Part-Time Master of Social Work Programs Online

Currently, students interested in part-time programs for online social work degrees have plenty of options. There are over 50 part-time MSW degree programs compared with over 30 full-time programs offered online. While all online MSW programs must meet the same Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accreditation standards (note: all schools listed on OnlineMSWPrograms.com are CSWE accredited), there is no set standard for what constitutes an online program.

Therefore, on OnlineMSWPrograms.com, any program that requires two or fewer campus visits per year is categorized as an online program, or online social work degree. Programs with a campus residency requirement are ideal for students who have some flexibility to travel and want to meet their teachers and classmates in person during the program.

Part-Time Online MSW Programs Accredited by the CSWE

• Adelphi University
• Arizona State University
• Boise State University
• Boston University
• California State University, San Bernardino
• Capella University
• Columbia University
• Florida State University
• George Mason University
• Sponsored: Howard University
• Humboldt State University
• Indiana University
• Louisiana State University
• Metropolitan State University
• Ohio State University
• Ohio University
• Our Lady of the Lake University
• Portland State University
• Rutgers University
• Samford University
• San Jose State University
• Sponsored: Simmons University
• Sponsored: Syracuse University
• Temple University
• Texas A & M University
• Texas State University, San Marcos
• The Catholic University of America
• Tulane University
• University at Buffalo (SUNY)
• University of Alaska, Anchorage
• University of Arkansas, Little Rock
• University of Central Florida
• Sponsored: University of Denver
• University of Georgia
• University of Houston
• University of Iowa
• University of Louisville
• University of Missouri
• University of New England
• University of North Dakota
• University of Northern Iowa
• University of South Florida
• University of Tennessee, Knoxville
• University of Texas, Arlington
• Walden University
• West Virginia University
• Western Kentucky University
• Western New Mexico University
• Widener University
• Yeshiva University

Length and Structure of Part-Time MSW Programs

In general, the structure of part-time programs is more varied than that of full-time programs. Therefore, students should research their options carefully to understand how the programs differ in class structure and instructional methods. Typically, part-time MSW programs range from two and a half to four years.

• Types of Class Structures: The majority of full-time online MSW programs use a cohort model of instruction, in which students progress through the curriculum together as a unit. While many part-time programs also use a cohort model, others have flexible scheduling that allows students to vary their course loads each semester. (Note: these programs usually have a maximum length of time in which students must complete the program.)
• Types of Instruction Methods: Some part-time MSW programs use synchronous instruction (i.e., students are required to be online at specific times), while others use asynchronous instruction (i.e., students can log in to complete their coursework at times that are convenient for them). Some schools use both forms of instruction, depending on the class and instructor. For programs with synchronous instruction, classes are usually in the evenings or on the weekends, which is ideal for working professionals.
• Field Education: Students in part-time online MSW programs are still required to complete a field education requirement, which ranges from 900 to 1,200 hours, depending on the program. Typically, students complete two internships over four to seven semesters in their second and third years. This means students will be required to work at least one day a week at a local agency during those semesters, and most field instruction takes place during normal business hours, Monday through Friday.

Start Dates and Admission Periods of Part-Time Online MSW Programs

While the majority of full-time MSW programs start only once a year, with admission typically in the Fall, there are part-time online MSW programs and online social work degrees that offer multiple start dates, including Fall, Spring, and Summer semesters. This is definitely an advantage for students who have already missed the Fall admission deadline or who have decided they want to go back to school and do not want to wait an entire year to start. Although most part-time programs that accept students only once a year typically start in the Fall semester, some schools do have programs that start only in the Spring.

This page looks at traditional and advanced standing online part-time MSW programs. For students who have already earned a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from a CSWE-accredited program, we have compiled a list of schools offering Advanced Standing MSW Programs online, complete with program information and admission requirements.