Best Online Master of Social Work (MSW) Programs
Writer
Editor
Reviewer
Share this Article
- A master's degree in social work is required for anyone who wants to pursue licensure and clinical practice.
- Projected job growth for social workers in the next ten years is between 12 and 15 percent.
- An online master's degree in social work is a good option if you want to balance being a student with your existing career and personal responsibilities.
Some folks spend their careers behind a computer screen. But social workers spend theirs elbow-deep in the rawest and most vulnerable moments of other people's lives.
In a world where people feel increasingly disconnected from the suffering of others and helpless in the face of societal problems like poverty, loneliness, oppression, or addiction, social workers are the ones who always step up — determined to help and with the training to do it.
BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
Ready to Start Your Journey?
"If you want to be a social worker, you have to have what it takes to fight for people. I've always known that was my calling. If you see what's wrong in the world and want to use the light inside you to fix some of the darkness, go into social work."
— Bridget Washington, MSW student
If that sounds like you, all you need now is the right training — and an online master's degree in social work is a great way to get it. Here's how to get started:
- Explore this page to learn more about what an advanced social work degree would mean for your career.
- Check out the top-ranked online MSW programs as well as our sponsored programs.
- Request more information from schools you're interested in to find the best fit for your schedule, your pocketbook, and your career goals.
Featured Master's in Social Work Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Is a Master's Degree in Social Work Right for Me?
What the degree is all about:
An MSW is a specialized graduate degree that gives you the advanced training required for clinical practice as a licensed social worker.
What you'll do with it:
On the micro-level, you will use evidence-based approaches to enhance the well-being of individuals, families, and their communities. On the macro-level, you will work to uphold human dignity, eradicate poverty, promote social justice, and contribute to political and institutional change.
Where you'll work:
Wherever you find human need, you'll find social workers — in schools, hospitals, shelters, workplaces, universities, nursing homes, and politics.
Why Should I Get an Online Master's of Social Work?
A social work bachelor's degree qualifies you for entry level positions. But a social work master's degree is your ticket to better opportunities, better pay, and greater impact.
You'll have far fewer opportunities, professionally, without a graduate degree,
said Ada Dye, LCSW, MBA. Social workers who get their MSWs online can expect to be very successful on the job market. Everyone needs social workers right now. It's an especially great option for parents or students looking for a little more flexibility.
Benefits of an MSW
-
Increase your impact and reach -
Boost your earning potential -
Qualify for licensure and clinical work -
Gain access to liability insurance
-
Qualify for more interesting jobs -
Access to liability insurance -
Can open your own practice -
Learn transferable career skills
Reasons to Get Your MSW Online
- More flexibility
- Ability to learn from anywhere
- Complete coursework remotely
- Great for career-changers
"I was a teacher before I took some time off to raise my kids. Then I went back to school to become a social worker. It seemed like a good opportunity because it aligned with my interests and provided so many avenues and settings to work in."
— Sue English, MSW, LCSW, CADC
What Are The Best Accredited Online MSW Programs?
Rankings compiled by the BestColleges Ranking Team
How We Rank Schools
At BestColleges, we believe a college education is one of the most important investments you can make. We want to help you navigate the college selection process by offering transparent, inclusive, and relevant school rankings.
Our rankings are grounded in a few guiding principles and use the latest statistical data available from trusted sources. Read our ranking methodology. We hope our approach helps you find the school that is best for you.
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $1,995/unit
Out of State | $1,995/unit
Credits to Graduate
37-60
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Council on Social Work Education
One of the nation's elite colleges, USC offers an accredited master of social work (MSW) online. The MSW offers a traditional program for learners with no experience. The advanced-standing program requires a bachelor of social work accredited by the Council on Social Work Education.
All students learn evidence-based practices and interventions. The MSW offers several concentrations, including social change and adult mental health. Enrollees build hands-on expertise with more than 1,000 hours of field education.
Students can complete the MSW full time or part time in 12-24 months. Admission requires a bachelor's degree and a minimum 3.0 GPA.
