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Global social work certificates are brief, U.S.-based graduate school programs that specialize practitioners’ skills for greater impact in oppressed, impoverished lands overseas. Studying global social work can help join the over 3 million IFSW members addressing problems like refugee migration, religious conflicts, food insecurity, and inequality abroad. Certificates can be added to an accredited MSW curriculum or pursued independently by mid-career social workers. Directly targeting international practice methods, the certificate programs generally need just three to seven courses with a study abroad immersion. Credits earned may even qualify as CEUs to renew Association of Social Work Boards licensures. Shorter commitments lead to a faster payoff with an expected salary jump of 10-25 percent, which is likely why Forbes found post-baccalaureate certificates have doubled since 2005. Consequently, we’ve endeavored to locate the 15 Top Global Social Work Certificate Programs that provide globally-minded certificate journeys. To create this list, our search began at the Council on Social Work Education website where we narrowed the 823 accredited colleges based on certificate availability. Since only five options were indexed, we headed to Google to find additional CSWE-accredited universities with certificates closely related to international practice, global health, refugee services, and cross-cultural work. Next, we visited the U.S. News & World Report to sequence the schools by their national rankings. We also recorded the latest 2017-18 tuition figures. Our top priority was ensuring each social work department gave ample opportunities, i.e. overseas trips, fellowships, global clubs, and international consortia.

Here are our selections for the 15 Top Global Social Work Certificate Programs:

1. University of Michigan – Ann Arbor

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Certificate in Global Social Work

Established in 1951 by Fedele F. Fauri, the School of Social Work at the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor stands across from Shapiro Library as a public, CSWE-accredited department committed to “Raising Hope, Changing Society” by training 700+ Wolverines in 16 programs headed by Dr. Lynn Videka. UMich is declared America’s #1 best social work college by the U.S. News & World Report, 25th best school that pays you back on The Princeton Review, and 10th top university in Foreign Policy magazine. The Certificate in Global Social Work begins thrice annually with 16-month or 20-month formats for MSW majors focused on cross-national services. Second language proficiency is required before overseas practicum in four field methods: Community Organization, Interpersonal Practice, Management of Human Services, or Social Policy and Evaluation. Post-grads might also join GSWSA events, research in the Global Poverty Solutions Lab, receive $8,500 Global Activities Scholars Awards, and exchange to UMich partners like the University of Haifa.

Social Work Tuition: $1,826 (in-state) and $2,723 (out-of-state) per credit

Learn more about the Top Global Social Work Certificate Programs at the University of Michigan – Ann Arbor here.

2. University of Chicago

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Certificate in Global Social Development Practice

Hosting the 11th Annual Meeting of the $3.5 million Clinton Global Initiative, the University of Chicago’s CSWE-accredited School of Social Service Administration founded by reformer Graham Taylor in 1903 has grown to employ 34 distinguished faculty and educate 504 post-grad Maroons on East 60th Street. UChicago is proclaimed America’s third best social work school by the U.S. News & World Report, 59th best master’s university in Washington Monthly, and 21st top financial aid provider on The Princeton Review. Overseen by Dr. Deborah Gorman-Smith, the Certificate in Global Social Development Practice admits first-year, language-proficient MSW students until February 16th annually. The four-course program blends classes like Trauma and Resilience in Cross-Cultural Practice with a six-month field placement abroad before a globe-centric capstone project. Other opportunities include working in the Katz Center for Mexican Studies, collaborating with India’s Tata Institute, joining the BridgeWe International Group, and writing for the Advocates’ Forum.

Social Work Tuition: $6,599 per three-credit course

Learn more about the Top Global Social Work Certificate Programs at the University of Chicago here.

3. University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill

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International Development and Social Change Certificate

Known for its Jordan Institute’s Refugee Mental Health and Wellness Initiative, the School of Social Work opened in 1920 at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill is led by Dr. Gary Bowen to confer five CSWE-accredited training programs with $12 million in research funding and 27 tenured faculty adjacent to the FedEx Global Education Center. UNC is deemed America’s fifth best social work school on the U.S. News & World Report, 33rd top university by Times Higher Education, and 15th best value in Forbes. The International Development and Social Change Certificate is a 12-credit, post-MSW option integrating bi-weekly workshops for global practice preparation. Open for admission until December 1st, the program mixes courses like Sustainable Development with an abroad experience and thesis paper. Social workers could also take the South Africa trip, contribute to the Latino Migration Project, network with the Diplomat-in-Residence, join SHAC Beyond Clinic Walls, consult for CareerStart in Israel, and attend the NASW-NC Ethics Conference.

Social Work Tuition: $2,648 (in-state) and $4,768 (out-of-state) per course

Learn more about the Top Global Social Work Certificate Programs at the University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill here.

4. Case Western Reserve University

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Certificate in Global Health

Gifting $4 million in financial aid, including the Paul D. Coverdell Fellowship, Case Western Reserve University’s CSWE-accredited Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences has a two-building Bellflower Road complex to teach 397 Spartans from 41 countries at an 8:1 student-faculty ratio. Granted the Best in Class for Workforce Diversity Award, CWRU is named America’s ninth best social work school by the U.S. News & World Report, 34th top university in The Wall Street Journal, and 30th best career services provider in The Economist. The Certificate in Global Health is an interdisciplinary, nine-credit MSASS option focused on the prevention of disease transmission abroad. Directed by Dr. Grover Gilmore, the program aligns to the Direct Practice Master’s with courses like International Social Welfare and one study abroad trek from Guatemala to Ghana. Graduates can research in the Center on Urban Poverty, join Local International Konnections (LINK), enter the Tianjin University Exchange, attend the Global Talk Series, and celebrate Social Work Day at United Nations too.

Social Work Tuition: $1,450 per credit

Learn more about the Top Global Social Work Certificate Programs at Case Western Reserve University here.

5. University of Pennsylvania

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Global Human Rights Certificate

Organized by Dr. John L. Jackson, the 1993 EVC Silver Apple Award winner, the School of Social Policy & Practice at the University of Pennsylvania is celebrating its 110th year by enrolling 477 post-grad Quakers in five CSWE-accredited degrees at the Caster Building off Locust Walk in West Philadelphia. UPenn was judged America’s 11th best social work college by the U.S. News & World Report, seventh top private university on Niche, and 24th best school for internships in The Princeton Review. Adhering to the United Nation’s WPHRE accords since 2010, the Global Human Rights Certificate is a 15-credit, cross-disciplinary add-on that covers the policy mechanisms for protecting international communities. The post-baccalaureate curriculum requires grades of “B” or better in courses like Transitional Justice in Latin America with at least one overseas practicum. Social workers might also intern via Glasswing International, research in the Evelyn Jacobs Ortner Center, engage with Hispanic Alliance for Change, and attend Penn Global Seminars.

Social Work Tuition: $5,488 per course unit

Learn more about the Top Global Social Work Certificate Programs at the University of Pennsylvania here.

6. Boston College

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Global Refugees & Immigrants Certificate

Located in Chestnut Hill’s McGuinn Hall off Beacon Street, Boston College’s CSWE-accredited School of Social Work has expanded since its 1936 founding by Father Walter McGuinn to employ 94 faculty and produce over 7,000 alumni globally in three Jesuit-inspired degrees with a 41,000-volume library. BC was crowned America’s 11th best social work school by the U.S. News & World Report, 60th top university in Times Higher Education, and 18th best private value on Kiplinger’s Personal Finance. Chaired by Dr. Tom Crea formerly of USDA Honduras, the Global Refugees & Immigrants Certificate is a subject-specific MSW option that enhances skills for supporting the estimated 12 million people fleeing persecution. The macro-scale curriculum melds three courses, such as Global Policy Issues and Diversity, with one 10-week travel session. Other opportunities include joining the Latino Leadership Initiative, receiving Catholic Relief Services fellowships, researching in the Immigrant Integration Lab, attending the Racial Justice Symposium, and engaging in Umoja.

Social Work Tuition: $1,232 per credit

Learn more about the Top Global Social Work Certificate Programs at Boston College here.

7. University of Southern California

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Post-Graduate Certificate in International Social Work Practice

Attracting $100 million in research grants since 1997, the Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work at the University of Southern California is the West’s oldest and the world’s largest CSWE-accredited entity that has 3,500 Trojans contributing 1.5 million service hours yearly in 13 degree options. USC was chosen America’s 17th best social work college on the U.S. News & World Report, second best university by the Institute for International Education, and 65th top school in Washington Monthly. The Post-Graduate Certificate in International Social Work Practice has a four-month, $250 registration process for study partially in the United Kingdom. Organized by Dr. Marilyn Flynn, the 15-unit pathway requires courses like Global Mental Health, a 16-week British internship, and a comparative research project. Students could also take the Metro Manila Immersion, contribute to the Edward R. Roybal Institute’s China Program, work in the Immigration Clinic, pledge Phi Alpha, attend Inclusion Awareness Week events, and join African Americans in Health.

Social Work Tuition: $1,800 per unit

Learn more about the Top Social Work Certificate Programs at the University of Southern California here.

8. University of Maryland – Baltimore

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International Employee Assistance Certificate Program

Bestowed a 2017 CSWE Contributions to Social Work Education Award, the University of Maryland-Baltimore’s accredited School of Social Work is marking its 25th year of inspiring 500+ Retrievers in eight degrees at the 62-building “Charm City” campus near Inner Harbor and via Blackboard. UMB was lauded for America’s 17th best social work school by the U.S. News & World Report, 131st most liberal university on Niche, 279th top value in Money magazine, and 115th best service-oriented institution. The International Employee Assistance Certificate Program is a unique online, 29-session workshop taught by Dr. Dale Masi to study New Millennium issues affecting global workplaces. Conferring 48 CEUs, the one-month curriculum integrates topics like Sexual Harassment and Critical Incident Response for CEAP certification preparation. Additional opportunities include entering the Peace Corps Program, interning with the International Justice Mission, attending the Training Institutes, contributing to the Malawi Project, joining Latinx Unidos, and applying for the Social Work PhD.

Social Work Tuition: $693 (in-state) and $1,244 (out-of-state) per credit

Learn more about the Top Global Social Work Certificate Programs at the University of Maryland – Baltimore here.

9. University of Georgia

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Graduate Certificate in Global Health

Home to the Foot Soldier Project for Civil Rights Studies, the School of Social Work established by the University of Georgia in 1964 is now training 383 Bulldogs with 92 percent job placement in eight CSWE-accredited programs led by Dr. Anna Scheyett at a 37,000-square-foot building on Athens’ Williams Street. UGA was decreed America’s 24th best social work college on the U.S. News & World Report, 14th top public university by Niche, and 24th best school for low-income students in The New York Times. The Graduate Certificate in Global Health is an 18-credit, multi-disciplinary program following the CUGH’s 11 broad domains to prepare post-grads for community development abroad. Rolling admission eases entry into elective courses like HIV/AIDS Global Perspectives and Advanced Air Quality before the three-credit internship abroad. Social workers may research in the Global Health Institute, take the Northern Ireland Maymester trip, attend the Donald L. Hollowell Lecture, become Phoenix Project volunteers, and join Students for Global Social Work too.

Social Work Tuition: $395 (in-state) and $1,071 (out-of-state) per credit

Learn more about the Top Global Social Work Certificate Programs at the University of Georgia here.

10. Tulane University

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Global Social Work Certificate (GSWC)

Opened with Red Cross grant funding in 1921, the School of Social Work at Tulane University is the Deep South’s oldest private, CSWE-accredited division that’s employing 75 full-time faculty under Dean Patrick Bordnick, PhD, and achieving an 81 percent LMSW pass rate with 4,700 alumni across 30+ nations. Tulane was designated America’s 38th best social work school by the U.S. News & World Report, fourth happiest college in The Princeton Review, and 96th top research university on Forbes. The Global Social Work Certificate (GSWC) is a robust, portfolio-based extension that builds international awareness within the 78-credit, five-term Dual MSW/M.S. in Disaster Resilience Leadership. Mandating 3.0 GPAs for a March 31st deadline, the program blends New Orleans classes like Global Humanitarian Aid with two practica abroad. Graduates could also inquire in the Highly Vulnerable Children Research Center, join the Global Brigades, earn the City Year Scholarship, intern with Evacuteer, contribute to the Chinese Rights Initiative, and attend the ACSSW Institute.

Social Work Tuition: $1,018 per credit

Learn more about the Top Global Social Work Certificate Programs at Tulane University here.

11. Adelphi University

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Certificate in Bilingual School Social Work

Present at four New York Metro campuses in Hauppauge, Garden City, Manhattan, and Poughkeepsie, Adelphi University’s School of Social Work managed by Dr. Andrew Safyer has a 91.4 percent employment rate for the 728 Panthers enrolled in nine CSWE-accredited programs with average grant aid of $16,833. Adelphi is crowned America’s 38th best social work school on the U.S. News & World Report, 228th best private university in Forbes, and 268th safest college by Niche. The Certificate in Bilingual School Social Work accepts $25 applications year-round from post-MSW graduates with 3.0 GPAs or higher. Focused on conquering language barriers in English and Spanish, the 16-credit, cross-cultural program fulfills New York State endorsements with courses like Diversity Struggle for Human Rights and a four-credit school internship. Global opportunities include volunteering with the Riley Family Foundation, attending the International Interdisciplinary Conference on Clinical Supervision, studying abroad from Costa Rica to India, and joining GSWSA activities.

Social Work Tuition: $1,135 per credit hour

Learn more about the Top Global Social Work Certificate Programs at Adelphi University here.

12. DePaul University

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Global Health Certificate

Headed by Dean Guillermo Vásquez de Velasco, PhD, a Teaching Excellence Award winner, the CSWE-accredited College of Liberal Arts & Social Sciences is DePaul University’s third-largest private, Catholic division located at the 36-acre Lincoln Park campus on Sheffield Avenue to enroll many of the 7,703 post-grad Blue Demons. DePaul is declared America’s 88th best social work school by the U.S. News & World Report, 42nd best free application college on Niche, and 162nd top value on WalletHub. The Global Health Certificate is a four-course, individualized add-on to the 88-credit MSW degree for students with minimum 2.7 GPAs to globalize their community organizing expertise. Open for admission until April 1st, the curriculum lets social workers choose courses like Health Inequities and Forced Migration with overseas fieldwork. Graduates could also join the Global Health Corps, secure Catholic Charities internships, engage in Circle K International, research in the Institute for Global Homelessness, attend the Empowered to Connect Conference, and pursue the Dual M.A. in Gender Studies.

Social Work Tuition: $685 per quarter hour

Learn more about the Top Global Social Work Certificate Programs at DePaul University here.

13. Boise State University

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Graduate Certificate in Refugee Services Clinical Practice

Reaffirmed by the CSWE in February 2018, Boise State University’s School of Social Work in the College of Health Sciences is Idaho’s oldest public, justice-focused division using its 52-year history to educate 450 Broncos in five programs off Cesar Chavez Lane with a share of the $98.4 million endowment. BSU is proclaimed America’s 105th best social work college by the U.S. News & World Report, 93rd best value on WalletHub, 289th top university on the Social Mobility Index, and 133th best master’s institution in Washington Monthly. Overseen by Dr. Randy Magen, the Graduate Certificate in Refugee Services Clinical Practice has a nine-credit, interdisciplinary plan for licensed MSW practitioners to globalize their skills serving displaced populations. The curriculum covers topics from terrorism to humanitarian crisis and reconstruction before the SWK 519 capstone project. Other opportunities include volunteering abroad with Unite For Sight, exchanging to 70+ countries, taking the Peace Corps Prep workshop, attending the NASW Northwest Social Work Conference, and joining Phi Alpha.

Social Work Tuition: $4,377 (in-state) and $12,035 (out-of-state) per semester

Learn more about the Top Global Social Work Certificate Programs at Boise State university here.

14. California State University – Fresno

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Certificate in Cross-Cultural Competency

Home to the Social Welfare Evaluation & Training Center, the College of Health and Human Services at California State University-Fresno is a public, CSWE-accredited division worth $12.5 million that’s teaching 4,572 Bulldogs to “Live Well” and conduct 28,000+ service hours at its 388-acre San Joaquin Valley campus. Fresno State is ranked America’s 128th best social work school by the U.S. News & World Report, 53rd top value in Money magazine, and 66th best standout university on Niche. The Department of Social Work Education’s Certificate in Cross-Cultural Competency is a self-designed, interdisciplinary program chaired by Dr. Martha Vungkhanching for supporting international endeavors to better diverse communities. Located in HHS Hall, the curriculum involves picking 12 units like Cultural Oppression, Ethnic Studies, and Japanese Language with at least one four-week global experience. Social workers may also become Trabajadores de la Raza, join the Chi Nu Honors Chapter, take the Hong Kong Immersion, attend the ASP International Conference, and earn Title IV-E stipends.

Social Work Tuition: $2,353 (in-state) and $3,541 (out-of-state) per course

Learn more about the Top Global Social Work Certificate Programs at California State University – Fresno here.

