The Master of Social Work (MSW) degree prepares individuals for rewarding careers in social work, focusing on clinical practice, advocacy, and community work. Many top universities in the U.S. offer online MSW programs that provide flexible learning environments. Below are some of the best online MSW programs, including their histories, tuition fees, and contact details.
1. University of Southern California (USC)
History
Founded in 1880, USC is one of the oldest private research universities in California. Its Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work is renowned for innovation in social work education.
Program Highlights
- Accreditation: CSWE (Council on Social Work Education)
- Specializations: Adult Mental Health, Children and Families, Social Change
- Tuition: ~$60,000 for the entire program
Contact
- Website: socialwork.usc.edu
- Phone: (877) 700-4679
- Email: applymsw@usc.edu
2. Boston University
History
Founded in 1839, Boston University is a private research institution with a long history of academic excellence. Its School of Social Work has been a leader in the field for decades, offering programs that focus on clinical and macro practice.
Program Highlights
- Accreditation: CSWE
- Specializations: Clinical Social Work, Macro Social Work
- Tuition: ~$52,000 for the entire program
Contact
- Website: bu.edu/ssw/online
- Phone: (617) 353-3750
- Email: sswonline@bu.edu
3. University of Denver
History
Established in 1864, the University of Denver is Colorado’s oldest private university. Its Graduate School of Social Work has been recognized for its social justice initiatives and community involvement.
Program Highlights
- Accreditation: CSWE
- Specializations: Mental Health and Trauma, Health and Wellness, Leadership for Social Justice
- Tuition: ~$50,000 for the entire program
Contact
- Website: online.du.edu
- Phone: (855) 219-5995
- Email: admissions@online.du.edu
4. Simmons University
History
Founded in 1899, Simmons University in Boston is known for empowering women through education. Its School of Social Work was one of the first to offer clinical social work programs and continues to be a leader in the field.
Program Highlights
- Accreditation: CSWE
- Specializations: Child and Family Social Work, Trauma and Interpersonal Violence, Health and Aging
- Tuition: ~$50,000 for the entire program
Contact
- Website: online.simmons.edu
- Phone: (855) 523-7779
- Email: socialwork@simmons.edu
5. Fordham University
History
Founded in 1841, Fordham University in New York is a Jesuit institution dedicated to academic excellence and social justice. Its Graduate School of Social Service is known for integrating ethical practice with clinical social work.
Program Highlights
- Accreditation: CSWE
- Specializations: Clinical Social Work, Leadership and Macro Practice
- Tuition: ~$60,000 for the entire program
Contact
- Website: fordham.edu/socialwork
- Phone: (212) 636-6600
- Email: gssadmission@fordham.edu
6. University of Central Florida (UCF)
History
Founded in 1963, UCF is one of the largest universities in the U.S. Known for its commitment to innovation, UCF’s School of Social Work offers accessible and affordable programs for students across the nation.
Program Highlights
- Accreditation: CSWE
- Specializations: Clinical Social Work
- Tuition: ~$30,000 for the entire program
Contact
- Website: ucf.edu/online/social-work
- Phone: (855) 903-8576
- Email: socialworkonline@ucf.edu
7. Florida State University (FSU)
History
Founded in 1851, Florida State University is a leading public university with a commitment to research and community service. FSU’s College of Social Work is highly regarded for its focus on clinical practice and leadership in the social work field.
Program Highlights
- Accreditation: CSWE
- Specializations: Clinical Social Work, Macro Practice
- Tuition: ~$25,000 for in-state students; ~$40,000 for out-of-state students
Contact
- Website: csw.fsu.edu/online-msw
- Phone: (850) 644-4751
- Email: online@csw.fsu.edu
8. University of Tennessee, Knoxville
History
Founded in 1794, the University of Tennessee, Knoxville is one of the oldest public universities in the United States. Its College of Social Work is known for blending academic theory with practical community engagement.
Program Highlights
- Accreditation: CSWE
- Specializations: Evidence-based Interpersonal Practice, Organizational Leadership
- Tuition: ~$35,000 for the entire program
Contact
- Website: online.utk.edu
- Phone: (865) 974-2809
- Email: csw@utk.edu
9. University of New Hampshire (UNH)
History
Founded in 1866, the University of New Hampshire is a top public research university with a focus on sustainability and public service. UNH’s Department of Social Work offers an online MSW designed for working professionals.
Program Highlights
- Accreditation: CSWE
- Specializations: Integrated Health and Behavioral Health, Policy and Advocacy
- Tuition: ~$36,000 for the entire program
Contact
- Website: online.unh.edu
- Phone: (855) 250-6699
- Email: grad.school@unh.edu
10. Baylor University
History
Founded in 1845, Baylor University is the oldest continuously operating university in Texas. Its Diana R. Garland School of Social Work emphasizes faith-based social work education, combining ethical practice with community service.
Program Highlights
- Accreditation: CSWE
- Specializations: Clinical Practice, Community Practice
- Tuition: ~$60,000 for the entire program
Contact
- Website: online.baylor.edu
- Phone: (855) 804-7191
- Email: admissions@online.baylor.edu