By MSWO Staff
June 2018
The need for qualified social service professionals is increasing. The demand for skilled social work professionals with the appropriate licensure and education is at an unprecedented level. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (www.bls.gov) reported that “Employment for social workers is expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations.”
To give you an idea of the demand for social workers, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs employs more than 10,000 professional social workers. The Red Cross estimates that more than 40% of its disaster mental health volunteers are professional social workers. The master of social work has become the standard professional degree for licensure and career advancement. Upon completion of an MSW program, graduates are eligible to sit for the national licensure exam to become licensed social work practitioners. Earning a master of social work online is a great way to advance your career and make a positive impact on society without the need for relocation.
There are more than 100 online social work programs in the United States, so to come up with our list of the top 50, we looked at only those programs with accreditation through the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). We included programs that offer an online MSW with limited residency requirements. We then ranked each school using the points system below to come up with our top 50 online master of social work programs. Specialized practice information was sourced from the CSWE website, while student/faculty ratio and average graduate tuition rates were sourced from College Navigator.
Ranking is as follows:
Student/Faculty ratio:
- 15:1 or less- 3 points
- 16:1 to 19:1- 2 points
- 20:1 and above- 1 point
Average Net Price:
- Less than $13,000- 3 points
- $13,000 to $20,000- 2 points
- Greater than $20,000- 1 point
Specialized Practice Areas:
- 3 points for each area
#50 -Capella University-Minneapolis, Minnesota
Online Master of Social Work
Degree Profile
Ratio: 22:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $14,365/year
Specialized Practice: Advanced Generalist
Points: 6
Social work is tough, but finding a great online MSW program with the flexibility for working professionals shouldn’t be. The School of Public Service Leadership at Capella University features an MSW online accredited program for both full and part-time students. The curriculum is comprised of 15 core courses, two electives, and an internship experience. With multiple start dates throughout the year, Capella is a great choice for students who want to get a jump on their MSW without having to wait on a traditional semester schedule.
#49 -University of North Dakota-Grand Forks, North Dakota
Online MSW
Degree Profile
Ratio: 21:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $7,688/year in-state and $20,526/year out-of-state
Specialized Practice: Advanced Generalist
Points: 6
Fully accredited since 1993, the University of North Dakota features a top online MSW program for those with or without an accredited BSW. Students can continue working full-time while earning their degree. UND boasts a 93% retention rate among MSW distance students, indicating a high level of student satisfaction. The curriculum includes a field internship, completed under the supervision of an experienced instructor. Online students can network with other students and professionals through the Student Social Work Association or Phi Alpha.
#48 -Western New Mexico University-Silver City, New Mexico
Online MSW
Degree Profile
Ratio: 10:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $3,177/year in-state and $8,730/year out-of-state
Points: 6
Western New Mexico University has a long-standing positive academic reputation since it was in 1893. Whether you’ve already earned your BSW or have a degree in another field, WNMU can help you complete your online CSWE accredited MSW and advance your career. Students benefit from diverse electives including:
-human trafficking
-psychopharmacology
-school interventions
-disabilities and empowerment
#47 -University of Denver-Denver, Colorado
Online Master of Social Work
Ratio: 11:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $47,520/year
Specialized Practice: Mental Health and Trauma
Points: 7
The University of Denver offers both a traditional online MSW program and an advanced standing program with a concentration in Mental Health and Trauma. Students are engaged through a virtual hub where they attend live class sessions throughout the week. Coursework is self-paced which makes this a great choice for working professionals. Traditional online students can earn their degree in about 27 months while advanced students can graduate in about 18 months.
