Online MSW Programs in California

Interested in online Master of Social Work (MSW) programs for students in California? The online MSW and hybrid MSW programs in this article require two or fewer campus visits per year, giving students a flexible learning experience while they earn their advanced degree. Some programs may accept students from anywhere in the U.S., so make sure to read through the criteria for each one to ensure that you meet the application requirements.

Colleges in California with Online MSW programs

MSW applicants who live in California have a variety of online offerings through the California State University (CSU) system:

• CSU Northridge offers a fully online MSW with two- and three-year pathways. The program is authorized (or exempt from approval requirements) in most U.S. states, but it is not currently authorized in Iowa, Mississippi, North Carolina, New Mexico, or Rhode Island, so out-of-state applicants should confirm eligibility before applying.
• CSU San Bernardino is a fully online, part-time MSW program that is open to students from any state in the U.S and to be completed in 3 years.
• Cal Poly Humboldt (formerly Humboldt State University) offers a part-time, distributed learning (online) MSW designed for students who are California residents, the program states students must live in California while enrolled. While most coursework is online, students should plan for required campus time, including a mandatory orientation and an annual January intensive (plus program materials that describe a 3-day January campus visit).

Colleges in California with Hybrid MSW programs

Looking for a blend of virtual classes and in-person immersion opportunities? Some CSU schools also offer hybrid program options:

• CSU Chico offers a distributed learning, or hybrid, MSW program that students can attend online during two weekends each semester.
• CSU Long Beach offers the MSW through a Distance Education Program in a three-year, part-time model. Classes are held in person on Saturdays at program sites, with most instruction delivered via live teleconferencing (and some courses taught in person by local faculty). Students complete two local practicum placements during the second and third academic years.
• San Jose State University (SJSU) offers a part-time hybrid MSW program open only to students living in California. In addition to attending online classes, students are required to complete an internship.

All online MSW programs require field education at a local health services agency. Programs that are 100% online do not require students to visit the campus during the program.

How to become a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in California

Common steps to become a LCSW in California

Step 1: Earn a master’s degree in social work from a CSWE accredited program.

The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) recognizes programs that adhere to high standards and prepare students for professional practice. Out-of-state applicants must complete required coursework on California law and ethics, child abuse assessment and reporting in California, California cultures and the social and psychological implications of socioeconomic position, and suicide risk assessment and intervention.

Step 2: Fulfill additional coursework requirements.

Before you can become an LCSW, you must first register as an associate clinical worker (ASW). The following social work coursework is required for all in-state ACSW applicants:

Step 3: Register as an Associate Clinical Social Worker (ACSW).

When registering as an ACSW, you will need to complete a live fingerprinting scan, pass a criminal background check, and pass the California Law and Ethics Exam.

Step 4: Obtain supervised social work experience.

You will need to complete a total of 3,000 hours of social work experience over a minimum of 104 weeks (two years). While your hours can include a mix of clinical and related professional activities, California requires a minimum of 2,000 hours in clinical psychosocial diagnosis, assessment, and treatment (including psychotherapy or counseling). Within those clinical hours, at least 750 hours must be face-to-face individual or group psychotherapy. Up to 1,000 hours may come from other approved categories (such as client-centered advocacy, consultation, evaluation, research, training, and limited supervisor contact). Experience must be completed within the six years before you apply for licensure, and you can count a maximum of 40 hours in any 7 consecutive days.

Step 5: Pass the Association of Social Work Board (ASWB) Clinical Exam.

Prior to registering for the exam, you must pass the LCSW California Law and Ethics Exam and have your application for licensure approved. If you do not pass the exam, you must wait 90 days before your next attempt.

Step 6: Request and obtain your LCSW License.

You must submit your request within one year after receiving your passing ASWB Exam score. Once approved, you will receive your digital license, followed by a mailed certificate. For more detailed information on becoming a LCSW in California, visit the Board of Behavioral Sciences. You can also refer to our guides on general requirements for becoming a social worker.