In this post, our experts are aimed to provide you with the details of Online Master of Social Work (MSW) and the list of best Online MSW Programs at top universities in developed countries.

Online MSW Programs

Globally, social work is considered to be one of the most popular fields of study around the world. Online Master of Social Work (MSW) programs are a viable option for aspiring social workers from all over the world, especially at universities with high rankings. It is possible to study postgraduate programs and work at the same time through online MSW programs. As a result, you will be able to improve your job position and salary as a result.

Advantages of studying MSW

As a result of the high level of social services in developed countries, such as the US and the UK, there are many career opportunities in public and private services related to mental and physical health and consequence abuse, child health and family education, as well as niche areas.

Over the past decades, this field has seen tremendous growth in employment. Furthermore, graduates can find high-value jobs with high salaries and flexible work after completing a short program. Junior social workers in the United States earn about $50,000 on average.

In this post, you can find some of the Online MSW programs in high-ranked universities. It should be noted that the language of these programs is English.

Online MSW Programs at the California University of Pennsylvania

Several people are changing their lives through California University of Pennsylvania’s online social work programs. Those who graduate from this program will have the opportunity to start a lucrative career taking care of children, adults, and seniors. Students in this program will be prepared for an exciting and fulfilling career in social work. Here, you can see the details of Online Social Work programs at the California University of Pennsylvania.

Title: Online Master of Social Work (MSW)

Application Deadlines:

The deadlines for application to MSW programs are listed below. Advanced Standing applicants interested in starting in Fall instead of Summer should contact the MSW Program Director.

  • Summer start Advanced Standing application deadline: May 1
  • Fall start Regular Standing application deadline: July 1
  • Spring start Regular Standing application deadline: November 1

Degree Benefits:

PennWest California’s social work master’s degree program prepares students to respond professionally to increasingly complex rural human needs. M.S.W. students also:

  • Learn with a theoretical and professional practice-focused curriculum in social work.
  • Gain an understanding and appreciation of cultural diversity and its importance.
  • Work in direct and indirect practice and develop their leadership capacities.

Summary:

This program is a Blended delivery style at the California University of Pennsylvania. That means, two main parts online and face-to-face.

The Master of Social Work (MSW) program at PennWest California prepares you to work with individuals, families, small groups, communities and organizations in today’s American communities.

As a professional social work master’s degree program in a public university located in a rural, small-town area, the MSW program at PennWest California is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all people within the surrounding Pennsylvania region and in our broader society.

Gain specialized skills to serve our region’s communities

The MSW degree program offers the advanced generalist specialization with a trauma-informed focus:

  • Train as a social work professional who is skilled to work at all levels of practice across many population groups.
  • Work alongside social work faculty on grant-funded projects such as a recent study of aging and older adults.

PennWest California’s MSW graduate degree program is fully accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), the only accrediting body for social work education programs at the bachelor’s and master’s degree levels.

Application Information & Requirements:

MSW program applications are managed through the Slate application system. Applicants are required to submit the following:

  • Professional resume
  • Official transcript verifying an earned baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher education that includes a minimum of 21 semester hours of credit (or equivalent) distributed within a liberal arts curriculum in humanities, mathematics, physical and biological sciences, social and behavioral sciences, and fine arts.
  • Official transcript demonstrating a minimum GPA of 3.0. Applicants with a GPA below 3.0 may be considered for acceptance to the Regular MSW program on the condition that they earn a GPA of at least 3.0 during their first semester of the MSW program.
  • Two professional or educational references from individuals who can indicate readiness for graduate study and/or advanced social work practice. Applicants to the Advanced Standing Program are strongly encouraged to submit references from their undergraduate field educator, faculty, and/or supervisor.
  • A personal statement that addresses the following in 3-4 double-spaced pages:
    •  Why you have chosen to enter the social work profession.
    • Your ability to value the perspectives of diverse populations.
    • How your academic, professional, personal, and volunteer experiences have prepared you for graduate studies in social work.
    • Your motivation to apply to the MSW Program at PennWest

Learn More and Apply.

