Review of the Best Online CSWE Accredited Programs
There are over 800 programs at the bachelor's and master's level that have currently met the CSWE's standards for social work degree programs, making this agency a huge provider of reliable accredited degree programs.
This accreditation should be seen as a necessity as you determine which program you will choose to pursue your social work education. It ensures that you will receive a thorough education meeting clinical standards for professional social work roles.
Since social work graduates may also be required to obtain a professional license in their field, receiving a degree from an accredited program can be a make-or-break factor in becoming approved for licensing.
Agencies like the CSWE can provide students with concentrated information about reliable degree programs, so that they do not choose a program that cannot help them meet their goals. The increase in online degree programs throughout the United States has warranted a need for quality-driven agencies like the CSWE to ensure that students are provided with as much information as possible about the usability of their degree.
What about non-accredited programs?
Non-accredited social work degree programs are typically for-profit ventures that shouldn’t be seen as reliable investments for building a long-term social work career. In fact, degrees from these schools will not make one eligible for licensing, all but eliminating most of the top positions available for social workers.
If you would like to hold the full responsibilities of a social workers, you must attend a CSWE accredited program, without exceptions.
If you already hold a degree from a program that is not CSWE accredited, the best thing you can do is look into the licensing requirements of your state and seek out entry-level opportunities in social service organizations that still might be available to you. Advancing your work experience alone will not make you eligible for licensing, but it could open up more job opportunities for you that don’t require certification.
Commonalities of CSWE Accredited MSW Programs
As you browse through the requirements of each CSWE-accredited online MSW program, you might find that there are similarities between each program. This is likely due to the accreditation standards and what each program must provide to learners during their learning experience.
Part Time, Full Time, Advanced Standing MSW
A lot of the MSW programs currently available online offer students the option to complete their degree program at a part-time, full-time, or advanced standing rate. Each program reviewed through the CSWE can provide you with more information on the enrollment statuses available at each school, with most offering multiple options for you to choose from.
Campus Visits
Since the online MSW can lead to licensure, some schools that have received accreditation may require that students engage in some variation of campus visits throughout their program. Some of the programs with this requirement may state that students attend campus 1 time per semester, on select weekends, or during the last semester of their program.
Zero Campus Visits
There are multiple programs currently available that require no campus visits, which would be ideal for students that already have a supervision placement in mind within their local area. Each of these options may be common within the accredited online MSW programs listed on the CSWE website.
Availability
The largest commonality between these online and accredited programs is their openness and availability. When browsing currently available programs, you might notice that the majority state that they are open to students all over the U.S.
This can provide you with a huge variety of options to pursue outside of what is offered in your home state. Choosing from programs at different universities all over the country can ensure that you choose the most fitting degree program from those provided.
FAQs About CSWE Accreditation for MSW Programs
-
How is a program reviewed?
In order for a degree program to be considered for accreditation, the institution must first prepare a self-report of their program for representatives of the CSWE to review. Following this process, the CSWE will conduct site visits to review the program, instructors, and curriculum of the pending degree program. If the university meets all of the standards of the application, self-report, and site visit protocol, it can be considered for accreditation for a period of time.
-
How long does accreditation last?
Universities that have received accreditation from the CSWE may qualify for different accreditation terms depending on their needs. Some college programs currently hold accreditation that is reviewed yearly, while others may not be reviewed more often than once every 6 years. The renewal accreditation process ensures that these degree programs maintain a high level of quality over the years, which can be beneficial for incoming students seeking licenses in their future.
-
Is CSWE accreditation required for licensure?
Students seeking careers as licensed social workers may be required to engage in accredited degree programs to be considered for licensure in their state. Most states in the U.S. currently require CSWE-accredited degree programs to be completed in order to be a candidate for licensure. Since the CSWE is the largest accrediting agency for MSW programs, this could be the agency of choice during your initial search.
Review of Top CSWE Accredited MSW Programs
Adelphi University Advanced Generalist MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? Yes, advanced standing program available to students with experience in the social work field.
Delivery Format: Students can choose from a blended format with campus visits required, or online options at a part-time rate.
