
| Nevada | $78,470 | $86,610 | $101,380 |
| New Hampshire | $78,260 | $89,750 | $98,930 |
| New Jersey | $82,690 | $99,530 | $118,300 |
| New Mexico | $65,930 | $77,600 | $90,020 |
| New York | $73,070 | $91,950 | $103,730 |
| North Carolina | $63,280 | $77,160 | $85,070 |
| North Dakota | $62,860 | $74,190 | $78,040 |
| Ohio | $63,610 | $76,930 | $84,050 |
| Oklahoma | $56,120 | $70,290 | $81,650 |
| Oregon | $84,350 | $101,640 | $111,720 |
| Pennsylvania | $61,900 | $76,040 | $83,220 |
| Rhode Island | $75,390 | $85,700 | $96,840 |
| South Carolina | $60,840 | $76,270 | $83,990 |
| South Dakota | $57,510 | $72,640 | $78,420 |
| Tennessee | $61,240 | $76,200 | $83,280 |
| Texas | $69,990 | $80,910 | $98,150 |
| Utah | $78,150 | $94,110 | $109,270 |
| Vermont | $81,140 | $100,520 | $102,820 |
| Virginia | $66,550 | $78,170 | $91,060 |
| Washington | $78,570 | $98,990 | $124,360 |
| West Virginia | $60,140 | $77,540 | $79,800 |
| Wisconsin | $66,910 | $78,830 | $91,040 |
| Wyoming | $62,260 | $82,760 | $93,150 |
Source: BLS, OEWS, May 2025
Showing 1 – 10 of 52 entries | Data reflects national numbers, not school-specific information.
Best Online Master of Social Work (MSW) Programs
Our rankings of the best online MSW programs were created using a rigorous methodology that evaluates quality, affordability, and student outcomes, making your decision for the right school that much easier. Key factors in our rankings include tuition and fees, availability of financial aid, number of online programs, accreditation status, and student support services. Explore the ranked programs to find the MSW that best aligns with your professional goals, budget, and learning style.