Master of Social Work - Online MSW Degree Program | UMass Global Social Work, MSW Put your compassion to work for those who need it with a CSWE-accredited Master of Social Work (MSW) degree. A combination of online coursework and in-person fieldwork at a service agency in your local area prepares you to become a dynamic, professional, licensed social worker. Request Info An MSW Degree Made for Advocates Pursuing Licensure UMass Global's CSWE-accredited online Master of Social Work degree equips you with the knowledge and experience you need to succeed in this rewarding field. This flexible, affordable program is designed for working professionals. Every MSW student is paired with a dedicated faculty mentor and supported by full‑time social work faculty who bring broad real‑world experience, meet with you 1‑on‑1, and actively collaborate with agency supervisors. Prepare to make a difference across a spectrum of settings, including child protective services agencies; criminal justice, legal service, and military organizations; local, state, and federal agencies; home-and school-based programs; hospitals and other healthcare settings; mental health and substance abuse treatment programs; and nonprofit social service, human rights, and advocacy organizations. Classes are available fully online with two pathways to complete the Master of Social Work degree: Advanced standing MSW for BSW grads: If you hold a CSWE‑accredited BSW/BASW/BSSW, you may qualify to complete your MSW in as little as one year with 39 credits and 600 practicum hours. Standard MSW track for any bachelor’s degree: If your degree isn’t in social work, you can still earn your MSW in about two years through the standard advanced generalist track with 69 credits and 1,000 practicum hours. At a Glance Online 69 Credits $750/Credit Help me estimate my cost Next Start Date Summer I (May 4, 2026) Program Benefits that Benefit You. Community Fieldwork Apply what you learn through supervised, hands-on fieldwork at a service agency in your community, gaining real-world experience as you prepare to become a licensed social worker. Get Connected UMass Global’s student organizations provide resources and networking opportunities to help make those industry connections. Curriculum Designed to Prepare You for Licensure The online Master of Social Work degree curriculum is built to equip you with everything you need to pass the LCSW exam. Career Outlook for Master in Social Work Median Salary Job openings (in the last 12 months) Top Companies Hiring Median Salary Job openings (in the last 12 months) Top Companies Hiring Median Salary Job openings (in the last 12 months) Top Companies Hiring Median Salary Job openings (in the last 12 months) Top Companies Hiring Median Salary Job openings (in the last 12 months) Top Companies Hiring Median Salary Job openings (in the last 12 months) Top Companies Hiring Data source: Lightcast™ 2026 www.lightcast.io The pathway information provided through this website is based partly on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data licensed by the University of Massachusetts Global from Lightcast. While the University of Massachusetts Global believes this data to be reliable, some of the data is based on estimates made by Lightcast when actual data is unavailable. Those estimates and the corresponding data may need to be corrected. Change in employment projections 2022 - 2032 Based on BLS Occupational Employment Statistics and updated quarterly The University of Massachusetts Global does not guarantee a job to graduates upon completion of any program Courses You Might Take SOWK 502 Social Work Practice with Individuals and Families 3 Credits Social Work Practice with Individuals and Families SOWK 502 3 Credits This course will assist students in acquiring a broad repertoire of skills and knowledge for beginning, generalist, social work practice. Students will learn about the specific steps in the problem-solving process: engagement, assessment, planning, intervention, evaluation, and termination and follow-up. The course will present a multi-dimensional (Person, Environment, Time), holistic perspective with which to view client issues, building upon the strengths of individuals and families. Course content will include exercises to assist students with understanding themselves and with identifying interpersonal skills in the context of a helping relationship. SOWK 503 Social Work Practice with Groups, Communities, and Organizations 3 Credits Social Work Practice with Groups, Communities, and Organizations SOWK 503 3 Credits Prerequisite: SOWK 502. In this course, students will learn essential knowledge and skills needed to demonstrate ethical and professional behaviors in groups, communities, and organization using a rights-based, anti-racist, and anti-oppressive lens. Students will learn the process of ethical decision-making guided by the National Association Social Workers Code of Ethics. Students will learn that self-care is paramount for competent and ethical social work practice. This course will also challenge students to demonstrate ethical use of technology in social work practice. SOWK 630 Child Welfare 3 Credits Child Welfare SOWK 630 3 Credits This course prepares social work students for research- and evidence-based, culturally competent, family-focused, strengths-based, and outcome-oriented child welfare practice. The goal is to familiarize students with the scope and practice of services that are available to help children and families. This course will review the evolution of public child welfare policies and services, the major child welfare federal and state laws, and the theories about the causes, prevention, and treatment of child maltreatment. The focus of this course will be on critical issues facing families in our society including ethnic and cultural issues. This course will explore best practices in the field. SOWK 657 Mental Health and Mental Illness 3 Credits Mental Health and