Boston University
Boston, MA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $910
Out of State | $910
Credits to Graduate
40-65
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Council on Social Work Education
BU offers a master's in social work with three tracks: traditional, advanced standing, and human service experience (HSE). Students can customize a part-time master of social work (MSW) program with majors in clinical or macro practice.
The program includes lectures with simulations, interactive animations, and weekly live classroom sessions. Enrollees complete 1,000-2,000 hours in a field internship. Students can complete this online master's in social work in 6-9 semesters. Admission requires a minimum 3.0 GPA. Learners pursuing the HSE track need at least two years of human or social service experience.
Northcentral University
La Jolla, CA - 4 years
- Online
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $739
Out of State | $739
Credits to Graduate
36-60
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Council on Social Work Education
NCU's online master's in social work offers tracks for those new to social work and learners with experience. The generalist track provides foundational training in social work practices and communication. Students with a bachelor of social work (BSW) take advanced coursework in the advanced generalist track.
The program supplements online coursework with an in-person practicum. During the practicum, enrollees learn how to work with individuals, groups, and communities. Admission requires a BSW or a bachelor's in a related field such as psychology.
University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $288
Out of State | $288
Credits to Graduate
62 - Traditional Track
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Council on Social Work Education
One of the nation's largest virtual colleges, UCF offers an online master of social work (MSW) with traditional and advanced-standing tracks. The degree prepares generalists and advanced clinical social workers.
Students gain the skills to work as licensed practitioners. Students with a bachelor of social work (BSW) can pursue the advanced-standing program. The course load depends on learners' transfer credits.
All enrollees complete internships at community agencies. Students can complete the MSW full time or part time. Admission requires a bachelor's degree or BSW.
University of South Florida
Tampa, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $348
Out of State | $431
Credits to Graduate
35-60
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Council on Social Work Education
USF's online master's in social work prepares enrollees for various social work careers. Students gain skills to work with individuals, families, and small groups. Learners with no experience take foundation coursework and build a social work practice.
Students with a bachelor of social work (BSW) accredited by the Council on Social Work Education receive advanced standing and complete an accelerated curriculum. All enrollees complete field experiences.
A capstone project concludes the program. Students can complete the degree full time or part time. Admission requires a BSW or a bachelor's degree with liberal arts coursework.
BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
Browse programs Discover matches Request info
Yeshiva University
New York, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $1,085
Out of State | $1,085
Credits to Graduate
30-60
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Council on Social Work Education
New York-based YU offers a customizable online master of social work (MSW). Students in the general track explore the practical and clinical aspects of social work. Coursework focuses on ethics and cultural receptivity.
Students can tailor the degree with one of two focus areas. These options include gerontology and palliative care embedded certification or the credentialed alcohol and substance abuse counselor credential. Learners complete in-person fieldwork.
Enrollees with a bachelor of social work accredited by the Council on Social Work Education may receive advanced standing. Admission requires a minimum 3.0 GPA.
Case Western Reserve University
Cleveland, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $1,590
Out of State | $1,590
Credits to Graduate
60 - Traditional Track
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Council on Social Work Education
CWRU operates one of the country's best social work schools. The online master of social work (MSW) meets educational requirements for licensure in all 50 states. Students choose either the traditional or advanced-standing track.
Learners can customize the degree by choosing one of three concentrations. Options include children, youth, and families; mental health with adults; and community practice for social change. Students with a bachelor of social work (BSW) can apply up to 21 credits toward this online master's in social work.
All enrollees develop clinical skills with 500-900 hours of field education. Students attend live online classes with about 15 peers. Admission requires a BSW or bachelor's degree and a minimum 2.7 GPA.
Fordham University
Bronx, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $963
Out of State | $963
Credits to Graduate
33-66
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Council on Social Work Education
Fordham manages one of the nation's largest social work schools. The online master of social work trains learners to work with clients in diverse communities. The program offers both traditional and advanced-standing tracks.
