adminArizona State University (ASU) offers a highly ranked online Masters in Social Work (MSW) program that provides working professionals the flexibility of an online education while still equipping them with the skills and credentials needed for a career in social work. This comprehensive guide will explore everything you need to know about ASU’s online MSW program including admissions requirements, curriculum, tracks, accreditation, cost and financial aid options.
Program Overview
ASU’s online MSW program is a 60-credit hour graduate degree offered entirely online. Students can complete the program on a full-time two-year schedule or part-time three-year schedule. The curriculum is focused on advanced generalist social work practice and trains students for careers serving individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities.
Unlike some other online MSW programs, ASU’s is fully accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). This accreditation ensures the program meets national standards for curriculum, faculty credentials, resources and student outcomes. Graduates of an accredited program are eligible to apply for state social work licensure.
Admissions Requirements
Admission to ASU’s online MSW program is competitive. Requirements include:
- Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university by the proposed start date
- Undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher
-Resume or CV highlighting relevant experience
-Personal statement addressing your interest and fit for the social work profession
-Two letters of recommendation from professionals who can speak to your character and academic or professional abilities
-Official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended
No GRE or other standardized test scores are required. Applications are accepted year-round for fall, spring, and summer start terms. Early applications are advised to secure admission and financial aid.
Curriculum and Tracks
The 60-credit curriculum is made up of foundation and advanced concentration courses. Foundation courses cover essential theory and practice skills applicable across fields of social work. Advanced courses allow students to choose one of two 30-credit concentrations:
Advanced Generalist Concentration
This track provides expanded knowledge in direct practice with individuals, families, groups, organizations and communities across diverse populations and settings. It allows students maximum flexibility early in their career.
Advanced Practice with Individuals and Families Concentration
Focused on clinical micro practice skills including assessment, intervention, and evaluation with individuals and families. It prepares students interested in pursuing clinical licensure after graduation.
Both concentrations are fully online and include 900 hours of field practicum experience arranged in partnership with local agencies. Practicums allow students to gain hands-on supervised experience applying their classroom knowledge.
Costs and Financial Aid
Tuition for ASU’s online MSW program for Arizona residents is $793 per credit hour. For non-residents, tuition is $1,278 per credit hour. With 60 credits required, total costs are approximately $47,580 for residents and $76,680 for non-residents.
The university offers need- and merit-based grants, scholarships and graduate assistantships that can significantly reduce costs. Additionally, federal student loans and many private loans are available to cover remaining expenses. Some employers also reimburse tuition costs. The affordability of an ASU online education, paired with generous financial aid options, make this a feasible program for working professionals.
Accreditation and Licensure
ASU’s CSWE accreditation means its online MSW curriculum meets national education standards and prepares graduates to enter the social work field or pursue additional credentials. Licensure as a clinical social worker typically requires two years post-master’s supervised practice experience under an independently licensed clinical supervisor as well. ASU’s advanced practice with individuals and families concentration is ideal for this pathway.
Graduates must pass a national exam and become licensed in the state they intend to practice clinical social work. A degree from an accredited program like ASU’s makes candidates eligible to sit for the exam. Licensure portability also extends to other states with reciprocal agreements through association with organizations like the Association of Social Work Boards.
Career Outcomes
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 15% increase in social work jobs nationally between 2020-2030, much faster than average. An online MSW from ASU opens doors to diverse career opportunities in:
- Healthcare: hospitals, outpatient treatment centers, long-term care facilities
- Mental health: community mental health centers, private practices
- Children, youth and families: schools, child welfare agencies, foster care and adoption programs
- Aging services: senior centers, assisted living facilities, hospice and palliative care
- Substance abuse: detox centers, residential treatment programs
- Criminal justice: prisons, jails, juvenile justice programs
- Policy and administration: government agencies, non-profits
Graduates of ASU’s online program are well positioned to advance in leadership roles with their management and community organization skills across any of these settings locally, nationally or online depending on concentration. ASU’s strong alumni network further supports career success.
In Summary
With its rigorous yet flexible online format, robust curriculum aligned to CSWE standards and strong support network, ASU’s online MSW program is an excellent choice for working professionals seeking accredited social work education without putting their careers on hold. Graduates emerge job-ready to make meaningful impacts in diverse communities through advanced generalist or clinical practice. An ASU online MSW coupled with appropriate licensure enables fulfilling careers helping others while achieving professional goals.
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