Arizona State University Advanced Generalist MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? There is no advanced standing option available at this time.
Delivery Format: Incoming students can choose to pursue their degree at a part-time or full-time rate. This program is fully online, without any on-campus visits required for graduation.
Boise State University Individuals and Families MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? Yes, students with experience in the field of social work may qualify for the advanced standing program.
Delivery Format: Part-time and full-time options available for interested learners. The entire program is online and students are not required to attend campus.
Boston University Clinical and Macro Social Work Practice MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? Yes, advanced standing and human service experience tracks available to a variety of learners.
Delivery Format: Students can pursue the part-time option, which is completed entirely online without required campus visits.
California State University at Chico Advanced Generalist MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? No, advanced standing option currently available.
Delivery Format: Part time option, blended option that includes weekend visits to campus each semester. Required field practicum must also take place in one of the pre-approved California counties.
California State University at Long Beach Children, Youth, and Families MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? No, advanced standing programs are not offered at this university.
Delivery Format: Part time option, interactive television and online resources used throughout the program. Students may be required to attend campus on Saturdays during their program. During 2nd and 3rd year, students required to participate in a 16-hour per week field placement.
California State University at Northridge Urban Family Studies MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? No, advanced standing option not currently available.
Delivery Format: Full time option, open to students from all areas throughout the U.S. Online courses delivered in asynchronous format, giving students convenient day and night access to classes.
California State University at San Bernardino Advanced Generalist MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? No, advanced standing option not currently provided to incoming students.
Delivery Format: Part time option, asynchronous online courses. Students may be required to attend campus for 3 days during summer semester. Students living in states with requisite educational agreements with the state of California are welcome into the program.
Campbellsville University Advanced Generalist MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? Yes, advanced standing program available to qualifying applicants.
Delivery Format: Full-time and part-time options currently available to new applicants. Courses can be completed entirely online. Students from Kentucky and surrounding states can be accepted into this program.
Capella University Advanced Generalist MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? Yes, advanced standing program available to students with experience in the social work field.
Delivery Format: Fully online program with part-time and full-time options. Standard enrolles may be required to participate in 2 5-day residencies at various locations in the U.S. Advanced standing students may only be required to participate in 1 5-day residency.
Case Western Reserve University Community Practice and Social Change and Direct Practice MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? Yes, advanced standing program available to students that qualify.
Delivery Format: Part time and full time options available to enrollees. The program is completed entirely in the online setting. Students from all over the country are permitted to apply.
Catholic University of America Clinical MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? No, advanced standing programs not currently available.
Delivery Format: Part time option, completed entirely online. No campus visits required. Students from all across the U.S. and service people stationed at any location in the world invited to apply.
Colorado State University Advanced Generalist MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? Yes, advanced standing program available
Delivery Format: Part time, hybrid model program. Students participate in 80% online and 20% in-person program. Residency required for research defense in the last semester of the program.
Columbia University Advanced Clinical Practice or Social Enterprise Administration MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? Yes, advanced standing program currently available to qualifying students.
Delivery Format: Part time and full time options available. Classes delivered in synchronous format, but give students access to asynchronous learning tools at any hour of the day or night. No campus visits required for this program.
Delaware State University Advanced Generalist MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? Yes, advanced standing program available to students with experience in social work field.
Delivery Format: Full time and part time options currently available to new enrollees. Program is 100% online with no campus visits required. Open to students from any location within the U.S.
Eastern Washington University Advanced Generalist MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? Yes, program is available in advanced standing format.
Delivery Format: Part time, hybrid format requiring on-campus visits. Students may be required to meet on campus either one weekend a month or one evening every other week depending on which campus they currently attend.
Edinboro University of Pennsylvania Family Social Work Practice MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? Yes, advanced standing program currently available.
Delivery Format: Full time option currently provided to new applicants. Program is completed entirely in the online setting.
Florida State University Clinical Social Work MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? Yes, advanced standing program available to qualifying students.
Delivery Format: Part time option currently available. Advanced standing students require no campus visits. General MSW students may be required to attend campus meetings 2 weekends during their program.
