Background

Discover the Best Online Social Work Degree Programs

Explore our comprehensive rankings and career paths in social work to find your path to success.

Associate Degree Rankings

Start your journey with top-rated Associate programs in Social Work.

Associate Degree

Bachelor's Degree Rankings

Discover leading Bachelor's programs in Social Work

Bachelor's Degree

Master's Degree Rankings

Advance your career with top Master's degrees in Social Work

Master's Degree

Explore Modern Career Paths in Social Work

Discover the most in-demand carers in Social Work.

Conduct religious worship and perform other spiritual functions associated with beliefs and practices of religious faith or denomination. Provide spiritual and moral guidance and assistance to members.

Provide social services and assistance to improve the social and psychological functioning of children and their families and to maximize the family well-being and the academic functioning of children. May assist parents, arrange adoptions, and find foster homes for abandoned or abused children. In schools, they address such problems as teenage pregnancy, misbehavior, and truancy. May also advise teachers.

Provide individuals, families, and groups with the psychosocial support needed to cope with chronic, acute, or terminal illnesses. Services include advising family caregivers. Provide patients with information and counseling, and make referrals for other services. May also provide case and care management or interventions designed to promote health, prevent disease, and address barriers to access to healthcare.

Provide individuals, families, and groups with the psychosocial support needed to cope with chronic, acute, or terminal illnesses. Services include advising family caregivers. Provide patients with information and counseling, and make referrals for other services. May also provide case and care management or interventions designed to promote health, prevent disease, and address barriers to access to healthcare.

Assess and treat individuals with mental, emotional, or substance abuse problems, including abuse of alcohol, tobacco, and/or other drugs. Activities may include individual and group therapy, crisis intervention, case management, client advocacy, prevention, and education.

Provide individuals, families, and groups with the psychosocial support needed to cope with chronic, acute, or terminal illnesses. Services include advising family caregivers. Provide patients with information and counseling, and make referrals for other services. May also provide case and care management or interventions designed to promote health, prevent disease, and address barriers to access to healthcare.

Counsel individuals to maximize the independence and employability of persons coping with personal, social, and vocational difficulties that result from birth defects, illness, disease, accidents, aging, or the stress of daily life. Coordinate activities for residents of care and treatment facilities. Assess client needs and design and implement rehabilitation programs that may include personal and vocational counseling, training, and job placement.

Counsel and advise individuals with alcohol, tobacco, drug, or other problems, such as gambling and eating disorders. May counsel individuals, families, or groups or engage in prevention programs.

Discover Social Work Resources

Quickly navigate to essential information pages regarding online Social Work programs.

Tuition and Financial Aid

Discover typical costs of attendance and financial aid options when pursuing a degree in Social Work.

Tuition and Financial Aid

Admission and Requirements

Discover what it takes to get into the top ranked schools for Social Work.

Admission and Requirements

Accreditation

Learn more about how online Social Work programs are accredited and what it means for you.

Accreditation

FAQs

Answers to common questions about obtaining an online degree in Social Work.

FAQs

Top Career Paths by Salary for Social Work in 2024

CareerAnnual Median SalaryHourly Median Salary

Data sourced From O*NET OnLine by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).

Brief Overview of Online Social Work Degree Programs

Online Social Work Degree Programs provide a gateway for individuals aiming to enter the field of social work without the constraints of a traditional on-campus setting. These programs are designed to offer flexibility, allowing you to balance your studies with personal and professional commitments. Here's what you need to know about these programs:

  • Accreditation: Accreditation is crucial for online social work programs. It ensures that the education provided meets the industry standards and that your degree will be recognized by employers and other educational institutions. Look for programs accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).

  • Degree Levels: Online social work programs are available at various levels, including Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees, as well as certificate programs. Each level prepares you for different roles within the field of social work.

  • Curriculum: The curriculum typically covers topics such as human behavior, social welfare policy, research methods, and ethics in social work. Practical skills are also emphasized through virtual simulations and fieldwork components that can often be completed in your local community.

  • Flexibility: Many online programs offer asynchronous courses, allowing you to log in and complete coursework at times that fit your schedule. Some may also offer synchronous classes for real-time interaction with instructors and peers.

  • Student Support Services: Top programs provide extensive support services including academic advising, career services, and mental health resources to support you throughout your educational journey.

  • Affordability: Tuition costs vary widely among institutions. Some programs offer financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and student loans to help manage the cost of your education.

  • Program Outcomes: When evaluating programs, consider their graduation rates, job placement rates, and licensure exam pass rates. These indicators can give you insight into the program's effectiveness in preparing students for successful careers in social work.

