Compare Online Master of Social Work (MSW) Programs - CSWE Accredited

A master’s in social work from an accredited online program can set you up for an exciting career change. There are a many career options in social work and with the proper accreditation even more opportunities open up, including licensure and a higher earning potential.

As the demand for social workers is expected to grow by 11% between 2018 and 2028, the flexibility offered by online MSW programs will enable a greater number of prospective students the opportunity to earn this degree. You can pursue a master’s in social work online regardless of where you live or work, and you can expect the same high quality from your online degree as you can from its on-campus counterpart.

This comprehensive list of online schools was curated to provide the most accurate and helpful information on all types of CSWE accredited master's in social work degree programs online. In order to help you find the right MSW program for you, we’ve listed all programs on five different factors, including GRE requirements and campus visit requirements that we know are of particular importance to prospective students in online programs.

Why do we only list CSWE-accredited social work programs?

CSWE-accredited programs have been recognized by the educational community and the public as having satisfactory levels of performance, integrity and quality. With this accreditation, students can be confident that the social work program they are investing in, whether it be in person or online, will be able to prepare them for the next steps in their careers. In fact, most state licensing boards require that social workers earn their degrees through CSWE-accredited degree programs.

Even in states that don’t mandate it, CSWE accreditation can make the licensure process simpler through its standardization of educational criteria. Employers may require or prefer their candidates to hold degrees from CSWE-accredited programs.

Online MSW Programs That Meet All Five Factors

Sponsored Programs

All Online Master of Social Work (MSW) Programs Accredited by the CSWE

(Back to Top)

All Online MSW Programs - School Insights

Baylor University

5/5 Factors

MSW@Baylor

• Address injustice from a strengths-based perspective
• Specialize in clinical practice or community practice
• Ethically integrates faith and social work practice
• For service-oriented students

Discover more information about MSW@Baylor

Sponsored Online MSW Program

Additional Factors¹

Online Master of Social Work Program

University Name	Graduation Rate	Percent of Online Graduate Students	Average Length of Program
Baylor University	77%	9%	1-3 years

^{1 Additional factor information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics}

Case Western Reserve University

5/5 Factors

CWRU’s Online MSSA Program

• MSSA is recognized as an equivalent to an MSW
• Complete in as few as two and a half years
• CSWE-accredited

Discover more information about Online Social Work at CWRU

Sponsored Online MSSA Program

Additional Factors¹

Online Social Work Program

University Name	Graduation Rate	Percent of Online Graduate Students	Average Length of Program
Case Western Reserve University	83%	7%	2 - 3 years

^{1 Additional factor information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics}

Fordham University

5/5 Factors

OnlineMSW@Fordham

• Traditional and advanced standing admissions
• Full-time and part-time study options
• Accelerated MSW option available
• Four areas of focus: Individuals and Families, Organizations and Community, Evaluation, and Policy Practice and Advocacy

Discover more about the OnlineMSW@Fordham

Sponsored Online MSW Program

Additional Factors¹

Online Master of Social Work Program

University Name	Graduation Rate	Percent of Online Graduate Students	Average Length of Program
Fordham University	79%	11%	1-2 years

^{1 Additional factor information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics}

Simmons University

5/5 Factors

SocialWork@Simmons

• Field education at local sites
• A progressive, inclusive community
• Focus on direct clinical practice
• Four clinical certifications: Child and Family, Trauma and Interpersonal Violence, Mental Health and Addictions and Health and Aging.

Learn more information about SocialWork@Simmons

Sponsored Online MSW Program

Additional Factors¹

Online Master of Social Work Program

University Name	Graduation Rate	Percent of Online Graduate Students	Average Length of Program
Simmons University	73%	57%	1-2 years

^{1 Additional factor information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics}

University of Denver

5/5 Factors

MSW@Denver

• High-quality mentoring by accessible faculty
• Concentration in mental health and trauma
• Focus on preparing students to fight for social justice
• Study the impact of power, privilege and oppression, focusing on how multiple identities impact life experiences and opportunities

Learn more about the online MSW@Denver program

Sponsored Online MSW Program

Additional Factors¹

Online Master of Social Work Program

University Name	Graduation Rate	Percent of Online Graduate Students	Average Length of Program
University of Denver	75%	22%	2 years

^{1 Additional factor information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics}

University of Southern California

5/5 Factors

MSW@USC

• Traditional and advanced standing programs
• Online classes taught by USC faculty
• Virtual field training to build skills and confidence
• Dedicated field placement specialists identify in-person placements near students’ communities

