Online Master of Social Work

The online Master of Social Work (MSW) at Arizona State University will prepare you to work with individuals, families, communities and in the world at large. In the Master of Social Work, you’ll learn to promote social justice and find practical solutions to social problems and pressing issues facing the most vulnerable in our society.

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Quick facts

Next start date:

Next start date: 08/17/2023


Total classes:

Total classes: 20

Weeks per class:

Weeks per class: 7.5

Total credit hours:

Total credit hours: 60

Degree questions, answered.

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What is an MSW?

An MSW is a master's degree in social work. ASU's MSW online program explores a variety of social concerns that can affect individuals and families. Key focus areas include administration, behavioral health, community practice, policy practice and innovative services for children, youth and families.

The Master of Social Work online is an accredited degree program that will enable you to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

Attend our upcoming webinar to learn more about our Master of Social Work. Sign up.

Is an MSW online worth it?

 

A master's degree in social work teaches you how to comprehensively approach challenges faced by your clients. You’ll learn how to implement effective, practical solutions through a combination of coursework and hands-on experience. You’ll participate in two, year-long field education internships to build on-the-ground insight and further develop your abilities.

Is this master’s degree in social work accredited?

 

The online master's in social work is offered through ASU’s School of Social Work, which is one of the largest and most diverse in the world and is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).

The Master of Social Work’s concentration in advanced generalist studies focuses on effective and culturally competent service practices across system levels and strategies for change informed by research evidence. Please note the advanced generalist concentration is not a clinical concentration.

How much can I earn with an MSW online degree?

 

Social workers holding an MSW are regarded as deeply knowledgeable, and their expertise commands relevant compensation. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, social workers earned a median salary of $50,390 in 2021, which is higher than the national median pay. Additionally, the projected growth rate for social work positions is 9%. In contrast, the average growth rate for all jobs is 5%.

Professional licensure and certification

ASU offers programs that lead to professional licensure with the State of Arizona and may allow graduates to be eligible for licensure in other states. Please check our professional licensure page for Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions to determine if this program meets requirements in your state. Contact our admission team for more information at mswadmissions@asu.edu.

Does my Master of Social Work say 'online'?

No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.” That’s because ASU Online students learn from the same faculty and receive the same course content as in-person students receive.

Online master's in social work courses

The MSW online program follows a set sequence of courses based on a broad range of social concerns and includes two professional seminars with synchronous elements designed for professional development. Along with your courses, you’ll also participate in 960 hours of mandatory hands-on field education at two different and distinct internship sites. You’ll work with the School of Social Work’s Field Education Office to find internship sites within your geographic region that meet school and CSWE standards. Pre-placement requirements will be arranged and monitored by the field agency.


Required

Micro Human Behavior/Social Environment


Required

Social Policy and Services


Required

Professional Experience I


Required

Macro Human Behavior/Social Environment


Required

Diversity and Oppression in a Social Work Context


Required

Foundation Practice I


Required

Macro Social Work


Required

Foundation Practice II


What can I do with an MSW?

As a graduate of the master's degree in social work, you may choose to work directly with clients or focus on program or policy development. Potential career paths include:

Child welfare social worker

Community services manager

Forensic social worker

Hospice and palliative social worker

Macro social worker

Medical social worker

Mental health counselor

Military social worker

Recreation worker

Learn from faculty who empower online Master of Social Work students

The impressive faculty at the Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions are inspiring the next generation of public service leaders through real-world solutions to issues related to child welfare, safety, city management, human trafficking and water scarcity. Recent faculty highlights include:

  • Fellow of the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences.
  • Fellow of the American Psychological Association.
  • Member of the National Academy of Public Administration.

Learn from faculty who empower online Master of Social Work students

The impressive faculty at the Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions are inspiring the next generation of public service leaders through real-world solutions to issues related to child welfare, safety, city management, human trafficking and water scarcity. Recent faculty highlights include:

  • Fellow of the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences.
  • Fellow of the American Psychological Association.
  • Member of the National Academy of Public Administration.

MSW online admission requirements

Applicants to the Master of Social Work program must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and the Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions.

Application requirements

Statement of education and career goals details

Additional admission information

Innovators in public service and community solutions

The Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions is a comprehensive public service college dedicated to addressing social problems through teaching, research and service. Our public service programs, including public policy, social work, criminal justice and emergency management, help prepare our diverse student body to make a difference in the community.

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Tuition calculator

Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.

Tuition calculator

Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.

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