We ranked the best Master of Social Work (MSW) programs based on factors such as academic quality, affordability and online enrollment.
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What Social Workers Do
Social workers help vulnerable populations access community resources, counsel couples on relationship issues, or support children dealing with bullying at school. The type of social work they do depends on their specialization. Social workers may also diagnose and treat disorders. Many social work jobs require a master of social work (MSW) and professional licensure.
Graduates with an MSW can work as clinical social workers, marriage and family therapists, mental health counselors, and community service managers. They can also pursue careers as social policy advocates, social welfare researchers, and social program administrators.
See the top master of social work schools and programs offered today.
Featured Online MSW Programs
The Best Master of Social Work Programs (MSW)
#1 Best Master’s in Social Work Programs
California State University, Fresno
Fresno, CA
4 years
Online + Campus
Graduate students interested in a master's in social work can earn their degree from California State University, Fresno. The master of social work program builds specialized skills for leadership roles in the social work field and related industries. A master's degree allows candidates to move up the career ladder or pursue a new career path.
The master's curriculum explores social work research and methodologies. Learners choose electives or a specialization to gain focused career training. Applicants without a degree in social work or a related field may need to meet prerequisite requirements to enroll in the program.
Online enrollees can often complete professional internships at approved locations in their own community. Graduate students also build professional connections through virtual networking events and other activities.
California State University, Fresno at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 58%
Total Online Master's Programs: 3
Program Name: Master of Social Work
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,176
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $16,680
Average Tuition
In-state
$5,742
Out-of-state
$17,622
Retention Rate
83%
Admission Rate
58%
Students Enrolled
24,298
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
31%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#2 Best Master’s in Social Work Programs
California State University, Bakersfield
Bakersfield, CA
4 years
Online + Campus
Graduate students seeking an online social work degree can enroll in the master's program at California State University, Bakersfield. The master of social work builds specialized skills for advanced practice, preparing graduates for leadership positions with increased salary potential. Earning a master's degree can also help candidates pursue new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum examines advanced theories and practices in social work. Learners focus the program with electives or a concentration. Applicants without a background in social work may need to complete prerequisite courses before enrolling in the master's program.
Online enrollees complete internship programs in their local area to gain hands-on experience. Graduate students grow their professional connections through internships and virtual networking events.
California State University, Bakersfield at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 81%
Total Online Master's Programs: 2
Program Name: Master of Social Work
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,176
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $16,680
Average Tuition
In-state
$5,742
Out-of-state
$17,622
Retention Rate
77%
Admission Rate
81%
Students Enrolled
11,531
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
51%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#3 Best Master’s in Social Work Programs
Indiana University Bloomington
Bloomington, IN
4 years
Online + Campus
Indiana University Bloomington offers a flexible online master's in social work. The master of social work program helps graduates move into leadership roles and increase their earning potential. Earning a master's degree helps candidates move into a new career path or advance in their current field.
The master's curriculum covers methodological and research perspectives. Learners specialize the program by choosing from a variety of electives. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in social work or a related field.
Online enrollees complement the classroom experience with internship opportunities in their local area. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.
Indiana University Bloomington at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 78%
Total Online Master's Programs: 10
Program Name: Master of Social Work
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,501
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $31,932
Average Tuition
In-state
$9,575
Out-of-state
$35,140
Retention Rate
90%
Admission Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
43,260
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
19%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#4 Best Master’s in Social Work Programs
The University of Texas at Austin
Austin, TX
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Texas at Austin offers an online master's in social work. Graduates train for leadership roles in the field while earning their degree from the master of science in social work program. After completing a master's degree, candidates advance in their current field or pursue new opportunities.
The master's curriculum emphasizes the best practices in social work. Learners specialize their course of study to prepare for the job market. Applicants without a social work background may need to complete prerequisite courses to enroll in the program.
Online enrollees meet any in-person requirements, such as internships, at approved sites in their local area. Internships and other practicum activities also provide professional networking opportunities.