Discover more information on the MSW@USC

Sponsored Online MSW Program

Additional Factors¹

Online Master of Social Work Program

University Name	Graduation Rate	Percent of Online Graduate Students	Average Length of Program
University of Southern California	92%	22%	1 year

^{1 Additional factor information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics}

(Back to Top)

Temple University

4/5 Factors

Temple Online MSW Program

• Traditional standing option only
• Synchronous meets twice per week
• Concentration in Clinical Health and Mental Health

Additional Factors¹

Online Master of Social Work Program

University Name	Graduation Rate	Percent of Online Graduate Students	Average Length of Program
Temple University	71%	10%	3 years

^{1 Additional factor information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics}

Western New Mexico University (WNMU)

4/5 Factors

WNMU Online MSW Program

• Traditional and advanced standing programs
• Fall, spring and summer admissions
• Specialize in child welfare, gerontology, school social work or military social work.

Additional Factors¹

Online Master of Social Work Program

University Name	Graduation Rate	Percent of Online Graduate Students	Average Length of Program
Western New Mexico University	27%	61%	2-3 years

^{1 Additional factor information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics}

University of Arkansas (U of A)

4/5 Factors

U of A Online MSW Program

• Advanced, full-time program
• Multi-Systems Life Course Concentration
• Asynchronous learning with weekly field seminars

Additional Factors¹

Online Master of Social Work Program

University Name	Graduation Rate	Percent of Online Graduate Students	Average Length of Program
University of Arkansas	62%	33%	1 year

^{1 Additional factor information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics}

University of Central Florida (UCF)

4/5 Factors

UCF Online MSW Program

• Traditional standing, part-time program
• Concentrations in behavioral health or child welfare services

Additional Factors¹

Online Master of Social Work Program

University Name	Graduation Rate	Percent of Online Graduate Students	Average Length of Program
University of Central Florida	70%	29%	3 years

^{1 Additional factor information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics}

University of South Florida (USF)

4/5 Factors

USF Online MSW Program

• Advanced standing, full- or part-time enrollment
• Concentration in clinical social work

Additional Factors¹

Online Master of Social Work Program

University Name	Graduation Rate	Percent of Online Graduate Students	Average Length of Program
University of South Florida	71%	21%	1.5 - 2 years

^{1 Additional factor information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics}

Boise State University

3/5 Factors

Boise State Online MSW Program

• Traditional and advanced standing options
• Concentrations advanced social work practice with individuals and families
• Falls, spring and summer admission

Additional Factors¹

Online Master of Social Work Program

University Name	Graduation Rate	Percent of Online Graduate Students	Average Length of Program
Boise State University	44%	35%	2-3 years

^{1 Additional factor information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics}

(Back to Top)

Boston University (BU)

3/5 Factors

BU’s Online MSW Program

• Three different tracks: traditional, human service experience and advanced standing
• Asynchronous and synchronous coursework
• Concentration available in clinical social work practice

Additional Factors¹

Online Master of Social Work Program

University Name	Graduation Rate	Percent of Online Graduate Students	Average Length of Program
Boston University	87%	17%	2 - 3 years

^{1 Additional factor information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics}

Columbia University

3/5 Factors

Columbia University’s Online MSW Program

• Traditional standing, part- and full-time enrollment
• Concentrations in Advanced Clinical Social Work and Social Enterprise Administration

Additional Factors¹

Online Master of Social Work Program

University Name	Graduation Rate	Percent of Online Graduate Students	Average Length of Program
Columbia University	95%	2%	2 - 4 years

^{1 Additional factor information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics}

Our Lady of the Lake University (OLLU)

3/5 Factors

OLLU Online MSW Program

• Traditional and advanced standing options
• Foundation MSW Program for students with no prior social work experience
• Emphasis on work serving the Hispanic community

Additional Factors¹

Online Master of Social Work Program

University Name	Graduation Rate	Percent of Online Graduate Students	Average Length of Program
Our Lady of the Lake University	38%	59%	1 - 3.5 years

^{1 Additional factor information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics}

(Back to Top)

Portland State University (PSU)

3/5 Factors

PSU Online MSW Program

• Traditional standing, part-time enrollment
• Cohort model with year-round classes
• Concentration in Community and Organizational Leadership Practice

Additional Factors¹

Online Master of Social Work Program

University Name	Graduation Rate	Percent of Online Graduate Students	Average Length of Program
Portland State University	49%	10%	3 years

^{1 Additional factor information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics}

Rutgers University (RU)

3/5 Factors

RU Online MSW Program

• Traditional standing, part-time enrollment
• Cohort model with year-round classes
• Concentration in Community and Organizational Leadership Practice

