Pros and cons of Online Master of Social Work Programs
This post is sponsored by Social Work Degrees. Social Work Degrees is the most comprehensive resource for exploring colleges and universities offering a degree in Social Work. If you’re interested in applying to your online Master of Social Work, Social Work Degrees maintains a list of 100% online MSW programs.
More universities are offering 100% online Master of Social Work programs. Online Master of Social Work programs are great because they offer flexibility with time and location, and they open doors for applicants in remote areas.
However, there are also drawbacks to online programs as well. They can be more competitive, they aren’t suitable for everyone, and it can be harder to secure placement in online programs.
Benefits of online programs
Flexibility:
One of the greatest benefits of online Master of Social Work programs is their flexibility. Online programs can be a great option for people with families, disabilities, busy schedules - and various other circumstances - to work on their degree on their own time.
More options:
Additionally, online Master of Social Work programs expand your options if you don’t want to move. When I applied for my Master of Social Work, I applied to both local programs that were available, as well as three online programs. I knew I didn’t want to move from my city, so applying to multiple online programs increased my chances of acceptance.
Access to specialized programs:
You’ll also have access to a greater number of specialized programs that align with your goals. If you have specific interests, you’re no longer limited by what’s offered based on geographical location. Online MSW programs allow you to get an education that meets your needs and goals.
Drawbacks of online programs
They’re more competitive than in person MSW programs
One of the drawbacks of applying to online Master of Social Work programs is that they are often more competitive than in-person programs. Applicants from around the country (and even around the world) can easily apply to the program, which means there are often a significantly greater number of applications for these programs. If you’re applying to an online Master of Social Work program, you’ll want to make sure that you put a lot of effort into your application to stand out. Check out my free webinar to get started.
Online MSW programs aren’t suitable for everyone
If you’ve ever had an online class or worked from home, you may have had a colleague who struggled with motivation while working or studying online. The truth is, online programs aren’t for everyone. If you choose to apply to an online MSW program, be prepared to talk about how you’re going to meet the demands of the program.
You may need to find your own social work placement:
Because online MSW programs accept students from all over, it can be a challenge for online programs to guarantee field placements for their students. Their solution is to leave it up to you to find a field placement that meets your needs. If you’re applying to an online MSW program, be sure to find out what their expectations are for field placement and be prepared to start making your own connections.
How to find accredited online Master of Social Work programs
Find online Master of Social Work programs:
Social Work Degrees is the most comprehensive resource for exploring colleges and universities offering a degree in Social Work. If you’re interested in applying to your online Master of Social Work, Social Work Degrees maintains a list of 100% online MSW programs.
Ensure programs are accredited:
Next, you’ll also want to verify that the MSW program is accredited. If you are located in the United States you should check that the school you are interested in applying to is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). If you are located in Canada you’ll want to look up the school at the Canadian Association of Social Work Education (CASWE).
Preparing for your Master of Social Work Application
Online Master of Social Work programs are inherently more competitive due to the fact that there is a greater pool of applicants because applicants are not limited by geographic location. Because of this, it’s crucial that applicants who are applying to Master of Social Work programs put greater effort into their grad school applications in order to stand out.
MSW Helper is the ONLY grad school application service that specializes in working with Master of Social Work candidates, and is run BY and FOR social workers. Visit MSW Helper for free resources, templates, and services to help your online Master of Social Work application stand out.
Happy writing!
Michelle