The University of Texas at Austin at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 32%
Total Online Master's Programs: 5
Program Name: Master of Science in Social Work
Graduate Tuition In State: $11,998
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $22,966
Average Tuition
In-state
$10,824
Out-of-state
$38,326
Retention Rate
96%
Admission Rate
32%
Students Enrolled
51,090
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
25%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 Best Master’s in Social Work Programs
California State University, Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CA
4 years
Campus
California State University, Los Angeles, offers a flexible online master's in social work. The master of social work program strengthens specialized skills, preparing graduates for leadership roles with a higher earning potential. A master's degree can also train candidates for roles in new industries.
The master's curriculum emphasizes research methods and analytical skills. Learners individualize the course of study by selecting electives and concentrations. The master's program builds on undergraduate training or professional experience in social work.
Online enrollees work with the program to identify internship opportunities at approved sites in their local communities. Graduate students expand their professional network through internships and online events.
California State University, Los Angeles at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 48%
Program Name: Master of Social Work
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,176
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $16,680
Average Tuition
In-state
$5,742
Out-of-state
$17,622
Retention Rate
81%
Admission Rate
48%
Students Enrolled
26,671
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
33%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#6 Best Master’s in Social Work Programs
The University of Connecticut
Storrs, CT
4 years
Online + Campus
The online master's in social work degree at the University of Connecticut, located in Storrs, Connecticut, prioritizes flexibility. The master of social work program emphasizes industry-relevant knowledge and skills, preparing graduates for decision-making responsibilities. A master's degree can also lead candidates to new career paths.
The master's curriculum emphasizes the best practices in social work. Learners take electives and other specialized courses to gain career-specific training. The admission requirements include a background in social work or a related field.
Online enrollees complete internship programs in their local area to gain hands-on experience. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.
The University of Connecticut at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 49%
Total Online Master's Programs: 3
Program Name: Master of Social Work
Graduate Tuition In State: $16,300
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $38,212
Average Tuition
In-state
$13,798
Out-of-state
$36,466
Retention Rate
94%
Admission Rate
49%
Students Enrolled
27,280
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
14%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#7 Best Master’s in Social Work Programs
Samford University
Birmingham, AL
4 years
Online + Campus
Located in Birmingham, Alabama, Samford University offers an online master's in social work. The master of social work program builds specialized skills for leadership roles in the social work field and related industries. With a master's degree, candidates advance their current career or move into new career paths.
The master's curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on social work. Learners focus the program with electives or a concentration. The master's program recommends a background in social work before applying to the program.
Online enrollees complement the classroom experience with internship opportunities in their local area. Internships and other practicum activities build both hands-on experience and professional connections.
Samford University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 83%
Total Online Master's Programs: 8
Program Name: Master of Social Work
Graduate Tuition In State: $17,754
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $17,754
Average Tuition
In-state
$32,000
Out-of-state
$32,000
Retention Rate
89%
Admission Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
5,692
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
30%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#8 Best Master’s in Social Work Programs
Colorado State University
Fort Collins, CO
4 years
Online + Campus
From its campus in Fort Collins, Colorado State University offers an online master's in social work. The master of social work program builds specialized skills for leadership roles in the social work field and related industries. A master's degree also helps candidates pursue new career paths.
The master's curriculum emphasizes current research in social work. Learners choose electives or a specialization to stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants who majored in social work or a related field typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees complement the classroom experience with internship opportunities in their local area. Internships and other practicum activities build both hands-on experience and professional connections.
Colorado State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 81%
Total Online Master's Programs: 19
Program Name: Master of Social Work
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,520
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $25,791
Average Tuition
In-state
$9,426
Out-of-state
$28,147
Retention Rate
84%
Admission Rate
81%
Students Enrolled
33,426
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
26%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#9 Best Master’s in Social Work Programs
Savannah State University
Savannah, GA
4 years
Campus
From its campus in Savannah, Georgia, Savannah State University hosts a top-ranked master's in social work program. The master of social work program emphasizes industry-relevant knowledge and skills, preparing graduates for decision-making responsibilities. Earning a master's degree can also help candidates pursue new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum emphasizes the best practices in social work. Learners focus their training by choosing electives based on their interests and career goals. The master's program builds on undergraduate training or professional experience in social work.
Online enrollees meet any in-person requirements, such as internships, at approved sites in their local area. Graduate students expand their professional network through internships and online events.
