A master's degree in social work could lead to a rewarding career. Here, we outline the costs, requirements, and opportunities for the best online MSW programs.
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Online MSW Programs
Master's in social work programs train learners for careers as clinical social workers. Degree-seekers learn how to diagnose and treat mental health conditions. They also strengthen their advocacy skills and gain specialized training. Students who enroll in online master's in social work programs can often continue their careers while earning their degree.
Demand for social workers continues to rise. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects the field will add more than 67,300 new jobs each year from 2023-2033. With a master's in social work degree, graduates may work as school, substance misuse, or healthcare social workers.
Our list ranks the top online master's in social work programs. Read on to learn about costs, common classes, and how to become a social worker.
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Featured Online Social Work Programs
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#1 The Best Online Master’s in Social Work Programs
The University of Nevada, Reno
Reno, NV
4 years
Online + Campus
A great option for distance learners, the University of Nevada, Reno enrolls 3,952 students in its online programs, which include a master of social work. The accredited program provides a rigorous education valued by employers that prepares graduates for social work careers.
Enrollees enjoy a student-to-faculty ratio of 18-to-1, which gives them one-on-one time with faculty. The school’s website provides more information about support services and student organizations. The online program charges affordable tuition rates and offers financial aid. These options help master's candidates pay for their degree with less debt. The college has a graduation rate of 61% for its programs.
The University of Nevada, Reno Facts:
Total Online Enrollment: 5,018
Number of Online Master’s Programs: 3
Average Cost Per Credit: 837
Graduate Tuition: $5,306 per year in-state, $20,357 per year out-of-state
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $6,367
Average Net Price: $16,253
Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,410
Out-of-state
$22,461
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,306
Out-of-state
$20,357
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
88%
Students Enrolled
20,993
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
24%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#2 The Best Online Master’s in Social Work Programs
Boston University
Boston, MA
4 years
Online + Campus
Boston University educates undergraduate and graduate degree-seekers online and on its campus. The school delivers four online bachelor's programs and 24 online master's programs, which provide scheduling flexibility for busy learners.
Degree-seekers interested in social work can enroll in the online master of social work. Learners currently employed in the social work field often qualify for career advancement after graduation. Master's students can access support services such as faculty mentorship and career counseling.
Online enrollees at the school pay affordable tuition rates. Students with financial need can submit the FAFSA to qualify for federal grants, scholarships, and loans. Private scholarships and institutional fellowships can also help learners fund their master's studies.
Boston University At a Glance:
Students Receiving Aid: 55%
Students Receiving Loans: 31%
Total Master's Programs: 170
Awards Transfer Credits: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$54,720
Out-of-state
$54,720
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$54,720
Out-of-state
$54,720
Retention Rate
94%
Acceptance Rate
19%
Students Enrolled
33,720
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
10%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#3 The Best Online Master’s in Social Work Programs
Colorado State University
Fort Collins, CO
4 years
Online + Campus
Colorado State University's academic offerings include high-quality online undergraduate and graduate programs. The public institution offers 39 online programs, along with in-person programs at its campus in Fort Collins, Colorado. The school offers a top-ranked master of social work for graduate degree-seekers. The online social work program features flexible enrollment options that benefit working professionals.
Learners in the program take core courses and advanced social work classes. Experiential learning opportunities help graduate students bolster their resume and gain practical skills. Degree-seekers enrolled full time typically require 1–2 years to complete their master's program. Prospective applicants can contact an admissions advisor for details about application deadlines and requirements.
Online learners at the school pay affordable tuition rates. Graduate tuition rates at the institution average $10,520 for Colorado residents and $25,791 for out-of-state students. The institution holds accreditation, which means enrollees can receive federal grants, scholarships, and loans. According to the school, 79% of the student body receives financial aid to fund their education.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,426
Out-of-state
$28,147
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,520
Out-of-state
$25,791
Retention Rate
84%
Acceptance Rate
81%
Students Enrolled
33,426
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
26%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#4 The Best Online Master’s in Social Work Programs
The University of Utah
Salt Lake City, UT
4 years
Online + Campus
Based in Salt Lake City, the University of Utah educates undergraduate and graduate degree-seekers on campus and online. The public institution's master's programs include an online master of social work program for distance learners. After earning the master's degree in social work, graduates can launch a new career in the field.
