The best online Social Work Advanced Standing MSWs are degree programs that offer accelerated master’s degrees to professionals with a BSW. For those who want to make a difference in individual lives and the community, pursuing an accelerated online Master of Social Work is an excellent place to start. And with the current state of the world, now is the time to invest in helping people weather the storms of life.
Whether you have a background in social work or not, you can still earn your MSW. And in some states, it isn’t necessary to have a master’s degree to work in the field. But an online MSW is a must for those desiring supervisory roles, clinical positions, or management social work careers! Below, we’ve shared 20 of the best online MSW programs!
Featured Schools
Methodology for Ranking Online MSWs
To develop this ranking for online Master of Social Work (MSW) programs, our analytics team created a list of schools with accelerated online MSW degree programs. Data comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS, College Navigator, and each school’s website. Then, they gathered information regarding tuition, accreditation, support services, and degree completion times.
Finally, our analytics team applied a ranking methodology and scored the schools based on specific criteria. We used the school’s in-state graduate tuition, the duration of the program, school accreditation, and also the presence of an online student support network or services. If any information didn’t fit the scoring parameters, zero points were awarded for that category. In the case of a tie, the school with the lower tuition pulled the higher rank.
Time to Completion
- 25-36 Months: 1 point
- 19-24 Months: 2 points
- 13-18 Months: 3 points
- =/<12 Months: 4 points
Graduate Tuition
- =/< $25,000: 1 point
- =/< $20,000: 2 points
- =/< $15,000: 3 points
- =/< $10,000: 4 points
Accreditation
- Institutional: 1 point
- Program: 1 points
- Online Support: 1 point
For this ranking, Fast Online Masters spent 65 hours of research and looked a 60 colleges and universities to compile the online MSW programs ranking. More information on the accuracy of data and how we come up with our rankings is on the Fast Online Masters Methodology page.
Our editors first reviewed the online Social Work master’s programs in June 2018. This ranking was last updated in November 2023.
20. Florida State University
- Location: Tallahassee, Florida
- Degree: Advanced Standing Online MSW
- Minimum Time to Completion: 2 years
- Credits: 39
- Graduate Tuition: $444 per credit, $17,316 total
- School Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
- Program Accreditation: Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
- More Information: Website
At Florida State University, students can earn their Master of Social Work in two ways. Students with a BSW, can complete an Advanced Standing Social Work program in 2 years. For those with a Bachelor’s in an area other than social work, a Traditional Social Work takes 3 years to complete. Specifically for working professionals, this program is has a flexible, part-time format. Students will also have support along the way. For those that meet the requirements, GRE scores are not required.
19. University of South Florida
- Location: Tampa, Florida
- Degree: MSW Advanced Standing
- Minimum Time to Completion: 18 months
- Credits: 35
- Graduate Tuition: $550 per credit, $19,250 total
- School Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
- Program Accreditation: Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
- More Information: Website
The fast-track online MSW at the University of South Florida is a perfect fit for students who desire a cohort-modelled program with structure. Students will attend online class at specific times and will work through the sequenced work alongside their peers. Online classes will be held at night to accommodate working professionals. Fieldwork will be required each week (12-15 hours). Students entering the major with a BSW applying for advanced standing status must have graduated from a CSWE accredited BSW program. Required coursework includes Social Work Practice with Individuals, Evaluation of Clinical Practice in Diverse Setting, Social Work Practice with Couples and Families, Policy and Services, and also Social Work Practice with Groups.
18. University of North Dakota
- Location: Grand Forks, ND
- Degree: MSW
- Minimum Time to Completion: 12 months
- Credits: 36
- Graduate Tuition: $676 per credit, $24,336
- School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Program Accreditation: Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
- More Information: Website and be sure to check the UND State Authorization & Licensure Map
If you need to continue working full-time, then take a good look at the University of North Dakota’s online MSW degree. In fact, it’s designed specifically for working professionals. Students will have two options, depending on their background. Option 1 is the 36-credit online concentration designed for students who already hold a BSW degree from a CSWE-accredited program. For students without this credential, an online foundation program is available for 60-credit hours. All online students, no matter their state of residence, will pay in-state tuition. Additionally, a field internship is required.
17. West Virginia University
- Location: Morgantown, West Virginia
- Degree: Advanced Standing Online MSW
- Minimum Time to Completion: 24 months
- Credits: 36
- Graduate Tuition: $676 per credit, $24,336 total
- School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Program Accreditation: Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
- More Information: Website
West Virginia University offers a fast online MSW degree that prepares students to integrate micro, mezzo, and also macro practice skills across service sectors. This advanced standing MSW online degree features 12 courses and 36 credit hours. Students begin the program in the fall semester and then complete the degree the summer after the second year.