Additional Factors¹

Online Master of Social Work Program

University Name	Graduation Rate	Percent of Online Graduate Students	Average Length of Program
Rutgers University	68%2	15%2	3 years

^{1 Additional factor information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics
2 Information gathered is average from Camden, New Brunswick and Newark campuses.}

Texas State University, San Marcos

3/5 Factors

Texas State Online MSW Program

• Traditional and advanced standing options
• Cohort model with a variety of asynchronous and synchronous learnings
• Concentration in Administrative Leadership

Additional Factors¹

Online Master of Social Work Program

University Name	Graduation Rate	Percent of Online Graduate Students	Average Length of Program
Texas State University, San Marcos	54%	4%	2 - 4 years

^{1 Additional factor information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics}

(Back to Top)

University at Buffalo (SUNY)

3/5 Factors

SUNY Buffalo Online MSW Program

• Traditional and advanced standing options
• Concentration in evidence-based practice with a trauma-informed and human rights perspective

Additional Factors¹

Online Master of Social Work Program

University Name	Graduation Rate	Percent of Online Graduate Students	Average Length of Program
University at Buffalo (SUNY)	75%	8%	2 - 3 years

^{1 Additional factor information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics}

University of Houston (UH)

3/5 Factors

UH Online MSW Program

• Traditional and advanced standing options
• Asynchronous and synchronous instruction
• Concentration in Clinical Practice: Health and Behavioral Health

Additional Factors¹

Online Master of Social Work Program

University Name	Graduation Rate	Percent of Online Graduate Students	Average Length of Program
University of Houston	54%	5%	2.5 - 3 years

^{1 Additional factor information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics}

University of Nevada, Reno (UNR)

3/5 Factors

UNR Online MSW Program

• Traditional and advanced standing options
• Fall admissions only
• Concentration in Advanced Generalist

Additional Factors¹

Online Master of Social Work Program

University Name	Graduation Rate	Percent of Online Graduate Students	Average Length of Program
University of Nevada, Reno	55%	17%	1 - 4 years

^{1 Additional factor information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics}

University of New Hampshire (UNH)

3/5 Factors

UNH Online MSW Program

• Traditional standing, full-time only
• Cohort model with a variety of asynchronous and synchronous learnings
• Concentration in electives: Health and Mental Health, Addiction and Substance Abuse, Children, Youth and Families and Disabilities

Additional Factors¹

Online Master of Social Work Program

University Name	Graduation Rate	Percent of Online Graduate Students	Average Length of Program
University of New Hampshire	78%	15%	2 - 2.5 years

^{1 Additional factor information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics}

(Back to Top)

University of Tennessee at Knoxville (UTK)

3/5 Factors

UTK Online MSW Program

• Traditional and advanced standing options
• Asynchronous and synchronous instruction
• Concentration in Evidence Based Interpersonal Practice and Management, Leadership and Community Practice

Additional Factors¹

Online Master of Social Work Program

University Name	Graduation Rate	Percent of Online Graduate Students	Average Length of Program
University of Tennessee at Knoxville	70%	11%	1 - 4 years

^{1 Additional factor information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics}

Widener University

3/5 Factors

Widener Online MSW Program

• Traditional standing, part-time only
• Fall, spring and summer admissions
• Concentration in clinical social work and trauma

Additional Factors¹

Online Master of Social Work Program

University Name	Graduation Rate	Percent of Online Graduate Students	Average Length of Program
Widener University	57%	29%	3 years

^{1 Additional factor information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics}

Arizona State University (ASU)

2/5 Factors

ASU’s Online MSW Program

• Traditional standing only, full- or part-time options
• Asynchronous and synchronous coursework
• Advanced generalist concentration

Additional Factors^{1, 2}

Online Master of Social Work Program

University Name	Graduation Rate	Percent of Online Graduate Students	Average Length of Program
Arizona State University	52%	23%	2 - 3 years

^{1 Additional factor information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics
2 Arizona State University’s graduation rate and percent of online graduate students numbers were calculated as an average of five different campuses: Downtown Phoenix, Polytechnic, Skysong, Temple, and West.}

(Back to Top)

California State University - Northridge (CSUN)

2/5 Factors

CSUN's Online MSW Program

• Traditional standing, full-time enrollment only
• Cohort model of coursework progression
• Focus on urban family practice

Additional Factors¹

Online Master of Social Work Program

University Name	Graduation Rate	Percent of Online Graduate Students	Average Length of Program
California State University - Northridge	51%	14%	2 years

^{1 Additional factor information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics}