Faculty advisors support students during the course of their master's studies. The program features a rigorous curriculum that meets high academic standards. Master's candidates develop leadership skills necessary to lead teams in settings.
The school's affordable tuition rates make graduate studies more accessible. The institution's dedicated financial aid counselors work with degree-seekers as they locate and apply for educational funding.
The University of Utah At a Glance:
Online Master's Programs: 123
Total Online Programs: 16
Number of Online Students: 11,058
Graduate Tuition In-State: $7,211
Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $25,455
Awards Transfer Credits: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,412
Out-of-state
$26,017
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,211
Out-of-state
$25,455
Retention Rate
89%
Acceptance Rate
62%
Students Enrolled
32,852
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
34%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#5 The Best Online Master’s in Social Work Programs
Rutgers University–New Brunswick
New Brunswick, NJ
4 years
Online + Campus
Graduate degree-seekers can enroll in online and in-person programs from Rutgers University–New Brunswick. The public institution delivers an online master of social work for distance learners. After earning the master's degree in social work, graduates often qualify for promotions or raises.
Faculty advisors help master's candidates examine complex issues and develop a strong overall understanding of the field. The program features a rigorous curriculum that helps enrollees develop transferable skills and specialized knowledge. Participants develop leadership skills necessary to lead teams in social work settings.
The school charges online learners affordable tuition rates, making graduate studies more accessible. The institution's financial aid counselors help graduate degree-seekers secure funding through scholarship and fellowship programs.
Rutgers University–New Brunswick Fast Facts:
Online Master's Programs: 125
Total Online Programs: 33
Number of Online Students: 11,925
Graduate Tuition In-State: $17,736
Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $30,144
Transfer Credits Permitted: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$12,230
Out-of-state
$29,012
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$17,736
Out-of-state
$30,144
Retention Rate
93%
Acceptance Rate
61%
Students Enrolled
50,173
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
24%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#6 The Best Online Master’s in Social Work Programs
The University of New England
Biddeford, ME
4 years
Online + Campus
Learners attending the University of New England can earn an online master of social work. The private institution enrolls 3,521 students in online programs. Online programs' scheduling flexibility is ideal for learners balancing academics with personal and professional obligations.
Degree-seekers in the master of social work program complete a rigorous curriculum that fosters field-specific knowledge and transferable skills. Students pursuing the master's degree can choose electives that align with their interests and professional goals. Graduates can transition to a social work career or advance their current career in the field after earning their master's degree. Master's students can take advantage of the institution's career services to prepare to transition from their studies into the workforce.
The school offers learners access to career advising and financial aid counseling. Students at the school access affordable tuition rates and institutional funding, which can reduce out-of-pocket expenses. In addition to federal funding, learners can secure private scholarships and institutional fellowships.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$37,390
Out-of-state
$37,390
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$23,498
Out-of-state
$23,498
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
84%
Students Enrolled
7,483
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
47%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#7 The Best Online Master’s in Social Work Programs
Indiana University Bloomington
Bloomington, IN
4 years
Online + Campus
Indiana University Bloomington stands out among schools offering online programs. In addition to educating students on campus, the public institution delivers ten master's programs for online learners. Among the school's master's programs is a respected master of social work. Degree-seekers with personal or professional obligations often benefit from the online program's flexible scheduling options.
Learners gain transferable skills and prepare for positions in the field during core coursework and classes. Master's students gain specialized knowledge during elective classes and apply theoretical knowledge during experiential learning opportunities. Full-time degree-seekers typically require 1–2 years to earn their master's degree in social work. Admissions advisors provide prospective applicants with details about application deadlines and requirements.