Students can choose from several practice areas, including individuals and families and organizations and community. Enrollees complete 1-2 field placements.
Learners can enroll full time or part time. Admission to this master's in social work program requires a bachelor of social work or a bachelor's degree and an essay.
California State University-Northridge
Northridge, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $752
Out of State | $752
Credits to Graduate
60-63 credits
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Council on Social Work Education
CSUN's online master of social work (MSW) uses a cohort model. Enrollees learn how to work with clients at the individual/family; group/community; and societal/policy levels. MSW topics include human behavior and the social environment and generalist social work theory and practice. Field education gives learners hands-on experience.
Enrollees complete an individual or group project as the capstone. Students can finish the MSW in 2-3 years. Admission requires a bachelor's degree with a liberal arts background and a minimum 3.0 GPA.
Tulane University of Louisiana
New Orleans, LA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $1,180
Out of State | $1,180
Credits to Graduate
48-60
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Council on Social Work Education
Tulane offers an online master of social work (MSW) designed for working students. The school boasts 100 years of experience training social workers in New Orleans and beyond. Enrollees can customize the MSW with an optional certificate in disaster and collective trauma or mental health, addictions, and the family.
Students complete about 900 hours of field education. Enrollees with a bachelor of social work (BSW) receive advanced standing. They can complete the degree in 12 months. Admission requires a BSW or bachelor's degree in a liberal arts field.
How Much Does an Online Master's Degree Cost?
Average Annual Cost of a Graduate Degree
Public institution | 2020-2021
$12,394
Private institution | 2020-2021
$26,621
Source: National Center for Education Statistics
How Long Does an Online MSW Program Take?
Without a Bachelor's Degree
If you don't have a bachelor's degree in social work, MSW coursework typically takes about two years of full-time study to complete.
Course Credits Required
60-70 credits
Field Education Required*
900-1200 hours
*Depending on your specialization
With a Bachelor's Degree
If you do have a bachelor's degree in social work, you may qualify for an accelerated master's program, which typically takes 12 months of full-time study to complete.
Course Credits Required
30-35 credits
Field Education Required*
500-650 hours
*Depending on your specialization
How Much Money Will I Make With an Master's Degree in Social Work?
As you probably already know, social workers aren't exactly famous for raking in the big bucks.
It's not the most lucrative field, but that's also not why people choose it. This is heart-work,
said Kenna Hamm, LMSW. If you want a six-digit starting salary, you're going to be disappointed. But that doesn't mean you'll be financially insecure, either. I love my job, I'm fulfilling my purpose, and I make enough to take care of my family.
Child and family services is the most common field of practice for MSW graduates. Social workers in this field tend to earn lower salaries than those in healthcare or private practice.
Hover over the map to see how much child, family, and school social workers made in your state in 2021:
How to Consider Your ROI
Even though you're probably not pursuing an MSW to get rich, it's still important to consider the return on your investment:
- Will your starting salary cover student loan payments, rent, and groceries?
- Will you be able to meet your life goals as well as your career goals?
Keep in mind that your ROI can also be influenced by further licensing, which is often compensated at a higher rate,
said Melissa Goolsaran, LCSW.
What Jobs Can I Get With a Master's Degree in Social Work?
Social work is a vast profession with a ton of job options.
"Since earning my MSW, I have worked in an outpatient clinic, a group home, treatment for foster care, schools, a university, and my own private therapy practice. So: do your research, decide what you want to do, and take classes that will help you reach that goal."
— Wendy B. Pitts, LCSW-C
Here are eight common fields of social work for MSW graduates:
Common Fields of Social Work
- Community Social Work
- Child Welfare
- Mental Health
- Administration and Management
- Public Policy
- Healthcare
- Gerontology
- Legal and Criminal Justice
Job Outlook for Social Workers
The job outlook for social workers is strong and growing. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects 12% overall job growth from 2020-2030. Certain specializations have even better projections:
Healthcare
Social Workers
+13%
Mental Health
Social Workers
+15%
Substance Misuse
Social Workers
+15%
An MSW can also make you more competitive for jobs outside the field of social work.
