We evaluated 75 universities in creating our top 10 rankings. This means you have many options when it comes to online MSW programs. Here’s how to narrow down your choices:
think about future goals
Earning a master’s degree in social work can lead to a variety of social work careers and other graduate school pathways. When choosing a school and program, look for options that support your vision.
For example, if you plan to obtain a professional license, make sure the program meets your state’s licensing exam requirements. You will also need to ensure that your program’s internship hours meet your state’s social work licensing requirements.
If you have a specialty in mind, find a program that specializes in that field. You can also look for schools that have faculty in your chosen field. This can lead to more relevant internship, research, and teaching opportunities.
Understand expenses and financing options
Tuition for the online Master of Social Work programs listed in this guide ranges from $590 to $1,295 per credit.
The cost of the entire program depends on your previous education, as Advanced Standing Track can cut your schedule and costs in half. However, for a typical 18-credit academic year in a top-ranked program, he can expect to pay tuition fees of $23,310, down from $10,620.
For comparison, the average tuition and fees for graduate programs in the 2022-23 academic year will cost more than $11,500 at public schools and more than $20,000 at private schools, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.
Be sure to explore all your financial aid options, starting with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®). Applying for financial aid on the FAFSA can help you qualify for federal loans and grants, as well as state, institutional, and institutional scholarships. If you need additional support, you can also look into work-study and assistantship programs.