People pursuing online graduate programs benefit from the school's affordable tuition rates. Residents of Indiana pay discounted tuition rates averaging $9,501 for graduate studies, and out-of-state graduate students pay an average of $31,932. Enrollees at the accredited institution can qualify for federal grants and loans. At the school, 84% of enrollees obtain financial aid to pay for their degree.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,575
Out-of-state
$35,140
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,501
Out-of-state
$31,932
Retention Rate
90%
Acceptance Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
43,260
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
19%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#8 The Best Online Master’s in Social Work Programs
San Jose State University
San Jose, CA
4 years
Online + Campus
San Jose State University is a leader in distance learning. This institution offers online and on-campus master's degree options. The online master of social work program relies on video lectures, assignments, and class discussions to deliver an industry-relevant education.
Applicants must submit school transcripts for consideration into the program. Students at the accredited institution can use financial aid to pay for their degree. Qualifying learners may also receive institutional aid to lower the cost of their degree.
San Jose State University Facts:
Online Student Enrollment: 12,738
Distance Learning Master's Programs: 4
Tuition for Graduate Students: $7,176 in-state; $16,680 out-of-state
Average Student Aid Awarded: $9,262
Average Price With Aid: $14,471
Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,742
Out-of-state
$17,622
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,176
Out-of-state
$16,680
Retention Rate
87%
Acceptance Rate
64%
Students Enrolled
36,085
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
35%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#9 The Best Online Master’s in Social Work Programs
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Champaign, IL
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign enrolls 13,707 students in its online courses. Distance learners can earn their master of social work at the school. The accredited program offers a rigorous course of study valued by employers and emphasizes advanced skills and knowledge for careers.
Program participants benefit from a student-to-faculty ratio of 20-to-1, which means one-on-one attention from faculty. The program's website provides more information about support services and student organizations.
The institution charges affordable tuition rates and offers financial aid. This makes the master's degree an affordable option for learners on a budget. Enrollees can expect a graduation rate of 85% for this program.
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Facts:
Total Online Enrollment: 20,199
Number of Online Master’s Programs: 30
Graduate Tuition: $14,997 per year in-state, $28,404 per year out-of-state
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $15,442
Average Net Price: $14,660
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,188
Out-of-state
$33,127
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,997
Out-of-state
$28,404
Retention Rate
93%
Acceptance Rate
59%
Students Enrolled
51,605
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
39%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#10 The Best Online Master’s in Social Work Programs
Texas State University
San Marcos, TX
4 years
Online + Campus
Texas State University educates degree-seekers online and at its San Marcos campus. In addition to on-campus graduate programs, the school offers a variety of online programs. The institution's online master of social work provides a flexible option for students interested in starting or advancing a social work career.
Rigorous coursework, faculty mentorship, and career advising help enrollees prepare for the social work field. Learners with personal or professional obligations often benefit from the online social work program's flexible scheduling options. While most master's programs require 1–2 years, part-time degree-seekers may take longer to graduate.
The institution holds accreditation, which means students with financial need qualify for federal grants and loans. Of all enrollees, 51% take out loans to fund their degree, according to information from the school. In addition to loans, learners can fund their studies through financial aid, which 76% of the institution's learners receive.
Texas State University Numbers:
Total Programs: 204
Number of Online Students: 11,452
Religious Affiliation: Non-Affiliated
Transfer Credits Accepted: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,052
Out-of-state
$19,868
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,751
Out-of-state
$15,191
Retention Rate
76%
Acceptance Rate
81%
Students Enrolled
38,187
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
30%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#11 The Best Online Master’s in Social Work Programs
Case Western Reserve University
Cleveland, OH
4 years
Online + Campus
Ohio-based Case Western Reserve University educates degree-seekers online and at its Cleveland campus. In addition to studying in person, learners can pursue the school's graduate degrees online. Students interested in social work can enroll in the online master of social work offered by the institution.
