Social work is about service. Counseling individuals in crisis, connecting families to critical resources, advocating for the rights of children, and improving social conditions for disadvantaged groups are just some ways that social workers can improve the health and well-being of their communities.
While you can find careers helping others with a bachelor’s in social work (BSW), many states require you to earn a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree to become a licensed social worker. And there’s no more convenient and cost-efficient way of earning that degree than through a quality online MSW program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).
This guide will help you find the CSWE-accredited online MSW program that best suits your career needs, study preferences, and pocketbook. You’ll also find answers to important questions about the MSW admissions process, how much you’ll pay for your education, what you’ll learn in your MSW courses, and the many job opportunities awaiting you upon graduation.
So, if you’re ready to take the next big step in starting or advancing your career in social work, keep reading for insights on choosing a quality, affordable, CSWE-accredited online MSW program and getting your degree.
College Spotlights: Best CSWE-Accredited Online MSW Programs for 2023
We’ve surveyed a wide range of online, CSWE-accredited MSW programs and spotlighted three of the very best below. These spotlights give you a good idea of what you can – and should – expect from the programs you consider in terms of accreditation, affordability, academic quality, study convenience and flexibility, and student-friendly support services. Find out which schools are leading the way.
Cleveland State University
When it comes to studying convenience and flexibility, it’s hard to beat the online MSW program at Cleveland State University. Both 60-credit traditional (for students who don’t have a BSW) and 30-credit advanced standing (for students who have a BSW) tracks are available, and both tracks are offered with full-time and part-time study options. Students choose from two specializations: clinical and advanced generalist. Plus, advanced-standing students can opt to take additional courses to earn a professional certificate in chemical dependency, gerontology, or school social work.
All coursework in both tracks is delivered 100% online in an asynchronous format with no campus visits required. However, all MSW students must complete the in-person field experiences (900 hours for traditional track students, 500 hours for advanced track students) required for professional licensure. The current tuition rate for this CSWE-accredited online MSW program is $602.20/credit for Ohio residents and $603.20/credit for out-of-state residents. Students from all states except Colorado, Maine, and New York, are welcome to apply.
Delivery:
- Online
- Asynchronous
Specializations:
- Clinical
- Advanced Generalist
Program Options:
- Advanced Standing
- Traditional
- Full-Time
- Part-Time
- No-GRE
Louisiana State University
Study flexibility is a key feature of the Online Master of Social Work program at Louisiana State University (LSU). The program is 100% online with coursework delivered asynchronously. In addition, LSU’s MSW program features a seven-week format in which students complete one or two courses during each module. Modules are scheduled year-round with one- to two-week breaks in between. Both traditional (60-credit) and advanced standing (33-credit) track options are available. Traditional-track students choose among fast-track (two-year), standard (two to 2½-year), and extended (three- to four-year) study options, while advanced standing students choose between fast-track (one year or less) and standard (one- to 1¼-year) options. Both thesis and non-thesis options are available.
Internships (field placements) are completed in person at approved social service agencies in the student’s home area. No night or weekend placements are available. Students working full-time may be able to arrange to fulfill their internship requirements through their places of employment. Tuition is $599/credit for both Louisiana residents and out-of-state residents. The program is open to U.S. residents; international students are not eligible. Six program start dates are available annually.
Delivery:
- Online
- Asynchronous
Specializations:
- None
Program Options:
- Advanced Standing
- Traditional
- Full-Time
- Part-Time
- No-GRE
University of Central Florida
The Online Master of Social Work program at the University of Central Florida is a prime example of what an affordable, highly convenient CSWE-accredited online MSW program is all about. The program is offered in both a nine-semester (three-year) part-time traditional track for students who don’t have a BSW and a four-semester part-time advanced standing track for students who have a BSW. Both tracks are offered 100% online with no required on-campus components, though students may opt to attend course activities on campus. The vast majority of courses are delivered asynchronously, meaning that students can access and complete their coursework at any time. Some courses, though, include synchronous class sessions that are typically scheduled during weekday evenings.
Regardless of track option, all students must complete in-person field experiences (1,000 clinical hours for the traditional track and 600 clinical hours for the advanced standing track) at program-approved agencies located within a 50- to 60-mile radius of their location. The current per-credit tuition rate is $487.45 for all online students, regardless of state of residence. Graduates of the program are eligible to sit for the licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) exam in Florida, as well as licensure exams in all other U.S. states and territories.
Delivery:
- Online
- Primarily asynchronous with some synchronous class sessions
Specializations:
- Clinical
- Generalist
Program Options:
- Advanced Standing
- Traditional
- Part-Time
- No-GRE
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
The online Master of Social Work program offered by the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign was designed with the working professional in mind. The program features 100% online coursework with classes attended synchronously via Zoom on weekday evenings. During the program, students also complete local field placements with approved agencies in their community.
Upon enrollment, students choose between advanced clinical and leadership and social change concentrations. Advanced clinical concentration students also choose from four focus areas: schools (available to Illinois residents only); children, youth, and family services; healthcare; and mental health.
Applicants with a BSW from a CSWE-accredited program (earned within the last seven years) are admitted to the advanced standing track. They’ll complete 44 total credits, consisting of 32 credits of advanced coursework and 12 credits of field placement. Applicants with a non-social work bachelor’s or a BSW from a non-accredited program are admitted to the traditional track. These students complete 16 credits of foundational coursework, 32 credits of advanced coursework, and 24 credits of field placement, for a total of 72 credits. The current per-credit tuition rate is $598, regardless of state residency.
Delivery:
- Online
- Synchronous
Specializations:
- Advanced Clinical (with four focus options: schools; children, youth, and family services; healthcare; mental health)
- Leadership and Social Change
Program Options:
- Advanced Standing
- Traditional
- Part-Time
- No-GRE
University of North Dakota
The University of North Dakota is another quality public university offering an affordable online Master of Social Work program with lots of options designed to make earning the degree convenient for full-time working professionals. The program is presented with a single advanced generalist emphasis that prepares graduates for all social work practice settings, including clinical.
Study is exclusively part-time. Students entering with a BSW complete the 36-credit MSW concentration (advanced standing) program, while students without a previously earned BSW first complete the 24-credit MSW foundation program followed by the MSW concentration program, for a total of 60 credits. Both thesis and non-thesis options are available. All coursework is completed online (foundation program coursework is available both online and on-campus). Classes are presented in a synchronous format requiring attendance online via livestream. Classes are delivered on weekday evenings and weekends. And, as with all MSW degree programs, students must complete substantial field placements as part of their program’s requirements.
The current per-credit (tuition and fees) rate is $747.01. Financial support is available to qualified students who commit to working in an approved North Dakota child welfare agency upon graduation.
Delivery:
- Online
- Synchronous
Specializations:
- Advanced Generalist
Program Options:
- Advanced Standing
- Traditional
- Part-Time
- No-GRE
Advantages of Earning an Accredited Online MSW
The advantages to earning your MSW degree from a program accredited by the CSWE are numerous and substantial. Here are three of the most important:
- In practical terms, by earning your MSW from a CSWE-accredited program you are assured that your education has qualified you for social work licensure. Most U.S. states and territories today require that anyone sitting for the LCSW exam or otherwise pursuing licensure in their jurisdictions must be a graduate of a CSWE-accredited degree program.
- Another practical benefit is employment. Graduates of CSWE-accredited MSW programs have gained the professional competencies and leadership qualities needed to work in the full range of clinical and nonclinical social work settings, and employers know it. That makes CSWE-accredited program graduates a valuable commodity in the job market.
- Finally, there’s public trust. Patients and clients know that the services they receive from a graduate of a CSWE-accredited online MSW program are competent, professional, and ethical.
What is CSWE Accreditation?
Postsecondary accreditation is an important consideration in selecting any college degree program. It’s how colleges and universities, and the programs they offer, are vetted for academic quality. The CSWE is a nonprofit professional association advocating for social work education and providing accreditation to more than 800 social work baccalaureate and master’s degree programs at colleges and universities throughout the United States.
The purpose of CSWE accreditation is to ensure that program graduates are “prepared for holistic professional practice based on scientific inquiry and best practices, consistent with social work values.” To that end, CSWE has adopted a competency-based framework in which schools are required to demonstrate that graduates meet nine specific social work competencies covering ethics, professional behavior, engagement, assessment, fairness, and more.