Fordham University Future-focused Advanced Integrative Practice MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? Yes, advanced standing program available through this university.
Delivery Format: Accelerated full time and part time options available. The program is fully online with no campus visits required. Hybrid online/on campus options available through Long Island campus for interested learners.
George Mason University Clinical Practice MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? No, advanced standing programs not currently offered through this university.
Delivery Format: Part time option provided to incoming learners. Program is offered in completely online format with no campus visits required.
Humboldt State University Advanced Generalist MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? Yes, advanced standing program available to students with ample field experience.
Delivery Format: Part time option provided to learners. Courses taught using distributed learning methodologies including virtual discussions, group work, and online discussions. Yearly weekend intensives on campus required.
Indiana University Advanced Generalist MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? Yes, advanced standing program available for qualifying learners.
Delivery Format: Advanced standing program open to students with social work experience. Courses are completed entirely in the online setting. No campus visits currently required for the program.
Louisiana State University Advanced Generalist MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? Yes, advanced standing program available with multiple start dates per year.
Delivery Format: Part time and full time options provided to new learners. Asynchronous classes are conducted in the online setting. Students are not required to visit campus during the program.
Loyola University at Chicago Advanced Generalist MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? Yes, advanced standing program currently available.
Delivery Format: Full time option. Program is completed entirely online. Students are not required to engage in campus visits. Bilingual programs available through this university.
Metropolitan State University of Denver Individuals & Families MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? No, advanced standing programs not currently available.
Delivery Format: Part-time and full-time options offered in both online and hybrid formats. Hybrid enrollees may be required to participate in regular on campus visits.
Michigan State University Clinical Practice MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? Yes, advanced standing option provided to learners with work experience in social work.
Delivery Format: Part-time program with advanced standing option offered in hybrid format. Hybrid format includes 80% online and 20% in person requirements. Summer campus visits and weekend video conferencing required as part of the program.
MSU Clinical Practice and Organization & Community Leadership MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? No, advanced standing programs not currently available.
Delivery Format: Part-time program offered in hybrid format. Hybrid option includes a 70% online and 30% in person requirement. Students required to attend campus one weekend per month at Lansing campus.
Morgan State University Urban Children, Youth, and Families MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? No, advanced standing option not currently available.
Delivery Format: Full-time option that provides content in both synchronous and asynchronous format. Fully online program with no campus visits required.
New Mexico State University Advanced Generalist MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? No, advanced standing program not currently provided to incoming learners.
Delivery Format: Full-time option available to new students. Courses offered in synchronous and asynchronous formats. Blended learning formats also available. Fully online program that requires no campus visits.
Ohio State University Child and Youth Services & Mental Health and Substance Abuse MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? Yes, advanced standing options provided to qualifying learners.
Delivery Format: Full-time and part-time options available. Program is completed in the online setting. Students are not required to attend classes on campus.
Ohio University Clinical MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? Yes, advanced standing option provided in this program.
Delivery Format: Part-time option currently available to new applicants. The program is offered in a completely online format. There are no campus visits required throughout this program. Program open to students from all over the U.S.
Our Lady of the Lake University Direct Practice with Hispanic Children and Families MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? Yes, advanced standing program available through this university for students with social work experience.
Delivery Format: Students can choose from part time or full time programs. Courses are taught in the online setting. There are no campus visits required for completion of this program.
Portland State University Practice and Leadership in Communities and Organizations MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? No, advanced standing options not currently provided.
Delivery Format: Program provided in a 3-year cohort model. Courses are conducted online throughout the duration of the program in synchronous and asynchronous format. 3-day on campus intensives are required before the start of each school year.
Radford University Community-based Family Practice MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? No, advanced standing program not currently available.
Delivery Format: Part-time option available. Program offered in hybrid format. Students alternate online and in-class courses each Saturday. Other campus visits may be required throughout the duration of the program at varying points.
Rutgers University Clinical Social Work MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? No, an advanced standing option is not currently offered.
Delivery Format: Part-time option. Courses are conducted in the online setting. Students are not required to visit campus throughout their program.
