Best Online Master’s in Social Work Programs

To be considered for this ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria:

Schools were then scored on factors such as:

These factors were assembled for each school and rated using a peer-based-value (PBV) calculation. PBV compares the cost of a program to the cost of other programs with the same (or similar) qualitative score and cost. PBV denotes the overall value or “bang for your buck” of a college or degree program.

Online master’s programs in social work may take less time than traditional, on-campus programs. Online programs, however, will likely have the same coursework and degree outcome. Because the social work field has varying concentrations, students should have an idea of their specific preferences and interests when applying.

Applicants who have a bachelor’s degree in social work typically already have background in social work history, policy and general theory, and if they’ve been able to maintain a 3.0 GPA or higher, the time to complete a master’s program may be greatly reduced.

Most programs accept test scores for the GRE or MAT up to five years after completion of the exams. Sometimes, programs only accept one and not both, so students should be sure to take the test requested by their desired program.

Applicants should consider asking their current supervisors, professors or community leaders for a reference. References are generally required for online master’s in social work programs, and they can offer an inside look into an applicant’s character, personality and work ethic. Applicants should also take great care in preparing a résumé that highlights social work qualities. Admissions officers typically want to know about an applicant’s work experience, current skill set and passion for the field.

It can be difficult to get an idea of a person’s personality or suitability from just an application alone. For online master’s in social work programs that request an essay or a personal statement, students should seize the opportunity to describe who they are, what about a master’s in social work is interesting to them and how they plan to contribute to their community and to the field upon completion.

Most online master’s programs in social work will require transcripts from a previous institution. Students should review their transcripts for errors and should pay close attention to their GPA. Accelerated online master’s programs are often offered to students who have a bachelor’s in social work; however, they often require the student to have completed the degree with a 3.0 GPA or higher.

Some programs may accept students who do not have great test scores or GPAs. Online master’s in social work programs typically take a personal approach to admissions and consider life experience as much as numbers on paper. If a candidate falls into this category, it is possible an admissions officer will request on online or in-person interview. Candidates should let their passion shine through, be genuine and express their excitement at the possibility of entering into the field.

Online master’s in social work programs can be expensive. Students should explore all available financial aid possibilities, including those inside and outside their specific program. Individual programs and departments may have scholarship applications, and some accept aid programs like the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or federal grants.

Once a student is accepted into an online master’s degree program in social work, there are a few milestones and objectives that one typically reaches in their first year of school.

Students should take advantage of networking opportunities that schools offer. Building a network is a critical part of taking a professional role in social work; students will find jobs, internships and lifelong colleagues from these first connections.

Specific master’s degree in social work programs that students choose will likely already have a concentration. For instance, students might apply to a clinical track or a family welfare track. But after completing the basic level of courses, students will often specialize even further within those concentrations. It will be helpful for applicants to have an idea of these specific areas within their program of study.

Future employers in the social work field often consider volunteer experience among applicants. Students should search for different opportunities that may be available to them in their community, and often times, volunteer opportunities are posted or available within the social work department.

Typically, a student will complete a master’s in social work program after the second year. The final year in the program will typically be focused on finishing fieldwork hours and specialized coursework.

Many programs may require students to fulfill a fieldwork or practicum program. Hours may be completed in fields like hospitals, clinics, offices or schools. Hour requirements can be as high as 1,200, so students should be prepared to make this part of the program a big priority.

Students typically will need to register for and complete advanced electives within the degree program’s concentration.

Some programs require students to work on-site for a part of the degree program, even though the majority of course and fieldwork may be completed off campus. Students should try to plan work and family life around this time in order to take full opportunity of it. The chances to meet professors face-to-face, to interact with fellow students and to make real-life connections will often times help participants expand their network.

In addition to the basic graduation standards, graduates of an online master’s program in social work usually have a few more requirements to fulfill before they can start practicing.

States may have differing licensure requirements, so graduates should be aware of specifics. In many areas, recent graduates may be able to work under supervision before receiving any higher licensing.

In most states, professionals are often required to pass the master’s exam at the onset of practicing and before completion of supervised work. Some states may require social workers to pass an additional clinical examination at the completion of their supervision requirements. Graduates should be familiar with the requirements of states in which they may eventually work.

Professional fitness is usually determined to get an idea of a social worker’s mental and emotional ability to work within the field. Regulations may vary among different states. Some states require an interview, background check and fingerprints, while others only require one or two of those items.