Best Online Master of Social Work (MSW) Degree Programs – 2025

Bethel University's online Master of Social Work (MSW) program is tailored for individuals eager to drive social change through clinical and community practice. Emphasizing justice and liberation, this CSWE-accredited program offers flexibility with completion times between 12 to 21 months, catering to working professionals. Tuition ranges from $27,300 to $43,680, with scholarships up to $25,000 for those dedicating their careers to Minnesota schools. Highlights include an Advanced Standing option, a strong focus on clinical practice, and preparation for licensure, making it ideal for advocates committed to addressing societal challenges.

• Fully online MSW program
• 12-21 month completion time
• Advanced Standing option available
• CSWE accredited program
• Tuition $27,300-$43,680
• Scholarships up to $25,000
• Strong clinical practice emphasis
• Justice and liberation focused
• Prepares for clinical licensure

Designed for BSW graduates, Bethel University's online MSW Advanced Standing program accelerates your path to professional licensure in just 12 months. This CSWE-accredited program focuses on justice-informed practices, preparing students to tackle mental health and systemic inequities with evidence-based approaches. With 36 credit hours and 500 field practicum hours, it offers a rigorous yet flexible curriculum for those aiming to make impactful social changes. Summer start dates in 2025 and 2026 provide convenient entry points for aspiring social workers.

• Fully online program
• 36 total credit hours
• Complete in 12 months
• Advanced Standing track
• CSWE accredited program
• 500 field practicum hours
• Summer 2025, 2026 start dates
• Prepares for professional licensure
• Focuses on social justice
• Addresses systemic challenges

Bethel University's comprehensive online MSW Full Program is perfect for students from various academic backgrounds seeking to address complex social issues. This 21-month, 56-credit program includes 900 hours of field practicum, blending rigorous coursework with hands-on experience. CSWE-accredited and justice-informed, it prepares graduates for licensure and to confront challenges like poverty and mental health disparities. Starting Fall 2025, it emphasizes evidence-based practices and focuses on diverse populations, equipping students with the skills needed for advanced social work practice.

• Fully online program
• 56 total credit hours
• Complete in 21 months
• 900 hours field practicum
• CSWE accredited program
• Prepares for licensure exam
• Justice-informed curriculum
• Diverse population focus
• Evidence-based practice training
• Fall 2025 start date

Aurora University's online Master of Social Work (MSW) with a concentration in Addictions is designed for students aiming to specialize in substance abuse and behavioral health services. This CSWE-accredited program offers both traditional (60 semester hours) and advanced standing (30 semester hours) tracks, accommodating students with or without a BSW. With starts in fall, spring, and summer, the program provides flexibility through online and on-campus options. Students gain hands-on experience through employment-based internships, preparing them for licensure and careers with a median salary of $58,380. The curriculum focuses on clinical practice, policy, and research in addictions, offering a pathway to certifications in this high-demand field.

• 60 semester hours traditional MSW
• 30 semester hours advanced standing
• Multiple track options
• CSWE accredited program
• Fall, spring, summer starts
• Online and on-campus options
• Employment-based internships
• Leads to state licensure
• Tracks include addictions, forensics
• Median salary $58,380

Focusing on Child Welfare, Aurora University's online MSW program equips students with the skills to support vulnerable children and families. Accredited by the CSWE, it offers a traditional 60-semester-hour track and a 30-semester-hour advanced standing option. The program features flexible start dates and delivery methods, blending online and on-campus learning. Through specialized coursework and employment-based internships, students are prepared for licensure and careers in child welfare services, with a median annual salary of $58,380. This program stands out for its commitment to social justice and child advocacy, providing a solid foundation for impactful professional practice.

• 60 semester hour traditional program
• 30 semester hour advanced standing
• Multiple track options available
• CSWE accredited program
• Online and on-campus options
• Two and three-year formats
• Employment-based internships
• Leads to state licensure
• Diverse career pathways
• Median salary $58,380 annually

Aurora University's online MSW program offers a broad foundation in social work practice, with options to specialize in areas like child welfare, school social work, and forensics. The CSWE-accredited program includes a 60-credit traditional track and a 30-credit advanced standing option, with starts in fall, spring, and summer. Students benefit from a flexible format that combines online and on-campus learning, alongside employment-based internships that enhance practical skills. Graduates are well-prepared for licensure and diverse career paths, with a median salary of $58,380. The program emphasizes clinical skills, policy, and research, catering to aspiring social workers seeking to make a difference.