Edinboro University

2/5 Factors

Edinboro’s Online MSW Program

• Traditional and advanced standing, full-time enrollment only
• Asynchronous coursework and instruction
• Concentration in family social work practice

Additional Factors¹

Online Master of Social Work Program

University Name	Graduation Rate	Percent of Online Graduate Students	Average Length of Program
Edinboro University	43%	76%	1 - 2 years

^{1 Additional factor information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics}

Humboldt State University

2/5 Factors

Humboldt’s Online MSW Program

• Traditional and advanced standing, part-time enrollment only
• Asynchronous instruction with an average of two courses per semester
• Concentration in a generalist program with focus on working with rural and indigenous communities

Additional Factors¹

Online Master of Social Work Program

University Name	Graduation Rate	Percent of Online Graduate Students	Average Length of Program
Humboldt State University	46%	21%	2 - 4 years

^{1 Additional factor information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics}

Indiana University (IU)

2/5 Factors

IU’s Online MSW Program

• Traditional and advanced standing, part-time enrollment only
• Asynchronous and synchronous instruction
• On-campus orientation

Additional Factors^{1, 2}

Online Master of Social Work Program

University Name	Graduation Rate	Percent of Online Graduate Students	Average Length of Program
Indiana University	~39%	~16%	1 - 3 years

^{1 Additional factor information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics
2 Indiana University’s graduation rate and percent of online graduate students numbers were calculated as an average of eight different campuses: Bloomington, East, Kokomo, Northwest, IUPU Fort Wayne, IUPU Indianapolis, South Bend and Southeast.}

(Back to Top)

Louisiana State University (LSU)

2/5 Factors

LSU’s Online MSW Program

• Traditional and advanced standing enrollment options
• Asynchronous instruction with seven week-long courses.

Additional Factors^{1, 2}

Online Master of Social Work Program

University Name	Graduation Rate	Percent of Online Graduate Students	Average Length of Program
Louisiana State University	30%	94%	1 - 3 years

^{1 Additional factor information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics
2 LSU’s graduation rate and percent of online graduate students numbers were selected from the Shreveport campus - the only campus to offer master’s degrees.}

Metropolitan State University of Denver (MSU Denver)

2/5 Factors

MSU Denver’s Online MSW Program

• Traditional and advanced standing, part- and full-time options
• Mostly asynchronous instruction with some synchronous requirements
• Concentrations in Individual and Families or Leadership and Management

Additional Factors¹

Online Master of Social Work Program

University Name	Graduation Rate	Percent of Online Graduate Students	Average Length of Program
Metropolitan State University of Denver	28%	6%	1-5 years

^{1 Additional factor information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics}

The Catholic University of America (CUA)

2/5 Factors

CUA’s Online MSW Program

• Traditional standing, part-time enrollment only
• Cohort model with year-round classes
• Concentration in clinical social work

Additional Factors¹

Online Master of Social Work Program

University Name	Graduation Rate	Percent of Online Graduate Students	Average Length of Program
The Catholic University of America	74%	19%	3 years

^{1 Additional factor information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics}

University of New England (UNE)

2/5 Factors

UNE’s Online MSW Program

• Traditional and advanced standing, part-time and accelerated options
• Cohort model with asynchronous instruction
• Concentration in clinical or community practice

Additional Factors¹

Online Master of Social Work Program

University Name	Graduation Rate	Percent of Online Graduate Students	Average Length of Program
University of New England	59%	52%	1 - 4 years

^{1 Additional factor information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics}

(Back to Top)

California State University - San Bernardino (CSUSB)

1/5 Factors

CSUSB’s Online MSW Program

• Traditional standing part-time enrollment only
• Cohort model with asynchronous and some synchronous coursework

Additional Factors¹

Online Master of Social Work Program

University Name	Graduation Rate	Percent of Online Graduate Students	Average Length of Program
California State University - San Bernardino	54%	16%	3 years

^{1 Additional factor information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics}

Florida State University (FSU)

1/5 Factors

FSU’s Online MSW Program

• Traditional and advanced standing, part-time options
• Mostly asynchronous instruction with some synchronous requirements
• Concentration in clinical social work

Additional Factors¹

Online Master of Social Work Program

University Name	Graduation Rate	Percent of Online Graduate Students	Average Length of Program
Florida State University	80%	18%	2 - 3 years

^{1 Additional factor information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics}

(Back to Top)

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get an MSW?

Full-time advanced standing MSW programs typically take one and a half to two years to complete online. Part-time MSW programs can take up to two and a half years to complete, but students typically complete the program in two years.

