Online MSW Programs in Kentucky (KY)

There are four Council on Social Work Education accredited MSW programs offered in an online format from Kentucky universities: Campbellsville University, University of Louisville, University of Kentucky, and Western Kentucky University. Each of these programs is asynchronous in format, with the exception of Western Kentucky University which offers a blend of asynchronous and synchronous content delivery.

Please note: All online MSW programs require students to complete field education at a local health services agency.

Campbellsville University’s School of Social Work offers a traditional standing program in a full-time format, and an advanced standing program in both a full-time and part-time format. University of Kentucky’s program if full-time only, but is an option for both traditional and advanced placement students. University of Louisville offers full and part-time options for both traditional and advanced standing students. Finally, Western Kentucky University offers a part-time traditional program and an advanced-standing program in either full or part-time.

In addition to The University of Louisville’s Kent School of Social Work, students residing in Kentucky have several out-of-state online MSW and MSSW options. There are many out-of-state universities offering online MSW or MSSW programs that accept students from Kentucky. The majority of these are fully online and do not require students to visit campus while earning their degrees, but some do require a limited number of visits. For students who want the flexibility of online courses yet would still like to meet their professors and classmates in person, these particular programs may be ideal.

Several out-of-state online MSW and MSSW programs also have the same tuition rate for in-state and out-of-state students, so prospective students would be wise to research as many options as possible. To learn more about a program, click on the school’s name below.

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 Social Worker in Kentucky

The Kentucky Board of Social Work issues three types of social work license: Certified Social Worker (CSW), Licensed Social Worker (LSW) and Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). Below are some common steps to become a social worker in Kentucky, which you should confirm with Kentucky’s board of social workers. Information regarding licensure in Kentucky was

Pathway to Become a CSW in Kentucky

• Complete a bachelor’s degree.
• Complete a Master of Social Work degree program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education.
• Pass the Masters Social Work Licensing Examination from the Association of Social Work Boards.
• Apply to the Kentucky Board of Social Work.

Pathway to Become an LSW in Kentucky

• Complete a Bachelor of Social Work degree program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education.
• Pass the Bachelors Social Work Licensing Examination from the Association of Social Work Boards.
• Apply to the Kentucky Board of Social Work.

Pathway to Become an LCSW in Kentucky

• Complete a bachelor’s degree.
• Complete a Doctorate or Master of Social Work degree program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education.
• Following graduation, complete 200 hours of supervision and two years of supervised clinical practice experience.
• Pass the Clinical Social Work Licensing Examination from the Association of Social Work Boards.
• Apply to the Kentucky Board of Social Work.

For more detailed information on becoming a social worker in Kentucky, visit the Kentucky Board of Social Work. You can also refer to our guides on general requirements for becoming a social worker and becoming an LCSW.