• 60 credit traditional MSW program
• 30 credit advanced standing option
• Multiple specialization tracks
• CSWE accredited program
• Fall, spring, summer starts
• Online and on-campus options
• Employment-based internships
• Prepares for state licensure
• Tracks lead to external certifications
• Median salary $58,380 annually

Yeshiva University's online Master of Social Work (MSW) program is designed for professionals seeking a flexible and impactful education in social work. The program stands out for its focus on cultural responsiveness, social justice, and human transformation, all delivered through a 100% online, asynchronous format. Accredited by the CSWE, it offers advanced standing for BSW holders, eliminating the GRE requirement. Students benefit from a 15:1 student-to-faculty ratio, full and part-time study options, and practical experience through prestigious practicum partnerships. Additional opportunities include optional certifications in Gerontology and CASAC credentialing, making it a comprehensive choice for aspiring social workers.

• 100% online and asynchronous
• CSWE accredited program
• No GRE required
• Advanced standing for BSW holders
• Full and part-time options
• Practicum with premium partners
• Optional CASAC credentialing
• Optional Gerontology certificate
• 15:1 student-to-faculty ratio
• Priority app deadline: Feb 21
• Final app deadline: May 1
• Next term starts: May 12

Specializing in Gerontology and Palliative Care, Yeshiva University's online MSW program caters to those aiming to make a difference in the lives of the elderly and individuals in palliative care. This CSWE-accredited program emphasizes a curriculum rich in cultural responsiveness and social justice, offered entirely online with asynchronous coursework. Highlights include no GRE requirement, the flexibility of full or part-time enrollment, and the ability to transfer up to 12 credits. Students gain hands-on experience through premium practicum partnerships and have the option to pursue a Gerontology certification, preparing them for specialized roles in social work.

• 100% Online Asynchronous Program
• CSWE Accredited
• No GRE Required
• Advanced Standing for BSW Holders
• Practicum with Premium Partners
• Full and Part-time Options
• Transfer up to 12 Credits
• Optional CASAC Credentialing
• Gerontology Certification Available
• 15:1 Student-to-Faculty Ratio

Focusing on the Credentialed Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC) concentration, Yeshiva University's online MSW program is tailored for students interested in addressing substance abuse challenges. The program's 100% online, asynchronous format allows for flexibility, while its CSWE accreditation ensures quality education. Key features include no GRE requirement, advanced standing options, and diverse practicum opportunities globally. With multiple track options and the possibility of CASAC credentialing, the program equips students with the skills needed for impactful careers in substance abuse counseling and beyond.

• 100% online asynchronous program
• CSWE accredited MSW
• No GRE required
• Advanced standing available
• Full and part-time options
• Multiple track options
• Global practicum opportunities
• Priority application deadline Feb 21
• Final application deadline May 1
• Summer 2025 term starts May 12

Adelphi University's online Master of Social Work (MSW) program is designed for individuals aiming to excel in the social work field. This CSWE-accredited program offers a flexible, part-time schedule over three years, catering to students juggling work and study. With a curriculum focused on health care practice and social justice, graduates are well-prepared for diverse roles. The program's strong employment outcomes and extensive practicum network underscore its commitment to student success. Specializations and licensure preparation further enhance career prospects, making it a standout choice for aspiring social workers.

• CSWE-Accredited Online MSW
• 64 Total Credit Program
• Part-Time Completion Option
• No GRE Required
• Health Specialization Available
• 90% Employment Rate
• Virtual Residencies Twice Yearly
• Advanced Standing Option
• 1000+ Practicum Affiliates
• Multiple Career Path Options

Focusing on 'Health Across the Life Course', Adelphi University's online MSW program addresses the growing need for social workers in healthcare. This CSWE-accredited program blends theoretical learning with practical experience, preparing students for impactful careers. The part-time, three-year format offers flexibility, while the absence of a GRE requirement makes it accessible. With a high employment rate post-graduation and over 1000 practicum affiliates, students gain invaluable real-world experience, positioning them for success in this rapidly expanding field.