15. Widener University

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Certificate in Global Social Work

Awarded a $660,000 HRSA Grant for its Vulnerable Adults Clinical Services Clinic, the School of Human Service Processions at Widener University, a 2017 Good Citizenship Award recipient, has expanded since 1993 to provide 32 programs managed by Dr. Robin Dole in the Greater Philly Metro with 92 percent job placement. Widener is decreed America’s 147th best social work college by the U.S. News & World Report, 282nd top value on Niche, and 19th best service-minded school in Newsweek. The Certificate in Global Social Work accepts $35 applications year-round for MSW majors interested in shaping international policies to positively affect populations on six continents. Expect completing two electives like Refugee/Immigration Services in Bruce Hall, the 500-hour clinical internship, and a two-semester seminar with field experiences from Thailand to the Netherlands. Post-grads might join the NABSW Chapter, research in the Elwyn Institute, attend the Sexuality & Aging Speaker Series, visit the Costa Rica Hub, and continue for the part-time Doctor of Philosophy too.

Social Work Tuition: $850 per credit

Learn more about the Top Global Certificate Programs at Widener University here.

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Completing the LCSW is an intensive process taking three-plus years that can pay off with excellent job prospects for altruistic advocates of mental health. Earning the Licensed Clinical Social Worker title after one’s name involves graduating from an accredited MSW program either on-site or online. According to the CSWE directory, there are currently 128 colleges in the United States and Puerto Rico that offer clinical master’s concentrations. Although the Association of Social Work Boards warns that LCSW requirements vary by state, most will require at least 3,200 hours or 24 months of full-time work experience under supervision. Then comes the 150-question LCSW exam where the pass rate for the 16,045 takers in 2017 was only 78.4 percent. Successfully becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker is a noble achievement that can line up some of this human services field’s best jobs.

Types of Jobs Available for LCSWs

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Clinical social work is a multi-faceted profession where licensed practitioners can invoke positive life changes in several specialties outlined by the National Association of Social Workers. Many LCSWs focus on mental illness to address chronic problems that could be life-threatening, such as opioid addiction and bipolar disorder. Trauma LCSWs specifically treat patients with histories of domestic, communal, and systemic violence. Aging baby boomers rely on LCSWs in gerontology to enhance their late adulthood well-being. Child and family LCSWs have expertise in pediatric therapy for interventions at school or home. Licensed Clinical Social Workers can also find jobs in corrections, refugee resettlement, biomedical research, fertility counseling, hospice care, and more globally. Some LCSWs even become academics to teach college courses at the bachelor’s level.

Organizations Hiring LCSW Graduates

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Passing the $260 ASWB Clinical exam opens doors to practice in any healthcare setting across all 50 states. Licensed Clinical Social Workers are often drawn to hospitals, including Honor Roll members like the Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic, Johns Hopkins, New York-Presbyterian, Massachusetts General, and Cedars-Sinai. LCSWs treat mentally ill patients in psychiatric centers, outpatient clinics, residential rehabs, halfway houses, and even equine therapy stables. Recovery.org picked Silver Sands, Ambrosia Treatment, Sunspire Health, and Covenant Hills among America’s best places for addictions help. LCSWs could work for government agencies, such as the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). Military bases from California’s Fort Irwin to Georgia’s Fort Benning hire clinical staff. School districts, child welfare departments, prisons, and nursing homes are other employment options.

Best Places to Search for LCSW Openings

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Licensed Clinical Social Workers looking to join their 682,100 colleagues nationwide may need some relocation flexibility to find the best jobs. ValuePenguin analyzed 300+ cities to assert that Carson City, Waterbury, Cumberland, Taunton, and New Haven were the best for LCSWs. The highest numbers of LCSWs are found in California, New York, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, and Ohio at over 5,000 apiece according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The top-paying metropolitans for clinical social work are Macon at $93,730, San Luis Obispo at $79,780, Jefferson City at $72,630, and Trenton at $70,380. However, there’s a shortage of LCSWs in rural communities where access to mental health specialists is direly low. Licensed Clinical Social Workers have the authority to open private practices anywhere to serve anyone in need.

Job Locating Tips for Newly Licensed LCSWs

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The Department of Labor brags that the economy will stimulate much faster-than-average job growth of 20 percent for 35,400 new LCSW positions by 2026, but the job search can still be difficult for new graduates. Finding the best jobs for LCSWs will necessitate plenty of networking by joining NASW Chapters, making LinkedIn profiles, and attending gatherings like the Annual Linda Gammage Social Workers Conference. Build connections and experience by volunteering at local clinics or nonprofits. Adding internships with global organizations, such as Save the Children and the International Rescue Committee, could stand out. Pursue extra training opportunities, including the SAMSHA Minority Fellowship Program with $6,500 stipends. LCSWs might also get their feet wet with per diem work via staffing agencies like Social Work p.r.n.

According to the U.S. News & World Report, LCSWs have America’s 63rd best job with average upward mobility and low unemployment of 2.1 percent. The Licensed Clinical Social Worker credential proves to wide-ranging healthcare employers that candidates have the diagnostic expertise needed for treating psychosocial dysfunctions. LCSWs can fill diverse, strength-based direct practice roles helping patients cope with clinical conditions and cultivate brighter futures. From aiding the elderly to protecting child welfare and counseling transgender teens, there’s virtually no limit to the great job opportunities rewarded when you complete the LCSW license.

Related Links:

15 Best Online LCSW Degree Programs

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The latest employment trends indicate that the growing demand for professionals who have completed their accredited social work degree is a fast growing sector of today’s society. Since social work is increasingly one of the human services majors available online, it is not suprising that the U.S. News and World Report’s listed the occupation as the 73rd best job in America. And it seems that online classrooms are perfect for altruistic social justice advocates who seek to alleviate poor human conditions while juggling hectic work or family schedules. Online social work degrees can still teach you the organization, critical thinking, active listening, and communication skills nonprofit employers require of practitioners. The convenience of online education has made finishing your BSW or MSW for state licensure simpler than ever before though. According to The Learning House Inc., flexibility is why enrollment in America’s online colleges is expected to hit 5 million by 2020! To help you find the best program to suit your needs, we’ve created the ultimate guide to the United States’ 50 Best Accredited Online Social Work Degree Programs with minimal or no on-campus requirements.

To create our list of the 50 Best Online Accredited Social Work Degree Programs, we used the NCES College Navigator database to search for four-year colleges offering bachelor’s or advanced degrees via distance education in social work or clinical social work. Our search yielded 68 school results that we compared with the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accreditation directory. Next, we reviewed national and regional ranking systems to select the 50 most well-regarded options with affordability for less than $1,600 per credit. Our final ordering also weighed curriculum strength, faculty access, online technology, licensing eligibility, fieldwork opportunities, and competitiveness.

Without further introduction, we present our selections of the 50 Best Accredited Online Social Work Degree Programs:

1. Case Western Reserve University

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Described as “Cleveland’s Big-Leaguer,” Case Western Reserve University is ranked America’s 37th best college by Times Higher Education and 48th top research institution by Forbes. For 36 credits costing $1,419 each, CWRU offers BSW graduates an Online Master of Science in Social Administration for Mental Health with Adults or Children, Youth & Family Services.

Learn more about the Best Accredited Online Social Work Degree Programs at Case Western Reserve University here.

2. Rutgers University

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Belonging to the AAU, Rutgers University is crowned America’s 22nd top public school by The Wall Street Journal and 19th best college ROI in Forbes. Featuring a Violence Against Women and Children Certificate, Rutgers’ MSW 100% Online Program in Clinical Social Work costs $8,100 per full-time semester for cohorts of 25 to pursue LCSW licensure.

Learn more about the Best Accredited Online Social Work Degree Programs at Rutgers University here.

3. Boston University

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Affiliated with eight Nobel laureates, Boston University is named the United States’ 66th best private college by Forbes and globe’s 32nd top institution by the U.S. News. The BU School of Social Work confers two Online MSW majors for $750 per credit in Clinical Social Work or Macro Social Work with 1,200 field internship hours.

Learn more about the Best Accredited Online Social Work Degree Programs at Boston University here.

4. Fordham University

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Upholding Jesuit values, Long Island’s Fordham University is nationally ranked the 60th best university by the U.S. News and 70th top research institution on Forbes. Priced at $907 per credit, Fordham’s Online Master of Social Work welcomes New York Tri-State residents for focused expertise in clinical or macro leadership practice with optional CASAC-T credentialing.

Learn more about the Best Accredited Online Social Work Degree Programs at Fordham University here.

5. Louisiana State University

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Led by President F. King Alexander, Louisiana State University is declared America’s 41st top public college by Forbes with the 59th best student life on Niche. Starting six times yearly, the MSW Online charges $509 per credit for LSU post-grads to become advanced generalist practitioners with modules like human oppression and 960 internship hours.

Learn more about the Best Accredited Online Social Work Degree Programs at Louisiana State University here.

6. Saint Louis University

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Founded in 1818 by Jesuits, Saint Louis University is placed the United States’ 109th best college by Times Higher Education and 56th top private value in Kiplinger’s. The SLU College for Public Health and Social Justice offers 10-week online blended courses for $950 per credit to finish the MSW in Clinical Social Work or Community and Organization.

Learn more about the Best Accredited Online Social Work Degree Programs at Saint Louis University here.

7. University of Houston

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Generating a $3 billion annual impact, the University of Houston is ranked 31st on the Social Mobility Index and 94th nationally by CWUR. Directed by Dr. Ginger Lucas, Houston’s Online MSW accepts applications until March 1st for Blackboard cohorts to enter the Clinical Concentration with costs at $4,262 in-state and $8,897 out-of-state per full-time semester.

Learn more about the Best Accredited Online Social Work Degree Programs at the University of Houston here.

8. Baylor University

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Enrolling 16,787 Bears, Baylor University is distinguished as America’s 64th best private value in Kiplinger’s and 85th top research institute by Forbes. Located in Downtown Waco, Texas, the Diana R. Garland School launched the Online MSW in 2014 for Advanced Standing Baylor students to concentrate in Clinical or Community Practice for $1,515 per credit.

Learn more about the Best Accredited Online Social Work Degree Programs at Baylor University here.

9. University of Alabama

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Conferring 7,905 degrees yearly, the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa is named America’s 70th top public college by Forbes with the 17th happiest students on The Daily Beast. Featuring 1,000 field education hours, the Online Master of Social Work costs $375 per credit via Bama By Distance for studying on Blackboard with select Saturday sessions.

Learn more about the Best Accredited Online Social Work Degree Programs at the University of Alabama here.

10. University of Denver

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Noted for its Conflict Resolution Institute, the University of Denver is ranked America’s 86th best college on the USNWR and 19th top “Impact School” by The Princeton Review. With a Mental Health and Trauma concentration, the Online MSW@Denver is a full-time, 27-month program billing $47,520 annually before aid to produce licensed social justice advocates.

Learn more about the Best Accredited Online Social Work Degree Programs at the University of Denver here.

11. University of Tennessee

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Within the SEC Academic Consortium, the University of Tennessee in Knoxville is crowned the 227th best global college by CWUR and 71st best big school on Niche. Offering integrated health stipends to afford $6,542 in-state and $15,751 out-of-state per semester, the Tennessee Online MSSW Program focuses on Macro Practice with synchronous courses and 1,024 practicum hours.

Learn more about the Best Accredited Online Social Work Degree Programs at the University of Tennessee here.

12. University of New Hampshire

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Endowed for $336 million, the University of New Hampshire is applauded as Amercia’s 107th best university by the U.S. News and 52nd top public college on Forbes. Taking 28 months, the Online Master of Social Work delivers 20 all courses asynchronously for $770 per credit to advance practice in Mental Health, Addictions, Child Welfare, and Disability Services.

Learn more about the Best Accredited Online Social Work Degree Programs at the University of New Hampshire here.

13. Indiana University – Purdue University Indianapolis

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Opened in 1969, Indiana University-Pursue University Indianapolis is the 124th best national university on Times Higher Education and 97th top big school on Niche. Charging Indianians $541 and non-residents $675 per credit, the IUPUI Social Work MSW Online includes 875 fieldwork hours for Youth & Families, Leadership, Health, Mental Health & Addictions, or School concentrations.

Learn more about the Best Accredited Online Social Work Degree Programs at Indiana University – Purdue University Indianapolis here.

14. University at Buffalo

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Leading the SUNY system with 29,806 enrolled, the University at Buffalo is designated the United States’ 69th top public school on Forbes and 138th best Common App university by Niche. Taking a trauma-informed and human rights perspective, Buffalo’s MSW Online Part-Time Program costs $540 in-state or $925 out-of-state with 900 practicum hours from Niagara to Nigeria.

Learn more about the Best Accredited Online Social Work Degree Programs at the University of Buffalo here.

15. University of Louisville

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Considered Kentucky’s “Preeminent Metropolitan Research University,” the University of Louisville is ranked 172nd nationally in Washington Monthly and 73rd among Sierra’s coolest schools. Open for admission until May 30th, the Kent School’s Online MSSW builds knowledge in child welfare, mental health, healthcare, and international practice for $714 per credit.

Learn more about the Best Accredited Online Social Work Degree Programs at the University of Louisville here.

16. University of Arkansas

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Budgeting $485 million annually, the University of Arkansas is deemed America’s 76th top public institution on Forbes with the 47th best online graduate education by the USNWR. Authorized in 48 states except Colorado and North Carolina, Arkansas’ Online Advanced Standing MSW is a 12-month, GRE-exempt program charging $409 per credit with 22 hours of weekly internships.

Learn more about the Best Accredited Online Social Work Degree Programs at the University of Arkansas here.

17. The Catholic University of America

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Boasting a 95 percent LGSW pass rate, The Catholic University of America is the 124th best national university on the U.S. News and 58th most conservative school on Niche. Offering Regular and Advanced Standing tracks, the Online Clinical MSW bills $1,000 per credit for courses from psychopathology to mental illness treatment with 20-hour weekly practicum.

Learn more about the Best Accredited Online Social Work Degree Programs at The Catholic University of America here.

18. Colorado State University

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Headed by Chancellor Tony Frank, Colorado State University is named the 129th best college nationally on the USNWR and 300th global university by ARWU. Celebrating its 40th anniversary, the CSU School of Social Work launches its MSW Online for $619-$669 per credit to complete advanced generalist courses and 1,000 fieldwork hours with optional certificates like Nonprofit Administration.

Learn more about the Best Accredited Online Social Work Degree Programs at Colorado State University here.

19. Virginia Commonwealth University

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Classified with Carnegie RU/VH status, Virginia Commonwealth University is ranked the 89th best big college on Niche and 87th top public institution by the USNWR. Priced at $364 in-state and $644 out-of-state per credit, the Distance Education MSW is directed online by Kim Flournoy DiJoseph with Clinical or Social Work Administration emphases and DC Metro practicum.

Learn more about the Best Accredited Online Social Work Degree Programs at Virginia Commonwealth University here.

20. Brescia University

Operated by the Ursuline Sisters of Mount Saint Joseph, Brescia University is honored within The Princeton Review’s “Best Southeastern” colleges and named the 24th top online school by Niche. Transfers with 45-90 credits can pursue Brescia’s BSW Degree Completion Online option for $415 per credit and unlock LBSW human services licensure.

Learn more about the Best Accredited Online Social Work Degree Programs at Brescia University here.

21. University of Alaska – Fairbanks

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Located in the “Land of the Midnight Sun,” the University of Alaska-Fairbanks is ranked the nation’s 110th top public institution on the USNWR and 168th best college by CWUR. The UAF Department of Social Work offers its Bachelor of Arts with online audio-conferences for undergrads across bush Alaska to finish the four-year degree for $192-$232 per credit.

Learn more about the Best Accredited Online Social Work Degree Programs at the University of Alaska –
Fairbanks here.

22. Widener University

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Featuring 59,018 living alumni, Widener University is declared the United States’ 183rd best university by the U.S. News and 10th most service-oriented institution in Washington Monthly. Charging $826 per credit, the Online Master of Social Work shapes Widener post-grads for trauma-informed practice with LCSW licensing after 1,060 field instruction hours with adults and children.

Learn more about the Best Accredited Online Social Work Degree Programs at Widener University here.

23. Brandman University

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Affiliated with multiple PublicCEO Service Award winners, Brandman University is recognized for America’s 63rd best online bachelor’s degrees on USNWR and 2nd best for vets education by Military Press. Via Blackboard, Brandman’s Bachelor of Arts in Social Work is accessible 24/7 online for $500 per credit for California residents to sharpen service skills with 400+ supervised practicum hours.

Learn more about the Best Accredited Online Social Work Degree Programs at Brandman University here.

24. University of Texas – Arlington

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Attracting 39,714 Mavericks from 60+ countries, the University of Texas-Arlington is crowned America’s 92nd best college for adult learners in Washington Monthly and fifth most diverse school by the USNWR. Coordinated by Darlene Santee, the Fully Online MSW Cohort accepts Texas residents for $6,959 each Fall to specialize in Aging, Child Welfare, or Chemical Dependency.

Learn more about the Best Accredited Online Social Work Degree Programs at the University of Texas – Arlington here.

25. Eastern New Mexico University

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Belonging to the Lone Star Conference, Eastern New Mexico University is ranked the United States’ 56th best online college on Niche and fifth best bargain by USA Today. Priced affordably at $1,830 in-state and $4,717 out-of-state per semester, the ENMU Bachelor of Social Work Online uses Mediasite to record lectures and arrange 400 internship hours.

Learn more about the Best Accredited Online Social Work Degree Programs at Eastern New Mexico University here.

26. Briar Cliff University

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Grounded in Franciscan traditions, Sioux City’s Briar Cliff University is ranked America’s 134th most conservative college on Niche and 10th most affordable online school by SR Education Group. Well-respected faculty led by Dr. Elizabeth Rembold deliver the Online BSW for $434 per credit to access courses like community organization and gain 450 hours of internship experience.