16. University of Missouri
- Location: Columbia, MO
- Degree: Advanced Standing Online MSW
- Minimum Time to Completion: 24 months
- Credits: 39
- Graduate Tuition: $575 per credit, $22,425 total
- School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Program Accreditation: Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
- More Information: Website
Offered through the College of Human Environmental Sciences and the School of Social Work, the University of Missouri offers a 39 credit MSW degree. The program is 100% online with no on-site requirements. Two programs available are a traditional 3-year program and a 2-year Advanced Standing program. Sample curriculum includes Intervention with Individuals, Families, Small Groups and Communities, Policy Making and Advocacy Practice, Human Behavior and Psychopathology, and also Research in Social Work, Management of Social Agencies.
15. University of Memphis Global
- Location: Memphis, Tennessee
- Degree: Advanced Standing online MSW
- Minimum Time to Completion: 24 months
- Credits: 37
- Graduate Tuition: $623 per credit, $23,051 total
- School Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Program Accreditation: Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
- More Information: Website
The University of Memphis Global offers a 37-credit Advanced Standing online MSW degree. Students will take 3 foundational social work courses Assessment, Diagnostics, and Psychopathy, Social Welfare Policy, and also Advanced Standing Field. Next, students choose a concentration in either Advanced Practice with Children, Youth, and Families or Advanced Practice with Adults and Families. Students are required to complete a 560-hour field placement to accompany the concentration. Additionally, a 3.0 undergraduate GPA and GRE scores are required for admission.
14. Concord University
- Location: Athens, WV
- Degree: MSW
- Minimum Time to Completion: 12 months
- Credits: 36
- Graduate Tuition: $676 per credit, $24,336
- School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Program Accreditation: Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
- More Information: Website
For those wanting a specialty in rural practice, Concord University’s fast online MSW is a good contender. In fact, the program will adequately prepare professionals with the perspectives, approach, and knowledge needed to conduct social work in rural areas. Both a standard generalist degree and advanced standing degree program are available. Sample classes include Advanced Human Behavior and the Social Environment in Rural Settings.
13. Humboldt State University
- Location: Arcata, CA
- Degree: MSW
- Minimum Time to Completion: 18 months
- Credits: 36
- Graduate Tuition: $510 per credit, $18,600
- Program Accreditation: Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
- School Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges
- More Information: Website
Students have two options for earning a Master of Social Work at Humboldt State University. First, a generalist MSW degree is available and can be completed in 3.5 years on a part-time basis. For those with a BSW, an Advanced Standing option is available and can be completed in just under 2 years part-time. While all the coursework can be completed online, there is a required 4-day on-campus residency each year. The course structure includes weekly live classes, and assignments you can complete on your own time. The program places an emphasis on Indigenous and rural communities.
12. California State University San Bernardino
- Location: San Bernardino, CA
- Degree: MSW
- Minimum Time to Completion: 36 months
- Credits: 36
- Graduate Tuition: $676 per credit, $24,336 total
- School Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges
- Program Accreditation: Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
- More Information: Website
California State University-San Bernardino offers an accelerated MSW online. While there are several on-campus options, the online offering is a three-year program. It is important to note that this is a rigorous, demanding program not designed for professionals who are working a traditional 40-hour workweek. You will be able to work, but maybe not full-time. In the last year of the program, students will choose a concentration track from a long list of options. Some include Domestic Violence, Mental Health, Inner City Populations, Sexism, Gang Members, and Racism/Ethnocentrism.
11. University of Central Florida
- Location: Orlando, Florida
- Degree: MSW
- Minimum Time to Completion: 24 months
- Credits: 32
- Graduate Tuition: $488 per credit, $15,616 total
- School Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
- Program Accreditation: Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
- More Information: Website
Through the College of Health Professions and Sciences, the University of Central Florida offers a fast online Master of Social Work. The 32 credit, four semester program features 7-week class terms. This program is specifically designed for students who already have a BSW degree. A clinical field placement is required. Classes include Diverse Client Populations, Clinical Practice with Individuals, and Clinical Practice with Families. A part-time track is also available.