Title: The combined MBA and Social Work program

Degree Benefits:

Like all specialized Master of Business Administration programs at PennWest California, the concentration in social work administration includes:

  • Core cross-disciplinary courses that build decision-making and leadership skills.
  • Concentration courses that let you pursue specialized study.
  • Electives that help you tailor your degree to your individual goals.

In the 3-credit capstone course, you’ll take part in simulated leadership experiences that demonstrate your ability to make ethical decisions regarding organizational strategy.

Summary:

This course is a special program at the California University of Pennsylvania. Indeed, it is a Combined Master of Social Work (MSW) degree with a Master of Business Administration (MBA).

Combine your Master of Social Work degree with an MBA designed specifically to build business, management and leadership skills for social work administrators.

PennWest California’s MBA in Social Work Administration supplements your MSW degree with the business knowledge required to manage a professional practice or take a leading role at a social service agency or nonprofit organization.

The Master of Business Administration portion of this dual degree program can be completed 100% online or through blended on-campus and online study. You can earn the MBA in 15 months of full-time study, or on a part-time schedule.

Students wishing to study on-campus or through a combination of on-campus and online coursework (multi-modal) must begin their MBA program in the Fall semester.

REGULAR ADMISSION

  • Applicants must meet the MBA Admission Requirements and hold or be enrolled in an MSW from PennWest California or comparable MSW program from another regionally accredited school. (Students with a GPA below 3.00 may apply for conditional admission)
  • Official transcripts from a regionally accredited institution

CONDITIONAL ADMISSION

  • Conditional Admission may be granted with the following modifications of the Regular Admissions Requirements:
    • MSW degree with a GPA under 3.00 will be reviewed for a decision
    • GMAT with a 550 or higher may be requested

PROVISIONAL ADMISSION

  • Applicants who have provided unofficial documentation of test scores, transcripts or lack of letter(s) of recommendation may be admitted provisionally.

    This policy also applies to undergraduate students who apply for graduate admission pending bachelor degree completion. Upon receipt of all official documents, a student will be changed from Provisional Admission to either Regular Admission or Conditional Admission. Provisional Admission students may take classes for one term but will not be eligible for Federal Financial Aid.

Learn More and Apply.

Online MSW Programs at the Open University

Taking a social work course online from Open University is a flexible and affordable option. The Open University offers a BSW and MSW online that can be completed from any location. It is a self-paced, interactive program that is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can find some of the best Online Social Work programs at the Open University here.

Title: Master in Social Work

Credits: 180

Duration: Minimum – 30 months

Study method: Distance and practice-based learning

Summary:

There is not any subject limitation. It is interdisciplinary, derived from psychology, sociology, social policy, law and social work studies. It contains 180 module credits.

This course will enhance your knowledge of social work theory and legislation, apply your learning to practice, and develop your critical and analytical skills as a qualified practitioner. The subject matter is interdisciplinary, derived from psychology, sociology, social policy, law and social work studies. It includes an embedded, professionally qualifying Postgraduate Diploma in Social Work, which has been approved as a qualifying award for social workers in England by Social Work England (SWE) and in Scotland by the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC).

Entry requirements:

Applicants will be required to have an honours degree with a minimum 2:2 classification in any discipline together with a proven record of experience of engaging directly with Service Users in a professional setting. Candidates’ experience will be considered individually on application but we would normally expect a minimum of one year’s experience – either paid or voluntary – in a setting such as a local authority or a health or social care provider in the private, voluntary or independent sector.