Savannah State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 33%
Program Name: Master of Social Work
Graduate Tuition In State: $3,528
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $13,068
Average Tuition
In-state
$4,064
Out-of-state
$14,786
Retention Rate
61%
Admission Rate
33%
Students Enrolled
3,668
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
38%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#10 Best Master’s in Social Work Programs
The University of Texas at Arlington
Arlington, TX
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Texas at Arlington hosts a top-rated online master's in social work. The master of social work program emphasizes advanced practice skills, training graduates for leadership roles and an increased earning potential. A master's degree also helps candidates pursue new career paths.
The master's curriculum emphasizes the best practices in social work. Learners choose electives or a specialization to gain focused career training. Applicants who majored in social work or a related field typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees work with the program to identify internship opportunities at approved sites in their local communities. Graduate students also build professional connections through virtual networking events and other activities.
The University of Texas at Arlington at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 83%
Total Online Master's Programs: 13
Program Name: Master of Social Work
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,474
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $21,206
Average Tuition
In-state
$8,624
Out-of-state
$25,713
Retention Rate
75%
Admission Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
48,635
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
54%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#11 Best Master’s in Social Work Programs
Texas Tech University
Lubbock, TX
4 years
Online + Campus
From its campus in Lubbock, Texas Tech University offers an online master's in social work. The master of social work program emphasizes industry-relevant knowledge and skills, preparing graduates for decision-making responsibilities. After completing a master's degree, candidates advance in their current field or pursue new opportunities.
The master's curriculum covers methodological and research perspectives. Learners prepare for focused career paths by choosing electives and concentrations. The admission requirements include a background in social work or a related field.
Online enrollees gain hands-on experience during professional internships in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.
Texas Tech University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 69%
Total Online Master's Programs: 14
Program Name: Master of Social Work
Graduate Tuition In State: $5,958
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $13,428
Average Tuition
In-state
$6,744
Out-of-state
$16,704
Retention Rate
87%
Admission Rate
69%
Students Enrolled
38,742
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
52%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#12 Best Master’s in Social Work Programs
West Virginia University
Morgantown, WV
4 years
Online + Campus
The master's in social work program at West Virginia University, located in Morgantown, offers a flexible online format. The master of social work program draws on a rigorous curriculum that prepares graduates for leadership responsibilities. After completing a master's degree, candidates advance in their current field or pursue new opportunities.
The master's curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on social work. Learners focus the program with electives or a concentration. Applicants with prior experience in social work or a related field often meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees gain hands-on experience during professional internships in their local area. Graduate students grow their professional connections through internships and virtual networking events.
West Virginia University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 84%
Total Online Master's Programs: 18
Program Name: Master of Social Work
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,134
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $26,154
Average Tuition
In-state
$8,976
Out-of-state
$25,320
Retention Rate
79%
Admission Rate
84%
Students Enrolled
26,839
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
34%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#13 Best Master’s in Social Work Programs
DePaul University
Chicago, IL
4 years
Online + Campus
Based in Chicago, Illinois, DePaul University hosts a top-rated online master's in social work. The master of social work program builds specialized skills for leadership roles in the social work field and related industries. Earning a master's degree helps candidates move into a new career path or advance in their current field.
The master's curriculum covers theoretical and practical approaches to social work. Learners individualize the course of study by selecting electives and concentrations. Applicants with prior experience in social work or a related field often meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees add to their resume by pursuing internship opportunities at approved locations in their local area. Graduate students expand their professional network through internships and online events.
DePaul University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 68%
Total Online Master's Programs: 14
Program Name: Master of Social Work
Graduate Tuition In State: $19,584
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $19,584
Average Tuition
In-state
$40,551
Out-of-state
$40,551
Retention Rate
85%
Admission Rate
68%
Students Enrolled
22,064
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
30%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#14 Best Master’s in Social Work Programs
Gallaudet University
Washington, DC
4 years
Online + Campus
From its campus in Washington, D.C., Gallaudet University hosts a top-ranked master's in social work program. The master of social work program strengthens specialized skills, preparing graduates for leadership roles with a higher earning potential. With a master's degree, candidates advance their current career or move into new career paths.
The master's curriculum incorporates theoretical and applied approaches. Learners take electives and other specialized courses to gain career-specific training. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in social work or a related field.
Online enrollees add to their resume by pursuing internship opportunities at approved locations in their local area. The program hosts networking events and other professional development activities to help graduate students expand their professional connections.