The rigorous curriculum, combined with academic and career advising, prepares enrollees for social work careers. Busy learners balancing work and school can benefit from the online social work program's scheduling flexibility. Full-time master's degree-seekers typically require 1–2 years to complete their program.
Students with financial need can fund their education through federal grants and loans. To pay for school, 54% of the school's enrollees take out loans. Learners can also apply for financial aid to fund their degree, and 89% of the institution's learners receive aid.
Case Western Reserve University Fast Facts:
Total Programs: 247
Number of Online Programs: 7
Online Master's Programs: 96
Number of Online Students: 931
Per-Credit Tuition: 1,500
Religious Affiliation: Non-Affiliated
Transfer Credits Allowed: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$50,450
Out-of-state
$50,450
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$46,524
Out-of-state
$46,524
Retention Rate
93%
Acceptance Rate
27%
Students Enrolled
11,874
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
8%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#12 The Best Online Master’s in Social Work Programs
Louisiana State University and Agricultural and Mechanical College
Baton Rouge, LA
4 years
Online + Campus
Louisiana State University leads in distance learning. This school offers online and on-campus graduate degree options. The online master of social work program's curriculum incorporates video lectures, assignments, and class discussions. In addition to this online social work program, LSU offers 9 other master's degrees.
Students may be able to lower their cost of tuition through loans or outside scholarships. Distance learners may also qualify for institutional aid to cover their tuition costs.
Louisiana State University Fast Facts:
Online Student Enrollment: 8,775
Online Master's Programs Offered: 10
Graduate School Tuition Rate: $9,132 in-state; $9,132 out-of-state
Average Aid Awarded: $12,175
Average Price After Financial Aid: $18,143
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,038
Out-of-state
$8,038
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,132
Out-of-state
$9,132
Retention Rate
83%
Acceptance Rate
75%
Students Enrolled
31,756
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
28%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#13 The Best Online Master’s in Social Work Programs
The University of Missouri-Columbia
Columbia, MO
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Missouri-Columbia ranks among the top online master's programs for social work. The public institution enrolls 9,722 students in online programs. Busy learners balancing academics with personal obligations often benefit from online programs' flexible scheduling options.
The master of social work offers a rigorous curriculum that emphasizes career-focused skills and knowledge. The master's program features electives, allowing students to tailor the curriculum to their professional goals. Learners in the online program develop specialized industry skills and knowledge. After completing the social work degree, graduates land competitive roles in their field. The institution offers career services, which can benefit current master's candidates, as well as alumni.
Master's-level learners can access support services, such as career advising and financial aid counseling. Graduate students at the accredited institution can take out federal loans to cover costs. Learners often apply for scholarships and fellowships to reduce the financial burden of earning a master's degree.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,120
Out-of-state
$26,991
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,264
Out-of-state
$25,363
Retention Rate
88%
Acceptance Rate
81%
Students Enrolled
30,014
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
32%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#14 The Best Online Master’s in Social Work Programs
The University at Buffalo
Buffalo, NY
4 years
Online + Campus
Graduate degree-seekers can enroll in online and in-person programs from the University at Buffalo. Learners throughout the country can pursue online master's programs from the public institution. The school's graduate options include a flexible and affordable master of social work.
The online master of social work program features core classes that help students develop foundational knowledge in the field. The curriculum also features upper-level coursework exploring advanced topics. Faculty members provide mentorship, and graduate students can pursue internships to prepare for careers in the field. A master's in social work often leads to leadership roles and increased earning potential. The institution's career counselors help master's students prepare to secure professional roles after graduation.
At the accredited institution, degree-seekers who demonstrate financial need can qualify for federal aid. Many employers offer tuition reimbursement programs to help employees earn their master's degree. Of the school's students, 84% receive financial aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,070
Out-of-state
$24,740
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,310
Out-of-state
$23,100
Retention Rate
86%
Acceptance Rate
61%
Students Enrolled
31,923
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
25%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#15 The Best Online Master’s in Social Work Programs
The University of South Florida-Main Campus
Tampa, FL
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of South Florida delivers undergraduate and graduate programs from its Tampa campus. Working professionals often pursue one of the school's five online bachelor's programs and any of its 27 online master's programs.