10. Texas State University
- Location: San Marcos, Texas
- Degree: MSW Advanced Standing Track
- Minimum Time to Completion: 18 months
- Credits: 36
- Graduate Tuition: $500 per credit, $18,000 total
- School Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
- Program Accreditation: Council on Social Work Education (CSW)
Through the School of Social Work, students can earn a fast online Master of Social Work through Texas State University’s offering. Classes include Human Behavior in Individual and Family Social Environments, Advanced Social Policy and Social Justice, Advanced Diagnostic Assessment and Intervention with Individuals, and Advanced Program Planning and Grant-Based Resource Development. Practicum I and II are required. After completing the foundational core work, students can customize their degree with electives in subject areas like health care, diversity, international social work, gerontology, spirituality, adventure therapy, work with veterans, among others.
9. Arizona State University
- Location: Tempe, Arizona
- Degree: MSW
- Minimum Time to Completion: 24 months
- Credits: 36
- Graduate Tuition: $788 per credit, $28,368 total
- School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Program Accreditation: Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
- More Information: Website
The accelerated online Master of Social Work degree offered at Arizona State University requires 60-credits and 20 courses. Note that a 960-hour field placement is mandatory, but it can be completed in your geographic region. Students will take courses in a sequence, as well as two synchronous professional seminars. Required courses include Micro Human Behavior/Social Environment, Macro Social Work, Social Policy and Services, and Assessment of Mental Disorders. The online MSW at ASU is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).
8. Western New Mexico University
- Location: Silver City, New Mexico
- Degree: MSW
- Minimum Time to Completion: 24 months
- Credits: 39
- Graduate Tuition: $343 per credit, $13,377 total
- School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Program Accreditation: Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
- More Information: Website
Western New Mexico University offers two online MSW offerings: an Advanced Standing and Non-Advanced Standing MSW degree. Which one you choose will depend on your background in social work and your degree. Core classes include Cultural Competence in Social Work Practice, Theories and Techniques of Clinical SWK Practice, and Social Work Administration and Supervision. Advanced Field Practicum I and II are both mandatory. A 3.0 GPA in undergrad social work classes is required.
7. Boise State University
- Location: Boise, Idaho
- Degree: Advanced Standing MSW
- Minimum Time to Completion: 24 months
- Credits: 37
- Graduate Tuition: $475 per credit, $18,315 total
- School Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Program Accreditation: Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
- More Information: Website
Boise State University offers an online fast-track MSW degree program for those interested in advancing in their social work careers. Benefits of the program include a fully online curriculum and no out-of-state tuition for online students. Two programs are available: a full program for students with a Bachelor’s degree in another area and an Advanced Standing program for students who hold a BSW degree.
6. University of Texas-Rio Grande Valley
- Location: Edinburg, Texas
- Degree: MSSW
- Minimum Time to Completion: 24 months
- Credits: 33
- Graduate Tuition: $741 per credit, $24,453 total
- School Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
- Program Accreditation: Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
- More Information: Website
The University of Texas-Rio Grande Valley offers a quick online Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW) that focuses on services at-risk Latino communities. UTRGV’s online program offers two specialization in either Administration and Community Practice or in Direct Practice with Latino Individuals, Families and Groups. Curriculum for both programs includes 24 credit hours of required courses, 3 elective credits, and 6 credit hours of practicums. The two practicums each require 250 hours. Graduates will be eligible to sit for exams to attain Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) credentials.
5. Delaware State University
- Location: Dover, Delaware
- Degree: Advanced Standing MSW
- Minimum Time to Completion: 12 months
- Credits: 30
- Graduate Tuition: $455 per credit, $13,650 total
- School Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
- Program Accreditation: Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
- More Information: Website
Delaware State University offers the only graduate MSW program in the state of Delaware. While the degree is a generalist degree, students with a BSW undergrad degree can apply up to 28-credits towards the program. Sample classes include Theories of Personality and Adult Psychopathology, Human Behavior and the Social Environment, and Engagement and Assessment with Individuals, Families, and Treatment Groups. Field practicums will be required.
4. University of Wyoming
- Location: Casper, Wyoming
- Degree: MSW
- Minimum Time to Completion: 2 years
- Credits: 35
- Graduate Tuition: $550 per credit, $19,250 total
- School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Program Accreditation: Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
- More Information: Website
The University of Wyoming offers an accelerated Master of Social Work online. Two options are available: a Standard Program and an Advanced Standing Program. Sample courses include Human Behavior and the Social Environment, Social Welfare Policy, and Principles of Philosophy of Social Work. A field practicum is required. Students get to choose the path of their capstone project, which is the culminating element of the coursework. Option 1 is a 2-credit thesis, which includes an original research project. Option 2 is a practice-evaluation project.