Salisbury University Practice with Individuals, Families, Groups, and Organizations MSW – Online
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? Yes, advanced standing option available to qualifying learners.
Delivery Format: Part-time option provided to interested learners. Courses are completed completely in online format. Students are not required to attend courses on campus.
Part-time option offered in a satellite format. Students may be required to attend classes at a satellite location each week. Online and television technologies used during the program.
Samford University Advanced Clinical Practice and Community Practice & Social Engagement MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? Yes, an advanced standing option may be available to students with experience in the field of social work
Delivery Format: Full time and part time program options available. After a 2-day on campus orientation, students can complete the program entirely online. Courses are provided in asynchronous format.
San Jose State University Transcultural Multisystems MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? No, advanced standing option not currently provided.
Delivery Format: Part time option currently available. Program is offered in an online and hybrid format. There are no campus visits required for the online option. The program is open to residents in the state of California only.
Simmons University Clinical Social Work, Child and Family Welfare, Trauma and Interpersonal Violence, and Health and Aging MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? Yes, advanced standing programs open to those who qualify.
Delivery Format: Full time option available. Program is offered completely online. Students may be required to engage in synchronous learning experiences that include weekly 90-minute sessions in their courses. Other asynchronous learning tools may also be provided.
Stephen F. Austin State University Advanced Generalist MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? Yes, advanced standing option currently provided.
Delivery Format: Full time option available. Courses are offered online with a variety of technological learning tools, but campus visits are required. Students will be required to visit campus for an initial orientation, as well as skill building and group sessions.
Temple University Trauma, Health/Mental Health, Children and Families, Humanitarian Social Work, and Military Social Work MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? No, advanced standing program not provided.
Delivery Format: Part time options. Courses provided in synchronous and asynchronous format. In August of a student’s 2nd year, a 3-day campus visit is required to discuss field placement. Synchronous group work on Tuesdays and Thursdays may also be included in the program.
Texas State University Advanced Generalist MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? Yes, advanced standing option provided.
Delivery Format: Full time option, offered in online format. Students required to attend in-person skill institutes on campus. Students living further than 50 miles from an accredited MSW program given priority during enrollment.
Touro College Clinical MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? No, advanced standing program not available.
Delivery Format: Full time option, provided in blended format. Courses in synchronous and asynchronous format. Students required to attend class on campus at various points throughout the program.
Tulane University Disaster Mental Health and Trauma Studies & Family Practice MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? Yes, students with experience may qualify for the advanced standing option.
Delivery Format: Full time and part time options available. Program is provided completely online. There are currently no campus visits required during the program.
University at Buffalo Trauma-Informed and Human Rights Perspective MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? Yes, university provides an advanced standing option for qualifying students.
Delivery Format: Part time option, courses offered in synchronous and asynchronous format. Program is provided completely online. No campus visits required.
University of Alabama Advanced Generalist MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? Yes, an advanced standing option is available.
Delivery Format: Full time and part time options. Program is primarily online, with some campus visits required. Campus visits take place on select Saturdays in the state of Alabama. Field placement also required in different location in Alabama.
University of Alaska at Anchorage Advanced Generalist MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? Yes, advanced standing options available to students with social work experience.
Delivery Format: Full time and part time options available. This program is conducted online. There are 2 required campus visits throughout the program. Visits take place on the Anchorage campus. Only residents of Alaska can be accepted into this program.
University of Arkansas Multi-System Life Course MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? Yes, the university offers an advanced standing program.
Delivery Format: Advanced standing option, offered online. Program is provided in asynchronous format and includes web-casting learning opportunities. Students not required to attend classes or sessions on campus. Students from all over the U.S. can apply.
University of Arkansas at Little Rock Clinical and Advanced Direct Practice MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? No, an advanced standing program not provided by the university.
Delivery Format: Part time option currently available. Online degree program including both asynchronous and synchronous courses. There are no campus visits required for completion of the program. Program available to residents of Arkansas only.
University of Central Florida Advanced Generalist MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? Yes, students can pursue the advanced standing option with social work experience.