#46 -Catholic University of America-Washington, DC
Online Master of Social Work
Degree Profile
Ratio: 7:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $44,400/year
Specialized Practice: Clinical
Points: 7
Are you ready to make a difference in your community? Earning an online master of social work from The Catholic University of America can give you the knowledge and experience needed to improve the quality of life for individuals, families, and groups in your community. The curriculum is demanding and action-oriented. Graduates have found success working in areas like:
-mental health
-elder care
-child welfare
-K-12 social work
#45 -Widener University-Chester, Pennsylvania
Online Master of Social Work Program
Degree Profile
Ratio: 13:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $22,300/year
Specialized Practice: Advanced Clinical with focus on trauma and its impact on mental health
Points: 7
The top CSWE accredited online MSW program at Widener University incorporates trauma as a central theme throughout the curriculum. Students gain an understanding of the role trauma plays as a root cause of mental health issues. They also learn strategies and therapies to treat individuals, families, and communities. Widener offers both an advanced standing and regular admission option, accommodating students with or without their BSW. While earning their MSW, Students can also earn a Trauma Certificate for additional experience and knowledge in this important area.
#44 -Portland State University-Portland, Oregon
Master of Social Work Online
Degree Profile
Ratio: 19:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $14,436/year in-state and $21,780/year out-of-state
Specialized Practice: Practice and Leadership in Communities and Organizations
Points: 7
Portland State University is the only public university in Oregon to feature an online CSWE accredited MSW program. The program prepares students for leadership and practice building racial equity and breaking down systems of inequality. This cohort-based program takes three years to complete and includes a field placement. Classes are delivered online. There are face-to-face meetings with faculty using video conferencing and other web-based technology. Students come to campus for two days at the start of each academic year for networking and instruction. This helps students to begin building professional relationships.
#43 -University of New Hampshire-Durham, New Hampshire
Master of Social Work Online
Degree Profile
Ratio: 18:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $13,840/year in-state and $27,130/year out-of-state
Specialized Practice: Advanced Generalist
Points: 7
The 62 credit hour top master’s in social work online at the University of New Hampshire is a flexible program. Faculty are dedicated to the success of their students. Most students can earn their degree in as few as 28 months. They can tailor the program to meet their professional goals with a variety of elective course offerings. Students complete two field internships in their local area, each lasting nine months. Graduates have found success working with children, youth, and families as well as individuals with disabilities.
#42 -Florida State University-Tallahassee, Florida
Online MSW
Degree Profile
Ratio: 24:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $9,684/year in-state and $24,116/year out-of-state
Specialized Practice: Clinical Social Work
Points: 7
Social workers have the power to change lives. The top online MSW program at Florida State University will set you on the path to making a positive impact in the lives of the people you serve. The program is open to students with or without a BSW. The two-year advanced standing program is for students with a BSW while the three-year traditional track is for those with a bachelor’s in another field. Online students complete field placements in clinical settings so they are ready for the workforce immediately after graduation.
#41 -Louisiana State University-Baton Rouge, Louisiana
MSW Online
Degree Profile
Ratio: 22:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $9,132 /year
Specialized Practice: Advanced Generalist
Points: 7
With six start dates each year, you can begin this top online MSW program at Louisiana State University when it’s convenient for you. Full-time students can earn their degree in about two years while part-time students typically take three. LSU offers a one year advanced standing option for those with a BSW from a CSWE accredited program. Students complete two internships in the last two semesters of the program to gain hands-on experience. Both thesis and non-thesis options are available. This gives students the opportunity to engage in research or complete a capstone experience.
#40 -University of South Florida-Tampa, Florida
Online Advanced Standing MSW
Degree Profile
Ratio: 22:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $8,350/year in-state and $19,048/year out-of-state
Specialized Practice: Clinical Social Work Practice
Points: 7
Do you have a passion for clinical social work? You should check out the top online CSWE accredited MSW program at the University of South Florida. Students can apply to the program without taking the GRE and can attend either full or part-time. Graduates of this advanced standing program boast a higher than the national average pass rate on the Clinical Association of Social Work Boards Licensing Exam. Students are in demand. More than 70% have a job lined up before they even graduate.