The skills and experience social workers bring to the table are becoming more and more valuable across the board,
said Ada Dye, LCSW, MBA. After a decade of practice, I went back to school for an MBA. I wanted to bring my insight as a healthcare social worker to bear on the business side of hospital administration, to see if I could make a bigger systemic impact. And that's exactly what I'm doing.
Is an MSW Degree Worth It? Grads Weigh In
The MSW graduates we spoke to want you to know that social work is hard work. You may be paid less than you're worth. You'll learn how to make things happen with limited resources. You'll probably face compassion fatigue, overwork, and burnout.
But they also say that there is nothing more satisfying than empowering your clients and helping them thrive.
"I have never regretted this career. I have never wavered. The privilege of being an ally for my clients and walking alongside them every day is something I could never give up."
— Kenna Hamm, LMSW and assistant director of the Texas Adoption Center
"It's a job unlike any other. The work that we do matters. After twelve years, I can honestly say that I would do it all over again."
— Angela Clavijo, LMSW and instructor of social work at Lamar University
"My MSW was worth it. It gives me flexibility to explore different roles. It allows me to balance micro work with macro work. It allows me to have a private practice where I can make my own schedule, have career independence, and make a difference."
— Melissa Goolsaran, LMSW
"I would tell anyone who wants to work in this field to get an MSW. Because if you do reach a point in your career where you want to make more money, you can eventually quadruple your pay by going into private practice."
— Sue English, MSW, LCSW, CADC
Still Looking for the Right Fit? Discover Similar Programs.
Everything Else You Need to Know About Starting Your Career in Social Work
Admission Requirements for an Online Master's in Social Work Program
Every school is different, but most online MSW programs require a bachelor's degree in social work or a related subject from an accredited institution. Other common requirements include:
-
Test scores (some online programs do not require test scores) -
Letters of recommendation -
Resume -
Personal statement or statement of purpose -
Official transcripts -
Related professional or volunteer experience may be required
Social Work Licensing and Certifications
All 50 states and the District of Columbia require social workers to graduate from a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education and pass a licensure exam. Additional requirements vary by state.
Licenses available to MSW graduates include:
- Licensed Master of Social Work
- Licensed Master Social Worker, advanced generalist
- Licensed Clinical Social Worker
- License Social Worker, administration
Continuing Education in Your Social Work Career
Most states require social workers to complete continuing education units or courses in order to maintain licensure. Check out the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) for more details.
Master's degree-holders who want to land even more advanced clinical positions can pursue a doctoral degree in social work.
Those interested in teaching and research can enroll in a social work Ph.D. program.
The Business Side: Preparing for Private Practice
I was lucky to have an instructor in my master's program who had a private practice. She emphasized that we needed to be thinking about the business side of opening our own practice. That means finding out how to get insurance, marketing your business, and networking with people who can help you get things off the ground,
said Sue English, MSW, LCSW, CADC.
If your program offers a course on building a private practice, take it. If not, consider getting a few course credits from the business program at your school.
Compassion Fatigue: Awareness and Prevention
We get it: You're fired up. You want to change the world. But social work is physically, mentally, and emotionally demanding work. Have you thought about how to prepare yourself for the long haul?
It's so common for social workers to experience compassion fatigue and to feel exploited by the systems they have to operate within,
said Sue English, MSW, LCSW, CADC. These are problems you need to anticipate and prepare for ahead of time. As you empower your clients to set healthy boundaries and prioritize their own well-being, you must commit to doing the same for yourself.
![Card Thumbnail - How to Become a Social Worker [2023 Career Guide]](https://res.cloudinary.com/highereducation/images/w_424,h_250,c_fill,f_auto,fl_lossy,q_auto/v1649185759/BestColleges.com/BC_Resources_Social-Work_How-to-Become-a-Social-Worker_4.5.22_FTR/BC_Resources_Social-Work_How-to-Become-a-Social-Worker_4.5.22_FTR.jpg)