  • Program Reputation: The reputation of a program can significantly impact your career prospects. Look for programs with a strong reputation among employers, alumni success stories, and faculty credentials.

When choosing an online social work degree program, consider how each program aligns with your career goals, learning style, and life circumstances. With the right program, you can gain the knowledge and skills needed to make a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals and communities.

Remember to consult with the U.S. Department of Education or independent educational resources for updated information on accredited online social work programs to ensure you're making an informed decision.

Typical Tasks for Careers in Social Work

  • Advise clients or community groups on issues related to improving general health, such as diet or exercise.

  • Advocate for clients or patients to resolve crises.

  • Analyze and interpret data to increase the understanding of human social behavior.

  • Assess clients' cognitive abilities and physical and emotional needs to determine appropriate interventions.

  • Assess individuals' degree of drug dependency by collecting and analyzing urine samples.

  • Collaborate with counselors, physicians, or nurses to plan or coordinate treatment, drawing on social work experience and patient needs.

Online Social Work Degree Program FAQs

What is an Online Social Work Degree Program?

An Online Social Work Degree Program is a structured educational course of study that allows students to learn the theories, skills, and ethical considerations necessary for social work practice through an online platform. These programs often include synchronous or asynchronous coursework, virtual field placements, and interactive assignments.

Who Should Consider an Online Social Work Degree?

  • Individuals seeking a career in helping professions.
  • Working professionals looking to change careers without sacrificing their current job.
  • Students who require the flexibility to balance education with personal responsibilities like caregiving or part-time work.

What are the Different Levels of Online Social Work Degrees Available?

  • Associate Degree in Social Work (ASW): A foundational program, typically requiring two years of study.
  • Bachelor of Social Work (BSW): An undergraduate program that usually takes four years to complete.
  • Master of Social Work (MSW): A graduate program for those holding a bachelor's degree; full-time students can complete it in two years.
  • Doctorate in Social Work (DSW or PhD): Advanced research or clinical practice degrees that can take several years beyond a master's degree.

Are Online Social Work Degrees Accredited?

Yes, many online social work programs are accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) or equivalent accrediting bodies. Accreditation is crucial for ensuring the quality of education and for eligibility to sit for licensing exams.

Can I Become a Licensed Social Worker with an Online Degree?

Absolutely. Graduates from CSWE-accredited online programs are typically eligible to pursue state licensure. However, licensure requirements vary by state, so it's important to check with your state's social work licensing board.

What Does a Typical Online Social Work Curriculum Include?

  • Human behavior and the social environment
  • Social work practice with individuals and groups
  • Policy and advocacy in social work
  • Research methods
  • Field education or internships

How Long Does It Take to Complete an Online Social Work Degree?

The duration depends on the degree level and student's pace:

  • ASW: approximately 2 years
  • BSW: around 4 years
  • MSW: typically 2 years for full-time students; part-time students may take longer
  • DSW/PhD: varies significantly based on research requirements and dissertation

How Do I Choose the Best Online Social Work Degree Program?

When looking for the best program, consider our proprietary algorithm criteria:

  • Affordability: Compare tuition rates and financial aid opportunities.
  • Program Outcomes: Look at graduation rates and employment statistics post-graduation.
  • Accessibility: Ensure that courses and resources are accessible to you with your technology and schedule.
  • Student Support Services: Evaluate the availability of advising, tutoring, and career services.
  • Accreditation: Confirm that the program is accredited by a recognized agency like CSWE.
  • Flexibility: Check if the program offers full-time, part-time, synchronous, or asynchronous options to fit your lifestyle.
  • Program Reputation: Research alumni feedback and employer recognition of the program.

What Career Opportunities Are Available with an Online Social Work Degree?

Graduates can pursue various roles, including but not limited to:

  • Clinical social worker
  • Child and family social worker
  • School social worker
  • Healthcare social worker
  • Mental health counselor

Is Fieldwork Required in an Online Social Work Program?

Yes, fieldwork is a critical component of social work education. Online programs usually coordinate with local agencies to arrange suitable field placements for their students.

For more information on online social work degree programs, visit authoritative sites such as CSWE or your state's social work licensing board website. Remember to ensure any links open in a new tab with "noopener noreferrer" attributes for security purposes.

Technologies and Skills Used for Careers in Social Work

Analytical or scientific software

  • ACT WorkKeys
  • Counseling software

Computer based training software

  • EasyCBM

Basic Skills

  • Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
  • Talking to others

Sign up for our newsletter

Join our newsletter to receive the latest updates and insights in online education. Get exclusive access to in-depth articles, expert advice, and special offers tailored for your educational journey.