Learn more about the Best Accredited Online Social Work Degree Programs at Briar Cliff University here.

27. Salisbury University

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Serving 8,770 Sea Gulls, Salisbury University is declared an “A+ School for B Students” and America’s 141st top public university by Forbes. Admitting each Fall with a 20-student cohort, Salisbury’s Online MSW Program suits Mid-Atlantic residents seeking fast, seven-week blocks costing $750 per credit within the Child and Behavioral Health Education Initiative.

Learn more about the Best Accredited Online Social Work Degree Programs at Salisbury University here.

28. University of Central Florida

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Breaking records with enrollment at 64,318, the University of Central Florida is congratulated as America’s 188th best value on Forbes and 61st best college for student life on Niche. Spanning from four to nine terms, the UCF Online Master of Social Work is customized for advanced generalist practice for $327 in-state or $1,151 out-of-state per credit.

Learn more about the Best Accredited Online Social Work Degree Programs at the University of Central Florida here.

29. Portland State University

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Following the motto “Doctrina urbi serviat,” Portland State University is named America’s 203rd top public college on Forbes and ninth most innovative school by the USNWR. Starting each Fall for three years full-time and costing $456-$719 per credit, Portland’s Generalist Master of Social Work is 90% online with an annual two-day, face-to-face seminar for community building.

Learn more about the Best Accredited Online Social Work Degree Programs at Portland State University here.

30. University of Maine

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Charging e-tuition at $418 in-state and $523 out-of-state per credit, the University of Maine is crowned America’s 151st top public school on Forbes with the USNWR’s 123rd best online graduate education. Satisfying LMSW-CC requirements, the Online-Hybrid MSW will admit Regular Standing students in Fall 2018 for a 63-credit, three-year sequence with webcam courses and 900+ fieldwork hours.

Learn more about the Best Accredited Online Social Work Degree Programs at the University of Maine here.

31. California State University – Northridge

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Led by President Dianne F. Harrison, California State University-Northridge is the 152nd top public college on Forbes and 110th best big university on Niche. Currently priced at $38,430-$44,220 total, the CSUN Online Master of Social Work offers live, Web-based courses starting after 5pm for cohorts to prepare for strengths-based, multicultural practice with 1,050 field education hours.

Learn more about the Best Accredited Online Social Work Degree Programs at California State University – Northridge here.

32. Huntington University

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Originally called Central College in 1897, Huntington University in Indiana has become America’s 181st best Christian school on Niche and 175th top liberal arts institution in Forbes. The Adult Degree Programs Division offers the Social Work Major (BSW) online with speedy, five-week courses and 20% discounts on the $375 tuition per credit for Parkview Health employees.

Learn more about the Best Accredited Online Social Work Degree Programs at Huntington University here.

33. Simmons College

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Located on the Boston Women’s Heritage Trail, Simmons College is the 11th best Northern college on the USNWR and 97th top small university nationally on Niche. With One2One Peer Mentoring, the Simmons Online MSW lets post-grads avoid relocations by paying $1,030 per credit for synchronous seminars and 1,000 fieldwork hours in LCSW specialties like Aging.

Learn more about the Best Accredited Online Social Work Degree Programs at Simmons College here.

34. University of Texas – Rio Grande Valley

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Designated a Hispanic-serving institution in 2013, the University of Texas-Rio Grande Valley is named America’s 183rd top public school in Forbes and 128th best free application college on Niche. Costing $444 per credit, the Online M.S. in Social Work offers 12-month Advanced Standing tracks for Administration and Community Practice or Direct Practice with Latinos.

Learn more about the Best Accredited Online Social Work Degree Programs at the University of Texas – Rio Grande Valley here.

35. Thomas University

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Moved to SACS Level III status in 1998, Thomas University in Georgia is named the 72nd best online college by Niche and placed in the top 5% for social work on College Factual. With a 15:1 student-faculty ratio and “ecosystems” approach, the Bachelor of Social Work Online lets Thomas undergrads develop their social justice strategies for $630 per credit.

Learn more about the Best Accredited Online Social Work Degree Programs at Thomas University here.

36. Tennessee State University

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Participating in the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, Tennessee State University is proclaimed the United States’ 22nd best HBCU by the U.S. News and 254th top research hub on Forbes. The Mid-Tennessee Collaborative awards the Master of Social Work full- or part-time online for $755 per credit with advanced generalist courses and 950 internship hours.

Learn more about the Best Accredited Online Social Work Degree Programs at Tennessee State University here.

37. Metropolitan State University of Denver

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Situated in the Rockies, Metropolitan State University of Denver is ranked the Midwest’s 23rd best college by the USNWR and 279th top baccalaureate institution nationally in Washington Monthly. Since 2016, Colorado residents paying $425 per credit have taken the Fully Online MSW Delivery Option with concentrations in Individuals and Families or Leadership and Management.

Learn more about the Best Accredited Online Social Work Degree Programs at Metropolitan State University of Denver here.

38. Kentucky Christian University

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Requiring a 24-hour Biblical Studies core, Kentucky Christian University is ranked the South’s 32nd best college by the U.S. News and America’s 105th top Christian school by Faith on View. The Online Learning Division lets adults take Christ-centered courses costing $605 per credit for the Bachelor of Social Work, 420 fieldwork hours, and LBSW credentialing.

Learn more about the Best Accredited Online Social Work Degree Programs at Kentucky Christian University here.

39. Mary Baldwin University

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Partnered with Women for Women International, Mary Baldwin University is America’s 138th best liberal arts school on Niche with the 224th most grateful grads in Forbes. For $460 per credit, MB’s Bachelor of Social Work Online admits transfers holding 36+ credits from the Virginia Community Colleges System to finish their degree on Blackboard with 450 field placement hours.

Learn more about the Best Accredited Online Social Work Degree Programs at Mary Baldwin University here.

40. Limestone College

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South Carolina’s third-oldest campus, Limestone College, is ranked the 41st best Southern school by the USNWR and 90th best online institution nationally on Niche. Directed by Jackie A. Puckett, MSSW, courses begin every eight weeks for $1,323 apiece to begin the Online Bachelor of Social Work’s 123-credit curricula and 400 supervised practicum hours.

Learn more about the Best Accredited Online Social Work Degree Programs at Limestone College here.

41. Humboldt State University

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As a “College with Conscience,” Humboldt State University is ranked the West’s 52nd best school by the USNWR and America’s 200th best college location on Niche. The College of eLearning & Extended Ed charges $510 per unit for students to take synchronous online courses every Thursday with a four-day January intensive for the two-year Advanced Standing or 3.5-year MSW.

Learn more about the Best Accredited Online Social Work Degree Programs at Humboldt State University here.

42. Edinboro University

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Enrolling 6,550 Fighting Scots, Edinboro University in Pennsylvania is deemed the 88th best Northeastern value in Washington Monthly and 262nd most liberal college in America on Niche. Integrating 900 fieldwork hours over four terms, the Online MSW costs $585 in-state or $683 out-of-state per credit for advanced generalists to achieve a 96 percent job placement rate.

Learn more about the Best Accredited Online Social Work Degree Programs at Edinboro University here.

43. Saint Leo University

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Run by President LTG William Lennox, Saint Leo University is the South’s 62nd best college on the USNWR survey and America’s 35th top online educator on Niche. Rooted in Catholic values, the Masters in Social Work Online offers post-grads an Advanced Clinical Practice Concentration for $465 per credit to receive LCSW licensure after evening webcam courses.

Learn more about the Best Accredited Online Social Work Degree Programs at Saint Leo University here.

44. Troy University

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Known for prominent alumni like William G. Gregory, Troy University is ranked America’s 11th best online university on Niche and South’s 69th top college by the U.S. News. Granted CSWE candidacy in 2017, Troy Online offers Bachelor of Social Work courses to produce empathetic, proactive advocates of social justice for $338 per credit with 420 practicum hours.

Learn more about the Best Accredited Online Social Work Degree Programs at Troy University here.

45. Our Lady of the Lake University

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Sponsored by Congregation of Divine Providence, Our Lady of the Lake University is featured in Hispanic Outlook’s top 50 and ranked the 76th best Western college by the USNWR. Offering an award-winning NASW Chapter, the Worden School charges $822 per credit for its Online MSW that’s oriented toward practice in Latino communities with 950 fieldwork hours.

Learn more about the Best Accredited Online Social Work Degree Programs at Our Lady of the Lake University here.

46. Bemidji State University

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Welcomed into the MNSCU system in 1998, Bemidji State University is lauded as America’s 446th top public university on Niche and the Midwest’s 128th best value in Washington Monthly. The Extended Learning Office offers the six-semester, cohort-based BSW Major online for $314 per credit for 20 students annually with one Saturday campus session each month.

Learn more about the Best Accredited Online Social Work Degree Programs at Bemidji State University here.

47. Campbellsville University

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Affiliated with the Kentucky Baptist Convention, Campbellsville University is ranked the 92nd best Southern value in Washington Monthly and 322nd top Christian college nationally on Niche. Authorized in 49 states excluding North Carolina, the Online Bachelor of Social Work integrates Christian ideals into a 120-credit curriculum with 450 direct practice hours that costs $399 per credit.

Learn more about the Best Accredited Online Social Work Degree Programs at Campbellsville University here.

48. Delaware State University

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Endowed for $28.7 million in Dover, Delaware State University is placed 128th regionally by the U.S. News and 17th nationally by HBCU-Colleges.com. Distributed online on Blackboard for $430 in-state and $948 out-of-state per credit, the DSU Online Master of Social Work has an Advanced Generalist Practice concentration that’s open for applications until June 30th yearly.

Learn more about the Best Accredited Online Social Work Degree Programs at Delaware State University here.

49. Wayne State University

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Noted for its Irvin D. Reid Honors College, Wayne State University is crowned the 285th best national university by Times Higher Education and 137th top Midwestern school in Forbes. Linked to the Michigan DHHS, the School of Social Work offers the BSW WOW! option for juniors with a minimum 2.5 GPA to pay $360 in-state or $825 out-of-state per credit.

Learn more about the Best Accredited Online Social Work Degree Programs at Wayne State University here.

50. Aurora University

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Situated in the Chicagoland with 5,500 Spartans, Aurora University is deemed America’s 253rd best free application college on Niche and the Midwest’s 153rd top college by Forbes. For $600 per credit, the Aurora Online MSW starts every eight weeks for Advanced Standing students to finish 1,050 fieldwork hours in Clinical, Faith-Based, Health Care, or Leadership concentrations.

Learn more about the Best Accredited Online Social Work Degree Programs at Aurora University here.

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Finishing a Master of Social Work for career advancement doesn’t have to be a huge obstacle. Online colleges are increasingly offering accelerated programs that require just 12 to 24 extra months beyond a Bachelor of Social Work. That’s excellent news because there’s a growing demand for MSW graduates, especially in clinical social work where the BLS has projected 10-year job growth at 19 percent. Obtaining a master’s qualifies you for adding credentials like Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) after your name. Graduate study also boosts your salary potential for making $49,294 to $73,390 each year. You could even become a social service manager where the median annual wage is $84,981.

So we’ve devoted this article to The 30 Fastest Online Master of Social Work Degree Programs that give high-quality education in shorter times for less tuition. We began by searching the directory for Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accreditation. We filtered the 267 accredited master’s degrees to find those conducted primarily online with limited campus trips. Next, we narrowed the results to online programs offering Advanced Standing tracks for social workers already holding a BSW degree. The final list of accelerated online MSW programs was arranged by consulting the U.S. News and World Report rankings and picking the 30 most esteemed.

Here are our selections for The 30 Fastest Online Master of Social Work Degree Programs:

1. Columbia University

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Columbia University’s School of Social Work is recognized by the U.S. News as America’s sixth best online MSW campus. The 33-credit Advanced Standing option requires just two years of synchronous online courses, including 12 months of field education. Columbia students select from two online concentrations: Advanced Clinical Practice or Management Social Enterprise. Best of all, with Columbia’s online programs you avoid the hassle of life in the City but maintain all of the perks including: networking opportunities, clinical experience within the location you reside, and the ability to maintain present work and family obligations during your studies.

Tuition: $1,446/credit

Learn more about the Fastest Online Master of Social Work Degree Programs at Columbia University here.

2. Case Western Reserve University

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Satisfying ASWB licensing requirements, the Mandel School at Case Western Reserve University offers a 36-credit, accelerated Online Master of Science in Social Administration track for BSW graduates. Students specialize in Community Practice for Social Change or Direct Practice. Online students may expect equalled standard of educational excellence that traditional Case Western on campus programs provide. This includes plenty of educational support throughout studies as well as a steady balance between work, life, and education.
The U.S. News recognized Case Western Reserve University for the ninth best graduate social work education.

Tuition: $1,419/credit

Learn more about the Fastest Online Master of Social Work Degree Programs at Case Western Reserve University here.

3. University of Southern California

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Ranked 12th nationally by the U.S. News, the Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work at the University of Southern California confers a 37-unit Advanced Standing MSW online. Admitting cohorts each August, the three-semester, full-time curriculum offers specializations for Adults and Healthy Aging, Youth and Families, or Organization and Business Innovation. Online graduate students at USC also have the option of multiple start dates throughout the academic year for ease of access to advanced education.

Tuition: $1,733/unit

Learn more about the Fastest Online Master of Social Work Degree Programs at the University of Southern California here.

4. Boston University

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Boston University’s School of Social Work, placed 12th nationally by the U.S. News, confers an Online MSW with a fast 40-credit Advanced Standing track or 65-credit Human Service Experience track. Live online courses meet every Sunday and Monday with 1,000 fieldwork hours. Two majors are available: Clinical Social Work or Macro Social Work. Both online MSW program option offer Boston University’s stellar history of academic excellence paired with innovative technology, coursework, and field experiences.

Tuition: $750/credit

Learn more about the Fastest Online Master of Social Work Degree Programs at Boston University here.

5. Fordham University

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The Graduate School of Social Service at Fordham University is applauded by the U.S. News for the 22nd best social work programs, including an Online MSW. Taking just one year full-time, the 33-hour Advanced Standing option offers two concentrations: Clinical or Leadership and Macro Practice. Eight-week, asynchronous courses are blended with 1,200 fieldwork hours to ensure qualified professionals emerge from the most time efficient and academically balanced online MSW program offered at Fordham.

Tuition: $907/hour

Learn more about the Fastest Online Master of Social Work Degree Programs at Fordham University here.

6. SUNY University at Buffalo

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The Advanced Standing Online MSW is one of the SUNY Buffalo programs for which the School of Social Work was ranked 27th nationally by the U.S. News. This accelerated, 35-credit option has synchronous and asynchronous components with one 480-hour field placement. Online electives range from interpersonal violence to behavior disorders and offer online MSW the option of specialization within the field of social work. Graduates may advance with the education, experience, and qualifications necessary for certification.

Tuition: $540/credit (in-state) or $925/credit (out-of-state)

Learn more about the Fastest Online Master of Social Work Degree Programs at SUNY University of Buffalo here.

7. Indiana University

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Each January, May, and August, BSW graduates are admitted into this Master of Social Work Online Program for the 39-credit, two-year Advanced Standing Full-Time track. Online students receive an Advanced Generalist concentration with optional eSocial Work or Telebehavioral Health Practice certificates. Indiana University tied for the U.S. News survey’s 27th spot.

Tuition: $541/credit (in-state) or $675/credit (out-of-state)

Learn more about the Fastest Online Master of Social Work Degree Programs at Indiana University here.

8. University of Louisville

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Ranked #1 in Kentucky and 32nd nationally by the USNWR, the University of Louisville’s Kent School of Social Work offers its M.S. in Social Work online with a fast, 30-credit Advanced Standing option. With a minimum 3.25 GPA, students can finish specializations like Gerontology, Military Social Work, Mental Health, or Oncology in two semesters.

Tuition: $715/credit

Learn more about the Fastest Online Master of Social Work Degree Programs at the University of Louisville here.

9. University of Tennessee

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Given the TACHE Innovative Programming Award and ranked 32nd nationally by the U.S. News, the University of Tennessee grants the Online MSSW with a hasty 12-month Advanced Standing track. Online courses are accessed 24/7 to learn evidence-based strategies for direct practice or administration with 672+ fieldwork hours.

Tuition: $6,417/semester (in-state) or $15,572/semester (out-of-state)

Learn more about the Fastest Online Master of Social Work Degree Programs at the University of Tennessee here.

10. Florida State University

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Florida State University’s College of Social Work was placed 38th nationally by the U.S. News among the best Master of Social Work programs. Through Blackboard, BSW graduates from nine authorized states like Alabama and Nebraska can complete the 39-credit, clinically-focused Online MSW Advanced Standing option in 24 months.

Tuition: $559/credit (in-state) or $625/credit (out-of-state)

Learn more about the Fastest Online Master of Social Work Degree Programs at Florida State University here.

11. University of Texas – Arlington

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Texans can pursue the Fully Online MSW Cohort through the University of Texas-Arlington’s Maverick School of Social Work, which tied for 38th place in the USNWR rankings. The 38-credit, one-year Advanced Standing track has online concentrations for clically treating the mentally ill, addicted, aging, or youth with 500 fieldwork hours.

Tuition: $16,500 total

Learn more about the Fastest Online Master of Social Work Degree Programs at the University of Texas – Arlington here.

12. University of Houston

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Every Spring, the University of Houston admits around 25 BSW graduates to the Online Clinical MSW Advanced Standing Program for LCSW licensure. The UH College of Social Work offers high-quality training ranked 38th nationally by the U.S. News. Online cohorts complete assignments via Blackboard and Skype with 900 internship hours.

Tuition: $376/credit (in-state) or $891/credit (out-of-state)

Learn more about the Fastest Online Master of Social Work Degree Programs at the University of Houston here.

13. University of Alabama

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Praised for America’s 47th best graduate social work education by the U.S. News, Bama By Distance confers a 42-credit MSW Advanced Standing option in three semesters. Online courses are supplemented with one Saturday skills lab in Tuscaloosa and 500 practicum hours. Students select from two concentrations: Children and Adolescents or Adults and their Families.

Tuition: $367/credit

Learn more about the Fastest Online Master of Social Work Degree Programs at the University of Alabama here.

14. Simmons College

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Led by PhD-level faculty trained at Clark, Columbia, Bryn Mawr, and more, the Simmons School of Social Work also ranks 47th nationally according to the U.S. News. The Online MSW offers an accelerated, four-term Advanced Standing track with two field placements in specializations like Child and Family, Health and Aging, or Trauma and Interpersonal Violence.

Tuition: $1,010/credit

Learn more about the Fastest Online Master of Social Work Degree Programs at Simmons College here.

15. Colorado State University

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Accredited for 40 years, the Colorado State School of Social Work has the nation’s 58th best graduate education, including an Online MSW, according to the U.S. News. The two-year, Advanced Standing cohort offers five online specializations like Military and Veteran Culture, Nonprofit Administration, or PreK-12 School Social Work with nearly 1,000 field hours.

Tuition: $618/credit

Learn more about the Fastest Online Master of Social Work Degree Programs at Colorado State University here.

16. University of Missouri

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The University of Missouri’s College of Human Environmental Sciences houses the U.S. News’ 58th best social work programs, including a fully online MSW. Unlocking a median salary of $63,530, the 39-credit Advanced Standing option takes six semesters instead of nine. Online courses charge in-state tuition and arrange practicum at 300+ Midwest locations.

Tuition: $25,254 total

Learn more about the Fastest Online Master of Social Work Degree Programs at the University of Missouri here.

17. University of Arkansas

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Consisting of 39 credits, the Online Advanced Standing MSW is one of the Fulbright College’s social work programs for which the University of Arkansas was ranked 78th by the U.S. News. Without GRE or on-campus requirements, the one-year, full-time program lets social workers “learn in place” and fulfill practicum conveniently in their workplace.

Tuition: $404/credit

Learn more about the Fastest Online Master of Social Work Degree Programs at the University of Arkansas here.

18. University of Central Florida

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Accelerated, seven-week courses accompany the University of Central Florida’s Online MSW, which was crowned the 78th best social work program by the U.S. News. Post-bachelor’s practitioners don’t take the GRE before studying topics from child protection to veterans assistance online and fulfilling at least 1,000 fieldwork hours.

Tuition: $327/credit (in-state) or $1,151/credit (out-of-state)

Learn more about the Fastest Online Master of Social Work Degree Programs at the University of Central Florida here.

19. Louisiana State University

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Founded in 1937, Louisiana State University’s School of Social Work was honored for America’s 91st best graduate degrees by the U.S. News. The MSW Online grants a fast 33-hour, one-year Advanced Standing track. Along with 480 clock hours of internship, social workers take generalist courses like differential diagnosis, diversity, and nonprofit management.

Tuition: $509/hour

Learn more about the Fastest Online Master of Social Work Degree Programs at Louisiana State University here.

20. University of Alaska – Anchorage

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Also ranked 91st nationally by the USNWR, the University of Alaska-Anchorage offers an Online MSW with regularly scheduled evening courses on Blackboard. The Advanced Standing option takes just 1-2 years. Students could tailor the 35-credit generalist curriculum with the School Social Work Specialization or Children’s Mental Health Certificate.

Tuition: $444/credit (in-state) or $907/credit (out-of-state)

Learn more about the Fastest Online Master of Social Work Degree Programs at the University of Alaska – Anchorage here.

21. University of South Florida

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The University of South Florida’s College of Behavioral and Community Sciences is recognized by the U.S. News and World Report for America’s 103rd best social work education, including an Online Advanced Standing MSW. Post-BSW students from any state except Michigan or Minnesota log onto synchronous online courses every Tuesday and Thursday evening for three semesters.

Tuition: $347/credit (in-state) or $771/credit (out-of-state)

Learn more about the Fastest Online Master of Social Work Degree Programs at the University of South Florida here.

22. Boise State University

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The Online Master of Social Work in Boise State University’s College of Health Sciences was ranked the country’s 103rd best by the USNWR. Requiring just 37 credits, the speedy Advanced Program track develops general policy skills to promote social justice in three terms full-time. To satisfy Idaho LMSW licensing, 600 fieldwork hours are integrated.

Tuition: $450/credit

Learn more about the Fastest Online Master of Social Work Degree Programs at Boise State University here.

23. Texas State University

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Within the College of Applied Arts, Texas State University’s Master of Social Work was named the 123rd best program of its kind nationwide by the U.S. News and World Report. The Online Advanced Standing track consists of 36 credits in the Advanced Practice Leadership (APL) concentration and two field practica for one-year completion.

Tuition: $1,475/course (in-state) or $2,720/course (out-of-state)

Learn more about the Fastest Online Master of Social Work Degree Programs at Texas State University here.

24. University of Nevada – Reno

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The University of Nevada-Reno also ranked 123rd nationally by the U.S. News and World Report for its Online Master of Social Work, which has a 32-credit Advanced Standing Program. With two practica, graduates spend 15 months full-time sharpening skills in four specializations: Children and Families, Mental Health, Substance Abuse, or Gerontology.

Tuition: $350/credit (in-state) or $700/credit (out-of-state)

Learn more about the Fastest Online Master of Social Work Degree Programs at the University of Nevada – Reno here.

25. University of North Dakota

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Bachelor of Social Work graduates could attend the University of North Dakota for a fast, 36-credit Online MSW that requires just one-campus visit to Grand Forks. The U.S. News and World Report ranked the program 141st nationally. Live Web-based, evening courses begin every May with local field placements to produce advanced generalist social workers.

Tuition: $535/credit

Learn more about the Fastest Online Master of Social Work Degree Programs at the University of North Dakota here.

26. Our Lady of the Lake University

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The Our Lady of the Lake University Worden School of Social Service won the CSWE Presidential Award for Excellence tied for America’s 141st best graduate programs on the U.S. News Report. The Online MSW offers a quick, 30-credit Advanced Concentration track with an emphasis on Hispanic populations. The full-time curriculum takes 1.5 years with 500 fieldwork hours.

Tuition: $822/credit

Learn more about the Fastest Online Master of Social Work Degree Programs at Our Lady of the Lake University here.

27. University of New England

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According to the U.S. News and World Report, the University of New England also confers the country’s 141st best graduate social work programs, such as the Online MSW Advanced Standing Track. In only 16 months, the 35-hour curriculum teaches specialized skills for Clinical Practice, Community Practice, or Integrated Practice with one field placement.

Tuition: $890/hour

Learn more about the Fastest Online Master of Social Work Degree Programs at the University of New England here.

28. Saint Leo University

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Residents of Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and Virginia could finish Saint Leo University’s Online MSW Advanced Standing Program in two years full-time. The 35-credit program was placed 141st nationally by the U.S. News and World Report. For the Advanced Clinical Practice Concentration, students take synchronous online courses via webcam with one weekend intensive in Tampa.

Tuition: $465/credit

Learn more about the Fastest Online Master of Social Work Degree Programs at St. Leo University here.

29. Humboldt State University

The College of eLearning & Extended Education houses one of Humboldt State University’s graduate social work programs ranked 177th nationally by the U.S. News and World Report. The MSW-DL Advanced Standing degree takes one year with live online courses every Thursday night. Students also complete a four-day January intensive in Arcata with 480 fieldwork hours.

Tuition: $510/unit

Learn more about the Fastest Online Master of Social Work Degree Programs at Humboldt State University here.

30. Edinboro University

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Edinboro University’s School of Graduate Studies is recognized by the U.S. News and World Report for America’s 198th best master’s program in social work. Accelerating the Online MSW is possible with the 30-credit, three-semester Advanced Standing tract. Students complete 400 fieldwork hours at wide-ranging agencies like Sarah Reed Children’s Center, Erie Family Center, and Crawford County Hospice.

Tuition: $585/credit (in-state) or $913/credit (out-of-state)

Learn more about the Fastest Online Master of Social Work Degree Programs at Edinboro University here.

Related Links

The Top 15 MSW Programs for Child Welfare Careers
15 Best Online LCSW Degree Programs

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Online bachelor’s degree programs in social work are ideal for returning adults who need the flexibility of a virtual classroom instead of a college campus. Earning a BSW is the minimum licensing threshold for many social work specialties, including mental health, oncology, military, community, and hospice. Transferring into an online BSW can improve your marketability for the in-demand human services field from high-tech eLearning platforms like Blackboard. Social work graduates, whether on-campus or online, are welcomed into a job market expected to grow by 12 percent through 2024 for 74,800 new positions according to the BLS. PayScale reports that BSW specialties provide average salaries from $30,656 to $63,342.

Featured Program:

• Bachelors of Science in Social Work – Liberty University

Therefore, we’ve used the following article to outline the Top 20 Online Social Work Bachelor’s Degree Programs for tomorrow’s “helping” professionals. We began searching for distance education options that are accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) for high-quality, generalist training. BSW programs had to be at least two-thirds online with flexible locations for field practice. We arranged the qualifying degrees according to rankings in Washington Monthly. This magazine orders colleges based on social mobility, service, and research for “contribution to the public good.” Our other checking points were tuition, transferability, online technology, class size, faculty interaction, supervised experience, and LBSW pass rates.

1. California State University – Chico

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Opened on General John Bidwell’s land north of Sacramento in 1887, California State University-Chico joined the 23-campus public, co-educational system to educate around 16,488 undergrad Wildcats with a $54 million endowment. Washington Monthly ranked CSU-Chico as America’s 30th best master’s-level university. Available 67 percent online for $3,513 per semester, the Bachelor of Arts in Social Work is a CSWE-accredited, hybrid degree completion program for California residents who transfer 60+ college credits.

Learn more about Online Social Work Bachelor’s Degree Programs at California State University – Chico here.

2. University of Utah

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Endowed for $1.07 billion, the University of Utah is a public, doctoral-granting APLU member of the Pac-12 Conference that’s educating around 23,700 undergrad Utes from 1,534 urban acres in Salt Lake City along the Wasatch Front and online. According to Washington Monthly, Utah is the 39th best national university. Charging $3,841 per full-time semester, the CSWE-accredited College of Social Work’s Online BSW is conducted via Canvas with a field internship and thesis project.

Learn more about Online Social Work Bachelor’s Degree Programs at the University of Utah here.

3. Humboldt State University

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Established by Governor Hiram Johnson and named for the German scientist in 1913, Humboldt State University is the northernmost public, land-grant CSU institution endowed for $27 million to educate over 7,900 undergrad Lumberjacks in Arcata and online. HSU was placed 53rd nationally among master’s-level universities by Washington Monthly. Maintaining CSWE accreditation, the Department of Social Work welcomes online BASW students with 60+ transfer units for courses like human behavior and field preparation outside Humboldt County.

Learn more about Online Social Work Bachelor’s Degree Programs at Humboldt State University here.

4. Briar Cliff University

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Affiliated with the Roman Catholic Diocese of Sioux City, Briar Cliff University is a private, nonprofit Franciscan AACU institution that’s enrolling around 1,200 undergrad Chargers in Iowa’s fourth-largest city and online. According to Washington Monthly, Briar Cliff is America’s 82nd best baccalaureate-level university. Starting each quarter for $399 per credit, the 47-credit, CSWE-accredited Bachelor of Social Work is an online degree completion option with regular Skype sessions and at least 450 fieldwork hours.

Learn more about Online Social Work Bachelor’s Degree Programs at Briar Cliff University here.

5. Huntington University

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Headquartered on a 160-acre lakeside campus adjacent to the Thornhill Nature Preserve, Huntington University is a private, nonprofit CCCU member affiliated with the Church of the United Brethren in Christ to educate over 1,200 on-site and online Foresters. Washington Monthly crowned Huntington the 88th best baccalaureate-level institution. With CSWE approval, the Bachelor of Social Work is delivered online for adults build 120 credits, Protestant values, LBSW licensing eligibility, and 600+ field experience hours.

Learn more about Online Social Work Bachelor’s Degree Programs at Huntington University here.

6. Saint Louis University

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Belonging to the 28-member AJCU, Saint Louis University is a private, nonprofit Jesuit research institution led by President Fred Pestello with a $1.02 billion endowment to educate 8,600 undergrad Billikens in Missouri’s largest metropolitan and online. Washington Monthly distinguished SLU as the 125th best national university. For $630 per credit, the School for Professional Studies confers a hybrid, CSWE-accredited Bachelor of Science in Social Work partly online with practicum at 400+ partnering agencies.

Learn more about Online Social Work Bachelor’s Degree Programs at Saint Louis University here.

7. Salisbury University

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Attracting nearly 8,000 undergrad Sea Gulls from 62 countries, Salisbury University is a public, co-educational teaching institution holding a $45.7 million endowment in the University System of Maryland to educate from its 173-acre campus in Wicomico County and beyond. Salisbury was deemed America’s 152nd best master’s-level university by the Washington Monthly. The CSWE-accredited Social Work Department expanded in 2006 to provide the 60-credit BASW with live video and online instruction for associate degree holders.

Learn more about Online Social Work Bachelor’s Degree Programs at Salisbury University here.

8. Northern Arizona University

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Featuring over 160,000 alumni, including human rights activist Kayla Mueller, Northern Arizona University is a public, co-educational research institution in the Big Sky Conference that’s serving around 26,500 undergrad Lumberjacks in Flagstaff and online. According to Washington Monthly, NAU stands as the 201st best national university. Since January 2016, the Extended Campuses have granted the 120-credit, CSWE-accredited Bachelor of Social Work online with elective tracks like Case Management, Child and Youth Services, and Disability Services.

Learn more about Online Social Work Bachelor’s Degree Programs at Northern Arizona University here.

9. University of Alaska – Fairbanks

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Founded as the Alaska Agricultural College on Troth Yeddha in 1917, the University of Alaska-Fairbanks has diversified as a public, sea-grant RU/H research hub that’s educating over 9,000 undergrad Nanooks in 120 disciplines from Bristol Bay to the Aleutian Islands and online. UAF is deemed America’s 202nd best university by Washington Monthly. Rural Alaskans can pursue the 123-credit, CSWE-accredited Bachelor of Social Work with an optional Gerontology Specialization online or face-to-face in their home communities.

Learn more about Online Social Work Bachelor’s Degree Programs at the University of Alaska – Fairbanks here.

10. Brescia University

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Since becoming co-educational in 1951, Brescia University has remained a close-knit private, Catholic liberal arts NAICU school that’s enlightening under 1,000 undergrad Bearcats in the Urusline Sisters’ tradition from Kentucky’s fourth-largest city and online. Washington Monthly placed Brescia as America’s 215th best baccalaureate-level university. With CSWE accreditation, the two-year Online BSW Degree Completion program is available with five term dates for transferring adults who hold 86 transferable credits and meet the minimum GER.

Learn more about Online Social Work Bachelor’s Degree Programs at Brescia University here.

11. Appalachian State University

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Formerly a TIME “College of the Year,” Appalachian State University is a public, co-educational ORAU institution in the UNC system that’s endowed for $94.6 million to serve around 18,000 undergrad Mountaineers from its Boone headquarters. ASU is crowned America’s 216th best master’s-level university by Washington Monthly. Charging just $160 per credit for North Carolinians, the 52-credit Social Work BSW is a hybrid, CSWE-accredited degree completion program with off-campus courses in Burke or Hickory and online.

Learn more about Online Social Work Bachelor’s Degree Programs at Appalachian State University here.

12. University of North Dakota

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Chartered in 1883 after publisher George H. Walsh’s determination, the University of North Dakota is the Roughrider State’s oldest public, space-grant RU/H institution endowed for $230.5 million to educate 11,500 undergrad Fighting Hawks in Grand Forks and online. UND was deemed the 246th best national university by Washington Monthly. Featuring live online courses on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, the two-year, CSWE-accredited Online Bachelor of Science in Social Work costs transfers just $339 per credit.

Learn more about Online Social Work Bachelor’s Degree Programs at the University of North Dakota here.

13. Wayne State University

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Sitting upon a 203-acre campus in Detroit’s Cultural Center Historic District, Wayne State University is Michigan’s third most popular public, co-educational institution split into 13 colleges to educate 17,600 undergrad Warriors online or on-site in 380 programs. Washington Monthly ranked WSU the 266th best national university. Celebrating its 81st anniversary, the CSWE-accredited School of Social Work offers the 60-credit BSW Where Online Works! Option for transfers to become ethical generalists with LLBSW credentialing.

Learn more about Online Social Work Bachelor’s Degree Programs at Wayne State University here.

14. Campbellsville University

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Affiliated with the Southern Baptist Convention, Campbellsville University is a private, nonprofit Christian teaching institution tracing back to 1906 that’s employing 315 staff and educating 3,200 undergrad Tigers from Kentucky campus near Clay Hill Memorial Forest and online. In 2016, Campbellsville was the Washington Monthly’s 267th best master’s-level university. For 120 credits, the CSWE-accredited Bachelor of Social Work is delivered online with courses like conflict resolution or crisis intervention and 450 practicum hours.

Learn more about Online Social Work Bachelor’s Degree Programs at Campbellsville University here.

15. Indiana Wesleyan University

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Indiana Wesleyan University is the United States’ largest private, nonprofit Methodist CCCU member endowed for $146.8 million to educate around 10,800 undergrad Wildcats in Marion, at 15 regional centers, and online. Washington Monthly declared IWU the 282nd best master’s-level university for 2016. The College of Adult and Professional Studies has seen enrollment skyrocket by 900 percent in programs like the 64-credit, CSWE-accredited Bachelor of Social Work, which integrates 400 practicum hours with vulnerable populations.

Learn more about Online Social Work Bachelor’s Degrees at Indiana Wesleyan University here.

16. Northwestern State University of Louisiana

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Led by President Dr. Chris Maggio, Northwestern State University of Louisiana is a public, co-educational teaching college in the NASA’s Joint Venture Program that’s enrolling around 8,000 undergrad Demons for the UL system in Natchitoches and online. NSU was ranked the 355th best national university by Washington Monthly. The Global Campus confers a CSWE-accredited Bachelor of Social Work online for $375 per credit to satisfy Advanced Standing MSW and LBSW requirements.

Learn more about Online Social Work Bachelor’s Degrees at Northwestern State University of Louisiana here.

17. Washburn University

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Enrolling over 6,700 Ichabods on 160 acres in Topeka and online, Washburn University is a public, co-educational CNAHEC institution established in 1865 as Lincoln College that’s grown with a $156.48 million endowment. According to Washington Monthly, Washburn is ranked the 366th best master’s-level university nationwide. Along with 480 practicum hours, online courses are arranged to finish the CSWE-accredited School of Applied Studies’ BSW program for transfers with 36+ credits and a minimum 2.5 GPA overall.

Learn more about Online Social Work Bachelor’s Degrees at Washburn University here.

18. Brandman University

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Built to offer adult-friendly, flexible education in 1958, Brandman University is a private, nonprofit distance learning institution led by Chairman David A. Janes to educate around 4,000 undergrads at 26 California campuses or online. Given the ACE Institutional Transformation Award in 2017, Brandman is the 412th best master’s-level university according to Washington Monthly. The 120-credit, CSWE-accredited Bachelor of Arts in Social Work is offered wholly online with eight-week sessions and a supervised, 400-hour internship.

Learn more about Online Social Work Bachelor’s Degrees at Brandman University here.

19. Bemidji State University

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Originally called Bemidji State Teachers College until 1975, Bemidji State University is a public, co-educational land-grant institution in the MNSCU system that’s attracting 5,900 undergrad Beavers into online and face-to-face programs in Minnesota. Washington Monthly placed Bemidji State as America’s 455th best master’s-level institution. Boasting a 96 percent LBSW pass rate, the Hybrid Social Work BSW admits cohorts each Fall to take CSWE-accredited courses online, meet on-campus three times per term, and finish 480 practicum hours.

Learn more about Online Social Work Bachelor’s Degrees at Bemidji State University here.

20. Metropolitan State University Denver

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Nestled on Cherry Creek in the Auraria district, Metropolitan State University Denver is a public, urban-grant “opportunity school” endowed for $8.6 million that’s educating over 23,900 undergrad Roadrunners. Washington Monthly lauded MSU Denver as the 607th best master’s-level institution nationally. Via Blackboard, the CSWE-accredited Department of Social Work launched a Fully Online BSSW Option in Fall 2016 for Colorado residents to finish the 55-credit social justice major for $312 per credit with some synchronous courses.

Learn more about Online Social Work Bachelor’s Degrees at Metropolitan State University Denver here.

Related Links

The Top 15 Online Bachelor in Social Work Degree Programs
The Top 10 Online Social Work Bachelor’s Degree Programs
The 10 Best Accredited Online BSW Programs

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Social work is a broad umbrella term used to describe any human services fields helping clients overcome challenges and injustices in their lives. Whether you’re interested in family, medical, addiction, military, gerontological, or psychiatric social work, training must begin with at least a Bachelor of Social Work. Investing in this undergrad major pays off because the demand for social workers will grow faster-than-average by 12 percent through 2024. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that these roughly 74,800 new BSW-level jobs will provide median pay of $45,900. Preparing for the satisfying career takes 4+ years, but coursework can be easily accessed at online colleges.

The following article outlines the Top 15 Online Bachelor of Social Work Programs that can fulfill basic LBSW licensing requirements. Our search started with the Council on Social Work Education’s (CSWE) directory of 795 schools. We filtered results down to generalist BSW programs launched with online coursework and minimal campus commutes. Next, we selected the accredited schools offering the highest freshmen retention rates since this signals student satisfaction. We recorded the online tuition from each college’s website and looked for notable rankings with the U.S. News and World Report. Other considerations were flexibility, credit transfer, practicum opportunities, work-life balance, and exam pass rates.

1. University of Utah

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Established as the University of Deseret in 1850, the University of Utah is a public, space-grant RU/VH APLU member conferring 190+ programs to more than 31,500 Utes from headquarters in Salt Lake City. The USNWR ranked Utah as America’s 111th best university and 73rd best for vets school. Within the College of Social Work, a CSWE-accredited, 51-credit Bachelor of Social Work degree completion program is delivered via Canvas.

Retention Rate: 89%

Tuition: $3,841.33 (in-state) and $10,817.33 (out-of-state) per semester

Learn more about Bachelor of Social Work Degree Programs at the University of Utah here

2. California State University – Chico

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Endowed for $53.9 million, California State University-Chico is the 23-campus system’s second-oldest public, co-educational master’s institution with 17,500 Wildcats studying north of Sacramento and online. CSU-Chico was ranked the West’s 37th best college and eighth top public school by the U.S. News. The CSWE-accredited School of Social Work offers junior-level transfers a part-time, three-year Bachelor of Arts in Social Work online with only two campus weekends.

Retention Rate: 86%

Tuition: $3,513 (in-state) and 5,751 (out-of-state) per term

Learn more about Bachelor of Social Work Degree Programs at the California State University – Chico here.

3. Salisbury University

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Located 30 miles west of Ocean City’s shoreline, Salisbury University is a public, co-educational USM constituent educating around 8,700 Sea Gulls on-site and online with a $45.7 million endowment. According to the U.S. News, Salisbury is the North’s 67th best college and 20th top public university. Expanded in 2006, the CSWE-accredited Social Work Department offers a BASW online or using interactive TV technology for non-urban residents with 60+ transfer credits.

Retention Rate: 82%

Tuition: $3,423 (in-state) and $7,629 (out-of-state) per semester

Learn more about Bachelor of Social Work Degree Programs at Salisbury University here.

4. Huntington University

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Belonging to the Crossroads League, Huntington University is a private, Protestant liberal arts institution opened in 1897 that’s now enlightening over 1,200 Foresters yearly in north-central Indiana and online. The U.S. News applauded Huntington as the Midwest’s 13th best college and 11th top investment value. Rooted in holistic Christian principles, the CSWE-accredited, 120-credit Bachelor of Social Work is available primarily online with 600+ hours of community fieldwork.

Retention Rate: 80%

Tuition: $368 per credit + $100 tech fee

Learn more about Bachelor of Social Work Degree Programs at Huntington University here.

5. Indiana Wesleyan University

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Led by Chancellor Dr. Henry Smith, Indiana Wesleyan University is the CCCU’s largest private, Methodist liberal arts member endowed for $107.3 million with 15,800 Wildcats in Muncie, Fort Wayne, Indianapolis, and beyond. The U.S. News ranked IWU as the Midwest’s 27th best university, but Niche ranked them 36th for “Best Christian Colleges” nationwide. The College of Adult and Professional Studies awards an affordable, CSWE-accredited BSW online with a six-month field placement.

Retention Rate: 79%

Tuition: $383 per credit hour

Learn more about Bachelor of Social Work Degree Programs at Indiana Wesleyan University here.

6. University of North Dakota

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Governed by the ND State Board of Higher Education, the University of North Dakota is the flagship public, space-grant RU/VH institution serving nearly 15,000 Fighting Hawks in Grand Forks, Crookston, and online. The U.S. News positioned UND as America’s 202nd best university and 110th top public college. Maintaining CSWE accreditation, the Online BSSW completion program starts every August with synchronous evening courses for students holding 45+ credits.

Retention Rate: 78%

Tuition: $339.04 per credit (in-state regardless of residency)

Learn more about Bachelor of Social Work Degree Programs at the University of North Dakota here.

7. Liberty University

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Devoted to “Training Champions for Christ,” Liberty University is a private, nonprofit Baptist NAICU member endowed for $1.05 billion and based in Lynchburg, Virginia, to nurture nearly 115,000 Flames worldwide. The U.S. News recognized Liberty for the 148th best online bachelor’s degrees, while Niche crowned them the 12th top online school. Undergoing CSWE review, the 120-credit Online B.S. in Social Work program teaches human rights advocates with just one on-site intensive.

Retention Rate: 77%

Tuition: $390 (full-time) and $455 (part-time) per hour

Learn more about Bachelor of Social Work Degree Programs at Liberty University here.

8. Wayne State University

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Attracting around 27,200 Warriors, Wayne State University is among the United States’ 100 largest public, co-educational research colleges based in Detroit with six Metro extensions and an online division. The U.S. News lauds WSU for the 28th best online bachelor’s options with 76 percent retention. The CSWE-accredited School of Social Work admits upper-division transfers into the BSW Where Online Works! program for earning limited LLBSW licensure.

Retention Rate: 76%

Tuition: $360 (in-state) and $825 (out-of-state) per hour

Learn more about Bachelor of Social Work Degree Programs at Wayne State University here.

9. University of Alaska – Fairbanks

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Belonging to the UArctic Network, the University of Alaska-Fairbanks is a public, land-grant RU/H institution founded in 1917 that’s now educating over 10,200 Nanooks across Interior Alaska and online. According to the U.S. News, UAF is the United States’ 202nd best university awarding the 132nd best online bachelor’s degrees. Cohorts can obtain the CSWE-accredited, 120-credit B.A. in Social Work in their own villages via web conferencing.

Retention Rate: 76%

Tuition: $3,588 (in-state) and $11,216 (out-of-state) per semester

Learn more about Bacehlor of Social Work Degree Programs at the University of Alaska – Fairbanks here.

10. Humboldt State University

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Located near Redwood National Park in Arcata, Humboldt State University enrolls over 8,500 Lumberjacks from California’s Northern Coast and beyond as a public, four-year teaching institution endowed for $27.1 million. The U.S. News crowned HSU the West’s 52nd best school and 12th top public university. Online learners with 60+ credits can enter the CSWE-accredited B.A. in Social Work program for three years of part-time study focused on rural practice.

Retention Rate: 75%

Tuition: $7,209 (in-state) and $18,369 (out-of-state) yearly

Learn more about Bacehlor of Social Work Degree Programs at Humboldt State University here.

11. Northern Arizona University

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Perched 6,950 feet above sea level in Flagstaff, Northern Arizona University offers 155 academic programs to over 30,300 Lumberjacks on-site and online as a public, state-related RU/H institution. The U.S. News picked NAU for America’s 226th best online bachelor’s degrees, while Niche positioned them as the 94th best big college. Entry-level generalist social workers are trained for serving disenfranchised populations in the 75-unit, CSWE-accredited BSW major online.

Retention Rate: 74%

Tuition: $387 (in-state) and $833 (out-of-state) per unit

Learn more about Bachelor of Social Work Degree Programs at Northern Arizona University here.

12. Bemidji State University

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Founded in 1919 as a teacher’s college, Bemidji State University has expanded as a public, co-educational liberal arts institution with over 6,300 Beavers from 40 global nations studying in northern Minnesota and online. According to the U.S. News, BSU is the Midwest’s 115th best university and 35th top public school. With a 480-hour internship, the CSWE-accredited Social Work Integrated Model (SWIM) program confers a cohort-based BSW online.

Retention Rate: 68%

Tuition: $305 per credit (in-state regardless of residency)

Learn more about Bachelor of Social Work Degree Programs at Bemidji State University here.

13. Campbellsville University

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Affiliated with the Kentucky Baptist Convention, Campbellsville University is a private, nonprofit baccalaureate institution established in 1906 that’s enrolling around 3,200 Tigers on-site near Green River Lake and online. The U.S. News ranked Campbellsville as the South’s 98th best regional school with 68 percent retention. Real-world social services preparation is delivered through the CSWE-accredited, 120-credit Bachelor of Social Work online with 450 direct fieldwork hours at approved agencies.

Retention Rate: 68%

Tuition: $399 per hour +$125 online course fee

Learn more about Bachelor of Social Work Degree Programs at Campbellsville University here.

14. Briar Cliff University

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Operated by the Sisters of Saint Francis of Dubuque since 1930, Briar Cliff University is a private, Catholic liberal arts school endowed for $9.5 million to educate 1,100 Chargers in Sioux City, Iowa, and online. The U.S. News congratulated Briar Cliff for becoming the Midwest’s 30th best college and sixth most veteran-friendly university. For 47 credits and 450 internship hours, transfers can finish the CSWE-accredited BSW degree completion program online.

Retention Rate: 62%

Tuition: $399 per credit + $35 student fees

Learn more about Bachelor of Social Work Degree Programs at Briar Cliff University here.

15. Brescia University

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Named after the Italian city where St. Angelia Merici founded the Company of St. Ursula, Brescia University is a private, co-educational Catholic ACCU member with 875 Bearcats studying in northwestern Kentucky and online. Brescia is the South’s 32nd best college with the 226th best online bachelor’s degrees nationwide according to the USNWR. The CSWE-accredited, 75-credit Bachelor of Social Work degree completion begins five times annually for online courses like human diversity and aging.

Retention Rate: 60%

Tuition: $425 per credit

Learn more about Bachelor of Social Work Degree Programs at Brescia University here.

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Social workers interested in broadening career opportunities beyond U.S. borders accomplish their goal within accredited MSW programs for international social work. Not all social workers utilize their problem-solving skills to protect communities from social injustices globally so the international social degree workers offer specialized skills to a variety of people within distinct aspects of society. International social workers play pivotal parts in addressing these issues along with natural disasters, sex trafficking, slavery, violence, and racial inequality. Studying from a global perspective positions graduates for opportunities with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) like the International Justice Mission and World Health Organization. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that demand for social workers will spike faster-than-average by 12 percent through 2024. Additionally, according to recent data collected via UNICEF, 1 billion children worldwide are living in poverty and 750 million people lack adequate drinking water.

Featured Programs:

This means the world needs international social work degree graduates more than ever before. Therefore, we’ve put together the 15 Best International Social Work Degree Programs based in the United States with strong foreign components. We began by searching the Council on Social Work Education’s (CSWE) accreditation directory. We selected “International” for the concentration to filter the 793 total schools down to 21. Next, we consulted the U.S. News and World Report to determine which MSW programs were ranked nationally. We double checked each degree’s website to ensure specialization pathways were available for fieldwork and internships abroad. Other factors we considered in our ordering were curriculum length, class size, graduation rate, academic rigor, faculty credentials, and research opportunity.

And the results are here with our selections of the 15 Best International Social Work Degree Programs:

1. University of Chicago

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Founded by the American Baptist Education Society in 1890, the University of Chicago is a private, co-educational RU/VH institution with over 15,700 Maroons studying in Hyde Park and abroad. The U.S. News ranked UChicago the third best university with the country’s third best social work education. Within the CSWE-accredited School of Social Service Administration, the AM program offers an International Social Welfare sequence. The two-year, full-time program features a study abroad requirement at 600+ partner agencies, such as the Tata Institute of Social Sciences in Mumbai. There’s also a Global Health Certificate available.

Tuition: $15,321 per quarter

Learn more about International Social Work Degree Programs at the University of Chicago here.

2. Columbia University

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Affiliated with 100 Nobel laureates like Theodore Roosevelt, Columbia University belongs to the Ivy League as a private, non-sectarian RU/VH institution with 27,900 Lions in Upper Manhattan. According to the USNWR, Columbia is America’s fifth top college with the sixth best MSW program. Master of Social Work students choose from seven CSWE-accredited practice options, including International Social Welfare and Services to Immigrants and Refugees. The 60-credit curriculum can be completed face-to-face in 16 months, two years, or four years. The 1,200 fieldwork hours are fulfilled with top-notch agencies, including United Nations.

Tuition: $43,432 per year

Learn more about International Social Work Degree Programs at Columbia University here.

3. Washington University in St. Louis

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Acclaimed for the Center for Social Development, Washington University in St. Louis is a private, nonprofit RU/VH institution near Forest Park that’s educating over 14,800 Bears. The U.S. News ranked WashU as the 19th top university with the second best social work degrees. Holding CSWE accreditation, the Brown School of Social Work confers a MSW concentration in International Social and Economic Development (SED). For global context, 960 fieldwork hours are completed abroad from Ecuador to Tanzania. The two-year, 60-credit degree could be partnered with the Master of Urban Design too.

Tuition: $19,984 per semester

Learn more about International Social Work Degree Programs here.

4. University of Michigan

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Attracting over 44,700 Wolverines from 100+ countries, the University of Michigan is a public, space-grant AAU member endowed for $9.7 billion in Ann Arbor near the Ontario border. UMich stands as America’s 27th best college with the #1 social work programs according to the U.S. News. Meeting CSWE guidelines, the 60-credit MSW grants a Global Social Work specialization for Regular and Advanced Standing. International field placements are arranged by Madras Christian College in India, the University of Hong Kong, and more. There’s also a 27-month Peace Corps Master’s International MSW offered.

Tuition: $50,873 per year

Learn more about International Social Work Degree Programs at the University of Michigan here.

5. Boston College

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Participating in the 568 Group, Boston College is a prestigious private, Catholic RU/VH institution rooted in Jesuit values to educate over 14,100 Eagles from Chestnut Hill. The U.S. News crowned Boston College the 31st best university with the 10th top MSW program nationwide. Clinical and Macro cohorts for the Master of Social Work can pursue a Global Practice Concentration. The 60-credit curriculum confronts international social issues with a study abroad semester in South America, Europe, or Africa. Spanish speakers may join the Latino Leadership Initiative, which was deemed a “Model Program” by the CSWE.

Tuition: $1,138 per credit

Learn more about International Social Work Degree Programs at Boston College here.

6. Tulane University

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Established by the Medical College of Louisiana in 1834, Tulane University is a private, non-sectarian ORAU member located in New Orleans to educate over 13,400 Green Wave. The U.S. News distinguished Tulane as America’s 39th top college with the 32nd best social work education. The Master’s Degree in Social Work offers a CSWE-accredited, “clinical-community” approach with an optional Global Disaster Mental Health certificate. Finishing the problem-based, 60-credit curriculum includes 990 fieldwork hours, which can be completed abroad from Haifa to Sydney. Some pair the MSW with a Master of Public Health for 89 credits.

Tuition: $15,696 per semester

Learn more about International Social Work Degree Programs at Tulane University here.

7. University of Connecticut

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Occupying 4,400 rural acres in Storrs, the University of Connecticut is a “Public Ivy,” sea-grant RU/VH institution endowed for $377.2 million to enroll over 32,000 Huskies. UConn sits as America’s 60th best university with the 47th best graduate social work programs according to the USNWR. The CSWE-accredited Master of Social Work offers seven focused study areas, including International Issues in Social Work. Completing the methods-based, 60-credit degree involves two 560-hour practica from Guatemala to India. The Global Affairs Department also offers the Armenia Social Work Project.

Tuition: $12,202 (in-state) or $31,674 (out-of-state) per year

Learn more about International Social Work Degree Programs at the University of Connecticut here.

8. University of Denver

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Formerly the Colorado Seminary until 1880, the University of Denver is the Rockies’ oldest private, non-sectarian RU/H institution in “Mile-High City” with over 11,700 Pioneers. The U.S. News placed DU as the 86th best university with the 17th top MSW program nationally. With CSWE approval, the Two-Year Master of Social Work awards a Sustainable Development & Global Practice concentration. At least 15 credits in the 90-credit (60-credit Advanced Standing) program are devoted to internships with organizations like Educo Africa. Students can also conduct unique research with the Institute for Human-Animal Connection.

Tuition: $47,520 per year

Learn more about International Social Work Degree Programs at the University of Denver here.

9. University of South Carolina

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Endowed for $655.4 million, the University of South Carolina is a flagship public, sea-grant SECU member that’s educating over 49,200 Gamecocks in Columbia and abroad. According to the U.S. News, USC is America’s 107th top university with the 47th best social work education. The CSWE-accredited College of Social Work confers a 60-credit MSW based in Seoul, Korea, with Sungkyunkwan University for international experience. Students can still join the Phi Alpha Honor Society, complete 900+ fieldwork hours in countries like Thailand, and take LMSW licensure preparation workshops.

Tuition: $533 (in-state) or $1,142 (out-of-state) per credit

Learn more about International Social Work Degree Programs at the University of South Carolina here.

10. University of Utah

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Classified as a “selective” public, space-grant RU/VH institution, the University of Utah confers 190+ degrees for 31,500 Utes studying in Salt Lake City and around the globe. The U.S. News ranked Utah the 111th best university with the 53rd best social work school nationally. Within the two-year, CSWE-accredited MSW, there’s a Global Social Work Concentration focused on international well-being. Students can complete their 1,050 practicum hours abroad, contribute to the Center for Research on Migration & Refugee Integration, and join the Voices of Diversity (VOD) Project.

Tuition: $4,091 (in-state) or $11,663 (out-of-state) per semester

Learn more about the International Social Work Degree Programs at the University of Utah here.

11. Andrews University

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Following the motto “Body, Mind, Spirit,” Andrews University is the oldest private, Seventh-day Adventist higher learning institution with over 3,300 Cardinals in Berrien Springs, Michigan. The U.S. News and World Report ranked Andrews as the 183rd best university with the 198th best social work degrees nationwide. The School of Graduate Studies confers a MSW with an International Social Work emphasis. Students with a bachelor’s from CSWE-accredited schools cut the 56-credit curriculum to 33 credits. Portfolios are developed with 600+ fieldwork hours, including through Adventist Colleges Abroad from Sao Paulo to Hong Kong.

Tuition: $1,047 per credit

Learn more about International Social Work Degree Programs at Andrews University here.

12. University of Texas – El Paso

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Across the Rio Grande from Ciudad Juárez, Mexico, the University of Texas-El Paso is a public, Hispanic-serving institution (HSI) founded in 1914 that’s grown to over 23,300 Miners. The U.S. News placed the University of Texas – El Paso in the second tier with America’s 123rd best social work degrees. The bicultural community fosters a CSWE-accredited MSW program concentrated for “Social Work in the Border Region.” Aspiring international social workers complete 60 credits full-time or part-time with 960 fieldwork hours unless Advanced Standing is achieved. Electives in Chicano Studies could be added.

Tuition: $6,933 (in-state) or $16,441 (out-of-state) per year

Learn more about International Social Work Degree Programs at the University of Texas – El Paso here.

13. Monmouth University

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Belonging to the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities (NAICU), Monmouth University is a private, co-educational teaching institution enrolling over 6,300 Hawks with a 14:1 student-faculty ratio in West Long Branch, New Jersey. Monmouth is ranked the North’s 38th best college with the 64th best MSW degree nationwide by the USNWR. Master of Social Work students can customize the 60-credit, full- or part-time curriculum with the International Community Development Concentration. Global-centric courses are supplemented with two 10-week internships abroad in Bangladesh, Chile, Italy, and more. Volunteers could also join the Paul D. Coverdell Peace Corps Fellows Program.

Tuition: $1,098 per credit

Learn more about International Social Work Degree Programs at Monmouth University here.

14. CUNY Hunter College

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Based on Manhattan’s famed Park Avenue, Hunter College is the CUNY system’s second-oldest public, co-educational institution educating over 21,200 Hawks from 150 countries. The U.S. News placed Hunter as the North’s 42nd best school and 11th top public college. With CSWE accreditation, the Silberman School of Social Work awards an MSW for five practice specialties, including Global Social Work Practice with Immigrants and Refugees. The 60-credit Regular and 36-credit Advanced Standing curricula integrate at least 600 fieldwork hours from New York City to Ethiopia. Students could obtain the $1,500 Harold Lewis Scholarship too.

Tuition: $6,720 per semester

Learn more about International Social Work Degree Programs at CUNY Hunter College here.

15. California State University – San Bernardino

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Opened in 1960, California State University-San Bernardino is a public, space-grant institution endowed for $23.3 million that’s educating over 20,000 Coyotes within the Inland Empire. The U.S. News applauded CSUSB as the West’s 61st best college with America’s 141st best MSW. Within an “Advanced Generalist” framework, the CSWE-accredited Master of Social Work offers 10 field practice emphases, including International Social Work. The 60-credit curriculum can be completed in two or three years via the off-campus Pathway Program. At least 1,080 fieldwork hours are accumulated from Jamaica to Australia.

Tuition: $6,738 (in-state) or $15,666 (out-of-state) per year

Learn more about International Social Work Degree Programs here.

Related Links:

International Social Work Careers: An Overview

The 10 Best International Social Work Job Opportunities

Do I Need to Know A Foreign Language To Be A Social Worker?

Social Work Organizations and Resources

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Attending graduate school for a MSW is an excellent way for practitioners to advance into child welfare social work. The child welfare specialty is focused on protecting our nation’s youngest citizens from abuse, neglect, homelessness, and other deplorable conditions. Child welfare specialists often work for the government or nonprofit organizations to place children in the best possible living environment for health and happiness. Now’s an excellent time to consider child welfare careers because prospects are bright with faster-than-average growth of 12 percent through 2024. According to PayScale, median salaries for child welfare services range from $35,836 to $61,042.

We’ve meticulously researched the Top 15 MSW Programs for Child Welfare Careers. We used the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) directory to narrow down the 90 accredited programs in the United States with Children, Youth and Families concentrations. Next, we consulted with the U.S. News and World Report’s rankings for top graduate schools in social work. We looked for universities appearing on both resources for high-quality child welfare preparation. Each program had to fulfill LMSW and/or LCSW licensing requirements with extensive fieldwork in youth-related settings. Other important factors were specialized electives, financial aid, exam pass rates, class size, curriculum flexibility, and faculty credentials. That said, here are our selections for the Top 15 MSW Programs for Child Welfare Careers:

1. University of Michigan

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Established as the Catholepistemiad in 1817, the University of Michigan occupies 3,177 acres in Ann Arbor on the Huron River to educate over 44,700 scholars as a premier public, sea-grant AAU member with “very high research activity.” The Institute of International Education ranked UMich fifth nationally for students studying abroad. Within the CSWE-accredited School of Social Work, Wolverines earn America’s #1 MSW according to the U.S. News and World Report. The 60-credit degree offers a practice concentration for Children and Youth in Families and Society. The 16-month or 12-month Advanced Standing track can be supplemented with a Certificate in Child Welfare. Students could also serve in the SSW Peace Corps.

Tuition: $25,756 (in-state) or $41,272 (out-of-state) yearly

Learn more about the University of Michigan’s MSW Programs for Child Welfare Careeers here.

2. Washington University in St. Louis

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Attracting over 14,800 learners from 120 countries, Washington University in St. Louis is named for the United States’ first President as a private, nonprofit RU/VH institution on 346 urban acres off Forest Park Parkway in Missouri’s second-largest city. The Wall Street Journal honored Washington University in St. Louis as the 11th Best National University. The Brown School of Social Work stands out for America’s second best MSW on the U.S. News. Eight MSW concentrations are available, including Children, Youth and Families. Child welfare education in the two-year, 60-credit curriculum holds CSWE accreditation. Students benefit from over 300 practicum sites, research experience in the Kathryn M. Buden Center, and the Urban Education Initiative (UEI).

Tuition: $19,786 per semester

Learn more about Washington University in St. Louis’ MSW Programs for Child Welfare Careers here.

3. University of California – Berkeley

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Founded from the Agricultural, Mining, and Mechanical Arts College in 1868, the University of California-Berkeley is the Golden State’s flagship public, land-grant RU/VH institution with 38,200 Bears on its 1,232 urban acres in Alameda County. The Obama Scorecard Colleges report placed UC-Berkeley #1 for value and affordability. The CSWE-accredited Master of Social Welfare is also ranked third by the U.S. News. MSW students can declare the Direct Practice in Child and Family Services concentration through the Title IV-E Child Welfare program. The full-time, two-year program spans 54 units, including 400 first-year and 720 second-year fieldwork hours. Aspiring LCSWs choose from over 350 placements across the San Francisco Bay Area.

Tuition: $11,113 (in-state) or $17,235 (out-of-state) yearly

Learn more about the University of California – Berkeley’s MSW Programs for Child Welfare Careers here.

4. University of Chicago

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Historically tied to the American Baptist Education Society, the University of Chicago is a private, non-denominational research institution founded in 1890 that’s educating 15,700 Maroons from 217 urban acres in the Hyde Park neighborhood. Forbes magazine graded UChicago A+ for America’s 22nd most grateful graduates. The School of Social Service Administration’s Master of Arts also tied for #3 nationally by the U.S. News. This two-year, CSWE-accredited program offers a self-designed sequence in Family and Child Welfare. Students complete 1,120 fieldwork hours working directly with vulnerable youth. The SSA also offers study abroad trips to Mumbai, a Contextual Behavior Therapy Fellowship, and teaching assistantships in the Pozen Family Center.

Tuition: $15,321 per quarter

Learn more about the University of Chicago’s MSW Programs for Child Welfare Careers here.

5. Columbia University

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Affiliated with over 100 Nobel laureates, Columbia University is a prestigious, private Ivy League member operating since 1754 from a 299-acre urban campus in Manhattan’s Morningside Heights neighborhood. The Princeton Review placed Columbia 12th nationally for “Great Financial Aid.” According to the U.S. News, the CSWE-accredited School of Social Work also provides the sixth best MSW. Master’s students can customize the 60-credit curriculum and its 1,200 practicum hours in seven fields, including Family, Youth, & Children’s Services. Columbia produces licensed clinical social workers as “agents of change” with 16-month, two-year, Advanced Standing, and Reduced Residency tracks. Dual MSW degrees also exist with the Bank Street College of Education.

Tuition: $1,446 per credit

Learn more about Columbia University’s MSW Programs for Child Welfare Careers here.

6. Case Western Reserve University

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Described as “Cleveland’s Big-Leaguer,” Case Western Reserve University is a private, doctoral RU/VH research institution endowed for $1.76 billion to educate over 10,200 Spartans from 155 urban acres in northeastern Ohio. According to Washington Monthly, CWRU ranks 12th nationally for contribution to the public good. The Jack, Joseph, and Morton Mandal School of Applied Social Sciences also houses America’s ninth best social work preparation. The CSWE-accredited MSSA has produced 7,800 practitioners in seven concentrations, including Children, Youth and Families. Students can follow the 60-credit curriculum’s Daytime, Advanced Standing, or Intensive Weekend format. At least 900 field practicum hours are collected with paid stipends. Graduates could continue for CWRU’s Ph.D. in Social Welfare.

Tuition: $21,285 per semester

Learn more about Case Western Reserve University’s MSW Programs for Child Welfare Careers here.

7. Boston College

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Devoted to Jesuit values, Boston College is a private, nonprofit RU/VH research powerhouse educating over 14,100 students, including 21 Fulbright Scholars, on a $2.2 billion endowment from 332 suburban acres in Chestnut Hill. With A+ academics, BC was named America’s #4 “Best Catholic College” on Niche. The U.S. News distinguished the School of Social Work for awarding the 10th best MSW nationwide. Clinical MSW students can declare a CSWE-accredited concentration in Children, Youth & Families and finish the Child Welfare Certificate. The 60-credit, evidence-based curriculum includes three days of applied fieldwork each week. Social workers may participate in BC’s famed Latino Leadership Initiative for cultural awareness and Spanish fluency.

Tuition: $1,138 per credit

Learn more about Boston College’s MSW Programs for Child Welfare Careers here.

8. University of Pittsburgh

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Surrounding the Cathedral of Learning with a 132-acre urban campus in the Oakland neighborhood, the University of Pittsburgh is a public, PASSHE research institution tracing back to 1787 that’s enrolling over 28,600 Panthers. Forbes magazine crowned Pittsburgh as America’s 160th best value college. According to the USNWR, Pitt’s Master of Social Work ties for 10th place nationally too. Graduates can pursue the MSW in Children, Youth and Families while participating in the Child Welfare Education for Leadership (CWEL) project. The CSWE-accredited curriculum includes 42 class credits and 18 field credits at placements like Pennsylvania DHS. Act 31 Child Abuse Recognition and Reporting Training is included online.

Tuition: $17,688 (in-state) or $28,828 (out-of-state) yearly

Learn more about the University of Pittsburgh’s MSW Programs for Child Welfare Careers here.

9. University of Pennsylvania

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As a private, nonprofit Ivy Leaguer established by Founding Father Benjamin Franklin, the University of Pennsylvania enrolls 24,800 students and employs 4,650 faculty on its 1,094-acre urban campus in Philadelphia’s University City district. The Princeton Review placed UPenn 17th for “Colleges That Pay You Back.” Maintaining CSWE accreditation, the School of Social Policy & Practice has the 10th best MSW according to the U.S. News. Full-time cohorts complete 16 units and two field internships over four semesters. Practicum placements include Montgomery County Youth Center and Berks County CYS. For individualized learning, there’s a Child Well-Being and Child Welfare Specialization. Students working at Pennsylvania child welfare agencies could earn CWEL stipends.

Tuition: $46,532 per year

Learn more about the University of Pennsylvania’s MSW Programs for Child Welfare here.

10. University of Southern California

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Endowed for $4.6 billion, the University of Southern California is a private, RU/VH institution holding sea-grant and space-grant status to educate 42,400 Trojans from 308 urban acres in Los Angeles. Graded A+, USC was deemed the #1 “College with the Best Student Life” on Niche. The U.S. News also applauded the Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work for America’s 12th top MSW. This CSWE-accredited program offers a Children, Youth and Families specialization with a Public Child Welfare option. Over two to four years, the 60-credit curriculum will integrate at least 1,000 field internship hours. Graduates can earn the Pupil Personnel Services Credential (PPSC) for working in California schools.

Tuition: $1,733 per unit

Learn more about the University of Southern California’s MSW Programs for Child Welfare here.

11. University of Wisconsin – Madison

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Labeled a “Public Ivy,” the University of Wisconsin-Madison is a flagship land-grant and sea-grant research hub with enrollment surpassing 43,300 and expenditures over $1.1 billion upon its 936-acre urban campus just 122 miles northwest of Chicago. On Forbes, UW-Madison stands as America’s 10th best public university. The U.S. News also recognizes the CSWE-accredited School of Social Work as tying for the 12th best MSW. After the Generalist Practice year, students select from four emphases, including Child, Youth and Family Welfare. Those already holding a BSW can immediately begin the advanced specialization. Both the Madison and Eau Claire campuses host the Title IV-E Public Child Welfare Training.

Tuition: $11,942 (in-state) or $25,269 (out-of-state) yearly

Learn more about the University of Wisconsin’s MSW Programs for Child Welfare here.

12. Ohio State University

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Based on 1,765 urban acres in Columbus with extensions from Marion to Wooster, The Ohio State University is a prestigious public, land-grant and space-grant AAU member of the Big Ten Academic Alliance with over 101,200 total Buckeyes. On Niche, Ohio State is recognized for America’s 14th “Best College Campus.” The College of Social Work was ranked 17th nationally for its CSWE-accredited MSW by the U.S. News. Within the 63-credit curriculum, full- or part-time students can declare the Child and Youth Services Specialization. Future child welfare specialists fulfill LMSW requirements with at least 912 fieldwork hours. Advanced Standing students could even pursue the Online MSW asynchronously.

Tuition: $449 (in-state) or $1,088 (out-of-state) per credit

Learn more about Ohio State University’s MSW Programs for Child Welfare here.

13. University of Denver

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Belonging to the NAICU, the University of Denver is a private, co-educational institution carrying a $607 million endowment to serve around 11,700 Pioneers upon a 125-acre urban campus in the Rocky Mountains’ foothills. The Princeton Review honored DU as America’s 19th “Best Impact School.” The Graduate School of Social Work is also acclaimed for the nation’s 17th best Master of Social Work. Holding CSWE approval, the two-year, 90-quarter credit MSW offers concentrations for Child Welfare or Children & Youth: Risks and Healthy Development. Students attend classes on Thursdays and Fridays while completing 16 hours of fieldwork weekly. Since 2002, the Four Corners MSW has been delivered via ITV too.

Tuition: $45,288 per year

Learn more about the University of Denver’s MSW Programs for Child Welfare here.

14. University of Illinois at Urbana – Champaign

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With 94 percent retention, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign educates over 44,000 Fighting Illini as a public, land-grant and sea-grant RU/VH institution with a vast 4,552-acre urban campus just 124 miles west of Indianapolis. The Times Higher Education picked UIUC seventh among American public schools. According to the U.S. News, the CSWE-accredited Master of Social Work is also tied for 17th best nationally. Advanced Clinical students may customize the 12-course curriculum with the Children, Youth, and Family Studies Concentration. Two consecutive semesters of field internship are included for 930 hours minimum. Students with a minimum 3.0 GPA could add the Illinois Professional Educator Licensure (PEL).

Tuition: $13,266 (in-state) or $28,664 (out-of-state) yearly

Learn more about the University of Illinois at Urbana’s MSW Programs for Child Welfare here.

15. Rutgers University

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Named after Revolutionary War hero Henry Rutgers in 1766, Rutgers University is a public, multi-site RU/VH research institution approved by the New Jersey Legislature to educate over 67,000 Scarlet Knights in New Brunswick and beyond. Money magazine included Rutgers within the “20 Public Colleges Most Likely to Pay Off Financially.” The U.S. also distinguished the School of Social Work for the 22nd top MSW countrywide. Holding CSWE approval, the traditional, on-campus program offers emphasis in Children, Youth and Families. Along with 1,125 field hours, the 60-credit curriculum includes courses like child welfare and human diversity. Rutgers also has a Violence Against Women and Children Certificate.

Tuition: $689 (in-state) or $1,172 (out-of-state) per credit

Learn more about Rutgers University’s MSW Programs for Child Welfare here.

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Entering the rewarding social work profession is virtually impossible without holding at least a bachelor’s degree. Meeting state licensing requirements doesn’t necessarily require living on a college campus though. Although they’re fairly sparse, online colleges do offer Bachelor of Social Work programs for non-traditional students needing flexibility. Investing in an Online BSW will sharpen your advocacy skills to improve the lives of underprivileged people. The degree can facilitate entry into the U.S. News and World Report’s #8 Best Social Services Job at a time when job growth is pushing 12 percent. Social work graduates receive above-average satisfaction and a median annual salary of $46,610. For this article, we’ve done the homework to pinpoint the 15 Best CSWE Accredited Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs.

Our methodology behind this list began by reviewing the 524 programs nationwide holding baccalaureate approval from the Council on Social Work Education. Our results were narrowed based on the availability of online learning. Each prospective BSW had to be predominantly online with limited campus meetings, excluding field practicum. Next, we organized the list according to well-respected online publications like Forbes and the U.S. News. Other vital factors were affordability, student engagement, job placement, Web technology, retention, faculty strength, cohort size, and specializations. All of this combined led to the following list of The 15 Best CSWE Accredited Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs:

1. University of Utah

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Classified as a flagship public, doctoral space-grant institution with RU/VH research status, the University of Utah serves a mammoth student population over 31,500 in Salt Lake City and online. According to the U.S. News and World Report, Utah is America’s 111th Best National University and 51st Top Public School. Holding CSWE accreditation, the College of Social Work confers its Bachelor of Social Work asynchronously online. Interactive group projects and discussion threads nurture students’ ability to support marginalized communities, especially in rural Utah. The 51-credit major culminates with a field internship. BSW students could add the Online Gerontology Certificate.

Online Tuition: $3,841 (in-state) or $10,817 (out-of-state) per semester

Learn more about the University of Utah’s CSWE Accredited Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs here.

2. University of North Dakota

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Endowed for $230.5 million, the University of North Dakota is a public, space-grant research powerhouse enrolling more than 14,900 students on its physical campus in Grand Forks and online. The University of North Dakota was crowned the 202nd Best University and 110th Top Public College nationwide by the U.S. News and World Report. Every August, cohorts are admitted into the CSWE-accredited Bachelor’s in Social Work program with guaranteed in-state tuition. The two-year degree completion program engages transfers in live Web classes every Tuesday and Thursday evening. BSSW students transform into “change agents” with one 450-hour placement in the Dakotas, Minnesota, Montana, or Manitoba.

Online Tuition: $339 per credit

Learn more about the University of North Dakota’s CSWE Accredited Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs here.

3. University of Alaska – Fairbanks

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Overlooking the Chena River Valley from Interior Alaska’s largest city, the University of Alaska Fairbanks is a public, sun-grant research institution endowed for $143 million to educate over 10,200 learners on-campus and online. The U.S. News and World Report tied the University of Alaska – Fairbanks as America’s 202nd Best University and 110th Best Public School. Within the CSWE-accredited Department of Social Work, the B.A. in Social Work serves rural Alaskans committed to human rights. Courses are primarily conducted online with one three-day conference each semester. The 120-credit program includes at least 400 practicum hours in social service agencies.

Online Tuition: $192 (100-200 Level) and $232 (300-400 Level) per credit

Learn more about the University of Alaska – Fairbanks’ CSWE Accredited Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs here.

4. Brandman University

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Established in 1958, Brandman University is a private, nonprofit institution serving over 11,000 working adults yearly from Irvine, California, 26 extension centers, and online. Selected for the Leadership 500 Excellence Award twice, Brandman has America’s 47th Best Online Bachelor’s Degrees according to the U.S. News and World Report. The College of Arts & Sciences meets CSWE standards for the Online Bachelor of Arts in Social Work. The 48-credit major offers electives from domestic violence to military social work and drug addiction treatment. After the 400 practice hours, graduates qualify for BASW-level state licensing and MSW Advanced Standing.

Online Tuition: $500 per credit ($250 for active-duty military)

Learn more about Brandman University’s CSWE Accredited Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs here.

5. Wayne State University

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Located in Midtown Detroit since 1868, Wayne State University is Michigan’s third-largest public, research institution with a $313 million endowment and over 27,200 students. Named the nation’s 202nd Best Public College on Forbes, Wayne State University is recognized by the U.S. News and World Report for the 79th Top Online Bachelor’s Degrees. One such offering is the BSW Where Online Works! program. This upper-division, CSWE-accredited degree admits transfers with 60+ credits who are committed to alleviating social strife. Seniors complete a full-time practicum in their final semester. A Certificate in Addiction, Alcohol and Drug Abuse Studies is also available.

Online Tuition: $360 (in-state) or $825 (out-of-state) per credit

Learn more about Wayne State University’s CSWE Accredited Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs here.

6. Huntington University

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Affiliated with the Church of the United Brethren in Christ, Huntington University is a private, nonprofit CCCU member educating over 1,260 students in “Lime City” and online. Declared America’s 85th Best Christian College on Niche, Huntington is the Midwest’s 11th Top Value according to the U.S. News and World Report. Boasting a 100 percent placement rate, the Online Bachelor’s in Social Work program maintains CSWE accreditation. Huntington students are trained as entry-level generalists for licensure in 50 states from a 120-credit curriculum. Over 600 practice hours are accumulated with placements like YWCA Domestic Violence and Lutheran Hospital.

Online Tuition: $375 per credit ($100 technology fee each semester)

Learn more about Huntington University’s CSWE Accredited Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs here.

7. Northwestern State University

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Belonging to the University of Louisiana system, Northwestern State University enrolls over 9,100 students from its rural headquarters in Natchitoches, Shreveport, Alexandria, Leesville, and online. Ranked #4 nationally by Affordable Online Colleges, Northwestern State University of Louisiana is recognized by the U.S. News and World Report for the 143rd Best Online Bachelor’s Programs. Through the Global Campus, a CSWE-accredited Bachelor of Social Work is available for immediate entry into human services jobs. The 120-credit program covers aging, child welfare, mental illness, criminal justice, disabilities, and more with optional Phi Alpha Honor Society induction. Seniors devote 16 to 32 hours weekly for directed field practice education.

Online Tuition: $375 per credit

Learn more about Northwestern State University’s CSWE Accredited Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs here.

8. Indiana Wesleyan University

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Founded in 1912 as Marion Normal Institute, Indiana Wesleyan University is a private, nonprofit Christian liberal arts school tied to the Wesleyan Church and educating over 15,800 students. As the Midwest’s 27th Best University according to the U.S. News and World Report, Indiana Wesleyan University placed #1 on Niche’s “Best Colleges with No Application Fee in Indiana.” Accredited by the CSWE for 25 years, Indiana Wesleyan offers an Online Bachelor of Social Work for working adults. Cohorts strive to enhance human well-being through a 20-course major, service learning, and 400 hours of field practicum. There’s also a Hybrid BSW for partnering Ivy Tech colleges.

Online Tuition: $383 per credit

Learn more about Indiana Wesleyan University’s CSWE Accredited Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs here.

9. Northern Arizona University

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Surrounded by the continent’s largest ponderosa pine forest adjacent to Mount Elden, Northern Arizona University is a public, high-elevation institution serving over 30,350. Crowned the country’s 215th Top Research University on Forbes, Northern Arizona University is acclaimed for the 159th Best Online Bachelor’s Degrees by the U.S. News and World Report. With a 74 percent retention rate, the CSWE-accredited BSW Program is offered in Flagstaff and online. Featuring 480 practicum hours, the four-year curriculum develops the professional knowledge to help people overcome obstacles like abuse and homelessness. NAU also offers a BSW Title IV-E Child Welfare Training Project.

Online Tuition: $419 (in-state) or $865 (out-of-state) per credit

Learn more about Northern Arizona University’s CSWE Accredited Online Bachelor’s Degree Program here.

10. Brescia University

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Grounded in the Ursuline Sisters’ tradition, Brescia University is a private, co-educational Roman Catholic liberal arts institution with around 875 students studying on its campus in Owensboro, Kentucky, and online. Graded B+ for value on Niche, Brescia is distinguished as the South’s 32nd Best Regional College by the U.S. News and World Report. The Bachelor of Social Work Degree Completion program meets CSWE competencies to educate adults with 45+ credits. Online courses can be finished in 24 months as an accelerated pathway to social services careers. Selective admission every January, March, May, August, and October accepts 48 percent of applicants.

Online Tuition: $415 per credit

Learn more about Brescia University’s CSWE Accredited Online Bachelor’s Degree Program here.

11. Humboldt State University

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Overlooking the Pacific Ocean from the coastal redwoods of Arcata, Humboldt State University is the northernmost public school in the 23-site CSU system with over 8,700 students. Ranked within Washington Monthly’s top 7 percent, Humblodt State University is named the West’s 52nd Best University by the U.S. News and World Report. The College of Professional Studies holds CSWE accreditation for a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work. Online students complete the three-year program with live Thursday night sessions. Campus visits are only required for an August orientation and January practice intensive. Admission mandates a minimum 2.0 GPA in 60 college credits.

Online Tuition: $2,736 each semester (+$372 per unit for non-residents)

Learn more about Humboldt State University’s CSWE Accredited Online Bachelor’s Degree Program here.

12. Briar Cliff University

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Opened in 1929 by Mother Mary Dominica Wieneke, Briar Cliff University is a private, nonprofit liberal arts institution applying Franciscan values to educate over 1,150 from Sioux City, Iowa, and online. Honored as the Midwest’s 30th Top School by the U.S. News and World Report, Briar Cliff University is named America’s 134th Best Catholic College on Niche. The CSWE-accredited Bachelor of Social Work welcomes online learners with at least 77 post-secondary credits. One-on-one faculty mentoring guides students through the 47-credit major. Field experience is also fostered with a 450-hour community internship. State authorization doesn’t currently extend to Utah, Kentucky, Wisconsin, or New York.

Online Tuition: $434 per credit

Learn more about Briar Cliff University’s CSWE Accredited Online Bachelor’s Degree Program here.

13. Campbellsville University

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Enrolling over 3,200 students, Campbellsville University is a private, nonprofit institution with a covenant agreement to the Kentucky Baptist Convention for education in Campbellsville, Jeffersontown, Hodgenville, and online. According to the U.S. News and World Report, Campbellsville University is the South’s 98th Best College with the 66th Best Online Graduate Degrees. Bachelor’s students can pursue the 120-credit BSW online for the fundamental skills to assist vulnerable communities. Online courses explore social policy, human rights, lifespan development, familial relations, research methods, and more. The 450 hours of supervised practice can be completed anywhere, except North Carolina. Graduates often continue into the Campbellsville MSW online.

Online Tuition: $399 per credit

Learn more about Campbellsville University’s CSWE Accredited Online Bachelor’s Degree Program here.

14. Bemidji State University

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The Minnesota State Colleges and Universities (MNSCU) system includes Bemidji State University as a four-year public institution educating over 6,300 students along Lake Bemidji’s shoreline and beyond. Graded B for professors on Niche, Bemidji State University is named the Midwest’s 115th Top School and 35th Best Public College by the U.S. News and World Report. The CSWE-accredited Department of Social Work offers the Online SWIM program for a Bachelor of Social Work. Cohorts already holding an A.A. degree tackle the 69-credit major with just one monthly campus trip. Students may tailor the social services curriculum with the Chemical Dependency Minor for LADC credentialing.

Online Tuition: $305 per credit

Learn more about Bemidji State University’s CSWE Accredited Online Bachelor’s Degree Program here.

15. Union Institute and University

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Headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, with satellites from Vermont and California to online, Union Institute and University is a private, doctoral-granting nonprofit founded in 1964 that’s enrolling nearly 1,650 students. Featuring a 10:1 student-faculty ratio, Union Institute and University was distinguished as America’s 18th Best Online College by Niche. Proudly CSWE accredited, the Online Bachelor’s in Social Work provides in-depth understanding on community-based interventions. With emphasis on strengths-based practice, the 120-credit curriculum is available full-time or part-time. Classes conveniently begin every eight weeks through CampusWeb. Two semesters of field practicum are necessary for the graduation capstone.

Online Tuition: $510 per credit ($88 full-time technology fee)

Learn more about Union Institute and University’s CSWE Accredited Online Bachelor’s Degree Program here.

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Clinical social work is an advanced practice specialty that’s focused on diagnosing and treating mental, behavioral, or emotional disorders. All 50 states require professionals in clinical social work to be licensed. Becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) gives individuals the field’s highest credential for designing therapeutic interventions that improve clients’ well-being. State social work boards mandate that LCSW candidates hold an accredited master’s degree and two years of clinical experience. Investing in graduate school can pay off because LCSW is America’s #5 best social service job. Employment statistics show that demand in clinical social work will skyrocket by 19 percent through 2024 and offer some of the highest salaries in the field of social work.

Online education is perhaps the most convenient method for finishing your master’s degree and entering this in-demand field. Therefore, this article is devoted to outlining the 15 Best Online LCSW Degree Programs nationwide. We began by searching for online graduate degrees accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). Programs had to be primarily online with minimal campus trips, excluding field practicum. Next, we looked for clinical social work concentrations that satisfied at least in-state LCSW requirements. We consulted with the U.S. News and World Report’s rankings for narrowing down to top-tier universities. Other factors we considered were tuition, curriculum flexibility, fieldwork, class size, LCSW exam pass rate, Advanced Standing options, and student support.

Here are the 15 Best Online LCSW Degree Programs:

1. Columbia University

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Affiliated with 104 Nobel laureates, Columbia University is a premier private, nonprofit research institution delivering Ivy League education to approximately 19,500 post-graduates. The founding Association of American Universities (AAU) member occupies 32 acres in the Morningside Heights neighborhood of New York City’s Manhattan borough. Columbia also has an Online Campus with an impressive 99 percent retention rate. According to the U.S. News and World Report, Columbia University is America’s fourth Best University and sixth Top Value with the sixth Best Social Work Degrees. The Times Higher Education places Columbia among the world’s 15 Best Universities.

The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredited School of Social Work at Columbia University allows students to complete the Master’s of Social Work (MSW) Program fully online with an Advanced Clinical Social Work Practice concentration. Online learners further specialize in Family, Youth & Children’s Services or Health, Mental Health & Disabilities for their Licensed Clinical Social Work (LCSW) career. Courses are synchronous for live, virtual sessions with peers and faculty. Students could follow the standard two-year, Advanced Standing one-year, or extended three-year format from anywhere. Even the MSW’s orientation and capstone project are accessible via computer linkup.

Online Tuition: $1,390 per credit hour

Learn more about Columbia University’s Online LCSW Degree Programs here.

2. University of Southern California

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With post-graduate enrollment surpassing 23,700, the University of Southern California is one of the world’s preeminent private, nonprofit RU/VH research institutions on the Pacific Rim. The $4.7 billion endowment gifts generous financial aid packages to study upon the 308-acre urban campus in the University Park district of Los Angeles or online. Ranked 12th for Graduate Social Work Education, the University of Southern California (USC) is the 23rd Best National University and 39th Top Value in the U.S. News and World Report. The University of Southern California also lands among the Academic Ranking of World Universities’ (ARWU’s) Top 50 Global Universities.

Meeting the Council on Social Work Education’s (CSWE’s) guidelines, the University of Southern California’s School of Social Work established the Online Master of Social Work program via its Virtual Academic Center. Designed for clinical social workers, the curriculum offers 21st century concentrations in Mental Health, Health, or Families and Children. There’s an additional sub-concentration in Military Social Work too. Online, seminar-style courses foster intimate discussion with live conferencing sessions. Students learn to implement evidence-informed interventions with the 60-credit Traditional or 37-credit Advanced Standing track. Offline, students spend 1,000+ hours completing supervised field education.

Online Tuition: $1,666 per credit hour

Learn more about the University of Southern California’s Online LCSW Programs here.

3. Case Western Reserve University

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Founded as northern Ohio’s first college in 1826, Case Western Reserve University has a distinguished history as a private, doctoral-granting RU/VH research institution. Endowed for $1.76 billion, Case Western Reserve University educates more than 5,600 post-graduates from its 155-acre urban campus in Cleveland’s University Circle neighborhood. The Online Learning Division participates in the National Council for State Authorization Reprocity Agreement (NC-SARA) to deliver six online master’s degrees in 49 states, excluding Kentucky. The U.S. News and World Report named Case the 37th Best University and 42nd Top Value with America’s ninth Best Graduate Social Work Education Programs.

The Jack, Joseph, and Morton Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences gives Case Western Reserve University students the option to earn the Master of Science in Social Administration (MSSA) online. This Master of Social Work (MSW) alternative offers two Direct Clinical Practice concentrations for Children, Youth & Families or Adult Mental Health. Traditional non-Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) students complete 60 credits over eight online semesters, but there’s a 45-credit Advanced Standing track too. Field experience is integrated into online education to develop students’ competence treating mental illness. Admission to the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredited program requires a minimum 2.7 undergraduate GPA.

Online Tuition: $1,419 per credit hour

Learn more about Case Western Reserve University’s Online LCSW Degree Programs here.

4. Boston University

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Initially established in 1839 by Methodist ministers as the Newbury Biblical Institute, Boston University has dramatically evolved into a private, non-sectarian RU/VH research center with a $1.6 million endowment. Enrolling over 13,650 post-graduates, the Boston Consortium member is located on 135 urban acres in Massachusetts’ capital near Fenway Park. According to the U.S News and World Report, Boston University is the 41st Best College and 33rd Top School for Veterans nationally. With 23 online master’s degrees, Boston also won the United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA) 21st Century Gold Award for Distance Learning Programming.

Fully accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), the School of Social Work confers an outstanding Online Master of Social Work program with a Clinical Social Work Concentration. Online learners gain the therapeutic skills for LCSW licensure via one of three available tracks. The 65-credit Traditional Master’s of Social Work (MSW) takes three years with live online sessions and two internships. Working professionals with Human Service Experience (HSE) can complete 65 credits and one 1,000-hour internship. The Advanced Standing option for Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) holders requires 40 credits and one field experience. The Field Education Department has placements in 44 states.

Online Tuition: $750 per credit hour

Learn more about Boston University’s Online LCSW Degree Programs here.

5. Fordham University

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Firmly grounded in Jesuit tradition, Fordham University is a private, co-educational Roman Catholic institution split into 10 constituent colleges to educate over 6,400 post-graduates on-site and online. Claiming over 120 urban acres, Fordham occupies three physical campuses across New York in the Bronx, Manhattan, and West Harrison within Westchester County. Named among Kaplan’s “25 Hottest Schools in America,” Fordham is ranked the 66th Best National University and 55th Best College for Veterans by the U.S. News and World Report. In particular, Fordham University has the 22nd Best Master’s of Social Work program nationwide.

Fulfilling LCSW licensure qualifications is possible through Fordham’s Clinical Concentration for the online Master of Social Work program. The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredited Graduate School of Social Service offers full-time or part-time asynchronous online courses for residents of New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. There’s also a hybrid option with Molloy College on Long Island. Clinical social workers could add the Credentialed Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counselor-Trainee (CASAC-T) Certificate. Online learners with an accredited BSW receive Advanced Standing for one less year. Supervised field placements across the Tri-State make gaining clinical experience convenient.

Online Tuition: $894 per credit hour

Learn more about Fordham University’s Online LCSW Degree Programs here.

6. Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey

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Named for Revolutionary War hero Henry Rutgers in 1766, Rutgers The State University of New Jersey is a public, multi-campus land-grant research institution with nearly 20,000 post-graduates enrolled. Belonging to the Big Ten Academic Alliance, Rutgers has a $3.6 billion budget to operate its 2,688 acres of campuses in Newark, New Brunswick, and Camden as well as the eCollege. Placed 17th on PayScale’s Salary Report, Rutgers is ranked the 72nd Best University and 28th Top Public School with the 22nd Best Social Work Degree Programs by the U.S. News and World Report.

Using the Pearson Learning Studio, Rutgers’ School of Social Work produces LCSW candidates online with the Master’s of Social Work in Clinical Social Work program. The self-directed degree is completed part-time in three years or two years Advanced Standing. Small cohorts begin every Fall, Spring, and Summer for flexibility. Without taking the Graduate Records Examination (GRE), social workers can enter the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredited curriculum and perhaps add the Violence Against Women and Children Certificate. Online courses culminate in an internship anywhere in the United States. Other benefits include free tutoring and job placement assistance.

Online Tuition: $900 per credit hour

Learn more about Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey’s Online LCSW Degree Programs here.

7. Michigan State University

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Endowed for $2.2 billion, Michigan State University is a flagship public, land-grant and sea-grant institution with “very high research activity” to train over 11,400 post-graduates. In addition to its vast 5,192-acre suburban campus in East Lansing, Michigan State University offers 100+ online and hybrid courses through the Kellogg Conference Center. The U.S. News and World Report ranked Michigan State as America’s 75th Best University and 29th Top Public College with the 32nd Best Graduate Social Work education. Washington Monthly also crowned the Public Ivy the Midwest’s 11th Best Bang for the Buck.

Holding Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accreditation, the School of Social Work grants a 57-credit Statewide Blended Master of Social Work program for Michigan State University students living 50+ miles from East Lansing. Online courses are taken from anywhere with face-to-face meetings only one Saturday per month. Regional locations exist from Grand Rapids to Marquette. Part-time students can complete the Clinical Track in three years to earn LCSW licensure. Since 2006, the program has uniquely linked cohorts through ITV video conferencing. Over four semesters, Master’s of Social Work students also complete 960 clock hours of clinical experience.

Online Tuition: $698 per credit hour

Learn more about Michigan State University’s Online LCSW Degree Programs here.

8. University of Denver

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As the Rockies’ oldest private, co-educational research institution with a legacy tracing back to 1864, the University of Denver is an NAICU member endowed for $607 million to serve over 6,000 post-graduates. Seven miles south of the “Mile High City,” DU operates a 125-acre urban campus in the University Park neighborhood. The College of Professional and Continuing Studies also awards over 45 master’s programs online via Canvas. According to the U.S. News and World Report, the University of Denver is the 86th Best College with the 17th Best Master’s of Social Work (MSW) programs.

The Graduate School of Social Work has extended beyond its three Colorado locations to launch an Online MSW with a concentration in Mental Health and Trauma. This Council on Social Work Education (CWSWE) accredited program prepares Licensed Clinical Social Workers for creating positive change by treating individuals, families, and groups. Online lectures are viewed asynchronously before the collaborative learning session each Thursday. The Online Master of Social Work’s first cohort in January 2017 will have 20 students for close-knit, intervention-oriented education. Nine quarters of coursework culminates in a concentration field internship for 15+ hours per week.

Online Tuition: $628 per credit hour

Learn more about the University of Denver’s Online LCSW Degree Programs here.

9. University of Tennessee

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Belonging to the Southeastern Conference (SEC) Academic Consortium, the University of Tennessee is the state’s flagship public, land-grant and sun-grant RU/VH research institution with over 5,900 post-graduates. With one of East Tennessee’s Level I trauma centers, UTK is nestled in the Great Appalachian Valley with a 560-acre urban campus in Knoxville. Vols Online has won the TACHE Innovative Credit Programming Award for 14 online master’s programs. The U.S. News and World Report ranked Tennessee as America’s 103rd Best University and 47th Top Public College with the 32nd Best Social Work training.

The College of Social Work’s same, highly qualified professors deliver the Master of Social Work program online for aspiring LCSWs. Continuously Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredited since 1945, the University of Tennessee Knoxville has a clinical Evidence-Based Interpersonal Practice concentration. Students can further specialize in Aging, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Substance Abuse, Hospital Social Work, and Trauma. The 60-credit program can be completed full-time or part-time with asynchronous and synchronous online courses. Students’ 672-hour clinical internships are arranged within reasonable commutes from their hometowns.

Online Tuition: $6,417 (in-state) or $15,626 (out-of-state) per semester

Learn more about the University of Tennessee’s Online LCSW Degree Programs here.

10. Temple University

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Enrolling over 9,500 post-graduates, Temple University is a public, doctoral-granting research institution with an international presence since its founding in 1884 by Baptist minister Russell Conwell. From its main 115-acre urban campus in Philadelphia’s Center City district, Temple offers classes in Harrisburg, Tokyo, Rome, London, and online from anywhere. Noted for the country’s 64th Best Social Work Education, Temple is ranked the 115th Best University and 55th Top Public College by the U.S. News and World Report. Kiplinger’s lauded Temple University as the 95th Best Public Value too.

Launching in Fall 2017, Temple’s College of Public Health is now accepting applications for its CSWE-accredited online Master of Social Work program. Online students can complete the Clinical Practice Concentration while specializing in Children and Families, Health and Mental Health, or an Individualized Option. The 60-credit curriculum blends perfectly with the Online Military Counseling Certificate too. Learners engaged full-time or part-time will complete two field practica at approved agencies from Pennsylvania to Maryland. Temple proudly has one of the United States’ highest LCSW exam pass rates.

Online Tuition: $877 (in-state) or $1,202 (out-of-state) per credit hour

Learn more about Temple University’s Online LCSW Degree Programs here.

11. The Catholic University of America

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Following the motto “God is My Light,” The Catholic University of America is a private, pontifical teaching institution of the Roman Catholic Church that’s educating over 3,000 post-graduates. Closely tied with the Knights of Columbus, the Catholic University of America is located on a 176-acre urban campus in the Brookland neighborhood of Washington, DC. According to the U.S. News and World Report, the Catholic University of America is the 123th Best National University with the 47th Top Master’s of Social Work (MSW) program. The Princeton Review also recognized the Catholic University of America for the 13th “Most Religious Students” countrywide.

Online learners can select from four graduate programs, including the National Catholic School of Social Service’s Clinical Master of Social Work. This rigorous, Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredited degree trains students to provide much-needed mental health services with LCSW designation. At least 18 online courses are required for 54 credits. Advanced Standing is reserved for social work majors presenting a minimum 3.5 GPA. The Catholic University of America’s “signature pedagogy” emphasizes Christian service backed by biblical principles. Online courses are supplemented by two days of field experience per week.

Online Tuition: $1,035 per credit hour

Learn more about the Catholic University of America’s Online LCSW Degree Programs here.

12. Virginia Commonwealth University

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Originally created in 1838 by Hampden-Sydney College, Virginia Commonwealth University has gained independence as a senior, public RU/VH research institution with nearly 7,200 post-graduates. Online@VCU makes education accessible away from its 144-acre urban campus in Richmond’s Monroe Park neighborhood. As the 156th Best National University and 84th Top Public School, Virginia Commonwealth University grants the 22nd Best Graduate Social Work Education according to the U.S. News and World Report. Virginia Commonwealth University was also crowned the 16th best non-HBCU for minorities by Diverse Issues in Higher Education.

The Virginia Commonwealth University School of Social Work has created an online Master of Social Work degree with a Clinical Social Work Concentration to satisfy LCSW requirements. Whether full-time or part-time, online students spend up to four years completing the 60-credit curriculum. Emphasis is placed on the ethnical integrity required to restore optimal functioning to individuals of multicultural backgrounds. In addition to a first-year orientation, online MSW students must attend two Saturday seminars in Richmond each semester. Social workers could add the Certificate in Aging Studies or Gender Violence Intervention.

Online Tuition: $605 (in-state) or $1,244 (out-of-state) per credit hour

Learn more about Virginia Commonwealth University’s Online LCSW Degree Programs here.

13. University of Louisville

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Known for founding the world’s first trauma center in 1911, the University of Louisville is a city-owned, public RU/VH research institution that’s endowed for $1.2 billion and educating over 6,400 post-graduates. The University of Louisville operates a 345-acre urban Belknap Campus in Old Louisville, Health Sciences Campus in downtown, and Online Learning Campus virtually. The U.S. News and World Report lauded Louisville for being America’s 168th Best University and 91st Best Public College with the 32nd Best Social Work Programs. The University of Louisville is also the South’s 114th Top University in Forbes magazine.

The Kent School of Social Work confers a Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredited, “Best Buy” Master of Science in Social Work program 100 percent online. Future licensed clinical social workers can benefit from the Psychosocial Oncology, Mental Health, Gerontology, or Alcohol and Drug Counseling concentrations. Online students with a non-social work major enter the standard 60-credit MSSW, but there’s a 30-credit Advanced Standing option too. Award-winning courses draw from Bruner’s Spiral format for high performance standards. Placements for the 450-hour supervised internship are offered in most states, excluding Texas and Iowa.

Online Tuition: $714 per credit hour

Learn more about the University of Louisville’s Online LCSW Degree Programs here.

14. Widener University

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Given Carnegie’s prized “Community Engagement” classification, Widener University is a private, co-educational research institution with a $73 million endowment to enlighten over 3,200 post-graduates. Featuring satellites in Harrisburg, Exton, Wilmington, and online, Widener is situated upon a 108-acre urban campus in Chester, Pennsylvania. Widener has the 55th “Highest Proportion of Classes Under 20 Students” as America’s 187th Best University and 149th Best College for Veterans according to the U.S. News and World Report. The Presidential Community Service Honor Roll recipient also has the 123rd Top Social Work Programs.

Online learners pursuing the Licensed Clinical Social Worker exam can select Widener’s 64-credit Master of Social Work for advanced practice. The Council of Social Work Education (CSWE)accredited School of Social Work focuses on examining mental health and social-emotional issues based on past trauma. Curriculum flexibility allows online students to commit anywhere from three to 10 semesters part-time. Two supervised field placements for 480 and 720 clock hours apiece expand students’ professional perspective. There’s also a Hybrid MSW/M.Ed. in Human Sexualities program. No GRE score is required, but applicants must hold a minimum 3.0 GPA.

Online Tuition: $811 per credit hour

Learn more about Widener University’s Online LCSW Degree Programs here.

15. University of Houston

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Opened as Houston Junior College in 1927, the University of Houston has expanded into a public, multi-site system of research institutions endowed for $716 million to serve over 7,800 post-graduate students. Along with its flagship 667-acre urban campus on Space City’s Calhoun Road, the University of Houston operates locations in Sugar Land, Clear Lake, Victoria, and online for “Education Without Limits.” Placed 31st on the Social Mobility Index, Houston is ranked the 187th Best National University and 105th Top Public School with the 38th Best Graduate College of Social Work by the U.S. News and World Report.

Offering the lowest in-state tuition, the Online Master of Social Work (MSW) gives UH students the opportunity to develop skills for clinical mental health services. Although it’s primarily online, advanced concentration courses often require meeting in Houston once monthly. Aspiring LCSWs study social welfare policies, human behavior, clinical assessment, DSM diagnoses, and more. The Clinical Practice Concentration places emphasis on cognitive-behavioral interventions. Online students must complete at least 900 clock hours of fieldwork. Some placements are available with UH’s unique Child Trauma Project.

Online Tuition: $410 (in-state) or $918 (out-of-state) per credit hour

Learn more about the University of Houston’s Online LCSW Degree Programs here.