The institution's online master of social work benefits distance degree-seekers seeking career advancement in social work. After earning the master's degree in social work, graduates can apply for positions in the field or advance their current career. The school delivers services including academic advising, experiential learning programs, and career counseling.
The school supports online enrollees through affordable tuition rates and institutional funding. The college holds accreditation, which means students can submit the FAFSA to receive federal grants and loans. Private scholarships and institutional fellowships can also help learners fund their master's studies.
The University of South Florida At a Glance:
Tuition Per Credit: 907
Students Receiving Aid: 93%
Students Receiving Loans: 35%
Total Master's Programs: 103
Total Online Master's Programs: 103
Allows Transfer Credits: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,559
Out-of-state
$15,473
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,350
Out-of-state
$19,048
Retention Rate
91%
Acceptance Rate
48%
Students Enrolled
44,246
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
55%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#16 The Best Online Master’s in Social Work Programs
The University of Alabama
Tuscaloosa, AL
4 years
Online + Campus
Based in Tuscaloosa, The University of Alabama educates graduate degree-seekers through in-person and flexible online programs. Distance learners can earn online master's degrees from the public institution. The school's graduate options include a flexible and affordable master of social work. Graduates with a master's in social work often qualify for raises and promotions.
The online social work program features core classes that help students develop foundational knowledge in the field. After completing core coursework, degree-seekers take advanced courses covering in-depth social work topics. Master's students can take advantage of faculty mentorship and hands-on learning opportunities. Master's candidates, as well as alumni, can work with faculty advisors and career counselors.
At the accredited institution, degree-seekers who demonstrate financial need can qualify for federal aid. Scholarships, fellowships, and employer-sponsored tuition reimbursement programs can also help distance learners finance their master's studies. At the school, 79% of students receive financial aid to fund their graduate education.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,780
Out-of-state
$30,250
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,780
Out-of-state
$30,250
Retention Rate
87%
Acceptance Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
38,100
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
13%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#17 The Best Online Master’s in Social Work Programs
The University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Knoxville, TN
4 years
Online + Campus
Learners can earn accessible, affordable online graduate degrees from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. The public institution offers 24 online programs, including ten online master's programs. Among the school's master's programs is a respected master of science in social work. Busy students balancing work and school can benefit from the online social work program's scheduling flexibility.
Enrollees in the social work master's program gain specialized knowledge during advanced classes. Experiential learning opportunities allow participants to apply theoretical industry knowledge in practical contexts. Master's degree-seekers usually earn their degree in social work after 1–2 years of full-time study. Prospective students can contact the institution for specific application details.
The school charges online learners affordable tuition rates and offers institutional funding for eligible applicants. Residents of Tennessee pay discounted tuition rates averaging $11,468 for graduate studies, and out-of-state graduate students pay an average of $29,656. Degree-seekers in the school's online programs pay an average of $1,313 per credit. Enrollees with financial need can submit the FAFSA to apply for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs. The school reports that 91% of its student body receives financial aid to fund their education.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,332
Out-of-state
$28,522
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,468
Out-of-state
$29,656
Retention Rate
87%
Acceptance Rate
79%
Students Enrolled
29,460
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
36%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#18 The Best Online Master’s in Social Work Programs
The University of Iowa
Iowa City, IA
4 years
Online + Campus
Learners at the University of Iowa can enroll in a variety of top-ranked academic programs, including an online social work master's program. The public institution enrolls 15,672 students in online programs. Remote programs typically feature flexible scheduling options, which are ideal for busy learners.
The master of social work features a rigorous curriculum and meets high academic standards. Specialized electives allow students to customize the program based on their goals and interests. Learners in the online program benefit from flexible scheduling options, making earning a master's degree more convenient. After completing the program, graduates often secure high-paying positions with additional responsibilities. The institution offers career services, which can benefit current master's students and alumni.
