Online Master of Social Work
Prepare to make a difference.
Earn your Master of Social Work (MSW) through UOnline at the University of Utah. Our program helps you address pressing social issues and support individuals and communities in need, all while offering the flexibility of an online format.
Want to talk to someone?
Credits Required
What Does It Cost
$600/credit hour*
*Subject to change without notice
Tuition Estimator
Learning Format
Start Terms
Summer (Advanced Standing)
Fall (Standard)
Why Choose UOnline’s Master of Social Work?
UOnline's Master of Social Work (MSW) degree program elevates your prior experiences to address society's most pressing challenges with confidence and empathy, from direct client support to policy advocacy and leadership.
The curriculum in the University of Utah's College of Social Work emphasizes mental health, social justice, and community well-being so that you can create positive change in the lives of those you serve. And with roots in the Advanced Generalist perspective, you develop the flexibility to work across micro, mezzo, and macro levels of social work.
One of the program's defining features is the opportunity to apply what you learn in real-world settings. With partnerships at over 500 social service agencies, you put the evidence-based theory you learn in coursework into action through supervised practice in your local field placement. These can take place in government agencies, community-based programs, hospitals, resource centers, correctional facilities, and more.
MSW Pathways
We offer two paths to earning your online MSW:
- Advanced Standing: If you already hold a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), you can complete the 45-credit Advanced Standing program in just one year.
- Standard: The 60-credit Standard program provides comprehensive training over two years of full-time study for those without a BSW.
Both options provide the same core benefits—expert faculty, immersive field experiences, and a strong focus on mental health and social justice. We ensure that you graduate ready for the challenges and rewards of social work practice.
Explore the University of Utah’s social work programs (opens new tab)
Application Deadlines
Take the next step in your social work career. Apply today!
Summer and Fall Admission
Applications for the online MSW open on Aug. 1. The advanced standing application deadline is Sept. 1, and the two-year, full-time MSW deadline is Oct. 15.
Social Work Overview
At the University of Utah, our courses combine the flexibility of online learning with the advantages and direct engagement of traditional teaching. Enjoy the benefit of studying online while still engaging with classmates and instructors.
While courses in the MSW Online Program are largely asynchronous, some courses may require a limited number of synchronous sessions that are facilitated via Zoom. This flexible way of teaching improves your overall experience and your ability to retain what you learn.
Interactive learning comes in a variety of ways:
- Collaboration via email, Zoom, or a discussion forum to complete group assignments.
- Contributions to a discussion forum, where you discuss important topics, learn to think critically, and respond directly to other class members' posts and receive feedback from your instructor.
- Peer reviews, where you review and comment on assignments from other students.
Our classes also offer multiple routes to stay connected and get help:
- Communicate directly with the instructor via email.
- Participate in and guide online discussions.
- Attend online office hours in discussion threads or on the phone.
- Instructors are available in “real” office hours for students on or near campus; for some courses we offer Q&A sessions in a classroom.
Master of Social Work from the College of Social Work.
All courses at the University of Utah, whether online or on campus, are taught by expert faculty members.
Before starting the online MSW program, students must complete the following prerequisite courses:
- Research Methods focusing on quantitative research, evaluation, and design
Review a list of commonly accepted courses.
Note: All courses must be taken for credit. A minimum grade of C+ is required for each course.
Two-Year, Full-Time Online MSW
The full-time social work master’s degree program is designed for completion in one to two years and begins each fall semester. We expect students to fulfill the following requirements:
- Complete 60 graduate credits over four semesters (15 credits per semester)
- Earn a minimum grade of C+ in each course and maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher
- Engage in two required practicums: 400 hours in the first year and 550 hours in the second year
Advanced Standing Online MSW
The advanced standing option is available to students who have earned a BSW within seven years of the application deadline. Those who completed their BSW over seven years ago must apply to the two-year, full-time online MSW option.
The advanced standing online MSW starts in the summer semester and can be completed in one year. To graduate, students must:
- Complete 45 graduate credits over three semesters (15 credits each)
- Earn a minimum grade of C+ in each course and maintain a 3.0 cumulative GPA
- Fulfill one practicum: 550 hours completed over the fall and spring semesters
Tuition for the social work master’s degree program is $600 per credit hour for residents and nonresidents and is subject to change without notice. Calculate your total cost and explore scholarships specifically for social work students.
Tuition does not include additional fees such as online textbooks or proctored exams. Fees and materials vary by program.
Learn more about UOnline's cost and financial resources for graduate students.
Note: This program qualifies for the U of U employee reduced tuition benefit.
Admission Requirements
- A bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited university
- The advanced standing MSW program requires a Bachelor of Social Work degree earned within seven years of applying.
- A cumulative GPA of 3.0 is required, but applicants with lower GPAs may be considered case-by-case. Applicants with GPAs below 3.0 are strongly encouraged to meet with an academic advisor before applying.
Note: Meeting these admission requirements does not guarantee entry into our competitive program.
- Application to the University of Utah Graduate School (a separate application is not necessary)
- Transcripts
- Three professional recommendations
- Statement of Purpose
- Resume
Career Outcomes
A social work master’s degree unlocks more opportunities to influence change and make an impact across social service fields. With this advanced degree, you can pursue licensure as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), a credential that positions you for high-level clinical practice, supervision, and leadership roles in social work.
Potential Roles
Graduates of the online Master of Social Work degree program find positions such as:
- Clinical Social Worker
- Community Outreach Specialist
- Medical Social Worker
- Mental Health Therapist
- School Social Worker
- Social Work Administrator
- Substance Abuse Counselor
Social Work Career Paths
Whether you are interested in direct clinical practice, advocacy, or organizational leadership, a social work master’s degree equips you for success in multiple areas, including:
- Behavioral Health
- Child Welfare
- Health Care Social Work
- Mental Health
- Substance Use Disorder Treatment
7%
Expected Growth
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 7% growth in demand for social workers from now through 2033.
67,300
Job Openings
With the profession on the rise, the BLS expects approximately 67,300 new social work positions to become available each year through 2033.
$58,380
Median Annual Wage
In 2023, social workers earned a median wage of $58,380, according to the BLS. Pursuing a graduate degree can enhance your qualifications, often leading to increased earning potential.
Department Contact
Our team is ready to assist you—get in touch with any questions about the University of Utah's online Master of Social Work degree program.
For questions about the MSW Program
MSW Academic Advisor
For questions about the MSW Application
MSW Admissions