Delivery Format: Part time regular or part time advanced standing options provided. Courses include both asynchronous and synchronous formats. Students are not required to attend class on campus throughout the duration of the program. Students from across the U.S. can apply.
University of Denver Advanced Generalist MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? No, advanced standing program not available.
Delivery Format: Full time program available. Offered in a hybrid format that includes on-site courses, interactive television courses, and online learning technologies. Program was developed for Denver-area learners.
University of Denver Mental Health and Trauma MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? No, advanced standing programs not currently available.
Delivery Format: Full time and part time options provided. Students participate in synchronous online courses that include a live classroom. There are currently no campus visits required during the program. Students from all across the United States can apply to this program.
University of Hawaii at Manoa Advanced Generalist MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? No, advanced standing option unavailable at this time.
Delivery Format: Part time option, includes a hybrid learning format. Students can participate in learning experiences that include interactive television, online, and in-person delivery. Residents of Manoa and neighboring islands are welcome to apply.
University of Houston Clinical MSW – Online
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? Yes, students may qualify for an advanced standing option with social work experience.
Delivery Format: Part time option, offered in online format. Courses taught using synchronous and asynchronous learning formats. Students are not required to attend campus during their program. Students from all over the nation can apply.
University of Houston Clinical MSW – Hybrid
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? Yes, an advanced standing option is available.
Delivery Format: Part time option, offered in hybrid format. Students can participate in a 75% online and 25% in person program on the main campus and Sugar land satellite location. Students required to meet in person on select Saturdays – up to 2 times per month. Students able to travel to campus meetings are welcome to apply to this program.
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Leadership and Social Change Mental Health Health Care Children, Youth, and Family Services Schools MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? Yes, students with social work experience may qualify for an advanced standing option.
Delivery Format: Full time and part time options available. Program offered fully online for macro practice. Clinical option learners may require some campus visits during the program. On campus meetings for Clinical learners take place on Saturdays.
University of Iowa Integrated Macro Practice MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? Yes, advanced standing options available to those who qualify.
Delivery Format: Part time option, cohort model. Students can participate in both synchronous and asynchronous courses. In-person requirements included in the program. Students may attend a 4-day residence on campus each summer for 3 years. Residents of Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota, Minnesota, Illinois, Missouri, and Wisconsin can apply to this program.
University of Kentucky: Military Social Work, Alcohol and Drug Counseling, Gerontology, Mental Health Counseling, and Psychology Oncology MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? No, the university does not currently offer advanced standing options.
Delivery Format: Full time and part time options currently available. Programs offered completely online or in hybrid format. Online programs require no campus visits. Hybrid option includes regular campus visits during the program.
University of Louisville: MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? Yes, students with experience in social work may qualify for an advanced standing program.
Delivery Format: Full time and part time options provided. Students may choose from a fully online program or hybrid program depending on their needs. Fully online option requires no campus visits. Some variations of hybrid models also include no campus visits. Students from all over the U.S. can apply.
University of Maine Advanced Generalist MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? Yes, the university offers an advanced standing option
Delivery Format: Full time option, courses are taught online. Students may be required to visit the school’s campus up to 2 Saturdays each semester. Residents of Maine can apply to this program.
University of Missouri Clinical Social Work and Policy, Planning, and Administration MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? Yes, an advanced standing program is currently available.
Delivery Format: Full time and part time options available. Program is completed entirely online. Students are not required to visit campus during the program. Applicants from Missouri and surrounding states are welcome to apply.
University of Nevada, Reno Advanced Generalist MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? Yes, students have access to an advanced standing option.
Delivery Format: Full time and part time programs currently available. Courses offered in asynchronous and synchronous format. Students enrolled in this program may be expected to participate in a 2-day residency during their program. Applicants from anywhere in the U.S. can apply.
University of New England Individual, Family, and Group Practice and Organization and Community Practice MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? Yes, an advanced standing option is available.
Delivery Format: Full time option, courses provided in asynchronous format. Students may not be required to participate in any in-person experience during this program. Program is open to international and U.S. applicants.
University of New Hampshire Advanced Generalist MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? No, an advanced standing program is not currently available.