#39 -Humboldt State University-Arcata, California
Social Work Online MSW
Degree Profile
Ratio: 22:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $7,176 /year in-state and $16,680/year out-of-state
Specialized Practice: Indigenous and rural communities
Points: 7
Humboldt State University in California has an online CSWE accredited MSW program focused on serving indigenous and rural communities. Humboldt offers a traditional and advanced standing program, both for part-time students, with minimal on-campus residency requirements. Online students stay engaged with faculty and peers through weekly live web sessions. Professional internships are required to gain valuable experience and can be completed in the student’s home community.
#38 -California State University-Northridge, California
Master of Social Work Online
Degree Profile
Ratio: 26:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $7,176/year in-state and $16,680/year out-of-state
Specialized Practice: Urban Family Studies
Points: 7
If your passion is working in an urban family practice, Tseng College at California State University Northridge has an online two-year program that could be a great fit! Students complete online assignments and meet weekly for a live, online session. Courses are asynchronous. Students can attend the live class or watch it at a later time. Online courses are taught by the same great faculty who teach the traditional program. Students benefit from a cohesive learning community, keeping them actively engaged to develop supportive professional relationships.
#37 -University of Central Florida-Orlando, Florida
Master of Social Work Online
Degree Profile
Ratio: 30:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $6,916/year in-state and $25,759/year out-of-state
Specialized Practice: Advanced Generalist
Points: 7
The University of Central Florida offers an online CSWE accredited master of social work for individuals who want to be a voice for vulnerable populations. Whether you’ve earned a CSWE accredited BSW or have a bachelor’s in another area, UCF has the program for you. The part-time, nine-semester online MSW offers seven-week courses taken one at a time. It’s for students who earned their BSW more than five years ago or those without a BSW. The four-semester advanced standing option is for those with a CSWE BSW. UCF is ranked by both Kiplinger’s and Forbes as one of the most affordable colleges in the country.
#36 -Texas State University-San Marcos, Texas
MSW Online Program
Degree Profile
Ratio: 23:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $6,392/year in-state and $14,692/year out-of-state
Specialized Practice: Advanced Practice Leadership
Points: 7
The top online MSW program at Texas State University is built on a liberal arts perspective. It’s designed for professionals who want to improve society. Students will develop both macro and micro skills, giving them the knowledge and experience to work in either direct practice or administration. Both advanced standing and foundation programs are available in a cohort format online. Students can attend either full-time or part-time.
#35 -Arizona State University-Skysong, Arizona
Online Master of Social Work
Degree Profile
Ratio: 26:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $6,144/year
Specialized Practice: Advanced Generalist
Points: 7
The CSWE online Master of Social Work program at Arizona State University is offered through the College of Public Service and Community Solutions. ASU features a distinctive MSW focusing on cultural diversity and distinct populations in the U.S. southwest. In addition to online coursework, students complete 960 hours of field education in their own geographic area. ASU is considered one of the most innovative universities in the country for 2018 according to U.S. News and World Report.
#34 -University of Nevada-Reno, Nevada
Online Masters in Social Work
Degree Profile
Ratio: 21:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $4,842/year in-state and $19,030/year out-of-state
Specialized Practice: Advanced Generalist
Points: 7
The University of Nevada, Reno is a national Tier 1 University recognized by U.S. News and World Report. It offers an online accredited MSW with incredibly low tuition rates. The program is designed to address social problems in a number of environments including rural communities. Both the advanced standing and traditional programs are accredited by the CSWE. The 32 credit hour advanced standing program can be completed in just 15 months. The traditional program takes about three years and includes a three-day residency.
#33 -Rutgers University-New Brunswick, New Jersey
MSW 100% Online Program
Degree Profile
Ratio: 15:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $16,848/year in-state and $28,656/year out-of-state
Specialized Practice: Clinical Social Work
Points: 8
The 100% online master of social work at Rutgers University is an asynchronous program completed through an integrated online learning environment. Advanced standing students can earn their degree in four semesters. Traditional online students take about three years. Students with a passion for preventing violence and helping victims of violence can apply to the Violence Against Women and Children Certificate program which includes specialized course and field placements.
