If you want to practice unsupervised, step into a clinical role, or offer mental health or substance use counseling, you need a master's degree in social work (MSW). The good news is that many online MSW programs let you work while you study. This way, you won't have to put your life on hold.
Find out about the top online MSW programs, what to look for when choosing one, and your career options after graduation.
10 Best Online Master's in Social Work Programs
Reality Check: What Degree Do You Need To Be A Social Worker?
While you can find roles in social work with a bachelor's degree, to become a licensed clinical social worker, you need a master's degree. The knowledge and skills required for this career go beyond the scope of a bachelor's degree in social work — specifically, diagnosing and treating mental health conditions.
What Is an MSW Degree?
A master of social work degree is a graduate degree that helps you develop the skills you need for advanced social work. You'll study social welfare policies, people's behavior, and research techniques. MSW programs typically require around 60 credits, last two years, and prepare you for state licensure.
Differences Between an Online and Campus-Based MSW Program
The key difference between online and campus-based MSW programs is flexibility. Online programs provide asynchronous classes that allow for self-paced learning. In contrast, campus-based programs need you to attend in-person classes at specific times.
Both online and campus-based MSW programs require in-person clinical work through field education or practicum placements. Online MSW programs usually connect with local social service agencies. This way, you can gain hands-on experience in real-world settings.
Why Get Your MSW Degree Online?
An MSW is the minimum degree requirement to practice clinical social work or independently practice generalist social work.
An MSW offers career opportunities in mental health, substance misuse, and forensic social work.
The National Association of Social Workers reports that MSW graduates make around $13,000 more per year than social workers with only a bachelor's degree.
An online degree allows you to study around your work schedule and other commitments.
An online degree can save you money on housing, transportation, and some on-campus fees.
How to Choose an Online MSW Program
To choose an online MSW program that meets your needs and sets you up for success, follow these essential guidelines:
1. Check for CSWE Accreditation
First, check whether the MSW program is accredited. The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) is the national accrediting agency that accredits MSW programs in the United States. This accreditation ensures that the program meets high academic, ethical, and competency standards. Also, most states require you to graduate from a CSWE-accredited program to take the social work licensing exam.
2. Find a Program Within Your Budget
Another key point is the cost of an online MSW program, which can vary among schools. For example, tuition and fees often cost more at private schools than at public ones. Financial aid options, such as scholarships, grants, or federal loans, can help reduce the cost. A more affordable program means less financial stress, which lets you focus more on studying.
3. Look Into the Program's Clinical Requirements
Check the clinical requirements for online MSW programs. To become a clinical social worker, you must have completed your state's minimum of supervised clinical practice. Look for programs offering field placements, practicums, or internships nearby that match your interests and career goals.
4. Ensure the Program Offers Your Focus Area
Finally, make sure the program matches your goals. For example, if you want to focus on mental health, choose a relevant online MSW program that offers specializations or focus areas that allow you to build knowledge and skills in mental health.
Common Social Work Concentrations
Children and Family
Clinical Social Work
Community and Social Systems
Forensic Social Work
Healthcare and Medical
Mental Health
School Social Work
What Can I Do With a Master's in Social Work?
The most in-demand and highest-paying jobs in social work usually require a master's degree in the field. These include clinical and administrative roles, working directly with clients, or leading teams of social workers. With an MSW, you could also create programs to address specific social issues.
An online MSW can also prepare you for a career in policy, research, or education. You could collaborate with government agencies to create and apply social policies or conduct research to better grasp social issues.
How Much Does a Social Worker Make?
According to Payscale, the average salary for licensed clinical social workers was $68,034 as of January 2025. However, many factors can affect earnings in this field. Experience, location, and specialization all play important roles.
| 5 Careers You Can Pursue With an MSW | Median Annual Wage (May 2023) | Projected Job Growth (2023-2033) |
|---|---|---|
| Social Workers | $58,380 | 7% |
| Mental Health and Substance Use Social Workers | $55,960 | 9% (or higher) |
| Child, Family, and School Social Workers | $53,940 | 3%-5% |
| Healthcare Social Workers | $62,940 | 9% (or higher) |
| Marriage and Family Therapists | $58,510 | 16% |
| Social and Community Service Managers | $77,030 | 8% |
How Much Does a Master's in Social Work (MSW) Cost?
According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), in 2020, a master's degree in social work cost an average of $18,523 annually. This figure does not include costs for books and other school supplies, like computers or smart devices, that you may need to complete your coursework.
As an online student, you may save money on transportation and campus-based fees. You can also save money by attending a public rather than a private school. Master's degrees at public universities cost around $14,000 less per year than private universities, according to NCES.
Average Annual Cost of an Online MSW Degree
$13,681 Online MSW Degree
$18,523 Traditional, Campus-Based MSW Degree
Frequently Asked Questions About Online MSW Degrees
It depends on your career goals. If you prefer to focus on broader systemic change and varied community services, consider an MSW. If you want to focus on counseling techniques and direct client interaction, an online master's in counseling may be the better choice.