Delivery Format: Full time and part time options provided. Students can engage in mostly asynchronous classes that are available all day and night. There are no in-person requirements for this program.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Direct Practice and Community, Management, and Policy Practice MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? Yes, advanced standing option available to applicants with social work experience.
Delivery Format: Hybrid model program, 3-year completion rate. Students may be required to engage in both online learning and in-person requirements. Campus visits take place at Triangle and Winston-Salem locations. Students from all across the U.S. can participate in this program.
University of North Dakota Advanced Generalist MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? No, an advanced standing program is not currently an option.
Delivery Format: Full time option. Courses are conducted in the online setting. There are no current in-person requirements associated with this degree program.
University of Northern Iowa Trauma-Informed Care MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? Yes, qualifying students can apply to the advanced standing program.
Delivery Format: Part time option available. Courses are taught completely online in asynchronous and synchronous format. Students may be required to attend their initial orientation on campus, as well as visit the campus at least 1 time per semester for learning opportunities. Residents from Iowa and surrounding states can apply.
University of South Florida Clinical MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? Yes, an advanced standing option is currently available.
Delivery Format: Full time and part time options offered. There are no campus visits required for completion of this degree program. Courses are taught completely in the online setting. Students from preauthorized states can apply.
University of Southern California Advanced Generalist MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? Yes, USC offers an advanced standing option for experienced learners.
Delivery Format: Full time options available. Students are taught through live and asynchronous online classrooms. Some campus visits may be required throughout the program. Students from any state may apply.
University of Tennessee at Knoxville Clinical or Macro MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? Yes, and advanced standing option provided.
Delivery Format: Full time and part time options, courses conducted entirely online. There are no in-person requirements included in this program. All U.S. learners have the opportunity to apply to this program.
University of Texas of the Rio Grande Valley Direct Practice with Individuals, Families, and Groups and Community and Administrative Practice MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? No, advanced standing options not provided.
Delivery Format: Full time and part time options available. Students can engage in a fully online curriculum. There are no campus visits included in this option. Open to residents of Texas and other states with current UTRGV agreements.
University of Utah Advanced Generalist MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? No, an advanced standing option is not currently offered.
Delivery Format: Part time option available. Program is offered to DCFS employees and includes a hybrid layout. Students may be required to attend classes on campus Friday and Saturdays during program.
University of Wyoming Advanced Generalist MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? Yes, the university provides an advanced standing option.
Delivery Format: Full time option, offered in hybrid format. Courses include video, online, and on campus instruction. Students may also be required to attend 5 intensive weeks on campus. The program is open to applicants from the state of Wyoming.
Utah State University Advanced Generalist MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? No, advanced standing options not available.
Delivery Format: Part time option, hybrid format. Students can participate in both online learning and in-person experiences. Campus classes are held on weekends throughout the program at various campuses in the state.
Virginia Commonwealth University Clinical MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? No, an advanced standing option is not provided.
Delivery Format: Part time options available. The program is offered completely online. No campus visits are currently required. Courses are asynchronous with some synchronous sessions provided on the weekends throughout the program.
Walden University Advanced Clinical Practice, Military Social Work, Social Work in Health Care, and Social Work with Children and Families MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? Yes, advanced standing program available to qualifying students
Delivery Format: Standard full time and accelerated options available. Courses are taught online through asynchronous delivery. Students may be required to attend two 4-day on-campus residencies during their program. International and U.S. students can apply.
West Virginia University Advanced Integrated Practice MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? Yes, the university currently provides an advanced standing program.
Delivery Format: Part time option available. Students can engage in their courses completely in the online setting. There are no in-person requirements associated with this program. Program is open to students from all states throughout the U.S.
Western Kentucky University Rural Advanced Generalist MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? Yes, advanced standing option open to qualifying applicants.
Delivery Format: Part time option provided in online format. Classes are conducted online throughout the duration of the program. Students may be required to participate in a one-time on campus orientation at the beginning of their program.
Western New Mexico University Advanced Generalist MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? Yes, this university offers an advanced standing option.