Applicants who do not meet the work experience requirement but hold a 2:1 classification in a cognate discipline will also be considered. Relevant subjects include:

  • Health and Social Care
  • Nursing
  • Occupational Therapy
  • Psychology
  • Sociology/Social Studies
  • Law/Legal studies
  • Teaching/Education

In addition, you must satisfy the following entry criteria:

  • Complete an OU application form which will include a personal statement, references and employer’s endorsement
  • Complete a declaration of suitability for social work
  • Have GCSE grade 9–4 (A*–C) in English and mathematics or certified equivalent
  • Demonstrate IT competence through self-declaration
  • Achieve an International English Language Testing Systems (IELTS) score of 7 if English is not your first language
  • Undertake a written test
  • Take part in an interview
  • Have an enhanced DBS with lists check (i.e. checks against all registers including both children and vulnerable adults) dated within one year prior to starting the programme
  • Complete a health check. If, in exceptional circumstances, there are serious doubts about your fitness to practice on health grounds, the University’s doctor may ask you to undergo a medical examination. This examination will be at  your own expense.

You must be supported by your employer, who must undertake to provide the required practice learning opportunities. Applications for this qualification can only be made via the supporting agency.

Learn More and Apply.

Online MSW Programs at the Wilfrid Laurier University (Canada)

A new online degree in Social Work has been developed at Wilfrid Laurier University due to the growth of social media and the need for more social workers. In this program, students are given the opportunity to explore a variety of practice settings. They learn skills in a range of approaches such as cognitive behaviour therapy, systemic family therapy, or psychodynamic approaches. Online Social Work programs at Wilfrid Laurier University (Canada) can be found here.

Title: Online Master of Social Work (MSW)

Summary:

It is a two years Online Master’s program at Wilfrid Laurier University. Wilfrid Laurier University is a public university located in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada. The Master of Social Work (MSW) curriculum is designed to be at the cutting edge of contemporary social work practice.

Our curriculum emphasizes the development of critically reflexive practice skills through the ongoing integration of knowledge, theory and practice within a framework that promotes the advancement of equity, inclusivity, reflexivity and social justice. It is our anticipation that graduates of our program will walk alongside those with whom they work, in collaborative, inclusive, reflexive and caring ways and that they will stand up for what they believe is just.

Program Highlights:

Why choose Laurier? We have an outstanding reputation as one of Canada’s top graduate schools for social work education:

  • Since 1966, we have graduated nearly 5,400 social workers.
  • More than 85% of our graduates find full-time employment in the field.
  • The field education office works with various agencies across the social work landscape to identify MSW-level placements. Students are then matched to placements for an interview.
  • Classes usually do not exceed 30 students; this allows for strong relationships between faculty and students and encourages personal learning.
  • We are fully accredited by the Canadian Association for Social Work Education (CASWE).

Learn More and Apply.

Online MSW Programs at the University of Michigan

The University of Michigan offers online social work programs designed for working professionals who wish to pursue their education online. Online social work programs offered by the University of Michigan will prepare you for a successful career in social work. You can learn more about the Online Social Work programs at the University of Michigan here.

Title: Online Clinical Master of Social Work degree program (MSW)

Summary:

This Online course is one of the best online programs. The main curriculum of this program is Interpersonal Practice in Integrated Health, Mental Health, & Substance Abuse. 

Advantages:

  • The online degree is a 45 credit program saving you time and money
  • You will have assistance from an admission counselor and academic advisor
  • You can connect with faculty one-on-one during office hours
  • We provide field placements near your community
  • You can balance a career and an MSW degree with this program

Who Can Apply:

Students must enter the Online MSW program through one of the following statuses. Click the links below for detailed information and to apply.

  • Advanced Standing (you earned a BSW degree with a 3.5 GPA or higher)
  • MasterTrack (start with this online certificate if you are not advanced standing eligible)
  • U-M Sociology and Social Work (Ann Arbor)
  • UM-Dearborn Human Services and Social Work

Learn More and Apply.

Online MSW Programs at the Brescia University

A one-year graduate programme in Online Social Work is offered by Brescia University. Throughout the program, students will explore the relationship between social work and the internet, as well as how these technologies can be used for society’s benefit. Detailed information about Brescia University’s online social work programs can be found here.

Title: Online Master of Social Work (MSW)

Summary:

This 30-credit-hour Master’s programme has some requirements such as a CSWE accredited Bachelor of Social Work program in the last five years with a social work GPA of 3.2.

Brescia University’s Master of Social Work degree prepares advanced generalist social workers with the specialized skills to offer therapy, address complex problems, use evidence-based practice interventions, engage in scientific inquiry, and take leadership roles within their work environments and on behalf of the profession. Brescia’s MSW program teaches the advanced skills needed by social workers across the country.Brescia University offers two options for obtaining your Master of Social Work degree:

  • a 30-credit-hour, advanced standing Master of Social Work option for students who have completed a CSWE accredited Bachelor of Social Work program in the last five years with a social work GPA of 3.2. Both full-time and part-time programs are available. The full time advanced standing program can be completed in 1 year. The part-time advanced standing program can be completed in 2 years.
  • a two-year, 60-credit-hour, Master of Social Work option for students who have completed a bachelor’s degree with a major GPA of 3.0.

Brescia University will reimburse MSW graduates who pass the ASWB licensing examination, up to $230. Students should take the examination as soon as they are eligible, as determined by the state where they will practice.

Brescia University’s Master of Social Work program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education.

Prerequisites:

Admission to the Advanced Standing program requires a Bachelor of Social Work degree from a CSWE-accredited institution (or from a college/university recognized through CSWE’s International Social Work Degree Recognition and Evaluation Services) within the last five years.

Undergraduate level prerequisite

  • An Introduction to Social Work course with a minimum grade of C, or its equivalent

Learn More and Apply.

Online MSW Programs at the Campbellsville University

For those interested in a career in social work, Campbellsville University offers an online social work program. Course topics include human behavior, social welfare, social and cultural foundations, child and family advocacy, health and mental health programs, and community organization. Find out more about Campbellsville University’s (KY) Online Social Work program here.

Title: Campbellsville University’s online Master of Social Work (MSW)

Course Length: 8 Weeks

Estimated Length: 2 Years

Credit Hours: 60-63

Summary:

This online MSW degree can be achieved in about 2 years and have 60 credit hours. There is also an advanced standing track programme which can be finished in just one year.

The online Master of Social Work degree from Campbellsville University prepares you for career advancement so that you can move out of entry-level positions in the field. With a curriculum rooted in ethical and Christian ideals along with trauma-informed practice, this program helps you develop an advanced understanding of the practical and theoretical knowledge necessary for becoming a leader in social work.

Developed for your professional success, the program’s foundation curriculum examines the basic skills required for general social work practice with individuals, families, communities and groups. Additionally, courses also address societal changes, influences and trends, and multicultural issues and religion.

The fully online MSW program allows you to study in a format that fits your life and current work commitments. You will learn from a faculty of expert practitioners who incorporate valuable field experience into the curriculum.

With our CSWE-accredited online MSW, you can pursue a career in a wide range of areas, including therapy and counseling, community mental health, child protection, the criminal justice system, public advocacy and home health. You could also enter a career in the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or as an addiction or substance abuse counselor while on active duty in the U.S. military.

Admissions Requirements:

In order to apply to Campbellsville University’s accredited online master’s degree in social work, students must complete or submit for review the following steps:

  1. Online application
  2. Completed Carver School MSW graduate program application form (sent via Adobe Sign)
  3. Conferred degree transcripts from all accredited institutions
  4. Three recommendations using the standardized social work program recommendation form (sent via Adobe Sign)

Application Deadline Dates:

  • Fall Term: Complete your application by June 15
  • Spring Term: Complete your application by November 15
  • Summer Term: Complete your application by March 15

Field Deadline Dates:

  • Fall Term: July 1
  • Spring Term: December 1
  • Summer Term: April 1

Learn More and Apply.

Online MSW Programs at the Humboldt State University

Humboldt State University is the first school in California to offer an online social work degree. Students who find it difficult to balance work, school, and family life will benefit from the program, which allows them to pursue their degrees at their own pace. You can find details about Humboldt State University’s Online Social Work programs here.

Title: Masters Degree in Social Work

Summary:

For this programme, the candidates should have some basic requirements such as completing a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution of higher education with a GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale and demonstrate having met the requirements for a Bachelor’s degree or a comparable course of study as an undergraduate.

