Your Guide to Choosing an Online Master of Social Work Program

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online social work degree student

Social workers play a critical role in their communities, supporting those in need and advocating for change in health care, education, mental health, and many other fields. A social work degree opens the door to a fulfilling career dedicated to helping individuals, families, and communities overcome social, emotional, and economic challenges.

Another benefit of this career path is the rising demand for social workers and mental health practitioners, signaling long-term stability. Positions for social workers are projected to increase by 7% between 2023 and 2033, faster than the 4% average growth rate for all occupations, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

Of course, navigating the education system and choosing the right degree aren’t without their challenges. When evaluating a degree like a Master of Social Work (MSW), students must consider degree specialty, accreditation status, program modality, and numerous other factors. This guide is a resource for prospective students considering whether an online MSW is worth it and key considerations when evaluating social work programs and schools.

Is an Online MSW Worth It?

Before discussing degree specialty options or how to become a licensed social worker, confirm that social work is an educational path you’re ready to commit to and whether an online MSW is worth it.

The true value of an MSW degree lies in the career opportunities it provides graduates. Social work is a highly rewarding field for those who derive value from helping others.

What Do Social Workers Do?

Social workers are professionals trained to assess, support, and empower individuals facing challenges. They work in diverse settings, including schools, hospitals, mental health clinics, and government agencies, helping people access essential resources, address personal or family issues, and navigate complex social systems.

The duties of a social worker include the following:

  • Conducting assessments and creating treatment plans
  • Providing mental health services and support
  • Connecting clients with resources, like housing, financial aid, or health care
  • Advocating for social justice and policy change
  • Working with families to improve relationships and resolve conflicts

Considerations When Choosing an MSW Program

If you’ve concluded that an online MSW is worth it, the next step is evaluating your educational path. Social work comprises numerous specialties and subfields, so selecting a degree program that supports your career aspirations is important. Here are the key considerations and questions to ask when choosing an MSW program.

Does the Specialization Support Your Career Goals?

MSW programs offer various specializations to help students prepare for specific fields of social work. Consider the type of social work you’re interested in — such as mental health, child and family services, substance abuse, or gerontology — and look for programs that offer courses and field placements aligned with your goals.

Clinical vs. Nonclinical MSW Programs: Which Is Right for You?

Choosing between a clinical and a nonclinical MSW program is an important step that ultimately determines what social work career you’ll pursue.

Clinical MSW programs prepare students to provide direct therapeutic services, such as mental health services, and qualify graduates to pursue Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) licensure.

Nonclinical MSW programs focus on macro social work, such as policy analysis, advocacy, community organizing, and program development.

If you’re wondering why to choose a clinical MSW program over a nonclinical one, it’s helpful to compare program curricula and career outcomes.

Is the Program Accredited by the Council on Social Work Education?

Accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) is essential for MSW programs in the United States. CSWE accreditation means that the program meets national standards for social work education, qualifies you to sit for the social work licensing exam, and ensures that employers recognize the program’s validity.

Always confirm that the school has CSWE accreditation before enrolling. Not doing so can result in your earning a social work degree that employers don’t recognize, severely limiting your career opportunities.

Program Modality: Online vs. In Person

MSW programs are offered in online, in-person, and hybrid formats. When evaluating programs, students should select the one that best suits their learning styles and schedules.

  • Online programs are ideal for students who need flexibility, allowing them to balance coursework with job and family responsibilities.
  • In-person programs provide the traditional classroom experience with in-person networking and hands-on learning opportunities in a synchronous format.
  • Hybrid programs combine both formats, offering a balance between flexibility and in-person engagement.

What Program Length Is Right for You?

Some students don’t have personal obligations filling their schedules, so they can pursue degrees full-time. Other students may indeed have work or family obligations, and with these time and financial constraints, a part-time program may be more manageable.

MSW programs vary in length, with full-time programs typically taking two years to complete and part-time programs taking three to four years. Some programs offer advanced standing options for students with a BSW, allowing them to complete the degree in as little as one year. Consider your time commitment and whether you need a full-time or part-time program based on your personal and professional circumstances.

Understanding Fieldwork and Clinical Requirements

No matter which social work degree path you choose, fieldwork is a critical component. Field experience provides hands-on learning in real-world settings. Different programs have varying requirements for fieldwork hours, types of placements, and supervision.

Clinical programs have additional requirements for supervised clinical hours. Make sure that you understand these requirements and consider whether the program offers field placements in locations or areas relevant to your career goals.

How to Evaluate a School’s Quality of Education and Student Experience

A school’s reputation and quality of education can significantly affect your learning experience and career prospects. Research the school’s history, graduation and employment rates, student satisfaction, alumni success stories, student success support, and placement support services. If possible, speak with current students or alumni to gain insight into the program’s strengths, support services, and overall student experience.

How to Evaluate Program Faculty

Faculty members play a major role in shaping the educational experience. Review the qualifications, backgrounds, and areas of expertise of the faculty members in each school. Programs with experienced faculty in your area of interest or with backgrounds in clinical practice may be a better fit, providing valuable mentorship and networking opportunities.

  • Rate My Professors — This resource allows you to search for professors by school to see their student evaluations.

How to Gauge Tuition Costs

Tuition for MSW programs varies depending on factors such as institution, location, and duration. Calculate the total tuition and fees, including costs for books, materials, and any additional certification requirements. Financial aid, scholarships, and grants are often available for MSW students, so research available funding options to determine how they might offset tuition costs.

  • USA.gov, Estimate Your College Cost — This government resource helps students calculate their total college costs so they can budget accurately.

Social Work Careers

When evaluating if an online MSW is worth it, most students want to know if their investment in education will pay off in the form of gainful employment and long-term stability. Your future career opportunities will depend on the type of social work degree you earn. For example, the career impact of a clinical MSW degree positions graduates to practice independently and even manage their own clinical practice as counselors, therapists, and mental health practitioners.

Before committing to a degree path, students should learn more about potential career outcomes and the day-to-day responsibilities of social work roles.

Pursue a Rewarding Career in Social Work

Choosing an MSW program is an investment in a meaningful and rewarding career. Social workers are essential to society, providing support to individuals, families, and communities and advocating for social justice and equality. An MSW degree is the most direct path to becoming a professional social worker, equipping you with the skills and knowledge needed to make a difference.

You can find the MSW program that aligns with your aspirations by considering your career goals, preferred specialization, ideal learning format, field requirements, and financial options. Start by exploring accredited programs that support your journey, such as the online MSW program at Keuka College.

Conducted in a traditional and advanced track, Keuka College’s online MSW program is CSWE accredited, offers field placement support, and features experienced practitioner faculty capable of instilling the skills and competencies that employers value in a clinical social worker. Find out more about MSW program options so you can identify which best suits your schedule, learning style, and long-term career goals.

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