• 100% Online Degree Option
• 64 Total Credit Program
• Part-Time 3-Year Format
• No GRE Required
• Health Specialization Available
• 90% Employment Rate
• Advanced Standing Option
• Virtual Residency Sessions
• Over 1000 Practicum Affiliates
• CSWE-Accredited Program

Adelphi University's online MSW program with a concentration in 'Mental Health, Substance Abuse and Trauma in Context' prepares students for specialized roles in addressing complex social issues. The 64-credit, CSWE-accredited curriculum is delivered in a flexible, part-time format over three years, ideal for working professionals. No GRE is required, lowering barriers to entry. The program's emphasis on licensure preparation and its extensive network of practicum affiliates ensure graduates are ready to meet the demands of the profession, supported by a 90% employment rate among alumni.

• 100% Online Degree
• 64 Credits, 3-Year Part-Time
• CSWE-Accredited Program
• No GRE Required
• 90% Employment Rate
• Health Specialization Option
• 1000+ Practicum Affiliates
• Virtual Residencies Twice Yearly
• Licensure Exam Preparation

Simmons University's online Master of Social Work (MSW) program stands out for its clinical focus and flexibility, catering to students aiming for licensure and impactful careers in social work. Accredited by the CSWE, the program offers a justice-oriented curriculum, with completion times ranging from 9 to 40 months. Students engage in over 1,000 practicum hours, bolstered by optional certificates in Mental Health, Trauma, and Military Practice for specialized expertise. The program welcomes three annual cohorts, provides scholarships, and does not require the GRE, making advanced education accessible. Advanced Standing is available for BSW graduates, streamlining their path to an MSW.

• CSWE-accredited online MSW program
• 9-40 months completion time
• Multiple program tracks available
• Advanced Standing for BSW graduates
• 1,000+ practicum hours
• No GRE required
• Three annual cohort start dates
• Scholarships available
• Optional certificate programs
• Interactive online classroom

The University of West Florida's online Master of Social Work (MSW) program is tailored for those aiming to elevate their social work careers, offering both traditional and advanced standing tracks. This CSWE-accredited program is designed with flexibility in mind, catering to students with varying schedules. It emphasizes clinical skills, social justice, and evidence-based practices, preparing graduates for licensure and diverse roles in healthcare, mental health, and community services. With tuition at $450 per credit hour and a recommended minimum GPA of 3.0, the program stands out for its affordability and quality. GRE/MAT scores are optional, making it accessible to a broader range of students.

• CSWE-accredited program
• Online and flexible format
• Traditional and advanced standing tracks
• 30-60 credit hours
• Clinical practice focus
• Meets Florida licensure requirements
• Tuition $450 per credit hour
• Minimum 3.0 GPA recommended
• GRE/MAT scores optional
• Multiple specialization options

Focusing on a Traditional track, the University of West Florida's online MSW program is ideal for students without a BSW, requiring 60 credit hours for completion. This CSWE-accredited program is clinically focused, with a special emphasis on serving military populations and behavioral health settings. It integrates research and practice, offering diverse elective options and advanced field experience placements. A minimum 3.0 GPA is recommended, and graduate admission tests are optional, emphasizing the program's accessibility to aspiring social work professionals.

• Two MSW program tracks available
• CSWE accredited program
• 30-60 semester hours required
• Minimum 3.0 GPA recommended
• Clinical focus on military populations
• Advanced field experience placements
• Diverse elective course options
• Research and practice integrated curriculum
• Grade of B- or higher required
• Optional graduate admission tests

The Advanced Standing track of the University of West Florida's online MSW program is designed for BSW graduates, requiring only 30 credit hours for completion. This program is clinically focused, with a curriculum that prepares students for licensure and careers in behavioral health, especially in serving military populations. It includes 600 hours of clinical field experience and offers electives in areas like cognitive behavioral therapy. A minimum 3.0 GPA is required, and the program is noted for its comprehensive approach to social work education, with graduate admission tests being optional.