Delivery Format: Part time and full time options available. Courses are provided in the online setting, with some web-conferencing required during the program. Applicants from any state within the U.S. can apply.
Widener University Advanced Clinical MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? No, advanced standing option not available.
Delivery Format: Part time program, provided in the online setting. Courses provided in asynchronous format. Students not required to attend campus during their program. Service members stationed in locations around the world and residents of all U.S. states are welcome to apply.
Winthrop University Empowerment Practice MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? Yes, advanced standing options available to applicants with social work experience.
Delivery Format: Full time option, completely online. The program does not require any in-person campus visits during the program. Applicants from all U.S. states permitted to apply.
Yeshiva University Clinical Practice with Individuals & Families, Group Work & Community Practice MSW
CSWE Accredited Website
Advanced Standing? Yes, students can qualify for an advanced standing program.
Delivery Format: Full time and part time options available. Courses include asynchronous instruction in the online environment. There are no in-person requirements associated with this program. Applicants from all over the world accepted, with the exception of California residents.
More FAQs on the CSWE for Students Considering a Master of Social Work Program
Why would you choose a CSWE accredited program?
The CSWE can be an incredibly influential organization for both incoming social work learners and professionals/agencies practicing in the field. This agency is made up of institutions, professionals, and representatives from social work agencies – all with a common goal of increasing training standards to help influence social work practice in the field.
Since members of the CSWE are intertwined within different areas of social work throughout the United States, this organization may have constant access to insight and feedback that is valuable to the effectiveness of the accreditation process. As the field of social work evolves over time, these professionals can participate in creating new and relevant requirements for educational programs in the future.
The CSWE has historically been the longest running and most utilized accreditation agency in the field of social work. Through review of your state’s licensing requirements for social workers at different levels, you might find that the CSWE is the leading resource for ensuring high-quality degree programs for this purpose.
What Exactly Does the CSWE Do?
The overall mission of the CSWE is to increase the quality of social work throughout the United States through the assessment and approval of college training programs. This organization was developed to create central quality standards for university degree programs, which helped to increase the number of generalist social workers employed in the U.S.
It ensures in depth training for the social work program
The process by which the CSWE approves degree programs in social work is incredibly in-depth and thorough. Universities that wish to have their programs accredited are required to engage in a specific set of steps that involve an intensive review of their curriculum, site visits, and COA reviews.
It reviews curricula
At the onset of the accreditation process, the CSWE processes applications for consideration. Representatives from this agency review the curriculum of applying universities to ensure they meet the standards for accreditation.
It ensures instructors and internship / field study options are suitable
Additional criteria for accreditation can include implementing instructors with specific qualifications, providing in-person internship options that are suitable for the training standard for social work professionals, and offering the program at a price that is approved by the CSWE.
It may assign a liasion for initial accreditation
The CSWE may also assign a liaison to work with universities working through the initial accreditation process. This person can help school’s better understand the accreditation requirements and prepare for their on-site reviews and final approval.
The CSWE reviews each program as time goes on
Over time, the CSWE also provides reassessment to currently accredited degree programs. During this phase of the process, the program is re-reviewed to ensure accuracy and relevance within their social work degree programs.
It is through this method that programs maintain their accreditation over time. Accredited degree programs are expected to adhere to changes and modifications to the educational standards for accreditation during the length of their approval.
It sets the expectations for social work programs
In addition to the general accreditation and renewal responsibilities of the CSWE, this agency also includes multiple representative groups that help to create socially significant expectations for social work educational programs.
Professionals, educators, and members of the general public can be members of this work groups which seek to ensure every aspect of our society has a voice within the development of social work programs. This aspect of the CSWE is what helps to create in-depth and inclusive social work degree programs applicable to society as it stands currently.
Why Consider a CSWE Accredited MSW Program?
Social work degree programs can prepare you for a wealth of career opportunities in multiple specialized fields. Choosing the Master of Social Work (MSW) can be an excellent option for learners that seek multidisciplinary degree options for growth and versatility within their careers.
To get licensed as a LMSW or similar
Many learners entering into MSW program do so with the intent to become licensed within their state after degree completion. Since each state has specific expectations for Licensed Masters Social Workers (LMSW), accreditation can be an important detail to consider when choosing your program.
