If you’re looking at traditional master’s in social work (MSW) programs, there are accelerated MSW programs that may help you to graduate in as few as 12 to 18 months. Traditional MSW programs accept students who don’t have a bachelor’s in social work (BSW). A fast track social work degree online program may teach you what you need to know in less time than traditional two-year or three-year MSW programs, so you may get licensed or begin your social work career more quickly.

Other Accelerated Online MSW Programs Accredited by the CSWE

An accelerated traditional online MSW program is designed for students without a BSW degree who want to earn their MSW in less time than it typically takes to complete with a traditional program. By taking classes all year-round, including summer courses, a student may graduate up to one year earlier with an accelerated program.

An advanced standing MSW is a program designed for students who have a BSW. BSW students have already completed introductory social work coursework. That means an advanced standing MSW program is also typically shorter than a traditional MSW program.

See our full list of online social work degrees for more information about various degree options.

When considering an accelerated online MSW program, you may want to find an accredited program that helps you achieve your career goals.

First, research social worker requirements for the state you want to practice in to see what the education requirements are. Typically, to become a licensed social worker in most states, you’ll need to have an MSW from a school that’s accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). CSWE accreditation standards align with licensure requirements, which can make the licensure process simpler even if the state doesn’t require CSWE accreditation.

Since the CSWE is the national association representing social work education in the United States, a CSWE-accredited education may increase your future options as a social worker. CSWE-accredited schools must meet standards.

Whatever your state’s requirements are, it’s useful to attend an MSW program that is CSWE accredited. If you move states and want to get licensed, you’ll need to meet that state’s education requirements, which will likely include CSWE accreditation. Also, some doctorate of social work programs may require students to have an MSW from a CSWE-accredited school.

Consider internship placement assistance when you’re comparing MSW schools, too. You’ll need to complete a certain number of field work hours depending on the program and your state’s licensing requirements. Some schools may place you with an internship in a relevant field.

If you know you want to practice social work in a certain area or with a specific population, it may be helpful to look for MSW programs that offer a concentration that aligns with your career goals. MSW concentrations teach students the skills they need to work with certain populations or in certain areas of social work.

Be aware when comparing online programs that some may require trips to campus. If you’re looking for an MSW program that is completely online and you don’t want to travel to the school you’re attending, check for campus travel requirements before signing up.

Most accelerated online MSW programs take between one to one-and-a-half years to complete. That’s shorter than the typical two to three years it takes to complete a non-accelerated traditional MSW program.

There’s a variety of social work careers you can pursue with a master’s degree in social work. An MSW is likely a requirement to become a licensed clinical social worker, where you provide unsupervised individual and family therapy in a private practice setting. Clinical social workers diagnose and treat mental health disorders, such as anxiety and depression. An MSW may also lead to careers like forensic social worker, medical social worker and school social worker.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the 2020 median pay for social workers was $50,470 per year. Social worker salaries vary by position, geographic area, industry, education, licensure, experience and hours. Typically, higher education like an MSW and licensure can increase career possibilities and earning potential.

Last updated: August 2020