• CSWE-accredited clinical MSW
• Traditional and Advanced Standing tracks
• 60 or 30 semester hours
• Minimum 3.0 GPA required
• Focus on military populations
• 600 clinical field experience hours
• Diverse specialization electives
• Meets clinical licensure requirements
• BSW graduates eligible for Advanced Standing
• Two-year maximum program completion

Mount Vernon Nazarene University offers an online Master of Social Work (MSW) with a concentration in Behavioral Health, designed for those aiming to specialize in mental health and substance abuse services. This program, priced at $565 per credit, allows students to choose between a 62-credit standard track or a 31-credit advanced standing option for BSW graduates. With a focus on ethical practice and clinical skills, graduates are prepared for roles in healthcare, education, and community settings. The program is in pre-candidacy for CSWE accreditation and starts on January 8, 2025. 'No GRE Required'.

• Online MSW program
• Two concentration tracks
• $565 per credit hour
• Next start date January 8, 2025
• Standard track: 62 credit hours
• Advanced track: 31 credit hours
• Advanced standing option available
• Pre-candidacy CSWE accreditation
• Behavioral Health concentration
• School Social Work concentration

Specializing in School Social Work, Mount Vernon Nazarene University's online MSW program equips students with the skills to support students' academic and emotional needs. The program offers two tracks: a 62-credit standard and a 31-credit advanced standing for BSW holders, both at $565 per credit. Emphasizing practical skills and ethical practice, it prepares graduates for roles in educational settings. Starting January 8, 2025, this program is in pre-candidacy for CSWE accreditation. 'No GRE Required'.

• Online Master of Social Work
• Next start date January 8, 2025
• $565 per credit hour
• Standard track: 62 credit hours
• Advanced track: 31 credit hours
• Two concentration options
• Pre-candidacy CSWE accreditation
• Advanced standing for BSW graduates
• Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
• Behavioral Health concentration
• School Social Work concentration

Mount Vernon Nazarene University's online MSW program provides a broad foundation in social work, offering concentrations in Behavioral Health and School Social Work. With tuition at $565 per credit, students can opt for a 62-credit standard track or a 31-credit advanced standing track. The program focuses on clinical skills, policy, and ethics, preparing graduates for diverse social work careers. Starting January 8, 2025, it's in pre-candidacy for CSWE accreditation. 'No GRE Required'.

• Online MSW program
• Next start date January 8, 2025
• $565 per credit hour
• Standard track: 62 credit hours
• Advanced track: 31 credit hours
• Two concentration options
• Pre-candidacy CSWE accreditation
• Advanced standing for BSW holders
• Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA required
• Clinical and school social work tracks

Fayetteville State University's online Master of Social Work (MSW) with a concentration in Children and Family Services is designed to equip students with the skills needed for advanced practice in diverse settings. The program offers flexible enrollment options including advanced standing, full-time, and part-time pathways. With a focus on multicultural competence and social justice, graduates are prepared to tackle challenges in child welfare and integrated care. The curriculum requires 61 credit hours and 960 internship hours, emphasizing practical experience. Highlights include CSWE accreditation, multiple enrollment options, and a focus on urban, rural, and military settings.

• Accredited by CSWE
• Three enrollment options
• 61 total credit hours
• 960 hours field practicum
• Advanced Standing option
• January 15 application deadline
• Three specialty certificates
• Multicultural practice focus
• Urban, rural, military settings
• GPA requirement 3.0

The online Master of Social Work (MSW) program at Fayetteville State University, specializing in Mental Health and Substance Abuse, prepares students for advanced practice in various communities, including military and urban areas. Offering full-time and part-time tracks, the program focuses on social justice and multicultural competence through a 61-credit curriculum and 960 hours of field practicum. Advanced standing is available for eligible students. The program is CSWE accredited and requires a minimum GPA of 3.0, with a January 15 application deadline.