#32 -Our Lady of the Lake University-San Antonio, Texas
Online Master of Social Work
Degree Profile
Ratio: 14:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $16,002/year
Specialized Practice: Direct Practice with Hispanic Children and Families
Points: 8
The Worden School of Social Service at Our Lady of the Lake University offers an online CSWE accredited MSW program for students interested in leadership and advanced direct practice. This unique program is one of only three MSW programs in the country with a focus on helping Hispanic families and their children. The flexible program is offered as a Foundation Program for those with a bachelor’s in an area other than social work and as an Advanced Standing Program for those with their BSW. Our Lady of the Lake University has a positive reputation in the field of social work. It earned the Presidential Award for Excellence from CSWE in 2009.
#31 -Western Kentucky University-Bowling Green, Kentucky
Online MSW
Degree Profile
Ratio: 18:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $11,780/year in-state and $16,260/year out-of-state
Specialized Practice: Rural Advanced Generalist
Points: 8
Western Kentucky University features a 100% online CWSE accredited MSW program with a focus on becoming a rural advanced generalist. Students will gain the knowledge and skills to work with individuals and groups in a variety of settings. Both advanced standing and traditional programs are available. Many programs require advanced standing students to have earned a CSWE accredited BSW in the last five years. WKU will accept degrees completed in the last seven years.
#30 -Edinboro University of Pennsylvania-Pennsylvania
Master of Social Work Online
Degree Profile
Ratio: 18:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $9,000/year in-state and $13,500/year out-of-state
Specialized Practice: Family Social Work Practice
Points: 8
The online CSWE accredited master of social work at Edinboro University is a well-rounded program preparing students to work in a variety of settings including:
-corrections
-veterans’ organizations
-foster care agencies
-nursing homes
-addiction treatment centers.
Online students can begin the regular program in either the fall or spring while advanced standing students begin in the summer semester. Students complete field education while concurrently taking coursework This allows them to apply their knowledge immediately in a practical setting.
#29 -Indiana University-Indianapolis, Indiana
MSW Direct Online Program
Degree Profile
Ratio: 17:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $8,448 /year in-state and $23,208/year out-of-state
Specialized Practice: Advanced Generalist
Points: 8
The School of Social Work program at Indiana University features the MSW Direct Online Program with no on-campus residency requirements. There are three program start dates each year. The curriculum has three distinct layers, starting with the foundational layer for traditional online students. Advanced standing students start with social work concentration courses designed to expand upon the knowledge and skills obtained during their BSW program. Following concentration coursework, students complete practice area courses that are more refined. Social work elective special practice course offerings include:
-e-social work practice with groups
-telebehavioral health social work practice with individuals
-military social work.
#28 -Salisbury University-Salisbury, Maryland
Online MSW
Degree Profile
Ratio: 16:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $7,056/year in-state and $12,654/year out-of-state
Specialized Practice: Practice with Individuals, Families, Groups, and Organizations
Points: 8
The online top MSW program at Salisbury University is a 20-student cohort program admitting both traditional and advanced standing students. Students are admitted to the program in the fall and take courses year round, in seven-week blocks. Traditional students will take about three years to earn their degree while advanced standing students can complete the program in about 17 months. The program is open to students living in Maryland, Delaware, Virginia, West Virginia or Pennsylvania only.
#27 -Boise State University-Boise, Idaho
Master of Social Work Online
Degree Profile
Ratio: 17:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $6,471/year in-state and $21,787/year out-of-state
Specialized Practice: Individuals and Families
Points: 8
Boise State University features a top online MSW program designed for students who want to make a positive impact in the lives of individuals and families. This affordable online MSW features both a traditional and advanced standing program. The advanced standing program is open to students with a BSW earned in the last five years as well as those who graduated in the last 10 years and have significant work experience. Students are located all over the country. There are no on-campus residency requirements.