The Master of Social Work (MSW) program is an advanced generalist with an emphasis on working in rural and Indigenous communities. The program teaches students how to achieve a disciplined, compassionate presence to a caring, and ethical practice.

The goals of the MSW Program are to:
1.  Prepare students for professional social work practice responsive to the challenges and resources present in rural areas and indigenous communities.
2.  Present local, historical, and contemporary social issues within a global perspective.

The program prepares students for advanced generalist practice which emphasizes multi-system, multi-level approaches in which practitioners and clients work in collaboration to enhance the functioning and resilience within systems through building on existing strengths.  

Students develop a framework for practice guided by personal and professional values and ethics. Cultural humility, compassion, partnership, empowerment, non-expert relational paradigms, critical reflection, and social action for justice are the concepts that form the foundation for learning and developing social work practice at Cal Poly Humboldt. 

The MSW program at Cal Poly Humboldt is fully accredited by the Council on Social Work Education. The MSW program is delivered in several formats and offers:

  • Full-time, two-year course of study on campus
  • Full-time Advanced Standing one-year program on campus for candidates with an accredited undergraduate degree in social work
  • Part-time Advanced Standing 2-year Distributed Learning/online program for candidates with an accredited undergraduate degree in social work
  • Part-time 3.5-year Distributed Learning/online program

 Students in the online program must live in the state of California while they are in the social work program.

Learn More and Apply.

Online MSW Programs at Columbia University

Professionals can advance their careers by enrolling in online social work programs. The Columbia University School of Social Work offers an online-only MSW program designed for working professionals who cannot attend a traditional campus-based program. Here are details about Columbia University’s online social work programs.

Title: MSW degree Master of Social Work

Course Type: 100% online coursework with majority synchronous classes

Summary:

This Master’s degree has a deadline time for the Fall semester which is the Final Deadline of February.

Columbia’s Master of Science in Social Work is one of the oldest and most esteemed MSW programs in the world. Columbia students have unparalleled access to rigorous training, innovative teaching, and proven methods to transform lives and lead society forward. Our Online Campus option combines all the benefits of the MSW program within an award-winning online experience.

“The Columbia School of Social Work dedicates itself to maximizing human well-being and ensuring that all can reach their full potential. Our research initiatives, educational programs, and community partnerships are designed to promote social justice across all sectors and strata of society. Our work spans the most pressing issues impacting social welfare: from poverty and economic opportunity, to anti-racism efforts, to opioid and substance use disorders, to immigration and migration, to technology’s effects on the lived experience, and of course, to environmental justice. For us, ethics is not only a philosophy, but a practice performed at all levels of society; and justice is the conscious practice of avoiding harm, undoing harm, and re-imagining and building equitable societies.”

Learn More and Apply.

Online MSW Programs at the Florida State University

Florida State University offers online social work programs that prepare students for careers as social workers. You can earn a Bachelor’s degree, a Master’s degree, or a Doctorate degree through these programs. Children, adolescents, and their families will be taught how to work with this curriculum. You can find information about Florida State University’s online social work programs here.

Title: Traditional Online MSW Program

Summary:

This Online programme consists of 61 hours of credits and it can be completed in about three years.

FSU ONLINE MSW PROGRAM APPLICATION DEADLINES

Spring 2023 (January 5, 2023 start date) – Application deadline is October 1, 2022 – application portal is OPEN! 

Summer 2023- Application deadline is March 1, 2023

Fall 2023 – Application deadline May 1, 2023

The application must be complete by the deadline, including the initial appointment with an advisor and submission of all required documents.

It is recommended that the students should apply as early as possible to the proposed term of enrollment.

Admission Requirements At-a-Glance:

  • You have baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution
  • GRE not required
  • You have a 3.0 GPA or better on everything past the first 60 hours of undergraduate courses (upper-division GPA), or you must have earned a master’s degree from a regionally accredited institution
  • Submit a statement of purpose and resume
  • If you have completed a baccalaureate degree in social work

Learn More and Apply.

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