Gallaudet University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 61%
Total Online Master's Programs: 4
Program Name: Master of Social Work
Graduate Tuition In State: $18,180
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $18,180
Average Tuition
In-state
$16,512
Out-of-state
$16,512
Retention Rate
75%
Admission Rate
61%
Students Enrolled
1,485
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
20%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#15 Best Master’s in Social Work Programs
The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa
Honolulu, HI
4 years
Online + Campus
Graduate students seeking an online social work degree can enroll in the master's program at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, located in Honolulu. The master of social work program strengthens industry-specific skills, preparing graduates for leadership responsibilities. A master's degree can also prepare candidates for opportunities in new fields.
The master's curriculum emphasizes the best practices in social work. Learners choose electives and concentrations to prepare for focused career paths. The program encourages applicants to gain experience in social work before applying to the program.
Online enrollees complete internships in their local community to gain real-world experience. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.
The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 58%
Total Online Master's Programs: 5
Program Name: Master of Social Work
Graduate Tuition In State: $15,912
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $37,392
Average Tuition
In-state
$11,304
Out-of-state
$33,336
Retention Rate
81%
Admission Rate
58%
Students Enrolled
17,490
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
20%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#16 Best Master’s in Social Work Programs
Youngstown State University
Youngstown, OH
4 years
Online + Campus
The online master's degree in social work at Youngstown State University, located in Youngstown, Ohio, offers high academic quality. The master of social work program emphasizes specialized skills, preparing graduates for increased responsibilities and a higher earning potential. After completing a master's degree, candidates pursue career advancement in their current field or a new one.
The master's curriculum emphasizes theory and practice in social work. Learners choose electives or a specialization to stand out in a competitive job market. The master's program recommends that applicants bring a background in social work or a related field.
Online enrollees complete internships in their local community to gain real-world experience. Graduate students also participate in networking events to expand their professional connections.
Youngstown State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 67%
Total Online Master's Programs: 9
Program Name: Master of Social Work
Graduate Tuition In State: $6,058
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $9,058
Average Tuition
In-state
$8,705
Out-of-state
$9,065
Retention Rate
73%
Admission Rate
67%
Students Enrolled
12,110
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
37%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#17 Best Master’s in Social Work Programs
Western Carolina University
Cullowhee, NC
4 years
Online + Campus
The online master's in social work degree at Western Carolina University, located in Cullowhee, North Carolina, prioritizes flexibility. The master of social work program builds specialized skills for leadership roles in the social work field and related industries. A master's degree allows candidates to move up the career ladder or pursue a new career path.
The master's curriculum explores social work research and methodologies. Learners take specialized courses to stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants with a background in social work typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees work with the program to find internship opportunities in their local area. Graduate students also build professional connections through virtual networking events and other activities.
Western Carolina University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 69%
Total Online Master's Programs: 10
Program Name: Master of Social Work
Graduate Tuition In State: $4,435
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $14,842
Average Tuition
In-state
$1,000
Out-of-state
$5,000
Retention Rate
78%
Admission Rate
69%
Students Enrolled
12,167
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
41%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#18 Best Master’s in Social Work Programs
Ohio University-Main Campus
Athens, OH
4 years
Online + Campus
From its campus in Athens, Ohio University offers an online master's in social work. The master of social work program uses a rigorous curriculum to prepare graduates for advanced roles in the field. A master's degree helps candidates advance in their current field or pursue a new career path.
The master's curriculum covers methodological and research perspectives. Learners specialize their course of study to prepare for the job market. The program encourages applicants to gain experience in social work before applying to the program.
Online enrollees complement the classroom experience with internship opportunities in their local area. Internships and other practicum activities build both hands-on experience and professional connections.
Ohio University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 82%
Total Online Master's Programs: 23
Program Name: Master of Social Work
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,444
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $17,436
Average Tuition
In-state
$12,612
Out-of-state
$22,406
Retention Rate
82%
Admission Rate
82%
Students Enrolled
27,367
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
48%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#19 Best Master’s in Social Work Programs
Temple University
Philadelphia, PA
4 years
Online + Campus
From its campus in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Temple University hosts a top-ranked master's in social work program. The master of social work program uses a rigorous curriculum to prepare graduates for advanced roles in the field. After earning a master's degree, candidates also pursue careers in new industries.