#26 -Delaware State University-Wilmington, Delaware
Online Master of Social Work (MSW)
School Profile
Ratio: 16:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $5,160/year in-state and $11,376/year out-of-state
Specialized Practice: Advanced Generalist
Points: 8
As the only CSWE accredited MSW program in the state of Delaware, this program at Delaware State University is one of the best on the East coast. This top online MSW is open to both full and part-time students, with or without their BSW. Students who don’t quite meet admission requirements may be able to enroll under the direction of a mentor. Course offerings address issues such as poverty, racism, oppression, and populations outside of the U.S. Faculty are doctoral-level professors, dedicated to student success.
#25 -New Mexico State University-Las Cruces, New Mexico
Online MSW
Degree Profile
Ratio: 16:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $4,390 /year in-state and $15,309/year out-of-state
Specialized Practice: Advanced Generalist
Points: 8
The advanced generalist top online MSW program at New Mexico State University is focused on the unique populations living in the Southwest. Students learn to respond to rapidly changing environments and social dynamics through a comprehensive online curriculum. This full-time program features unique coursework and internship opportunities for individuals who are unable to participate in a traditional on-campus program.
#24 -Campbellsville University-Campbellsville, Kentucky
Master of Social Work Online
Degree Profile
Ratio: 13:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $11,904/year
Specialized Practice: Advanced Generalist
Points: 9
Campbellsville University is a private Baptist university considered one of the top “up and coming” schools of the South, according to U.S. News and World Report. It offers a top online CSWE accredited MSW taught from a perspective of ethical and Christian ideals. Both standard and advanced track programs are available. Graduates are prepared to work in a variety of social service settings in leadership positions.
#23 -University at Buffalo-Buffalo, New York
Online MSW Program
Degree Profile
Ratio: 13:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $10,870/year in-state and $22,210/year out-of-state
Specialized Practice: Trauma-Informed and Human Rights Perspective
Points: 9
The University at Buffalo School of Social Work offers the part-time CSWE accredited online MSW program. It integrates trauma-informed and human rights perspectives into the curriculum. The University at Buffalo features both a 60 credit hour traditional online MSW and a 35 credit hour advanced standing program. Field placements are required for both program options and may be completed in the student’s home community.
#22 -University of Iowa-Iowa City, Iowa
Online MSW Program
Degree Profile
Ratio: 15:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $9,427/year in-state and $28,163/year out-of-state
Specialized Practice: Integrated (Macro) Practice
Points: 9
The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences School of Social Work at The University of Iowa features a three-year online part-time MSW program. It’s for students interested in macro social work roles such as school social work, staff supervision, case management, or organizational and community leadership. There is no GRE required for admission. This cohort-based program is open to about 25 students who live in Iowa or a surrounding state.
#21 -University of Alaska-Anchorage, Alaska
Distance MSW
Degree Profile
Ratio: 12:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $8,388/year in-state and $17,622/year out-of-state
Specialized Practice: Advanced Generalist
Points: 9
The School of Social Work at the University of Alaska Anchorage features an online MSW for students living throughout Alaska. Courses are delivered in an online format with regularly scheduled live online courses each week. Students must attend an on-campus orientation and periodic intensives on campus. UAA offers full-time, part-time, and advanced standing options. Field placements are required and can be completed in the student’s own community.
#20 -University of Arkansas-Fayetteville, Arkansas
Online Advanced Standing MSW
Degree Profile
Ratio: 18:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $7,563/year in-state and $19,784/year out-of-state
Specialized Practice: Multi-System Life Course Perspective
Points: 9
The University of Arkansas offers the innovative online CSWE accredited MSW program. It has a unique multi-system life course perspective. It’s a great choice for students who want to work with multiple systems across diverse age ranges. Students in the 12 month advanced standing program can complete all course requirements online with no campus visits required. A capstone research project or thesis are required during the course of the last year. These expose students to advanced research techniques and technologies.