Mental Illness SOWK 657 3 Credits This course is designed to prepare students for working with individuals who are experiencing persistent and severe mental distress. Students will learn how to navigate and diagnose individuals using the most current DSM (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) and understand factors related to diagnostic features, differential diagnosis, and comorbidity. Applying the social work systems perspective and biopsychosocial assessment framework, students will gain an understanding of mental well-being and illness in the context of antiracist practices. This course emphasizes the importance of promoting mental health equity with all individuals regardless of intersecting identities such as culture, class, race, ethnicity, religion, ability, and sexual orientation. SOWK 650 Crisis Intervention and Trauma Response 3 Credits Crisis Intervention and Trauma Response SOWK 650 3 Credits This course will provide crucial information for assessing and reacting to various crises involving suicide, homicide, intimate partner violence, sexual violence, sexual abuse, bereavement/grief, substance use, natural disasters, wars, emergency response in the community and in schools, and terrorism. Practical applications and policy implications for various crisis situations will be presented. The crisis task model will be used to process crisis situations, understand crucial information about a crisis, clinical considerations, and practical experiences on every crisis topic. Safety issues, self-care, and wellness will also be examined. SOWK 651 Social Work Response to Disasters 3 Credits Social Work Response to Disasters SOWK 651 3 Credits Vulnerable populations such as children, older adults, and people with disabilities are disproportionately affected by large-scale disasters. This course will address the specific psychosocial needs of vulnerable populations after a disaster and related policy implications. Best practices for crisis intervention with specific populations including children, older adults, people with disabilities, people with mental health issues, and people with substance abuse issues will be discussed. A theoretical foundation for understanding disasters, response systems, common guidelines for preparedness, and basic crisis theory will be presented. What is it like going to UMass Global? Instructor-Led, Session-Based This program is delivered in an instructor-led format, with eight-week sessions and multiple start dates per year for flexibility. In each class, you'll focus on one topic at a time and can take a session off if needed — no penalty. Courses include structured assignments with set deadlines. This format offers clear milestones and coach interaction, making it ideal for one-on-one coaching support. Personalized Support Services UMass Global meets you wherever you are in life, with dedicated support at every step. From enrollment coaching and financial aid to academic advising and career services, we're committed to your success. Access personalized guidance, flexible resources, and a supportive community, empowering you to achieve your educational goals, no matter your starting point. Employer-Aligned Curriculum At UMass Global, our employer-aligned curriculum ensures that coursework is directly relevant to today’s workplace. Designed with input from industry experts and faculty who are also working professionals, our programs focus on practical, career-advancing skills. Using a “backwards course design,” we tailor coursework to meet current job market needs. Our diverse faculty provides real-world insights and mentorship, ensuring that the skills you learn are immediately applicable to your career or future career changes. Instructor-Led, Session-Based This program is delivered in an instructor-led format, with eight-week sessions and multiple start dates per year for flexibility. In each class, you'll focus on one topic at a time and can take a session off if needed — no penalty. Courses include structured assignments with set deadlines. This format offers clear milestones and coach interaction, making it ideal for one-on-one coaching support. Personalized Support Services UMass Global meets you wherever you are in life, with dedicated support at every step. From enrollment coaching and financial aid to academic advising and career services, we're committed to your success. Access personalized guidance, flexible resources, and a supportive community, empowering you to achieve your educational goals, no matter your starting point. Employer-Aligned Curriculum At UMass Global, our employer-aligned curriculum ensures that coursework is directly relevant to today’s workplace. Designed with input from industry experts and faculty who are also working professionals, our programs focus on practical, career-advancing skills. Using a “backwards course design,” we tailor coursework to meet current job market needs. Our diverse faculty provides real-world insights and mentorship, ensuring that the skills you learn are immediately applicable to your career or future career changes. Our Faculty All Faculty Tobi DeLong Hamilton, PhD Director of MSW Program, Associate Professor of Social Work Tobi DeLong Hamilton PhD Sandy Howard, EdD Director of Partnerships, Associate Professor of Social Work Sandy Howard EdD Amber Ramirez, EdD School Social Work Director, Professor of Social Work Amber Ramirez EdD Kimberly Toler, DSW MSW Field Director, Associate Professor of Social Work Kimberly Toler DSW Golnaz Agahi, DSW Assistant Field Director, Associate Professor of Social Work Golnaz Agahi DSW Leslie Jaber-Wilson, DSW Professor of Social Work Leslie Jaber-Wilson DSW Donna Wang, PhD Professor of Social Work Donna Wang PhD Ellen Belluomini, PhD Associate Professor of Social Work Ellen Belluomini PhD Brianna Belcher, LMSW Assistant Professor of Social Work Brianna Belcher LMSW Alberto Cabrera, PhD Assistant Professor of Social Work/Assistant Field Director Alberto Cabrera