[hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”aboveTheFold” /] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Find out about the top online MSW programs, what to look for when choosing one, and your career options after graduation.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”editorialListings” /] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]10 Best Online Master’s in Social Work Programs[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”How We Chose These Schools”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]At TheBestSchools, we use trusted data from the U.S. Department of Education to evaluate schools without bias. Our ranking methodology helps prospective students from various backgrounds find the best fit. We consider key factors like academic quality, online offerings, and affordability, so every type of student can find the best fit for them.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]This list has been updated for 2025. Learn more about how our formula works on our [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/ranking-methodology/”]our ranking methodology page[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [/hen-ui-accordion] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What Is an MSW Degree?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Differences Between an Online and Campus-Based MSW Program[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Both online and [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-masters-social-work/”]campus-based MSW programs[/hen-ui-link] 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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”shadow” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Why Get Your MSW Degree Online?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]An MSW is the minimum degree requirement to [hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/social-work/”]practice clinical social work[/hen-ui-link] or independently practice generalist social work.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]An MSW offers career opportunities in mental health, substance misuse, and forensic social work.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The National Association of Social Workers reports that MSW graduates make around [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.socialworkers.org/careers/career-center/kickstart-your-job-hunt/social-work-salaries” target=”_blank”]$13,000 more per year[/hen-ui-link] than social workers with only a bachelor’s degree.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]An online degree allows you to study around your work schedule and other commitments.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]An [hen-ui-link href=”/resources/college-finances/paying-for-college/”]online degree can save you money[/hen-ui-link] on housing, transportation, and some on-campus fees.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]How to Choose an Online MSW Program[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]To choose an online MSW program that meets your needs and sets you up for success, follow these essential guidelines:[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]1. Check for CSWE Accreditation[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]2. Find a Program Within Your Budget[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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 [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/affordable/online-bachelors-social-work/”]affordable program[/hen-ui-link] means less financial stress, which lets you focus more on studying.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]3. Look Into the Program’s Clinical Requirements[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]4. Ensure the Program Offers Your Focus Area[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Common Social Work Concentrations[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Children and Family[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Clinical Social Work[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Community and Social Systems[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Forensic Social Work[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Healthcare and Medical[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Mental Health[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]School Social Work[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What Can I Do With a Master’s in Social Work?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]How Much Does a Social Worker Make?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]According to Payscale, the average salary for licensed clinical social workers was [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.payscale.com/research/US/Job=Licensed_Clinical_Social_Worker_(LCSW)/Salary” target=”_blank”]$68,034 as of January 2025[/hen-ui-link]. However, many factors can affect earnings in this field. Experience, location, and specialization all play important roles.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-table] [hen-ui-table-caption]Social Worker Salaries and Job Outlook[/hen-ui-table-caption] [hen-ui-table-header] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]5 Careers You Can Pursue With an MSW[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Median Annual Wage (May 2023)[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Projected Job Growth (2023-2033)[/hen-ui-table-head] [/hen-ui-table-row] [/hen-ui-table-header] [hen-ui-table-body] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Social Workers[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”5 Careers You Can Pursue With an MSW”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/social-workers.htm#tab-1″ target=”_blank”]$58,380[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Wage (May 2023)”]7%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Mental Health and Substance Use Social Workers[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”5 Careers You Can Pursue With an MSW”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/21-1023.00″ target=”_blank”]$55,960[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Wage (May 2023)”]9% (or higher)[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Child, Family, and School Social Workers[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”5 Careers You Can Pursue With an MSW”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/21-1021.00″ target=”_blank”]$53,940[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Wage (May 2023)”]3%-5%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Healthcare Social Workers[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”5 Careers You Can Pursue With an MSW”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/21-1022.00″ target=”_blank”]$62,940[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Wage (May 2023)”]9% (or higher)[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Marriage and Family Therapists[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”5 Careers You Can Pursue With an MSW”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/marriage-and-family-therapists.htm” target=”_blank”]$58,510[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Wage (May 2023)”]16%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Social and Community Service Managers[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”5 Careers You Can Pursue With an MSW”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/social-and-community-service-managers.htm” target=”_blank”]$77,030[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Wage (May 2023)”]8%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [/hen-ui-table-body] [/hen-ui-table] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]How Much Does a Master’s in Social Work (MSW) Cost?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), in 2020, a [hen-ui-link href=”/resources/college-finances/paying-for-college/”]master’s degree in social work cost[/hen-ui-link] an average of [hen-ui-link href=”https://nces.ed.gov/datalab” target=”_blank”]$18,523 annually[/hen-ui-link]. 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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Average Annual Cost of an Online MSW Degree[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-grid columns-lg=”2″ gap=”md”] [/hen-ui-grid] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Frequently Asked Questions About Online MSW Degrees[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Should I get my master’s in social work or counseling?” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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 [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-counseling/”]online master’s in counseling[/hen-ui-link] may be the better choice.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What is the difference between a licensed social worker and a professional counselor​?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Licensed social workers and professional counselors have distinct training and areas of focus. Social workers generally possess a master’s degree in social work and address social issues while connecting clients to resources. In contrast, counselors typically have a master’s in counseling and emphasize mental health and therapeutic methods.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”How long does it take to get an MSW degree?”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]It typically takes two years for full-time students to complete an MSW program, including internship requirements. Some programs offer accelerated options, allowing students to complete their degrees in less time, but they require a [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/best-bachelors-social-work/”]bachelor’s degree in social work[/hen-ui-link] to apply.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What is an LCSW​?”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) is a mental health professional who works with individuals and communities. LCSWs assess clients, provide therapy, and create care plans, helping clients deal with emotional and psychological challenges.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]LCSWs also connect clients with resources and advocate for their well-being. LCSWs hold a license, which shows they meet strict educational and professional standards in social work.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”How do I become a licensed social worker?”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]To become a licensed social worker, you need a master’s degree in social work (MSW) from an accredited program. An MSW gives you the skills and knowledge needed for practice and meets the education requirements for licensure.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]After earning your MSW, you must complete a set number of supervised clinical hours. This typically ranges from 3,000-4,000 hours, depending on the state. You also must pass a licensing exam and meet any extra state requirements for licensure.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [/hen-ui-accordion] [hen-ui-section-header title=”Discover More College Resources” /] [hen-ui-article-row variant=”3-col” ids=”970,905,1336″][/hen-ui-article-row]