#19 -Morgan State University-Baltimore, Maryland
Masters in Social Work
Degree Profile
Ratio: 13:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $7,416 /year in-state and $14,580/year out-of-state
Specialized Practice: Urban Children, Youths, and Families
Points: 9
Morgan State University is the largest Historically Black College and University in Maryland. It offers more than 32 master’s programs including a top online MSW accredited by the CSWE. The program is highly focused on improving the quality of life for urban children, youth and families. Both a traditional and advanced standing program are available. Full-time students can earn their degree in about two years including a field placement.
#18 -Boston University-Boston, Massachusetts
Online Master of Social Work
Degree Profile
Ratio: 10:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $50,980/year
Specialized Practice: Clinical Social Work Practice and Macro Social Work Practice
Points: 10
Boston University has a long-standing reputation for excellence in social work education, It continually demonstrates a commitment to further social justice and empowerment of disadvantaged social groups. Students can choose between a macro or clinical social work program depending on their professional goals. Boston University has three different MSW tracks including:
-the traditional track
-advanced standing track
-the human experience track.
The human experience track is a unique program for students with at least two years of supervised experience in human services and requires only one field internship experience.
#17 -Columbia University-New York, New York
Online MSW
Degree Profile
Ratio: 6:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $44,864/year
Specialized Practice: Advanced Clinical Practice or Social Enterprise Administration
Points: 10
Columbia University offers a top MSW online with five different program options. Students can complete:
-a traditional two-year program
-an advanced standing program
-reduced residency program
-extended program
-a transfer program.
Students can choose from two areas of specialization including advanced clinical practice and social enterprise administration. Students can also choose between two fields of practice including family, youth and children’s services or health, mental health and disabilities. Most classes are synchronous, requiring students to be engaged at their computer during class time. While there are no on-campus residency requirements, students are welcome to take part in orientation, for their capstone project, or at graduation.
#16 -Case Western Reserve University-Ohio
Online Master of Science in Social Administration
Degree Profile
Ratio: 11:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $43,854/year
Specialized Practice: Community Practice & Social Change and Direct Practice (Child, Youths, & Families or Mental Health/Adults)
Points: 10
Case Western Reserve University is committed to preparing students to change lives and communities. Coursework is offered 100% online with no on-campus residency requirements. Students can choose from specialization areas in direct practice (CYF or mental health with adults) or community practice for social change. Advanced track options are available for students with their BSW degree. All applicants are considered for scholarship funding, saving students additional dollars.
#15 -Fordham University-Bronx, New York
Online Master of Social Work Program
Degree Profile
Ratio: 14:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $32,808/year
Specialized Practice: Clinical and Community-Based Practice & Leadership
Points: 10
Fordham University features an online CSWE accredited MSW program with focus areas in:
-individuals and families
-organizations and community
-evaluation
-policy practice and advocacy.
Fordham boasts both a traditional and advanced standing online MSW program with flexible options that fit your schedule. Traditional students can complete their program in 16 months of accelerated study, 24 months of full-time study, or 32 months of part-time study.
Advanced standing students can complete the program in just eight months of full-time study or 16 months of part-time study. Field components can be completed in or near your own community, preparing you for employment in your choice of settings.
#14 -The University of Alabama-Tuscaloosa, Alabama
Online Master of Social Work
Degree Profile
Ratio: 23:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $10,780/year in-state and $28,100/year out-of-state
Specialized Practice: Children, Adolescents and their Families; Adults and their Families
Points: 10
The University of Alabama has been educating social workers since 1965. Both an advanced standing and a standard program are available to students with access to a computer with high-speed internet. Concentrations are available in:
-children, adolescents, and their families
-adults and their families.
There are no on-campus residency requirements although students need to participate in virtual face-to-face skills lab sessions. Graduates can be found around the world, making a difference in the lives of the people they serve.