PhD Melinda Flynn, LCSW Assistant Professor of Social Work Melinda Flynn LCSW Tamara Weaver, LCSW Assistant Professor of Social Work Tamara Weaver LCSW Master of Social Work Admission Requirements You do not need to hold a BSW degree in order to apply, and there is also no GRE requirement. Applicants to the MSW degree program must complete the formal application process with all required documents, which include: Completed application 3.0 grade point average (GPA) Written personal narrative that speaks to your motivations for choosing social work as an academic and career goal Official transcripts from all institutionally accredited institutions where coursework was completed or attempted Watch the MSW Program Introduction Video Residency Restrictions This program is not available to residents of all states. Please contact a University Enrollment Coach for details. Graduate Level Exams This Master’s degree program does not require applicants to take costly exams like the GRE. We support our Military Veterans! Yellow Ribbon School Recognized Military Friendly School Founded to Serve Military Personnel Check out our Military and Veterans pages and discover how we can support you in your educational journey. Learn How Next Session Starts 10 Days 18 Hours 18 Hours 45 Minutes 34 Seconds Already Started Get Started Now! Add a PPS Credential School Social Work Credential Master of Social Work students can add a Pupil Personnel Services Credential in School Social Work to expand their career options. Three courses, combined with fieldwork, will fulfill the requirements for your PPSC-SSW. WASC Senior College and University Commission University of Massachusetts Global is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) UMass Global's Bachelor and Master of Social Work programs are accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) Calculate Time and Cost Pursue your dream of changing lives with a MSW from UMass Global Request Info Apply (800) 746-0082 Frequently Asked Questions In the United States and Canada, the requirements to become a licensed social worker vary by state, province, and territory. However, a common prerequisite is obtaining a degree in social work from an accredited institution. Typically, a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) is the minimum requirement for entry-level positions, while a Master of Social Work (MSW) is often necessary for advanced clinical roles. A doctorate in social work is also available. According to the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB), licensure requirements can differ significantly depending on your location. You can find specific licensing requirements by state or province on their website: ASWB Licensing Requirements For further insight into the requirements and pathways to becoming a social worker, you can refer to the article: Social Worker Requirements: What You Will Need . This article may provide additional details and considerations for individuals pursuing a career in social work. Social worker licensure requirements vary by state. Typically, obtaining your licensure includes achieving a minimum level of education, reaching a required amount of supervised practice time, and completing an application. There are also optional and advanced licensures for specific social worker careers. You can learn more about requirements here No. You do not need a prior degree in social work to be admitted to the MSW program. Applicants with a non‑social work bachelor’s degree follow the standard advanced generalist track, which is designed specifically for students coming from other disciplines. The standard advanced generalist track is for students with a non‑social work bachelor’s degree and requires 69 credits plus 1,000 hours of practicum. The advanced generalist/advanced standing track is for applicants with a CSWE‑accredited BSW/BASW/BSSW and requires 39 credits plus 600 hours of practicum. Most full‑time students in the standard MSW track can complete the program in about two years. This estimate is based on the average full‑time standard‑track students who successfully progress through the program; actual time to completion may vary by course load and personal circumstances. Yes, if you hold a CSWE‑accredited BSW/BASW/BSSW and are admitted into the advanced standing track, you may be able to complete the MSW in as little as one year of full‑time study. This one‑year timeline is based on the average full‑time advanced‑standing students who successfully progress through the program; your individual completion time may differ depending on pacing and course availability. Standard‑track students complete 1,000 hours of supervised field placement practicum. Advanced standing students complete 600 hours of supervised field placement practicum. Testimonials UMass Global really set the bar high for what a virtual school should be doing for graduate level students by pushing, supporting, and guiding us. I'm so grateful for UMass Global, the instructors and staff, and every peer I've been fortunate enough to meet along the way. Tina B. Master of Social Work I chose UMass Global because I am a family man and I work full time and I needed the flexibility to be able to do it all at once. I am beyond grateful to have been taught by some very knowledgeable, caring and empathetic professors that have helped me become an even more passionate and now more well rounded and competent social worker. Enrique S. Master in Social Work The university has made my college experience smoother by providing an academic advisor who helped create a tailored education plan for my needs. Additionally, having a financial advisor to review my financial needs and expectations was invaluable. Open communication with my professors and faculty from other departments played a significant role in my success here. Cherie C. Master of Social Work Thank you to UMass Global for the privilege of a flexible and personalized education. Thank you to all my professors, who