The master's curriculum explores theoretical and practical perspectives in the field. Learners choose electives or a specialization to stand out in a competitive job market. The master's program recommends a background in social work before applying to the program.
Online enrollees complete internship requirements at approved sites in their own community. Internships and other practicum activities also provide professional networking opportunities.
Temple University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 60%
Total Online Master's Programs: 10
Program Name: Master of Social Work
Graduate Tuition In State: $16,956
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $23,346
Average Tuition
In-state
$16,080
Out-of-state
$28,992
Retention Rate
89%
Admission Rate
60%
Students Enrolled
38,794
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
21%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#20 Best Master’s in Social Work Programs
Saint Leo University
Saint Leo, FL
4 years
Online + Campus
The online master's in social work program, offered by Saint Leo University from its Saint Leo campus in Florida, ranks as a top program. The master of social work builds specialized skills for advanced practice, preparing graduates for leadership positions with increased salary potential. A master's degree can also train candidates for roles in new industries.
The master's curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on social work. Learners individualize the course of study by selecting electives and concentrations. The master's program builds on prior social work experience during a bachelor's program.
Online enrollees add to their resume by pursuing internship opportunities at approved locations in their local area. Graduate students also participate in networking events to expand their professional connections.
Saint Leo University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 72%
Total Online Master's Programs: 27
Program Name: Master of Social Work
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,296
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $7,296
Average Tuition
In-state
$23,100
Out-of-state
$23,100
Retention Rate
69%
Admission Rate
72%
Students Enrolled
10,912
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
72%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
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MSW Program Overview
"An MSW degree program trains students about social work practice, social welfare research, and social work theory."
An MSW degree trains students about social work practice, social welfare research, and social work theory. Learners study counseling approaches, cognitive treatment methods, clinical assessment, and social welfare planning. Students also complete fieldwork requirements to gain hands-on experience in a social work setting.
Many social work programs offer concentrations that allow students to tailor their degree to their goals and interests. Common concentrations include:
Child and family social work.
School social work.
Healthcare social work.
Community and social systems.
Social policy.
Social work administration.
Students typically complete an MSW program in two years of full-time study, but some programs take less time to complete. For example, incoming students with a bachelor of social work (BSW) may be able to graduate from an MSW program in as little as one year.
How Long Does It Take to Get an Online Master of Social Work?
During an online MSW program, students typically complete online courses and in-person field work at an approved site in their community. Some online programs incorporate set meeting times to encourage collaboration, while others operate without set log-in times.
The flexibility of online school allows students to balance their studies with their personal and professional life. Online learning also lets students attend top programs across the country without relocating.
Accreditation for Social Work Degree Programs
Students must attend an MSW program that holds programmatic accreditation to meet social work licensure requirements. Many employers only hire candidates with an accredited degree. The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredits MSW programs. The council reviews MSW programs based on their curricula, field experience requirements, and faculty qualifications. Programs must undergo regular reviews to maintain their accreditation status.
MSW Advanced Standing Students
Students with a BSW degree from a CSWE-accredited program may receive advanced standing in an MSW program. Advanced standing status typically allows students to bypass some foundational coursework, expediting graduation by as much as one year.
MSW Programs Practicum
MSW programs incorporate field work requirements to teach students the practical skills necessary for social work jobs. A practicum represents a core component of social work training and helps meet social work licensure requirements. During a social work practicum, students strengthen their clinical skills through community-based placements. Graduate students observe practitioners and complete hands-on training under supervision.
The number of required practicum hours varies by program. Most programs require at least 600 hours of field education. This field work often includes specialized training in the student's focus area.
Types of Social Workers
There are three major types of social workers: macro, direct services, and clinical social workers. Clinical social workers may be licensed or unlicensed.
Macro Social Workers
Macro social workers work with communities, large groups of people, major institutions, and cities. Depending on their position, these social workers may advocate for large-scale social policy change, lobby to change healthcare laws, or organize state-wide activist groups. They may also engage in research or work as managers or administrators for community programs.