Learners in the school's master's programs can access career advising and financial aid counseling. Degree-seekers pursuing online graduate programs benefit from the school's affordable tuition rates. Students may also qualify for scholarships, fellowships, or other forms of financial aid. The school's online graduate programs cost an average per-credit rate of $661.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,073
Out-of-state
$30,036
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,079
Out-of-state
$29,026
Retention Rate
86%
Acceptance Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
31,240
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
50%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#19 The Best Online Master’s in Social Work Programs
The Catholic University of America
Washington, DC
4 years
Online + Campus
Learners throughout the country can pursue high-quality online graduate programs from The Catholic University of America. In addition to on-campus options in Washington, D.C., students at the private institution can pursue 11 programs in an online format. The school's academic offerings include a master of social work for graduate degree-seekers interested in the field. People can pursue the online social work program to access flexible enrollment options that make earning a degree easier.
Learners in the program take core courses and advanced social work classes. The rigorous curriculum blends theoretical and practical knowledge, with an emphasis on industry-specific skills. While most master's programs require 1–2 years, part-time degree-seekers may take longer to graduate. For specific application details, including requirements and deadlines, prospective students can review information on the institution's website.
Online learners benefit from affordable tuition rates and can apply for institutional funding to further reduce their financial burden. The institution charges average graduate tuition rates of $48,000 for in-state and out-of-state students. At the accredited school, enrollees who demonstrate financial need can qualify for federal aid. At the college, 97% of students fund their education through financial aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$46,950
Out-of-state
$46,950
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$48,000
Out-of-state
$48,000
Retention Rate
88%
Acceptance Rate
85%
Students Enrolled
5,771
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
13%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#20 The Best Online Master’s in Social Work Programs
Simmons University
Boston, MA
4 years
Online + Campus
A great option for distance learners, Simmons University enrolls 583 students in its online classes. The institution offers an online master of social work program. The accredited program provides a rigorous course of study valued by employers and offers advanced training for social work careers.
The school reports a student-to-faculty ratio of 8-to-1, giving program participants one-on-one time with faculty. Students can learn more about online support services at the school's website. Master's degree-seekers pay affordable tuition rates and receive financial aid. This helps learners afford the master's degree with less debt. The college has a graduation rate of 81% for its programs.
Simmons University Fast Facts:
Total Online Enrollment: 3,591
Number of Online Master’s Programs: 7
Average Cost Per Credit: $875
Graduate Tuition: $21,654 per year in-state, $21,654 per year out-of-state
Accreditation: New England Commission on Higher Education
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$40,850
Out-of-state
$40,850
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$21,654
Out-of-state
$21,654
Retention Rate
83%
Acceptance Rate
73%
Students Enrolled
6,535
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
55%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
Our Methodology
At Affordable Colleges Online, we use a proprietary ranking system and data from reputable sources like the U.S. Department of Education to help you find the best school for your needs. Our most important metric — affordability — accounts for 60% of our formula. We also consider academic quality, program offerings, online enrollment, and graduation rates.
A master's in social work degree prepares graduates to work as clinical social workers. The degree helps social workers move into high-paying specializations with more responsibilities. Professionals can also earn the degree to move into the social work field.
Many accredited social work schools offer online programs. Online enrollees complete coursework in a virtual classroom environment. They meet practicum requirements locally. Students who choose an online format can attend the most affordable program without relocating.
A master's degree costs an average of $66,340, according to EducationData.org. However, costs vary by school, delivery format, and learners' residency status. Students who qualify for in-state tuition pay less than those paying out-of-state rates.
Shorter programs typically cost less than a master's in social work program with a higher number of required credits. Master's programs usually take two years to complete.
Degree-seekers can research affordable programs to lower the cost. Social workers often qualify for student loan forgiveness programs.
Additional Online Student Fees
Online degree-seekers should budget for books, fees, and other expenses. For example, distance learners may need to buy a new computer. Some programs also charge technology and graduation fees.
