Arizona State University (ASU) Online MSW Program
Arizona State University’s School of Social Work offers an online Master of Social Work (MSW) program housed within the Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions. The online program is available in two formats: a fully asynchronous option through ASU Online, and a synchronous live-session option through ASU Sync. Both are Standard MSW tracks — the online program does not currently offer an Advanced Standing option, which remains available only at ASU’s on-campus locations.
The online Standard MSW program is designed for working adults seeking flexibility, with most students taking a couple of classes at a time in seven-week terms and earning the degree in two or three years. The synchronous ASU Sync format follows a live weekly class schedule and is primarily a two-year option, with a part-time option available.
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Both online tracks require two internships totaling 960 hours of field practicum, completed locally at approximately 16 hours per week per semester. ASU’s School of Social Work assists students in securing appropriate field placements. Graduates are eligible for licensure through the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners; students outside of Arizona are encouraged to verify their state’s licensing requirements.
ASU’s MSW program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), and the university is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Program Information
Department: Arizona State University’s (ASU) School of Social Work
Degree Types: Standard MSW (Traditional Standing only — online)
Concentration: Advanced Generalist (ASU Online — asynchronous); Advanced Direct Practice (ASU Sync — synchronous)
Program Structure: Online with local field placements (no campus visits required)
Instruction Methods: Asynchronous (ASU Online) or synchronous live weekly sessions (ASU Sync)
Program Contact
- ASU Online MSW: Phone: 866-277-6589
- ASU Sync and on-campus inquiries: calendly.com/watts-recruitment / Phone: 602-496-7827
Program Requirements
- Field Education Requirements: 960 hours — two internships of 480 hours each, at approximately 16 hours per week per semester
- Number of Credits Required: 60 credits needed to graduate
Program Length
- Program Options: Full-time (two years) or part-time (three years)
- Start Dates: Fall and Spring (online); Fall only (ASU Sync)
Admission Requirements
- Bachelor’s or master’s degree from a regionally accredited institution (any field)
- Competitive applicants typically have a GPA of 3.0 or higher in the last 60 semester hours or 90 quarter hours; applicants who do not meet the GPA threshold may still be considered based on professional and academic background
- 240 hours of volunteer and/or paid work experience in social services within the past five years (documented via resume and volunteer/work experience form)
- Three letters of recommendation — a combination of academic and professional references required; references from friends, family members, or personal therapists will result in automatic denial; at least one reference from a BSW field instructor or social work supervisor is recommended
- Program-specific admission essay (4–6 pages, double-spaced, 12-point font, 1-inch margins) addressing five required questions covering: personal background and motivations; understanding of professional social work responsibilities; reasons for selecting ASU and alignment with the School’s mission; understanding of social justice and anti-racism in social work; and a plan for managing practicum and coursework demands
- Official transcripts from all institutions attended (unofficial transcripts acceptable at time of application; official copies required upon admission)
- Proof of English proficiency for applicants whose native language is not English
- GRE: Not required
Arizona State University’s MSW program information was last updated in March 2026. For more information, visit the university’s website above.
If you have additional information about this program, email us at contactus@onlinemswprograms.com