Licensed Clinical Social Workers
Licensed clinical social workers evaluate, diagnose, and treat mental, behavioral, and emotional disorders. They may provide individual, group, or family therapy. They work in settings such as hospitals, community mental health centers, rehabilitation facilities, and private practice. Clinical social workers often collaborate with professionals like psychiatrists, psychologists, and advanced practice psychiatric nurses.
The job title for social workers with a clinical social work license varies by state. States may use titles such as licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), licensed independent social worker, or licensed independent clinical social worker.
Clinical Social Workers Without a License
These social workers are authorized to practice clinical social work under the supervision of an LCSW. They must earn licensure to practice independently.
Direct Service Social Workers
Direct service social workers connect individuals with relevant resources and services. They may also provide limited counseling services, but they cannot provide psychotherapy. Depending on their role, these professionals may perform intake screenings, refer clients to relevant services, provide mediation services, and work in case management.
Graduates with an MSW degree can pursue careers in several social work fields, such as mental health counselor, social service manager, and marriage and family therapist. The section below covers several common careers for MSW graduates.
Marriage and family therapists help individuals, couples, and families manage relationship problems through therapy. They encourage clients to discuss their emotions, help people adjust to life changes and modify behaviors, and guide clients through decision-making processes. Marriage and family therapists also connect clients with relevant resources and services.
These professionals need a master's degree and a license to practice. A master's in social work, psychology, marriage and family therapy, or a related field typically meets licensure requirements.
Median Salary:
$51,340
Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists
Probation officers and correctional treatment specialists offer social services to law offenders to help them make progress toward rehabilitation. They create rehabilitation plans, connect clients with resources, and maintain case files on clients.
Most probation officers and correctional treatment specialists hold a bachelor's degree in a field like social work or criminal justice. Candidates with a master's degree may qualify for advanced opportunities.
Social and community service managers oversee social service programs and community organizations. They manage program staff, analyze data to determine a program's effectiveness, suggest improvements to programs, and increase program awareness through outreach activities. They also oversee budgets and may write proposals for funding.
Most social and community service managers hold at least a bachelor's degree in a field like social work, public administration, or business administration plus several years of work experience. Some employers prefer or require a master's degree in social work.
Social workers help clients overcome short-term and long-term challenges. They help clients adjust to life changes, connect clients with community resources, and respond to crisis situations. Social workers may specialize in an area such as school social work, healthcare social work, or child and family social work.
Clinical social workers diagnose and treat behavioral, mental, and emotional disorders. They provide therapy, create treatment plans, and coordinate with other healthcare professionals. Clinical social workers must hold a master's degree in social work and a license to practice.
Median Salary:
$51,760
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors
Substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors help clients manage substance use, mental health, and behavioral disorders. They meet with clients to evaluate their needs, create customized treatment plans, and work with clients on behavior modification techniques.
Most substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselors need a bachelor's degree, while mental health counselors generally need a master's degree to practice.
Median Salary:
$47,660
How Much Do Social Workers Make?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median social worker salary exceeds $51,000 per year. However, social work salaries depend on factors like a worker's location, degree, and industry. For example, the typical salary for a professional who holds a master of social work exceeds that of a professional with a bachelor's degree. Similarly, clinical social workers generally earn higher salaries than nonclinical social workers.
As with other fields, social workers often see an increase in their earning potential after gaining experience, earning an advanced degree, and/or learning specialized skills.
PayScale Median Salary Information for Social Workers as of June 2021
An MSW is a social work degree that stands for "master of social work". In most states, licensed social workers are required to have an MSW.
What Does a Master of Social Work Do?
An MSW qualifies graduates for positions as a href="/careers/career-guide/lcsw/">licensed clinical social workers, therapists, and counselors. These professionals help vulnerable populations and provide assistance to adults, children, families and couples who need guidance and access to resources.
Is a Master's in Social Work Worth It?
An MSW can lead to a fulfilling career as a social worker, therapist, or counselor. However, the average salary for a social worker with an MSW is over $48,000, which is under the national average for all occupations.
What Is the Difference Between a Master of Social Work and an MA in Social Work?
There is no major difference between an MSW and an MA in social work. However, students should make sure their degree is conferred by a program that is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).
How Much Can You Make With a Master of Social Work?
The average pay for a social worker with an MSW ranges between $37,000-$65,000.
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