What are the differences between Online and On-Campus MSW programs?

Differences between online and on-campus MSW programs depend on the university. Most of the time, an online program is exactly the same as it’s on-campus counterpart. Online programs are typically more flexible -- a student’s geographic location does not matter and they can complete coursework at their own pace.

Which MSW program is the best?

While searching for the best program, you may be considering a few factors, such as your personal interests, online options, and admissions requirements. We’ve listed some factors that might help you narrow down which program might be best for you.

Which programs don’t require GRE?

Admissions requirements vary depending on the university. Some traditional and advanced standing MSW programs require students provide GRE test scores if a student’s GPA is low. There are also MSW programs that do not require the GRE or any other tests for admission.

What are the GPA requirements for MSW programs?

It depends! GPA requirements for MSW programs may vary depending on the school. Universities typically require a GPA of 3.0 or higher for most programs. However, some programs require at least a 2.5 and if the student’s GPA is lower, the university may request a GRE score.

Can you study for a MSW without a BSW?

Students without a BSW should still apply for a MSW if they meet the university’s requirements. Typically, MSW admissions program requirements include a bachelor's degree from an accredited school along with certain prerequisite courses, minimum GPA, and standard application documents, such as a personal statement, undergraduate transcript, and letters of recommendation.

What are the advantages of a MSW over a BSW?

A BSW prepares students for entry level social work. Professionals with a MSW typically enjoy greater career options and a higher salary on average. Many master’s programs offer opportunities to explore specializations such as substance abuse or public health.

What are the different licenses and certifications for MSWs?

Licensure typically depends on education specialization. Generally, professionals with a master’s can become a Licensed Master of Social Work (LMSW) or become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). MSWs can also earn certifications in hospice and palliative care and as school specialists.

What does a typical MSW curriculum look like?

A typical curriculum has required core courses including foundations of social work, research methods, and human behavior. Students also select electives and request field placement that aligns with their interests. The field work component gives students the opportunity to work in professional settings, such as hospitals and community centers.

What are the MSW concentrations?

Social work is incredibly broad and many professionals specialize in a particular field of interest. Some MSW concentrations include children, youth and family social work, administrative leadership, mental health and adult social work, community social work, and community organization.

Are there any internships available for MSW students?

MSW internships give students hands-on social work experience under the guidance and supervision of an instructor. It’s important to speak with the university’s field education department and ask if the university is partnered with any agencies as well as specific field education requirements for the program you’re interested in.

Is financing available for online MSW programs?

An online program doesn’t have to be a huge financial burden and there are some financing options available. Some employers give prospective students tuition assistance, universities offer scholarships, and there may be other student loan options available. It’s important to research as many options as possible and choose a program with a cost you are comfortable paying.

Who should consider a DSW?

If you currently hold an MSW or a master’s degree in a similar field, you may consider earning a Doctorate of Social Work (DSW). A DSW is an advanced degree that typically focuses on administration or clinical social work. It’s a good option for those interested in pursuing a leadership or management position.

What is CSWE Accreditation?

The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) is a partnership of educational and professional social work institutions, social welfare agencies and private citizens. The CSWE is recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation as the sole accrediting agency in the United States for all social work education. CSWE accreditation signals that an undergraduate or graduate social work program satisfactorily meets the council’s standards for student competencies, institutional policies, curricula and more.

Specifically, CSWE accreditation entails:

• Parity regardless of delivery: Accredited programs offer coursework that meet the same standards and criteria, regardless of their delivery in person or online.
• Practical competency: CSWE-accredited programs have a proven track record of preparing their students to meet the practical challenges of professional social work practice.
• Sound policy: Accredited social work programs pursue goals that reinforce the values of the social work profession.
• Requisite curriculum: CSWE-accredited programs offer the courses necessary for students to receive adequate social work preparation.
• Qualified licensure: Accredited social work programs grant degrees mandated by most state licensing boards for social work licensure.
• Proficient employment: CSWE-accredited programs grant degrees required or preferred by employers of social workers.

Best Online MSW Factors

The order in which they are organized is determined by the amount of factors that each online MSW program has met: live classes, offline accessible mobile app, no GRE requirement, no campus requirement and a field placement team available for online students. For any online master of social work degree program that meet the same number of factors, the universities are listed alphabetically. 

For example, since Boise University's online MSW program has no live classes, required wifi for their mobile application, has no GRE requirement, needs no campus visits and has a team available for their online students, Boise meets three out of five factors. 

(Back to Top)

This page was last updated in November 2019. If you have any questions or additional information, please email us at contactus@onlinemswprograms.com.