Pursuing a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree online offers flexibility and quality education for aspiring social workers. Here are the top 10 universities offering online MSW programs in the USA, along with history, contact details, websites, and tuition costs.
1. University of Southern California (USC)
History
Founded in 1880, USC is a private research university in Los Angeles, California. Its MSW program is designed for students seeking a diverse and innovative approach to social work, focusing on both theory and practice.
- Website: https://www.usc.edu
- Tuition (per year): $57,256
- Contact: (213) 740-2011
2. University of Denver (DU)
History
Established in 1864, the University of Denver is the oldest private university in the Rocky Mountain region. Its Graduate School of Social Work offers an online MSW program with a focus on mental health and trauma-informed care.
- Website: https://www.du.edu
- Tuition (per credit): $1,112
- Contact: (303) 871-2000
3. Columbia University
History
Founded in 1754, Columbia University is one of the oldest institutions of higher learning in the U.S. Its School of Social Work offers an online MSW program with a strong emphasis on evidence-based practice and research.
- Website: https://socialwork.columbia.edu
- Tuition (per credit): $1,788
- Contact: (212) 851-2300
4. Simmons University
History
Simmons University, established in 1899, has a long history of focusing on empowering women and social justice. Its online MSW program provides flexible full-time and part-time options for aspiring social workers.
- Website: https://www.simmons.edu
- Tuition (per credit): $1,215
- Contact: (617) 521-2605
5. University of Tennessee, Knoxville
History
The University of Tennessee was founded in 1794 and has a rich tradition of academic excellence. Its online MSW program emphasizes clinical social work practice, preparing students for advanced practice in diverse settings.
- Website: https://www.utk.edu
- Tuition (per credit): $620 (in-state), $1,545 (out-of-state)
- Contact: (865) 974-1000
6. Boston University (BU)
History
Established in 1839, Boston University is a major research institution. Its School of Social Work offers an online MSW program that combines rigorous academic training with practical, real-world experience in the field.
- Website: https://www.bu.edu
- Tuition (per credit): $925
- Contact: (617) 353-2000
7. Fordham University
History
Founded in 1841, Fordham University is the third-oldest university in New York City. Its Graduate School of Social Service offers an online MSW program with an emphasis on social justice, human rights, and cultural diversity.
- Website: https://www.fordham.edu
- Tuition (per credit): $1,400
- Contact: (718) 817-1000
8. Case Western Reserve University
History
Established in 1826, Case Western Reserve University is a private research university in Cleveland, Ohio. Its online MSW program through the Jack, Joseph, and Morton Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences is known for its leadership in social work education.
- Website: https://case.edu
- Tuition (per credit): $1,620
- Contact: (216) 368-2000
9. University of Central Florida (UCF)
History
Founded in 1963, UCF is one of the largest public universities in the U.S. Its online MSW program is fully accredited and prepares students for advanced social work practice with a focus on child welfare, mental health, and substance abuse.
- Website: https://www.ucf.edu
- Tuition (per credit): $487 (in-state), $1,015 (out-of-state)
- Contact: (407) 823-2000
10. University of Louisville
History
The University of Louisville, established in 1798, has a strong tradition in public service and community engagement. Its Kent School of Social Work offers an online MSW program that emphasizes advanced social work practice and clinical expertise.
- Website: https://louisville.edu
- Tuition (per credit): $750
- Contact: (502) 852-5555