#13 -University of Houston-Houston, Texas
MSW Online
Degree Profile
Ratio: 21:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $8,064/year in-state and $17,334/year out-of-state
Specialized Practice: Clinical with optional emphasis in health and behavioral health
Points: 10
The Graduate College of Social Work at the University of Houston features an online top MSW program for self-motivated students needing a flexible program. This cohort-based program allows students to interact with peers through discussion boards and online technologies. Students complete a minimum of 900 clock hours of field work under the supervision of a master’s level social worker. Students can usually complete these experiences in their local community.
#12 -San Jose State University-San Jose, California
MSW Online/Hybrid Program
Degree Profile
Ratio: 25:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $7,176/year in-state and $16,680/year out-of-state
Specialized Practice: Transcultural multisystems with two fields of practice: (1) Children, Youths, and Families and (2) Health and Mental Health
Points: 10
The top MSW online/hybrid program at San Jose State University is a part-time program with online coursework and in-person field education experiences. The flexible online nature of the program makes this an ideal choice for working professionals. The 16 week practicum experience takes place during the school year. It can be completed in a setting relevant to the students’ professional goals.
#11 -University of New England-Biddeford, Maine
Online Master of Social Work
Degree Profile
Ratio: 13:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $17,501/year
Specialized Practice: Individual, Family, & Group Practice (clinical-based) and Organizational and Community Practice (policy-based)
Points: 11
The online CSWE accredited master of social work program at the University of New England is student-centered with no on-campus requirements. Students can choose to focus on either clinical practice, community practice, or a blend of the two. Both traditional and advanced standing programs are available. There is no GRE required for admission to the program. The University of New England is recognized as one of the top colleges in the country by both Forbes and U.S. News and World Report.
#10 -University of Hawaii at Manoa-Honolulu, Hawaii
Master of Social Work Distance Education Option
Degree Profile
Ratio: 13:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $15,288/year in-state and $36,768/year out-of-state
Specialized Practice: Clinical with optional emphasis in health and behavioral health
Points: 11
Residents of the islands of Hawaii have the opportunity to earn an online CSWE accredited MSW using a variety of virtual delivery methods. Both a traditional three-year and an advanced standing one or two year program are available. Students travel to the island of O’ahu once a year for advising and on-site instruction. New cohorts are admitted in three year cycles so there are always two cohorts running at the same time. The program includes a field practicum, which can usually be scheduled around employment obligations.
#9 -University of Tennessee-Knoxville, Tennessee
Online MSSW Program
Degree Profile
Ratio: 17:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $11,244/year in-state and $29,432/year out-of-state
Specialized Practice: Clinical or Macro (Management, Leadership, and Community Practice)
Points: 11
The top online MSW degree program at the University of Tennessee features the same rigorous curriculum and expert level faculty found in the traditional on-campus program. Students can attend full-time or part-time as their schedule allows. Both asynchronous and synchronous approaches are utilized. This allows students to be engaged in live online sessions with faculty and peers in addition to online study. Online students have access to certificate programs in gerontology, school social work, trauma, and veterinary social work.
#8 -University of Missouri-Columbia, Missouri
Online MSW
Degree Profile
Ratio: 19:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $8,640/year in-state and $23,659/year out-of-state
Specialized Practice: Clinical Social Work; Policy, Planning, and Administration
Points: 11
The School of Social Work at the University of Missouri offers an online top MSW program with concentrations in either clinical social work or policy, planning, and administration. The curriculum is rigorous and prepares students to work in a variety of settings. Advanced standing students complete two courses most semesters and can graduate in about two year. Regular standing students take about three years, including practicum requirements. Students must reside in Missouri, Arkansas, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Nebraska, Oklahoma, or Tennessee to maintain eligibility for the program.
