Online MSW Programs in New York (NY)

Online master of social work (MSW) programs can be found throughout New York State. Programs in New York City, Garden City, and Buffalo are open to aspiring social workers state-wide, although some options are hybrid or blended programs that require students to spend time on campus. Students in New York may also choose to pursue an online MSW program out-of-state, at universities as closeby as New Jersey and as far away as California.

Here are universities in New York that offer master’s level social work programs entirely online, hybrid, or accept students from New York, according to the Council on Social Work Education.

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

How to Become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in New York

The specifics of how to become a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) vary state by state across the US. While most states require LCSWs to meet certain thresholds of education, examination, and experience, the specifics are left to social work state licensing boards to decide. In New York State, social work licensure is handled by the New York Office of the Professions, which offers two credentials: licensed clinical social worker and licensed master social worker.

LCSW Requirements New York

In order to become a licensed clinical social worker in New York State, the New York Office of the Professions mandates that candidates hold a master of social work degree with at least 12 semester hours of clinical coursework, have at least three years of post-MSW supervised experience, successfully complete the clinical examination adminsitered by the Association of Social Work Boards, and complete coursework or training in identification and reporting of child abuse. Only after obtaining licensure may LCSWs in New York seek careers in social work.

Does New York Have Social Work License Reciprocity?

The Association of Social Work Boards defines “license reciprocity” as a system in which social workers who hold a license to practice in one state are able to obtain licensure to practice in another. By this definition, license reciprocity does not exist anywhere in the United States, according to the ASWB.

That said, LCSWs who hold licenses from states other than New York are able to apply for licensure in New York via “endorsement” according to the New York Office of the Professions — it’s just not a foregone conclusion that the license will be granted. The New York Office of the Professions requires such applicants to provide verification of their master of social work degree, initial licensure, clinical examination scores, and licensed practice for at least 10 years, as well as a list of supervisors for references. Should the application via endorsement be rejected, LCSWs will have to apply for their New York license via the normal route (see section immediately above, “LCSW Requirements New York”).