• Accredited by CSWE
• Three enrollment options
• 61 credit hours required
• 960 hours field practicum
• Advanced Standing available
• Full-time and part-time tracks
• Two concentration options
• January 15 application deadline
• Military and urban focus
• Minimum 3.0 GPA required

Fayetteville State University offers an online Master of Social Work (MSW) program designed for professionals seeking to advance their careers in diverse settings. The program provides flexible enrollment options, including advanced standing, full-time, and part-time pathways. Students gain comprehensive skills in social work practice, research, and leadership, addressing issues like poverty and mental health. The curriculum includes 61 credit hours and 960 field practicum hours. Highlights include CSWE accreditation, multiple concentration tracks, and graduate certificate options, with a January 15 application deadline and a 3.0 GPA requirement.

• CSWE Accredited Program
• Three Flexible Enrollment Options
• 61 Total Credit Hours
• 960 Hours Field Practicum
• Advanced Standing Available
• Multiple Concentration Tracks
• January 15 Application Deadline
• Mental Health and Children/Family Concentrations
• Graduate Certificate Options
• 3.0 GPA Requirement

Spring Arbor University's online Master of Social Work (MSW) program is designed for those aiming to reach the pinnacle of social work professionalism. Accredited by the CSWE, it offers flexibility with online, virtual, and face-to-face learning options at $664 per credit. BSW graduates can fast-track their education through a one-year specialized program. The curriculum emphasizes practical internships, social justice, and the integration of Christian values, preparing students for diverse career paths and licensure. With multiple start dates, this program is tailored for aspiring social workers seeking a comprehensive and values-driven education.

• CSWE-accredited MSW program
• 3 learning format options
• $664 per credit hour
• One-year specialized track
• Multiple semester start dates
• Licensure preparation track
• School social work courses
• Christian values integration
• Multiple career pathway options
• Professional references required
• Personal statement mandatory
• Comprehensive internship opportunities

Spring Arbor University's online School Social Work program is tailored for professionals pursuing Michigan Department of Education certification. This non-degree program, requiring a BSW or MSW, focuses on school social work through three specific courses. Offered in fully online 7-week sessions twice yearly, it includes 500 hours of specialized fieldwork. Ideal for those looking to specialize in working with children and youth, this CSWE-accredited program also offers post-MSW continuing education credits, making it a strategic choice for career advancement in school social work.

• Fully online 7-week courses
• Courses offered twice yearly
• Requires BSW or MSW
• Three specific school social work courses
• Michigan state certification focused
• 500 hours specialized field work
• CSWE accredited program requirement
• Post-MSW continuing education credits

The University of Tennessee-Knoxville offers an Online Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW) with a concentration in Clinical Practice, tailored for professionals seeking flexibility without compromising quality. This CSWE-accredited program eliminates the GRE requirement, offering both part-time and full-time study options. Students engage in a mix of synchronous and asynchronous courses, led by esteemed faculty, and must complete field placements to apply their learning in real-world settings. The program's structure supports students in managing their academic, professional, and personal commitments effectively. Highlights include advanced standing options and evening classes to accommodate working professionals.

• Fully online MSSW program
• No GRE required
• Multiple study options
• Synchronous and asynchronous courses
• CSWE accredited program
• Flexible evening class times
• Mandatory field placement
• Part-time and full-time paths
• Advanced standing available

Focusing on Organizational Leadership, the University of Tennessee-Knoxville's Online Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW) equips students with the skills to lead and innovate in social work settings. Accredited by CSWE and requiring no GRE, the program offers flexible part-time and full-time tracks. Courses are delivered in both synchronous and asynchronous formats, ensuring accessibility for all students. A key component is the mandatory field placement, providing hands-on experience. The program mirrors the on-campus curriculum's rigor, facilitated by the same faculty, and includes evening classes and advanced standing options for eligible students.

• Fully online MSSW program
• No GRE required
• CSWE accredited program
• Synchronous and asynchronous courses
• Part-time and full-time options
• Field placement included
• Evening course schedules
• Same professors as on-campus
• Advanced standing available