To take a specialized MSW program
CSWE-accredited MSW programs include all of the required components for professional training at this degree level. The CSWE currently accredits MSW programs with specializations in Advanced Generalist, Children, Youth & Families, Gerontology, Health, Mental Health, Occupational, and Research.
An additional specialization that could be open for you to consider is in Clinical Social Work. CSWE-accredited MSW programs often include an internship requirement that can count towards your overall licensing hours needed to become certified.
To ensure a high quality field study or internship
The course work and internship opportunities available through these accredited degree programs may have been strategically placed to help you meet the milestones required for your state licensing. Programs lacking this type of accreditation may not include these requirement components and may not help you qualify for licensure after completion.
How Do Schools / Programs Become a CSWE Member?
When an institution is seeking accreditation for their social work program, it may be required to engage in multiple steps in accordance with the CSWE in order to be considered. The onset of this process requires different levels of review as outlined below.
Letter of intent
The CSWE requires that universities initially provide a Letter of Institutional Intent along with an eligibility application to the council for consideration. This part of the process includes submission of the university’s mission statement, strategic plan, information pertaining to costs of the program, goals of the program, and summarized information about the program’s development activities.
Qualify
For programs to be eligible for accreditation, they must meet the minimum qualifying standards outlined by the CSWE. These standards include an initial approval for application from the applying institution’s CEO, regional accreditation, legal authority to provide educational services, an Affirmative Action policy, and an inclusive social work staff to help support and maintain the program over time.
Work with CSWE liasion for site visits
After the initial documents are reviewed and approved, the CSWE may assign a liaison from the council to work with representatives of the institution on meeting accreditation standards and organizing site visits. These individuals will work to create benchmark outlines that will be reviewed during each phase of the review process.
Three benchmark phases
The official review of degree programs in candidacy include 3 phases of a benchmark program beginning at the application phase. The candidacy phase of accreditation lasts 3 years and includes 3 official campus visits prior to a final decision on accreditation.
During each benchmark phase, the university’s program is reviewed using the benchmark guidelines outlined by the reviewing agency and institution. Site visits are included at each level to observe and review progress outlined in the accreditation plan.
The third benchmark phase within year 3 includes the final review for accreditation. The CSWE commissioner assigned to review the program submits their final report on the university’s program at this stage.
The final review
With all information in hand, the CSWE may conduct a final COA review on the university’s program prior to issuing a decision on program accreditation. Once approved, the program can officially promote their program as CSWE-accredited.
Programs are reviewed every four years
Programs that have received approval for accreditation for their programs are approved for a period of 4 years. Prior to the end of their accreditation phase, the institution must initiate a re-approval application to become renewed at the end of their 4-year cycle.
Statistics to Know About the CSWE
The CSWE utilizes a strategic process for increasing the quality of educational programs in social work throughout the United States. Within the CSWE, the Commission on Research can provide regular data for consideration for program changes or modifications.
- BSW program and MSW program enrollment is increasing: According to the CSWE, enrollment in bachelor’s degree programs increased by 14.2% from 2008 to 2018, with master’s programs showing an increase of 37.8% within the same time period. However, even with these increases over time, the CSWE reports the bachelor’s enrollment within the last year has decreased by 5.3%.
- Online social work programs are rising rapidly: The increase in popularity of online programs may also be represented by statistical reviews conducted by the CSWE. Data provided by this accreditation agency states that 6.0% of bachelor’s programs, 22.4% of master’s programs, and 41.7% of Ph.D. programs are offered entirely online.
- Part time and full time students: The range in enrollment status for social work learners may also represent the overall needs of learners pursuing education in this specialized area. Learners with various scheduling needs responded to the CSWE’s annual survey to provide an outlook of the overall student populations at each degree level.
- Most enroll full time: The CSWE reports that survey results indicated 86.7% of bachelor’s learners were enrolled at a full-time rate. Master’s level learners totaled 64.5% full-time and Ph.D. students came in at 55.1% enrolled at a full-time rate.