#7 -University of Texas of the Rio Grande Valley-Edinburg, Texas
Online MSW
Degree Profile
Ratio: 19:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $5,550/year in-state and $13,020/year out-of-state
Specialized Practice: Direct Practice with Individuals, Families, and Groups and Community and Administrative Practice
Points: 11
The Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW) at the University of Texas of the Rio Grande Valley features online accelerated options in:
-Administration and Community Practice
-Direct Practice with Latino Individuals, Families, and Groups.
Students begin the program during the summer and must have a bachelor’s in social work to be accepted. Both concentration areas feature two practicums to gain hands- on work experience.
#6 -University of Southern California-Los Angeles, California
Online MSW Program
Degree Profile
Ratio: 9:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $43,200/year
Specialized Practice: Adult Mental Health and Wellness; Children, Youth, and Families; Social Change and Innovation
Points: 13
The Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work at the University of Southern California features interactive coursework available 24/7 from your computer or mobile device. Courses are taught seminar style with small virtual classrooms limited to 12 students. Students are supported both academically and technically throughout the program. Traditional program students can attend either full or part-time with a focus in:
-adult mental health and wellness
-children, youth and families
-social change and innovation
Advanced standing online MSW students can earn their degree in about 12 months, fully prepared to take their licensure exam.
#5 -Simmons College-Boston, Massachusetts
MSW Online
Degree Profile
Ratio: 7:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $20,988/year
Specialized Practice: Clinical Social Work, specialized areas in mental health and substance abuse; Child and Family Welfare; Trauma and Interpersonal Violence; and Health and Aging
Points: 16
The clinical social work curriculum at Simmons College prepares students for direct practice in a variety of settings. The top master of social work online program is comprised of online coursework and in-person field education for a well-rounded experience. Students can choose between a traditional, accelerated, or extended option depending on their previous education and current commitments. Full-time and part-time students are welcome. With five cohort start dates each year, this program is one of the most flexible out there!
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#3 -University of Illinois-Urbana, Illinois
iMSW Program Online
Degree Profile
Ratio: 20:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $15,186/year in-state and $28,773/year out-of-state
Specialized Practice: Leadership and Social Change; Mental Health; Health Care; Children, Youth, and Family Services; Schools
Points: 18
The iMSW program at the University of Illinois is a top online MSW with concentration and focus areas from a variety of in-demand areas. Students choose from a concentration in either Leadership and Social Change or Advanced Clinical. Advanced Clinical students choose a focus area to specialize in. Students complete an internship experience in their concentration area to enhance their professional skills and engage in hands-on learning.
#2-Temple University-Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Master of Social Work
Degree Profile
Ratio: 15:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $16,164/year in-state and $22,158/year out-of-state
Specialized Practice: Trauma; Health/Mental Health; Children and Families; Humanitarian Social Work; and Military Social Work
Points: 21
The College of Public Health at Temple University offers the innovative online CSWE accredited MSW. It has a variety of unique programming options for individuals interested in specific areas of social work. The curriculum is continuously renewed. The latest additions are a new Military Counseling certificate and a training program for those interested in working with at-risk youth. Temple University has partnerships with over 500 different human service organizations to provide training opportunities to students in the United States and abroad. Graduates have one of the highest pass rates in the country on their licensure exams.
#1 -University of Louisville-Louisville, Kentucky
Online Master of Science in Social Work
Degree Profile
Ratio: 15:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $12,246/year in-state and $25,486/year out-of-state
Specialized Practice: Military Social Work; Alcohol and Drug Counseling; Gerontology; Mental Health Counseling; and Psychology Oncology
Points: 21
The CSWE accredited MSW online program at the University of Louisville has it all! Low tuition rates, a low student to faculty ratio, and plenty of specialized practice areas to choose from. The University of Louisville features both a regular and advanced standing online MSW program with unique specialized options such as psychosocial oncology and gerontology. The program is offered entirely online with no on-campus residency requirements. It can be completed in two to eight semesters depending on the program option selected.