2100 accredited US Universities for Graduate Programs. 400+ specializations.
1400 No GRE, GMAT schools for the Master’s program
700+ Graduate scholarships totaling $3.5 mm
Best Online Masters Programs in Social Work
Online Master's degree in Social Work is offered by 102 US universities. The tuition for the Master's degree can range from $8,778 per year at Appalachian State University to $86,760 at Columbia University in the City of New York.

The Doctorate in Clinical Social Work is a fully online program that offers all the advantages of a world class learning community in a highly interactive, relational, accessible and convenient format. Balancing the rigor of doctoral education with the practical considerations of busy working professionals, students complete the coursework and dissertation simultaneously, earning the degree in 3 years without career disruption. The program uses a combination of campus immersion experiences and online course delivery (videoconferencing) that works for working professionals, wherever they live. Students enjoy an unparalleled educational experience, coming together to interact and learn on an Ivy League campus during the campus immersion experiences. Technology is used to connect, not to distance. The program recognizes the importance of relational learning and all of the online course delivery and educational strategies are chosen with an eye toward building knowledge in community. Renowned faculty from all over the world teach cutting-edge courses on the latest in clinical practice, research, and teaching. Graduates’ successes prove that the DSW is a gateway to fulfilling careers as social work practice leaders and educators.
Students begin the program with a five day immersion experience on Penn’s Philadelphia campus at the start of the fall semester (late August/early September). During this residency period, students attend their first classes and participate in a variety of activities that immerse them in the Penn experience and prepare them for the DSW program. Students come to campus for one more five-day residency period in the summer following the first year. Students who are able to travel to campus more often are invited to do so to use the library, meet with faculty, and take advantage of other campus resources and activities.
Classes meet online two evenings each week for two hours. Students and faculty log in on their personal computers or devices from wherever they are. The real-time online video conferencing format allows everyone to be seen and heard at all times, closely approximating a physical classroom experience. Students are in class for the first two years of the program; in the third year, students participate in a Dissertation Seminar Series that provides support and structure as they complete the last stages of the dissertation.
The curriculum is designed to bridge theory, practice, and research, and prepare students for teaching. Students are actively engaged in learning about and critiquing the latest developments, discoveries, and best practices in evidence-based social work practice and teaching. Classes are taught by Penn faculty and renowned visiting faculty and clinician experts from across the country. The dissertation provides an opportunity to gain deep knowledge and become a content expert in a particular area, as well as contribute to the social work knowledge base.
Doctorate in Clinical Social Work
- Program Length: 36 Months
- Credit hours: -
- Cost per credit: -
- Program Cost: $38,160
- Admission deadline: -
- Scholarships Available: No
- GRE Required: Yes

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
Online Master of Science in Social Work
- Program Length: 12 Months
- Credit hours: 60
- Cost per credit: $1,115
- Program Cost: $66,943
- Admission deadline: -
- Scholarships Available: Yes
- GRE Required: No