To obtain CSWE accreditation, degree programs must complete a rigorous multistep accreditation process that includes program self-studies, site visits, and review by the CSWE Board of Accreditation to confirm the program’s compliance with CSWE’s accreditation standards and educational policies. Attaining initial accreditation typically takes three years; once attained, program accreditation applies to all program sites and delivery methods. A program’s accreditation is reaffirmed every eight years after completing the required five-step process.
How Can You Find CSWE-Accredited Programs?
Confirming CSWE accreditation of any master of social work program is simple. First of all, practically all CSWE-accredited online MSW programs proudly display their accreditation on their own program websites. If not, you can always check current accreditation status using the CSWE’s Directory of Accredited Programs.
What You Can Do with an MSW Accredited by the CSWE
The job market for social workers is solid, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics currently forecasting a 9% overall job growth rate for social workers, counselors, and other community and social service specialists between 2021 and 2023. That’s an overall rate, however, and it’s important to remember that the social work field encompasses a wide range of job settings, employers, and specializations. We’ve provided detailed information on three common job titles for MSW graduates below. Although entry-level positions in these careers may be available to job seekers with a BSW, those with an MSW are preferred by employers to fill higher-paying mid- to senior-level positions.
Most importantly, a master of social work degree is mandatory for LCSW licensure in all U.S. states and territories. LCSWs earn substantially more than non-LCSWs. For example, current figures from Payscale.com indicate an annual base salary of nearly $64,000 for LCSWs in the U.S. as compared with $53,000 for social workers generally.
Child, Family, and School Social Workers
Child and family social workers provide a range of important services to support the psychological and social well-being of children and families. Examples of services include locating foster care for abused and abandoned children and aiding in the arrangement of adoptions. Employment settings include government agencies, hospitals, and private practices. School social workers provide counseling and advocacy services to students and their parents. They often address behavioral issues, working with teachers and other staff members to develop and carry out effective disciplinary strategies.
| 10th Percentile | Medial Annual Pay | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|
| $36,380 | $50,820 | $81,920 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2022
Healthcare Social Workers
In the most general terms, healthcare and medical social workers help patients and their families in coping with serious injuries and acute, chronic, and terminal illnesses. Services provided include assisting with admissions and discharge issues, addressing crises associated with both medical care and external circumstances, aiding patients with locating and accessing emotional and financial resources, and more.
| 10th Percentile | Medial Annual Pay | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|
| $38,520 | $60,280 | $87,830 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2022
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers
Mental health social workers (sometimes called psychological social workers) assess and address issues related to patients’ mental, behavioral, and emotional health. Typical services include conducting behavioral risk assessments, developing therapeutic strategies, monitoring patient progress, and providing group and individual therapy. Substance abuse social workers provide therapy, education, and counseling services to clients dealing with drug and alcohol abuse problems in settings such as hospitals, drug treatment facilities, and outpatient clinics. They may also provide treatment and prevention outreach services in the community.
| 10th Percentile | Medial Annual Pay | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|
| $34,630 | $51,240 | $97,660 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2022
Costs and Financial Aid for Online MSW Programs – CSWE Accredited
While earning your MSW degree can mean a substantial boost to your paycheck, you’ll first have to deal with the substantial cost of paying for your degree program. We’ve listed in the chart below the current tuition costs for three CSWE-accredited online MSW programs. Along with those mentioned in the program spotlights above, these figures will give you a good idea of what you might expect to pay for your MSW degree. The prices, though, do not take into account the funding you may be eligible for in the way of scholarships, fellowships, and grants. You may also be able to tap into employer tuition assistance programs, work-study opportunities, and, of course, student loans.
For details on funding help for your MSW program, be sure to contact the financial aid offices at the schools you’re considering. To learn more about how to get help to pay for your degree, be sure to check out OMD’s financial aid guide.