3. New Mexico State University
- Location: Las Cruces, New Mexico
- Degree: Advanced Standing MSW
- Minimum Time to Completion: 12 months
- Credits: 30
- Graduate Tuition: $440.40 per credit, $13,212 total
- Active Military Cost Per Credit Hour: $250
- School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Program Accreditation: Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
- More Information: Website
New Mexico State University offers an accelerated online Master of Social Work that trains professionals to serve the populations of the Southwest. Two advanced standing courses of study are available. Students can attend full time and finish in one year or take part time classes and complete the degree in two years. This online MSW focuses on advanced generalist practice in multi-cultural settings with vulnerable populations. Graduates who already have a bachelor’s degree will be able to work in a variety of settings and with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and also communities.
2. University at Buffalo
- Location: Buffalo, New York
- Degree: Online Advanced Standing MSW
- Minimum Time to Completion: 18 months
- Credits: 35
- Graduate Tuition: $706.25 per credit, $24,719 total
- School Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Program Accreditation: Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
- More Information: Website
The fast online MSW degree offering at the University of Buffalo offers a unique perspective. The program focuses on a trauma-informed and human rights perspective, especially poignant in current world trends. Two options are available: a 60-credit traditional online MSW and a 35-credit advanced standing MSW. The length of the program and coursework will vary between the two offerings. A 15-hour per week fieldwork practicum is required but can be completed where the student resides.
1. University of Arkansas Little Rock
- Location: Little Rock, Arkansas
- Degree: MSW
- Minimum Time to Completion: 12 months
- Credits: 43
- Graduate Tuition: $396 per credit, $16,985 total
- School Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
- Program Accreditation: Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
- More Information: Website
If you live in the state of Arkansas, you might want to check out the University of Arkansas Little Rock’s online MSW offering. The program is only available to Arkansas residents. While the coursework can be completed fully online, your field placement will be in-person. Among the 60 required credits include classes like Human Behavior in the Social Environment, Social Welfare Policies and Services, Diversity and Oppression, Statistics for Social Work, and Social Work Research Methods. Students will then choose 6 hours of electives and complete an 18-credit hour internship. The M.S.W. program is fully accredited by the Council on Social Work Education.
What is a Master of Social Work Degree?
A MSW is a graduate-level degree that helps professionals become leaders in the field of social work. To become a licensed clinical social worker, graduates will also need to seek licensure in their state.
Types of MSW Degree Programs:
There are two main types of master’s degrees for Social Workers. A standard generalist degree is for students with a bachelor’s degree in something other than social work. While an advanced standing degree is for professionals who have a bachelor’s degree in Social Work (BSW).
Advanced Standing MSW
- students with a Bachelor’s in Social Work (BSW)
- shorter programs = 30 to 40 credits
- takes 12 months to 24 months
Standard Generalist MSW
- students with NO background in social work
- longer programs = 60 to 70 credits
- takes 2 to 5 years
How Long is an Online Master of Social Work?
The length of your MSW program will depend on whether you are pursuing a standard generalist degree or an advanced degree. You can earn a generalist degree in about 3 years, whereas you can earn an advanced degree in about 1-2 years, depending on your enrollment status.
Additionally, the length of your online MSW program may also depend on personal factors. Some students must work full time or have family obligations. Students who attend a program part-time will take longer to complete it that students who attend full time. The exact time difference varies from program to program.
What is a MSW Concentration for a Social Work Graduate Degree?
An area of concentration helps to focus your studies even more and can give you additional expertise in your given field. This is an online advanced standing master program; accelerated online MSW programs.
Social Workers Concentration options could include:
- Adulthood and aging
- Youth & Adolescence
- Behavioral health
- Community and social systems
- Death and dying
- Family social work
- Health and healthcare
- Human service management
- Mental health
- Military social work
- School social work
- Social work planning and management
- Substance abuse disorders
- Trauma and violence
What are the Admission Requirements for a Master of Social Work Program?
When applying for an accelerated MSW programs you might need some or all of these components:
- a Bachelor’s degree in a related social work field
- a minimum GPA requirement of 3.0 or higher
- standardized test scores, if required
- letters of recommendation
- entrance essay
If you already hold a BSW degree, then you’ll be able to apply for accelerated online MSW programs, which will be a little shorter in length. If you do not have a background in social work, no worries. You can still apply for a standard online MSW!
*Not all programs require GRE scores for admission. Check your program details for more information.
What Can I Expect as an Online Graduate Student?