The online Master of Social Work (MSW) program prepares students to effect positive change at the individual, community or macro level through weekly online classes and an innovative virtual and in-person fieldwork approach.
Alumni of our online MSW program are making a difference worldwide across a range of fields, including mental health, family counseling, and military and community advocacy. The online MSW program is available both full-time and part-time.
The program can be taken full-time or part-time.
Advanced Standing: 37 Units If you hold a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from an accredited institution, you may be eligible for the advanced standing program, which can also be completed full-time or part-time.
The online MSW program at USC features a rigorous curriculum that is the same as that of the on-campus program.
Hear the MSW program curriculum now.
Virtual Field Practicum: Online group sessions that provide a clinical simulation with an actor portraying a client.
The MSW USC Social Work program leads to a Master of Social Work degree.
Students will complete seven core courses, three electives and fieldwork for the Adult Mental Health and Wellness curriculum.
Children, Youth and Families The Children, Youth and Families curriculum prepares social workers who can advocate for children and youth in the social environments in which they live and create service programs that support families of diverse backgrounds.
Social Change and Innovation The Social Change and Innovation curriculum focuses on social change and innovation in a global context. Students will explore evidence-based research in either business or community development by choosing classes that focus on either area of study. Community Development and Social Change courses teach students to think critically communities and organizations, and facilitate change within them. Social Work and Business courses prepare students to build corporate social responsibility programs and guide businesses to nurture positive community relationships.
Earn your Master of Social Work degree online. Request information now.
Graduates are responsible to research licensure requirements in the state they wish to practice. Graduates may pursue roles in a variety of settings and functions, including working with individuals, groups and families.
USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work.
Program is online but has a physical component, such as workshops on campus.
See program information site for additional information.
Additional financial aid may be available through the program.
Master of Social Work
- Program Length: 12 Months
- Credit hours: 42
- Cost per credit: -
- Program Cost: -
- Admission deadline: -
- Scholarships Available: Yes
- GRE Required: Yes
130 universities offer the Master's program in Social Work.
Which one best suits your need?

The U-M School of Social Work and Sociology have partnered to create an opportunity for U-M undergraduate sociology students to enter the MSW program. Upon graduation, students can continue their MSW degree online.
Advantages of MSW: (1)Promote social justice through direct service and advocacy on the local, national and global levels. (2)Earn a BA in four years and your MSW part-time saving the time and money. (3)Earn a BA in Sociology and MSW from the #1 schools in the country (U.S. News & World Reports). (4)96% of U-M MSW graduates looking for jobs are employed. (5)They provide field placements near students community in the U.S. (6)Students can balance a career and an MSW degree. (7)Students will have an opportunity to visit Ann Arbor, complete a social work course, and meet their cohort.U-M Sociology and Social Work MSW Online
- Program Length:
- Credit hours:
- Cost per credit:
- Program Cost:
- Admission deadline:
- Scholarships Available:
- GRE Required:

Stick figures representing the number of full-ride scholarships. There were 17 full-ride admission scholarships for the Part-Time MSW Program in 2022-2023.
Hybrid Courses With In-Person Sessions Every Other Saturday.
Applications are now open for the 2023-24 academic year!
You can also register for a Part-Time Program Informational Session.
Some courses are designed as blended courses with a mix of online learning and in-person sessions while others are taught as online courses. In-person sessions take placeevery other Saturday on our Madison campus. Students should plan to be on campus each semester and be available each Saturday for class.
Please note that the move to hybrid courses is a permanent change and not related to COVID-19. In addition, admission to the Eau Claire site has been discontinued.
Both our Full and Part-Time MSW Programs are accredited through the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).
Program Course Enrollment Policy: Students in this program cannot enroll in other graduate programs. All MSW requirements must be met by taking courses in the Part-Time MSW Program.
The Sandra Rosenbaum School of Social Work offers a number of Awards and Scholarships. Part-Time students in Child, Youth, and Family Welfare are also encouraged to apply for Public Child Welfare Training funding once they have been accepted.
For students without a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree, the focus of the curriculum for the first two years of study in the Part-Time MSW Program is on Generalist Practice.
Curriculum is generalist and is designed to provide you with foundational social work knowledge, values and skills and to prepare you for the Advanced Generalist Specialization.
In a broad social justice framework, advanced practice (students continuing from the Generalist years) or advanced standing (students entering the Program with a recent BSW) MSW students complete a generalist advanced practice specialization in one of two social problem focus areas. Students may also choose to have no focus area.
The Child, Youth, and Family Welfare focus area in the Part-Time MSW Program is intended for students with an interest in school social work, child welfare, or advanced generalist social work practice with children, youth, and families in other contexts and systems (e.g., juvenile justice, community-based services). The focus area exposes students to the policies and practice philosophies of multiple service systems, the ways in which these varied systems intersect, and models of coordinated service delivery for families involved in multiple systems. Students are exposed to innovative prevention and intervention strategies designed to reduce risk and promote resilience in children, youth, and families from diverse backgrounds and family structures.
Sub-focus areas available: Child Welfare, School Social Work, or Health and Aging.
Students who are accepted into the Title IV-E Stipend Program take electives in child welfare, complete a specialized field placement in child welfare, and attend additional learning activities that help prepare for work in public child welfare. Students pursuing school social work licensure take electives that prepare them for school social work licensure, including a school social work practice course and a school social work field placement. Students pursuing the Health and Aging sub-focus take a health and aging elective and have a health and aging field placement.
The Mental Health focus area prepares social workers for advanced practice roles in a variety of mental health settings, including those that address the needs of the most marginalized and underserved members of our communities.
Although the focus area embraces a life course perspective, it primarily focuses on clinical social work practice with children, youth, and adults who are living with, or at risk for, serious mental health and substance use problems. Students in this focus area learn advanced practice skills in mental health assessment, diagnosis, treatment, client-centered advocacy, interdisciplinary collaboration, and evaluation of practice and client outcomes from an intersectional approach. They develop knowledge of conceptual and theoretical frameworks for understanding the nature, etiology, course, and consequences of major mental health conditions, as well as evidence-based and emerging models of clinical social work practice. Students also learn current social policies, funding mechanisms and service delivery systems that affect mental health consumers and their families. A recovery orientation, consumer empowerment, and cultural humility are woven into the mental health focus area curriculum.
Students who graduate with this focus area are prepared for clinical mental health positions in hospitals, outpatient clinics, community mental health programs and .
Tally Moses, MSW, PhD Angela Willits, MSW, LCSW.
The Part-Time MSW Program (PTP) follows a different schedule than the UW-Madison academic calendar. All classes held in-person occur on Saturdays unless otherwise listed.
Part-Time MSW Program Student Spotlight: Bethany L Matson.
Part-Time Master of Social Work Program Sandra Rosenbaum School of Social Work UW–Madison
- Program Length:
- Credit hours:
- Cost per credit:
- Program Cost:
- Admission deadline:
- Scholarships Available:
- GRE Required:

Boston University’s School of Social Work (BUSSW) is committed to education that furthers social and economic justice, and incorporates these ideals into its programs and activities. The aim is to educate professional social workers who will become leaders in a complex, diverse, and multicultural society. Graduates will possess the knowledge and the skills to address the needs and potentials of individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. BUSSW recognizes the ever-changing demands of the profession, and meets them through the highest-quality teaching, scholarship, research, practice, and political action.
The BUSSW Online MSW Program offers and innovative part-time format with majors in Clinical and Macro Practice and 3 track options, ensuring that each student’s graduate program is tailored to his or her academic and professional experience. For those majoring in Clinical, this program enables you to become license eligible in your state of residence.
Online Master of Social Work (MSW)
- Program Length:
- Credit hours:
- Cost per credit:
- Program Cost:
- Admission deadline:
- Scholarships Available:
- GRE Required:

Our graduate degree programs help set the stage to take your career to the next level and to make a difference in the lives of others.
Complete full or part-time coursework on the Urbana-Champaign campus. The iMSW program affords students the opportunity to obtain their MSW degree part-time through fully online courses while maintaining employment, offering you both flexibility and freedom.
Our joint MSW PhD program is intended for those students interested in PhD study who have a Masters in a related field but who have not earned an MSW degree.
Our PhD program equips students with tangible skills to use rigorous scientific methods to develop and disseminate knowledge, teach the next generation of social workers, and help serve their communities.
School of Social Work - Graduate Programs
- Program Length:
- Credit hours:
- Cost per credit:
- Program Cost:
- Admission deadline:
- Scholarships Available:
- GRE Required:

The online social work master’s experience at the Mandel School includes weekly live classes, in-person field education and continuous student support. We designed our online social work master’s program to fit seamlessly into a variety of lifestyles. The rigor of the program is the same as our on-campus and intensive weekend options—the only difference is that the program is delivered entirely online, with no campus visits required.
The online social work master’s program is designed and led by the same distinguished faculty who teach in the on-campus programs. Students will learn from social work education leaders who are passionate about shaping social work discourse and forming the next generation of change agents and social work leaders.
Online Social Work Master’s Degree
- Program Length:
- Credit hours:
- Cost per credit:
- Program Cost:
- Admission deadline:
- Scholarships Available:
- GRE Required:

Tulane University has built its Master of Social Work program on the foundation of its century-long experience training social workers in New Orleans. In other words, New Orleans’ unique resilience in facing disaster, its creativity and innovation, and its open and indefatigable activist community are all written indelibly into our curriculum. Tulane’s MSW program fits into students’ lives, because it’s adaptable to their schedules.
Online MSW Program
- Program Length:
- Credit hours:
- Cost per credit:
- Program Cost:
- Admission deadline:
- Scholarships Available:
- GRE Required:

Our MSW program is ranked No. 18 by U.S. News and World Report among public master of social work programs. Our graduates have high pass rates on national licensing exams. You gain experience through impactful field internships and research opportunities that focus on your areas of interest, mentored by top scholars and professionals.
With Athens, metro Atlanta, and Online campuses and financial resources to support your professional goals, we make it possible for you to attend full-time, extended-timeor online. Full-time program students can choose from three specializations: micro practice, macro practice and integrated practice that combines micro and macro practice specializations. The Extended-time and Online programs offer the micro practice specialization only.
Master of Social Work
- Program Length:
- Credit hours:
- Cost per credit:
- Program Cost:
- Admission deadline:
- Scholarships Available:
- GRE Required:
What kind of scholarships are available for Online Master's Programs in Social Work?
We have 9 scholarships awarding up to $65,129 for Masters program in for Social Work, targeting diverse candidates and not restricted to state or school-based programs.
Scholarship name | Amount | Credibility |
---|---|---|
QS WM Social Responsibility Scholarship | $10,000 | High |
Lincoln Institute 75 Fellowship for Ethics and Equity in Public Administration | $5,000 | High |
Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Chicago Academic Scholarship | $4,000 | Medium |
James M. & Erma T. Freemont Foundation Scholarship Program | $1,875 | Medium |
Lex Hester Endowed Fellowship for Public Administration | $1,500 | High |
Find scholarships and financial aid for Social Work graduate programs
What is the GRE score required for admission to Master's degree in Social Work?
102 accredited universities offer an online Master's program in Social Work. The tuition for an online master's program ranges from $5,665 to $122,352.
Our promise is that we will help you find the accredited college for the online Master's at an affordable price tag. Use our Match me with Online Master's program to find the college that fits your needs and is affordable.
Cheapest Online Masters Program in Social WorkIs it worth getting an online master's degree in Social Work?
Before you invest 1 - 2 years of your time and anywhere between $20,000 - $60,000 prospective students should think about what is the return on investment on the Master’s degree. Here are some of the statistics from bls.gov.
Can I still apply for scholarships and financial aid even if it is an Online Master's program?
Our team has added the scholarships applicable for Graduate programs and most of these scholarships are only verifying the school you are studying at and the program you have applied to. Most of the time, it does not matter if it is an online master’s program or if it is an on-campus program. For renewable scholarships, you will have to maintain a minimum GPA. Schools will give out financial-aid and need-based aid for online Master’s programs and that can be enquired about at the time of application or after you have been admitted. The great news is that your net tuition cost can further come down with these scholarships.
Are there any one-year Online Master’s programs in Social Work?
Yes, there are accredited universities that offer one year online masters program in Social Work?
Most of the Nationally ranked accredited universities offer 2 years master’s program, some of the schools are offering 1-year and 18-month Online Master's degrees. If you are able to meet the credit requirements, you can finish an 18-month program in one year, making it a one-year program.
51 Universities offer an online Master's program within One Year - 18 months. The tuition for a Master's can range from $8,160 to $84,900.
