Social Work Online Masters program at Columbia University in the City of New York

Columbia University's Online Master of Science in Social Work (MSW) program stands as a distinguished and holistic educational pathway within one of the oldest and most respected social work institutions globally. This program blends rigorous training with pioneering teaching methodologies, equipping students to drive significant social change and enhance human well-being. The curriculum is committed to advancing social justice and addresses vital issues such as anti-racism, substance abuse, immigration, the societal impacts of technology, and environmental justice. This program even available on-campus.

The program is distinctly research-oriented, bridging evidence-based practices with hands-on clinical experience. Faculty research spans a variety of critical topics, from the health effects of racism and responses to the opioid crisis, to innovative strategies for alleviating poverty and the dynamics of gang violence.

A steadfast commitment to justice, human rights, and diversity is at the core of the program. Faculty, staff, and students actively engage in non-oppressive practices, promoting equity both in academic settings and in the professional field.

The Online Campus mirrors the on-campus experience by providing access to top-tier educational resources, research opportunities, and community engagement. Events, research centers, and student organizations are accessible to online students across the U.S., ensuring they receive a comprehensive education remotely. Moreover, the program facilitates practicum placements close to students’ residences, supported thoroughly by the Practicum Education Department, to ensure they gain valuable field experience.

Columbia University provides a flexible online Master of Social Work (MSW) program in six distinct pathways, each designed to accommodate different career goals and schedules.

1.Two-Year Online MSW Program: This full-time pathway requires students to enroll in three to four courses each term. Participants should anticipate dedicating seven to eight hours weekly to synchronous classes, plus additional time for homework and other assignments.

• Completion time: Two years (four terms)
• Total credits: 60
• Total practicum education hours: 1,200
• Starts per year: One, fall term
• Prerequisites: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution

2.Advanced Standing Online MSW Program: Similar to the Two-Year program, Advanced Standing students take three to four courses per term, with the same expected commitment to synchronous classes and coursework.

• Completion time: One year
• Total credits: At least 33 at CSSW (transfer up to 27 from previous BSW)
• Total practicum education hours: 600 hours
• Starts per year: One, summer term
• Prerequisites: BSW from a CSWE-accredited university

3.Part-Time to Full-Time (Extended) Online MSW Program: Initially, students in this flexible pathway take one to two courses per term, spending four to six hours each week in synchronous classes, along with time allocated for assignments. The program gradually transitions into a full-time schedule.

• Completion time: Three to four years
• Total credits: 60
• Total practicum education hours: 1,200
• Starts per year: Two, fall and spring terms
• Prerequisites: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution

4.One-Year Residency for Working Professionals (Reduced Residency) Online MSW Program: Tailored for working professionals, this pathway allows students to take two courses per term in the first year, with four to six hours dedicated to synchronous classes weekly. In the subsequent years, students may increase their course load and ultimately move to full-time status, culminating with a practicum placement.

• Completion time: Three to four years
• Total credits: 60
• Total practicum education hours: 900 hours
• Starts per year: Two each year, fall and spring terms
• Prerequisites: Two years (full-time) or four years (part-time) of work in social services

5.Transfer Online MSW Program: Transfer students undertake three to four courses per term, spending six to eight hours weekly in synchronous classes, in addition to homework.

• Completion time: One year
• Total credits: At least 30 at CSSW (transfer up to 30 from previous program)
• Total practicum education hours: 600 hours
• Starts per year: One, fall term
• Prerequisites: One year of graduate-level coursework and practicum work

6.Part-Time Online MSW Program: This pathway maintains the same high academic standards as other options, with students taking one to two courses per term and dedicating four to six hours weekly to synchronous classes, plus additional time for coursework.

• Completion time: Three to four years
• Total credits: 60
• Total practicum education hours: 1,200 hours
• Starts per year: Two, fall and spring terms
• Prerequisites: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution