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.
Quick facts
Next start date: 08/17/2023
Total classes: 20
Weeks per class: 7.5
Total credit hours: 60
Degree questions, answered.
Have questions about the Social Work (MSW)? Fill out this form and we’ll get in touch!
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.
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).
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'?
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.
Micro Human Behavior/Social Environment
Social Policy and Services
Professional Experience I
Macro Human Behavior/Social Environment
Diversity and Oppression in a Social Work Context
Foundation Practice I
Macro Social Work
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.
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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