Programs with in-person requirements may add transportation and housing costs to the degree. Social workers pursuing licensure should consider costs for exams and licenses. These extra fees can add thousands to the cost of a master's in social work degree.
How Much Do Social Work Graduates Make?
Social workers earn a median $58,380 annually, according to 2023 data from the BLS. Salaries vary depending on specialization and location. For example, healthcare social workers typically earn more than mental health social workers. A master's degree can help professionals qualify for high-paying roles.
Work setting also affects earning potential. Social workers in local government settings earn more than those working for individual and family services organizations. Prospective social workers can research the earning potential in their location for specific social work careers.
AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
Featured Online Social Work Programs
Our partner schools offer programs that help you advance your education while accommodating your schedule. Visit their sites to learn more about degrees, course offerings, start dates, transfer of credits, and more.
Specializations for Social Work
Most master's in social work programs offer specializations. Sometimes known as concentrations or tracks, most specializations fall under the broad category of clinical social work. Specializations train learners for direct practice and meet clinical social work license requirements.
Students should explore their prospective schools' specialization options. Some programs allow enrollees to create custom specializations. See below for three common concentrations. Keep in mind that options vary by school.
Child and Family Social Work
This specialization is social work's largest subfield. Students learn how to support children and families, including those dealing with abusive situations, behavioral problems, and stress. A child and family specialization prepares graduates to work in social services agencies. They can also work in residential care facilities and foster care agencies. Many programs also offer a specialization in school social work.
Healthcare Social Work
Healthcare social workers advocate for patients in medical settings. The specialization trains learners to communicate with patients about medical needs and options. Coursework focuses on advocacy approaches when working with healthcare professionals. Programs include field placements in healthcare settings to build career-ready skills.
Mental Health Social Work
Students learn how to conduct psychological assessments and diagnose mental health disorders. They also learn to create treatment plans. Some programs offer substance misuse or addiction focuses within mental health social work. These specializations strengthen counseling skills and treatment planning abilities.
Prospective social workers can train for their career by earning a social work degree. Some jobs only require a bachelor's degree. However, many careers require a master's. Clinical social workers need a master's degree plus experience to earn their license. During a social work program, students complete an internship or practicum to gain hands-on skills.
Social workers meet supervised training requirements in various settings. They may work in schools, family services agencies, or healthcare settings. They may also work in community service organizations. After meeting licensure requirements, clinical social workers act as advocates and treat patients in diverse settings.
AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
Featured Online Social Work Programs
Our partner schools offer programs that help you advance your education while accommodating your schedule. Visit their sites to learn more about degrees, course offerings, start dates, transfer of credits, and more.
Licensure for Social Workers
Every state requires clinical social workers to hold a license. Other types of social workers may also need a license.
Licensed clinical social workers need a master's degree from an accredited school. Most states set a minimum requirement for supervised clinical experience. For example, candidates in California must complete 3,000 hours of supervised experience. Candidates in New York must complete three years of post-MSW supervised experience.
After meeting the education and experience requirements, candidates complete a clinical exam. They must also pay a fee for their license.
The requirements and cost of social work licensure vary. Students earning a social work master's degree should research their state's process. The Association of Social Work Boards provides information about each state's licensure boards.
AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
Featured Online Social Work Programs
Our partner schools offer programs that help you advance your education while accommodating your schedule. Visit their sites to learn more about degrees, course offerings, start dates, transfer of credits, and more.
Frequently Asked Questions About Social Work
What can you do with a master's in social work?
Master's degree-holders can pursue clinical social work careers. Clinical social workers may specialize in child and family social work or school social work.
What is the highest salary for a social worker?
The highest-paid social workers earn an annual salary over $94,000, according to the BLS. This represents the top 90th percentile of earners. The median annual salary for social workers is $58,380. Salaries vary by professionals' specialization, employer, and location.
What area of social work pays the most?
The highest-paid social work specializations include healthcare social work. People working in fields other than child, family, school, or mental health social work also earn high salaries.
AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
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