A Master of Social Work (MSW) can unlock clinical and leadership opportunities in a fast-growing field. But how do you know if an online program is worth it and how to choose the right one? Accreditation is key. This OMD guide explains why accredited online MSW programs matter, outlines the benefits of earning your degree online, and answers common questions to help you take the next step toward a meaningful social work career.
- Accreditation Details
What accreditation is, why it matters, and the accrediting bodies relevant for students in this state…
Read more - 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
Getting to Know the Importance of Accreditation
When evaluating online MSW programs, accreditation should be top of mind, as it’s essentially a quality stamp that indicates a program meets established standards in social work education. Accreditation can influence everything from your learning experience to licensure eligibility and job prospects. Here are additional reasons why choosing an accredited program matters.
Ensures High-Quality Education
Accreditation means the MSW program meets rigorous academic and professional standards. External reviewers vet the curriculum, faculty, and outcomes to ensure students receive competent training. In fact, only MSW programs with accreditation by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) meet the highest standards for social work education.
Required for Licensure
To become a licensed clinical social worker, graduating from a CSWE-accredited MSW program is often mandatory. Most state boards only allow graduates of accredited programs to sit for licensing exams. So choosing an accredited online MSW keeps your path to licensure open in any state.
Access to Financial Aid
Only accredited institutions are eligible for federal financial aid programs. If your MSW program (and school) isn’t properly accredited, you could miss out on federal loans, grants, or employer tuition assistance. Accreditation ensures you can utilize financial aid to help fund your degree.
Credit Transfer & Further Education
If you ever need to transfer schools or pursue a higher degree, accreditation is crucial. Most universities only accept transfer credits from accredited programs. Likewise, doctoral programs in social work will require your MSW come from an accredited institution. An accredited MSW keeps future academic options open.
Employer Trust and Career Opportunities
Employers prefer candidates with degrees from accredited programs, seeing it as proof of proper training, and degrees from non-accredited schools may be questioned. An accredited online MSW assures employers you have a reputable education, which can expand your job opportunities and career growth.
Discovering Reputable Accredited Online MSW Programs
In this section, we highlight three accredited online/hybrid MSW programs (a mix of public and private schools), including key details on format, length, credits, cost, admissions, and outcomes.
University of Southern California—Master of Social Work (MSW)
USC offers an accredited online MSW program with weekly online classes and in-person field placements in students’ communities. Students can enroll full-time or part-time, with an accelerated 12-month track for those holding a Bachelor of Social Work (advanced standing). The standard program requires 48 credits (24 with advanced standing), delivering the same curriculum and rigor as USC’s on-campus MSW. Graduates are prepared for licensure and clinical roles in areas like mental health, family services, and community advocacy
Accreditation: Council on Social Work Education (CSWE); WSCUC (regional institutional)
Duration: 1 to 4 years
Mode: Online courses, in-person placements
Cost: $2,354/credit, $112,992
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree from accredited school
- Minimum 3.0 GPA
- Resume, statement of purpose
- Two letters of recommendation
- Transcripts
Rutgers University—Master of Social Work (MSW)
Rutgers University offers an online MSW with the same engaging curriculum as its on-campus program. Offering full-time and part-time options, the program offers asynchronous classes, so students complete weekly assignments on their own schedule and engage via virtual discussions. The standard MSW requires 60 credits (39 with advanced standing for BSW holders). Rutgers’ online MSW is CSWE-accredited and satisfies academic requirements for licensure.
Accreditation: Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
Duration: 2 years (FT) 3 years (PT)
Mode: Online courses, in-person placements
Cost: $1,047/credit, $62,820 total
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Prerequisite statistics course
- Transcripts
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement, resume
University of Denver—Master of Social Work (MSW)
The University of Denver’s MSW online program combines live online classes with two required field internships completed in the student’s local area. The standard MSW curriculum is 81 credits, which full-time students can finish in roughly 27 months (or 21 months on an accelerated schedule). The program offers specialized pathways in areas like Mental Health and Trauma or Health, Equity, and Wellness to align with students’ interests. Graduates meet CSWE standards for licensure preparation and are equipped for clinical practice or leadership roles in diverse settings.
Accreditation: Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Duration: 18 to 27 months
Mode: Online coursework, in-person internships
Cost: $1,164/credit, $94,284 total
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree from accredited school
- Minimum 2.5 GPA
- Transcripts
- Resume, letters of recommendation
- Career goals statement
Student Support: FAQs for Accredited MSW Programs
What ongoing quality measures ensure an accredited online MSW maintains its standards?
Accredited programs undergo regular reviews and must demonstrate continuous improvement. This includes tracking student outcomes, graduation rates, and employment success. Programs must maintain detailed assessment plans, respond to CSWE feedback, and adapt to evolving professional standards. Students have access to transparent program data and can expect consistent evaluation of course delivery, field education, and student support services.
How do accredited online programs handle field placements?
Accredited online MSW programs must provide structured field placements meeting CSWE’s required hours (typically 900-1000 total). Programs maintain partnerships with agencies nationwide and help coordinate local placements for online students. Field education includes regular supervision from licensed social workers and integration with coursework. Programs must demonstrate quality control measures for remote field placements equivalent to on-campus programs.
How much do online MSW programs cost?
Online MSW program tuition varies widely. Most schools charge per credit, and programs are around 30–60 credits total. Public universities often offer lower rates (sometimes under $700 per credit for in-state students), while private universities may charge $1,000–$2,200+ per credit. For example, a 60-credit program might cost anywhere from around $35,000 to over $100,000 in tuition.
Cost Comparison of Three Online MSW Programs
| School | No. of Credits | Cost per Credit | Total Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Southern California | 48 | $2,354 | $112,992 |
| Rutgers University | 60 | $1,047 | $62,820 |
| University of Denver | 81 | $1,164 | $94,284 |
If you’re looking for ways to fund your MSW, explore OMD’s suite of financial planning resources, covering everything from financial aid to grants, scholarships, and strategic budgeting advice.
Can I become a licensed social worker with an online MSW?
Yes. As long as your online MSW comes from a CSWE-accredited program, it will fulfill the educational requirements for social work licensure. Licensing boards care about accreditation and curriculum quality, not whether a degree was earned online.
After graduating, you’ll still need to complete any required post-degree supervised experience and pass your state’s licensing exam, just as traditional students do. But an online MSW from an accredited school qualifies you for the same licensure process as an on-campus degree. To learn more about licensure requirements, explore OMD’s state-by-state guide to social work licensing.
Will I have opportunities for networking in an online MSW program?
Yes, many online MSW programs provide networking opportunities through virtual events, online forums, and social media groups. Faculty often have extensive professional networks and can connect you to industry professionals. Additionally, some programs arrange internships or practicum placements, which can enhance networking opportunities. Engaging actively in online discussions and participating in program events can also help you build lasting professional relationships with peers and faculty.