Obtaining an online degree as a social worker offers flexibility and accessibility for individuals who may have work, family, or other commitments that make attending traditional on-campus classes challenging. It requires careful planning, dedication, and research to ensure you choose a reputable program that meets your educational and career goals.
How to Get a Social Worker Degree Online
1. Research Online Social Work Programs
Start by researching accredited online social work programs offered by reputable universities or colleges. Look for programs that are accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), as accreditation ensures the program meets the necessary standards for social work education.
Consider factors such as program curriculum, faculty expertise, tuition costs, program length, and flexibility in scheduling.
2. Determine Your Educational Goals
Decide what level of social work degree you want to pursue. Common options include:
Bachelor of Social Work (BSW): Typically a four-year undergraduate degree.
Master of Social Work (MSW): A graduate degree that can be completed in two years for those with a BSW or in three years for those without a BSW.
Doctor of Social Work (DSW) or Ph.D. in Social Work: Advanced degrees for those interested in research or academic careers.
Consider whether you want to pursue a generalist social work degree or specialize in a specific area such as clinical social work, community social work, or school social work.
3. Check Admission Requirements
Review the admission requirements for each online social work program you’re interested in. These may include GPA requirements, prerequisite coursework, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and relevant work or volunteer experience.
Ensure you meet all the prerequisites before applying to your chosen program.
4. Apply to Online Social Work Programs
Complete the application process for the online social work programs you’ve selected. Be sure to submit all required documents by the application deadlines.
Some programs may require an interview as part of the admissions process.
5. Complete Coursework Online
Once accepted into an online social work program, you’ll complete coursework remotely through online learning platforms.
Engage actively in online discussions, complete assignments, and participate in virtual group projects as required by your courses.
Stay organized and manage your time effectively to balance coursework with other commitments.
6. Gain Field Experience
Many online social work programs require students to complete fieldwork or internships to gain practical experience in the field.
Work with your program advisor to identify suitable field placement opportunities in your local area.
Use your field experiences to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world social work practice and build professional skills.
7. Network and Connect with Peers
Take advantage of networking opportunities provided by your online social work program, such as virtual conferences, webinars, and online forums.
Connect with classmates, faculty members, and alumni to build professional relationships and expand your social work network.
8. Prepare for Licensure (if applicable)
If your career goals require licensure as a social worker, research the licensure requirements in your state or country.
Complete any additional coursework or supervised experience required for licensure eligibility.
Study for and pass any required licensure exams, such as the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) exams.
9. Graduation and Career Planning
Upon completing your online social work degree requirements, celebrate your accomplishment!
Consider your career goals and next steps, whether it’s pursuing further education, entering the workforce, or seeking licensure.
Utilize career services offered by your online program or alumni network for job search assistance, resume writing, and interview preparation.
10. Continuing Education and Professional Development
Social work is a dynamic field that requires ongoing learning and professional development.
Stay informed about current trends, research, and best practices in social work through continuing education opportunities, conferences, and workshops.
Here are some of the few universities that offer online degrees in social work
University of Southern California (USC)
USC offers an online Master of Social Work (MSW) program with both full-time and part-time options. The program focuses on clinical social work practice and is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).
Arizona State University (ASU):
ASU’s School of Social Work offers an online Master of Social Work (MSW) program that prepares students for advanced social work practice. The program offers concentrations in advanced clinical practice and advanced macro practice.
Boston University (BU):
BU offers an online Master of Social Work (MSW) program designed for individuals with a bachelor’s degree in any field. The program offers concentrations in clinical social work and macro social work practice.
University of Denver (DU):
DU’s Graduate School of Social Work offers an online Master of Social Work (MSW) program with a concentration in Mental Health and Trauma. The program emphasizes evidence-based practices and social justice.
Fordham University:
Fordham offers an online Master of Social Work (MSW) program with concentrations in clinical practice and leadership and macro practice. The program emphasizes ethical practice, diversity, and social justice.
Simmons University:
Simmons University offers an online Master of Social Work (MSW) program with concentrations in Clinical Social Work and Social Work in Healthcare. The program emphasizes a trauma-informed approach and cultural competence.
University of Texas at Arlington (UT Arlington):
UT Arlington offers an online Master of Social Work (MSW) program with concentrations in Direct Practice with Children and Families, Direct Practice in Mental Health and Substance Abuse, and Community and Administrative Practice.
Case Western Reserve University:
Case Western Reserve University offers an online Master of Science in Social Administration (MSSA) program, which is equivalent to an MSW degree. The program offers concentrations in Direct Practice (Children, Youth, and Families), Direct Practice (Mental Health with Adults), and Community Practice for Social Change.
University of Louisville:
The Kent School of Social Work at the University of Louisville offers an online Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW) program. The program offers concentrations in Psychosocial Oncology, Mental Health, Alcohol and Drug Counseling, Military Social Work, and Gerontology.
Widener University:
Widener University offers an online Master of Social Work (MSW) program with concentrations in Clinical Social Work and Macro Social Work Practice. The program emphasizes a strengths-based perspective and social justice.
Conclusion
Pursuing a social worker degree online offers flexibility and convenience for individuals with busy schedules or other commitments. However, it’s essential to choose a reputable program, stay organized, and actively engage in coursework and field experiences to succeed in your online social work education. Remember to stay connected with peers, faculty, and professional networks to support your career development in the field of social work.