showed me great patience when I acted like it was my first time using a computer. Thank you to the institution's staff for tending to us– teaching us, supporting us, encouraging us, and showing me that I was capable of more than I ever knew. Geia M. Master in Social Work I have to ensure an acknowledgement and praise of the resourcefulness of the staff operating behind the scenes to ensure that I was on track with my grades, courses, and practicum, and even with my financial aid struggles. I was never ignored or turned away in moments of crisis and I continue to remain in contact with my one-stop counselor and my financial aid specialist to this very day. Naythan R. Master of Social Work Pursuing higher education has been one of the most difficult yet rewarding things I have ever done. It has taught me the importance of surrounding myself with like-minded individuals - those on the same journey to not only better themselves but to make a difference in the communities we serve. Victor C. Master of Social Work UMass Global has been a welcoming school to veterans and adult learners. The courses offered provide exceptional learning and skillsets needed for your profession. This university is a great solution, more importantly to adult learners coming back after years of being out or being a parent, especially a single parent. Yajaira V. Social Work, MSW Education is a treasure waiting for people to partake. There’s nothing more effective than getting a degree in a field you’re interested in and passionate about. Bill K. Social Work, MSW I’m so thankful to UMass Global for giving me a chance at being enrolled here, by way of an academic program through my employer, allowing adult learners to have a real chance to succeed. I have so much gratitude for my incredible academic advisor here at UMass Global. Alexis H. School of Arts & Sciences - Master of Social Work This wasn’t just a university; it was a support system. Professors didn’t just teach, they invested. They encouraged me when I doubted myself, challenged me when I played it safe, and reminded me that sometimes the only way forward is through. Robert S. An Online Education Built For You Want More Information about Social Work? Dig deeper into this helping profession and explore its different career paths. Social Work Resources Related Events All Events New Doctorate of Social Work (DSW) – Information Session Info Session New Doctorate of Social Work (DSW) – Information Session Thursday, April 30 12:00 PM - 12:30 PM Online Restorative Justice: A Healing-Centered Approach Webinar Restorative Justice: A Healing-Centered Approach Wednesday, May 13 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM Online Social Work: Education to Empower Every Stage of Your Career Info Session Social Work: Education to Empower Every Stage of Your Career Wednesday, May 13 12:00 PM - 12:30 PM Online Assessment of Student Learning Outcomes All Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) programs measure and report student learning outcomes. Students are assessed on their mastery of the competencies that comprise the accreditation standards of the Council on Social Work Education. All social work students are expected to master these competencies of social work practice during their professional training. A measurement benchmark is set by the social work program for each competency. An assessment score at or above that benchmark is considered by the program to represent mastery of a competency. This form is used to assist the CSWE in the evaluation of the program's compliance with the accreditation standards below: 5.0.1(d) The program posts its assessment plan and summary outcomes publicly on its webpage using Form AS The findings are updated every two years, at minimum. The program submits Form AS M5.0.1(d) to report its assessment plan and most recent assessment summary outcomes. The program provides a hyperlink to the program’s webpage where the assessment plan and summary outcomes are publicly displayed. The program provides outcomes for each program option and in aggregate. Licensure To provide a pathway to licensure, the MSW Program integrated the required California pre-licensure course content into our second-year curriculum. As a CSWE accredited program, most states accept licensure eligibility with some states specifying required courses. However, because licensure requirements vary by state and are subject to change, students should confirm eligibility and verify course requirements for the state they intend to pursue licensure. This program is fully accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) and meets licensure degree requirements in all states and territories in the U.S. However, certain states require specific courses for Licensure. See those requirements below: SOWK 601: Family Violence – 7 hours of Child Abuse Assessment and Reporting in California; 10 hours of Aging, Long Term Care and Elder/Dependent Adult Abuse; and 15 hours of Spousal/Partner Abuse Assessment, Detection, and Intervention SOWK 602: Social Work Law and Ethics – CA Law and Ethics SOWK 603: Social Work and Human Sexuality – 10 hours of Human Sexuality SOWK 622: Advanced General Practice I – 15 hours of Alcoholism and Chemical Substance Abuse & Dependency; and 6 hours of Suicide Risk Assessment and Intervention Training SOWK 623: Advanced General Practice II – 3 hours of Provision of Mental Health Services via Telehealth SOWK 664: Psychopathology SOWK 664: Psychopathology SOWK 502: Individual and Family Practice SOWK 503: Group, Communities, and Organization Practice SOWK 664: Psychopathology SOWK 655: Substance Abuse elective Students will need to take a course in New Mexico cultures to meet the coursework requirement for licensure Students will need to take a course in child abuse provided by a NY provider to meet the coursework requirement for licensure Students will need to take an HIV training course to meet the coursework requirement for licensure