Class Format:
Students interested in accelerated online MSW programs could be presented in one of two ways:
- synchronously (at a specific day/time)
- asynchronously (on your own time/schedule)
Length of Classes:
All online degree programs are different, and that could include how long each class runs. However, many accelerated online MSW programs utilize an 8-10 week class model, while another advanced standing MSW program could be monthly or even longer, like a traditional 15-week semester course.
Coursework:
What is the Coursework for a Social Work Graduate Degree Program? Coursework in your accelerated online MSW programs will vary based on which type of program you are enrolled in. Typically, the first year of the program will focus on coursework in social policy, human behavior, research, and clinical practice. The second year of coursework will also have a clinical component, as well as focus on an area of concentration if the program offers it.
Culminating Work:
What is Culminating Work for an Online Master’s in Social Work? When it comes to the culminating element, this will depend on your accelerated online MSW programs and your career goals. You might see:
- a project
- a thesis
- a research-based project
Also, you can expect to engage in fieldwork or a practicum. Because of the hands-on nature of the degree, working in the actual professional setting will be necessary for your success. When searching for the best Social Work Master’s degree programs online, consider these questions!
Student Services:
Especially considering current events, online school will definitely be here to stay for the long term. Many universities already have a lot of experience in the field of distance learning but have also had to adapt to the changing times. And that includes taking care of their online students.
Students interested in a online MSW program doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll be all alone! Most programs have the same student services available for on-campus students–just online. Advanced standing students could have access to online libraries, online tutoring, online mentorship, online advising, online career help, and more!
In addition, some programs will utilize a cohort model that allows you to pursue your degree alongside advanced standing students in your field. Interactive programs will also allow you to connect with peers and faculty.
What Can You Do With a Masters in Social Work?
Professionals in the field of social work will get to work in a variety of settings, making a difference in the lives of individuals, groups, and communities.
Sample Careers Include:
- Human Services Case Manager
- Child Welfare Case Manager
- Human Services Administrator
- Adoption Placement Specialist
- Geriatric Social Worker
- School Social Worker
What is the Job Outlook in Social Work?
How Much Can You Make With a Master’s in Social Work?
Career and salary data from the US Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS) reports the median annual wage for social workers is $55,350. However, the salaries range from $36,600 to more than $87,300. Additionally, salaries vary by area of practice and by geographic location.
| Type of Social Worker | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Social Workers (general) | $61,420 (BLS) |
| Healthcare Social Workers | $60,280 (BLS) |
| Mental Health Social Workers | $51,240 (BLS) |
| Substance Abuse Social Workers | $51,240 (BLS) |
| Child, Family, and School Social Workers | $50,820 (BLS) |
Is a Master’s in Social Work Worth It?
First, what does the future trajectory of the career path look like? As events in the world continue to shift, the field of social work could be in great demand, and the need for leaders in the field will be imperative. According to the U.S. News and World Report, community and service occupations are expected to rise by at least 12% over the next decade. Same with the field of social work itself.
Secondly, it would be wise to look at the careers associated with this path. If you’re getting an online MSW, you’re probably already interested in social work. But it’s still worth taking a look at the leadership roles you could pursue and see if they line up with what you desire for your future.
Do MSW Programs Have Special Accreditation?
Accrediting agencies help develop and regulate standards for social work curricula within various programs. It is very important that your program has special accreditation. One such accrediting agency is the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). Some MSW programs require a CSWE-accredited BSW for admittance.
Professional Organizations for Social Workers
If you’re considering joining a professional organization for social work, it’s a pursuit that could yield huge dividends for your career. Professional organizations help you connect with your peers, stay up to date on research or news in your field, and can help guide your future endeavors. It’s a wise investment of your time and your energy. A few social work-related professional organizations to browse include:
- American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry (AAGP)
- American Clinical Social Work Association
- Association of Oncology Social Work (AOSW)
- American Professional Society on the Abuse of Children (APSAC)
- Clinical Social Work Association (CSWA)
- International Federation of Social Workers (IFSW)
- National Association of Black Social Workers (NABSW)
- National Association of Social Workers (NASW)
What Degrees are Related to an Online MSW Program?
It would be wise to look at the careers associated with this path if you’re interested in social work. Have a look at the leadership roles you could pursue and see if they line up with what you desire for your future. If you are interested in the field, you might also be interested in a few social work-related degrees:
- Community Health
- Public Health
- Mental Health Counseling
This list is not exhaustive, but it’s a good start to finding a social work-related degree that might peak your interest.
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