Online Masters 1 year - 18 months in Social WorkWhich are the accredited universities that offer online doctoral programs offered in Social Work?
13 universities offer graduate PHD online program in Social Work
Best Social Work graduate PHD online programsWhich schools do not require GRE/GMAT for Social Work Online Masters program?
Quite a few accredited universities have waived off the GRE score requirements for admissions to Online Masters programs.
University of Maryland-College Park: If applicant feel that their GRE or GMAT score will improve the strength of their application, the university encourage applicant to score.Have received a combined SAT score of at least 1200, otherwise applicant will need GRE scores.SAT scores , otherwise GRE scores must be submittedUniversity of Washington-Seattle Campus: Test scores of the Graduate Record Exam are required by the University of Washington Graduate School as part of the application process.The GRE Aptitude Test measures general scholastic ability for the graduate level.Request that the GRE results be sent to the University of Washington.For those students who have been out of school for some time, or nfamiliar with the GRE, the university strongly advise a preparatory course or workshop.
102 universities offer online Master's in Social Work. Out of these, 4 universities do not require GRE for the admission to online Masters program. To view all the schools that do not require GRE/GMAT for the online Master's, use Match Me Masters.
Online Masters in Social WorkWhere can I find the fastest Online Master’s programs in Social Work?
29 accredited Universities offer Online Masters Program. The tuition for online Master's can range from $11,200 to $104,144
Fastest Online Masters Program in Social WorkHow much does it cost and how to find most affordable Online Master’s in Social Work?
The cost of the online Master's program can vary between public and private universities and there is a huge range. The tuition for the Master's degree can range from $8,160 per year at Humboldt State University to $86,760 at Columbia University in the City of New York. There are numerous options to reduce the cost. The tuition price at a state university is most of the time lower than a private university but a private college offers financial aid and assistantships to deserving candidates.
Career Outlook
Employment of social and community service managers is projected to grow 15 percent from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations. About 18,300 openings for social and community service managers are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.
The median annual wage for social and community service managers was $69,600 in May 2020. Number of Jobs in 2020 was 174,200.
Career Opportunities with master's degree in Social Work
Job Title | 2020 median Pay | Number of Jobs | Job Outlook | What they do |
---|---|---|---|---|
Social Work Teachers, Postsecondary | $80,560 | 1,276,900 | Overall employment of postsecondary teachers is projected to grow 12 percent from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations. About 139,600 openings for postsecondary teachers are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire. | Postsecondary teachers instruct students in a variety of academic subjects beyond the high school level. |
Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists | $55,690 | 92,700 | Employment of probation officers and correctional treatment specialists is projected to grow 4 percent from 2020 to 2030, slower than the average for all occupations. Despite limited employment growth, about 8,100 openings for probation officers and correctional treatment specialists are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Most of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire. | Probation officers and correctional treatment specialists assist in rehabilitation of law offenders in custody or on probation or parole. |
Healthcare Social Workers | $51,760 | 715,600 | Overall employment of social workers is projected to grow 12 percent from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations. About 78,300 openings for social workers are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire. | Social workers help people solve and cope with problems in their everyday lives. |
Social Workers, All Other | $51,760 | 715,600 | Overall employment of social workers is projected to grow 12 percent from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations. About 78,300 openings for social workers are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire. | Social workers help people solve and cope with problems in their everyday lives. |
Child, Family, and School Social Workers | $51,760 | 715,600 | Overall employment of social workers is projected to grow 12 percent from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations. About 78,300 openings for social workers are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire. | Social workers help people solve and cope with problems in their everyday lives. |
How can I compare the Social Work online Master's Programs?
Compare the GRE score requirements, admission details, credit requirements and tuition for the Master's Program, from 130 universities offering Online Masters Programs in Social Work. Compare Online Masters Programs in Social Work
How will you rate the search results?
0.0 rating, based on 0 reviews