How Much Your Online MSW Might Cost
| School Name | No. of Credits | Cost/ Credit |
Total Tuition Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fordham University | 62 (Traditional); 31 (Advanced Standing) | $1,045 | $64,790 (Traditional); $32,395 (Advanced Standing) |
| National University | 60 (Generalist Track); 36 (Advanced Standing Track) | $739 | $44,340 (Generalist Track); $26,604 (Advanced Standing Track) |
| University of Kentucky | 60 (Regular Standing); 30 (Advanced Standing) | $737 | $44,220 (Regular Standing); $22,110 (Advanced Standing) |
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Social Work Master’s Degrees
Are CSWE-accredited programs more academically difficult?
That depends on the specific program. What’s important to consider, however, is that CSWE accreditation indicates that the online MSW program you choose meets the rigorous academic standards required for obtaining that accreditation. Earning your MSW from a CSWE-accredited online program qualifies you academically for the required licensure in your state to practice as a professional social worker. Therefore, you must consider only those MSW programs that are CSWE accredited.
Do online accredited schools offer part-time online MSW programs?
Yes. In fact, you’ll find that the majority of CSWE-accredited online MSW programs are offered either exclusively in a part-time format or with a part-time option. The reason is simple: Online MSW programs are primarily designed for working professionals who are unable to take the time away from their full-time jobs to pursue full-time studies. Examples of part-time CSWE-accredited online MSW programs include those at Florida State University, Tulane University, and all five schools spotlighted above.
What are the typical admissions requirements for online MSW programs that are accredited?
The specific requirements for admission to CSWE-accredited online MSW programs vary from program to program. For the most part, though, you’ll find requirements similar to the following:
- Bachelor’s degree: A previously earned bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution is the foundational requirement for MSW programs. A bachelor’s of social work is required for advanced standing programs, while traditional or foundation track programs typically accept applicants with bachelor’s degrees in any major.
- GPA: Most MSW programs require applicants to have met a minimum cumulative GPA on their bachelor’s degree coursework. Each program has its own stated minimum, with 3.0 as the most common. But you’ll find programs with minimums ranging anywhere from 2.5 to 3.5. You’ll also find that advanced standing programs sometimes require higher minimum GPAs as compared with traditional programs.
- GRE/GMAT test scores: A standard admissions requirement in the past, you’ll find that the vast majority of online MSW programs no longer require either GRE or GMAT test scores.
- Professional work experience: Professional experience in social work or a related field is typically not a requirement for admission but may be considered in the selection process, especially for more competitive programs.
- Additional application requirements: Other common application requirements include a current resume, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement, admissions essay, or statement of purpose.
How long will finishing my MSW online take?
Again, this will depend on the specific program, the specific track you are in (traditional or advanced standing), and your chosen study pace (full-time or part-time). In general terms, you can likely expect to find program lengths similar to the following:
- Traditional/Foundation track: 16 months to two years (full-time), 2½ years to two years (part-time)
- Advanced standing track: 12 to 16 months (full-time), 16 months to two years (part-time)
There are some exceptions, though. For example, LSU’s online MSW program (spotlighted above) offers an advanced standing track that can be completed in as few as nine months full-time. Also, many programs provide students with additional time to complete their thesis or otherwise to complete their degree requirements. For example, the online MSW program at Our Lady of the Lake University is typically completed between one year (advanced standing students) and three years (traditional track students), but the university allows students up to six years to complete all degree requirements.
Can I earn my social work master’s degree 100% online, or do I need to go to campus?
When it comes to degree coursework, you absolutely can earn your MSW degree 100% online. And, in most cases, you’ll never have to go to campus. Additionally, most online programs deliver all or most of their program content asynchronously, allowing students to log on and complete their studies at any time that best fits their individual schedules. Keep in mind, though, that all MSW programs include a substantial field experience component which, for most students, will be completed entirely in person at a social work agency typically located in or near their local community. However, a few schools (such as the University of New England) provide students the option of completing a portion of their field placement hours in a virtual, online environment.
Do online MSW programs help find field placement opportunities?
It is typically the student’s responsibility to find and secure their field placements. Nevertheless, you’ll likely find that most CSWE-accredited online MSW programs are happy to help in locating an approved agency through which to complete field experience requirements. Most MSW programs have continuing relationships with local social work agencies that provide field placement opportunities. In addition, many programs offer the services of field placement specialists who will help students find the right agency for their field experiences. Examples include the University of Denver and the University of New England.
