Online MSW Programs in Ohio (OH)

Ohio offers several pathways into social work careers, from bachelor’s-level generalist roles to master’s-level clinical and independent practice. In the state, social workers are regulated by the Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board, and Ohio law protects social work titles such as “social worker,” “independent social worker,” and “social work assistant.”

Students who want to become licensed should pay close attention to degree level and accreditation: Ohio’s LSW pathway can begin with a BSW, MSW, or DSW, while the LISW pathway requires a CSWE-accredited or candidate MSW, supervised post-master’s experience, and a licensure exam.

These education and licensing pathways matter in a state where behavioral health workforce needs remain significant, with Ohio officials reporting that demand for services continues to outpace the number of available professionals.

The MSW programs listed below can help prospective students compare pathways into the profession; however, even online MSW programs typically include required in-person field education components—often called practicum or internship placements—that involve supervised clinical or community-based social work experience aligned with CSWE standards.

In addition to Ohio-based MSW programs, many online MSW programs offered by out-of-state schools accept students living in Ohio. These programs may be helpful for prospective students who want to compare formats, tuition policies, specialization options, and field placement support. Some schools charge the same tuition rate for in-state and out-of-state online students, while others do not. Because tuition and fees can change, students should confirm current costs directly with each school before applying.

Many out-of-state online MSW programs do not require students to visit campus during coursework. Others may include a limited number of campus visits, immersions, or residencies that allow students to meet faculty and classmates in person. Even when coursework is fully online, MSW students should expect in-person field education requirements, such as practicum or internship placements, where they complete supervised social work experience in an approved setting.

In the tables below, click on each school name to learn more about the MSW programs offered by that institution.

How to Become a Social Worker in Ohio

The Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board issues social work licenses, including the Licensed Social Worker (LSW) and Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW). The steps below summarize common licensure requirements, but prospective applicants should confirm current requirements directly with the Ohio board before applying. Ohio licensure information was last reviewed in April 2026.

Become an LSW in Ohio

1. Complete a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree in social work from an accredited educational institution.
2. Apply to the Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board.
3. Pass the required social work licensing examination administered by the board.
4. Complete the board’s laws and rules requirement, currently handled through the board’s online Laws and Rules Video attestation.
5. Complete any additional application requirements, such as official transcripts and required background checks.

For more information, you can review Ohio Revised Code Chapter 4757

Pathway to Becoming an LISW in Ohio

1. Complete a Master of Social Work degree from a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education or in candidacy for CSWE accreditation.
2. Hold LSW licensure and complete at least two years of post-master’s social work experience supervised by an independent social worker.
3. Complete 3,000 hours of supervised social work practice, including at least 150 total hours of supervision, typically provided by an LISW-S.
4. Pass the ASWB Clinical Exam. Ohio currently states that the use of the ASWB Advanced Generalist Exam for LISW licensure is being discontinued, effective July 10, 2026.
5. Apply to the Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board and complete the required application materials, including the board’s laws and rules attestation, official transcript, background checks, and professional employment reference.

For more detailed information on becoming a social worker in Ohio, visit the Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. You can also refer to our guides on general requirements for becoming a social worker and becoming an LCSW.