A bachelor’s degree in social work with a smart paying job might not be enough if you wish to climb the occupational ladder. To advance you need a master’s in social work.
To save you the stress of going to school or having to quit your job just to focus on the MSW program, some schools offer online MSW programs. You can enroll in the program while working and get certified within a short period of time.
In this article, we’ll be looking at the best online MSW programs in North Carolina. Stay with me!
Social workers are on the front lines in counseling, mental health, substance abuse, child welfare, and crisis response. Through advanced training and development, you will gain expertise in the area of your focus.
North Carolina (NC) is home to thirty-three MSW programs. Many of these programs are online programs that may be accessed from many states across the country. So, earning an MSW degree in NC include advanced training and development, specialty certification, and expanded career opportunities.
An interesting and most captivating thing about the online MSW program degree is that you can earn it from the comfort of your home. So, while waiting for the long pandemic you can earn the MSW program online from accredited online schools in North Caroline NC.
Therefore, do relax, take your time, and carefully read this article to the end, you will surely see a good MSW program to can earn online.
So, before we continue, let’s go through the table of contents below to get an overview of what the article entails.
What Is An Online MSW Program?
Social work is an academic discipline and profession that concerns itself with individuals, families, groups, and communities in an effort to enhance social functioning and overall well-being.
However, Social workers may specialize in one of several areas, such as areas like children and family social work, clinical social work, healthcare social work, or school social work which requires a lot of duties.
For example, clinical social workers treat individuals with mental health or substance abuse disorders, while school social workers support students struggling with bullying or challenges at home.
Many social work jobs require a master’s degree from an accredited social work program. For example, clinical social workers need a license to practice, which requires an MSW.
In other words, graduates with an online MSW degree from an accredited program meet the educational requirements for most social work careers.
So, since social work is a popular career field, obtaining an online master’s degree in the area will enable you to stand out in a competitive field.
You are apparently thinking why you should get this online degree from an institution in North Caroline NC. So, since it is an online degree, you may decide to earn it from anywhere in the world but you should, however, consider an online MSW program in North Caroline.
Importantly, Individuals are interested in North Carolina social work careers because they enjoy a fast growing job market in a rewarding field.
Earning an online master’s social work program in North Carolina allows individuals to continue their education and advance their careers while gaining additional professional experience.
Many schools may offer discounted tuition to North Carolina residents or individuals attending fully online classes.
It’s because social work standards require participation in internships and practicums, students should work jointly with their academic advisors to identify appropriate supervised learning sites close to home.
Also, The state expects high growth in employment for all social work specializations, with more than 2,100 job openings each year.
What Online MSW Program are available in North Carolina NC?
North Carolina is known to be a beautiful and peaceful place to call home. Within this incredible state, social work prospects may find opportunities that can assist them in becoming educated and licensed professionals within their field.
However, the amazing fact about North Carolina NC and MSW programs online is the fact that they offer a degree for all educational levels.
This means that in NC, students can earn a bachelor of Social work, a master of Social work in 12 months with your BSW, or even a Ph.D. of Social work can be completed within 24 months with masters requirement.
What are the requirements for Online MSW Programs In North Carolina?
Choosing to continue your degree online can be an excellent choice for flexibility throughout your degree programs. Online degree programs can provide the same level of quality in their courses and assignments as standard programs while allowing you to engage in your daily responsibilities without interference.
However, to be able to get the online MSW, there are basic requirement from schools. These requirement usually vary depend on the institutions.
Therefore, below is an example of a general prerequisites for an online MSW program
How Much Does It Cost To Earn An Online MSW Programs In North Carolina NC?
Well, how much you pay to earn an MSW degree online from any reputable institution in North Carolina is highly dependent on a number of factors like institutions, mode of classes, and the particular program.
However, the tuition and fees for a master’s degree program in social work at a public university will be just over $13,800 per year while at a private non-profit university the cost will be around $36,300 per year, according to the National Center for Educational Statistics.
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If a bachelor’s degree can get you an entry-level position, a master’s degree will open more professional doors than you may initially imagine and a better position in the company.
Across North Carolina, social workers contribute to the health and well being of clients from birth through adulthood. So, working in many sub-fields, North Carolina social workers strengthen their communities in a variety of ways.
Also, an MSW degree opens the door to many career possibilities such as working in child services, or as school social workers. Others provide health services as healthcare social workers, mental health professionals, and clinical social workers.
Therefore, below are the list of careers you can get with an Online MSW degree
Social Worker
Socials workers of different types assist people with solving problems in their everyday lives. They work in a kind of settings such as schools, nonprofit agencies, and health care services. A BSW is a minimum educational requirement. The average annual salary is $55,160.
Child, Family, and School Social Worker
This social worker help student to succeed academically, support parents and children during the adoption process and put youths that are at risk in foster homes. The annual average salary is$ 46,820
Clinical Social Worker
A clinical social worker diagnosis, and treat behavioral, emotional, and mental issues. however, in order to practice, you must have an MSW, work experience, and a state-issued license. The annual average salary is $53,330.
Mental Health And Substance Abuse Social Workers
A social worker who specializes in mental health and substance abuse problems supports individuals, families, and groups dealing with mental and behavioral problems. However, some employers need a BSW for this profession but many will prefer am MSW. The average annual salary is $47,660.
Social Service Managers
Actually, combining social work skills with management abilities, social service managers coordinate and supervise programs at government and private agencies. However, many of these positions need a graduate degree. The average annual salary is $55,160.
What Are The Best Online MSW Programs In North Carolina NC?
Enrolling in an online master’s degree in MSW offers graduate students the chance to step higher in their education and specialize their skills in a profession of their choice.
Therefore, Social workers may specialize in one of several areas, such as clinical social work, healthcare social work, or school social work.
However, below are the list of the 10 best MSW degree program online:
#1 COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY IN THE CITY OF NEW YORK
SCHOOL TYPE: Private Nonprofit GRADUATION RATE: 96% PERCENT RECEIVING LOANS: 11% ONLINE ENROLLMENT: 5%
Columbia University was founded as King’s College in 1754. Columbia’s online campus allows students to earn Ivy League degrees and certificates from anywhere with an internet connection, including a master’s in social work.
The online master’s in social work takes two years to complete, beginning with a foundation year and ending with an advanced practice year.
However, this is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). Also, the MSW program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).
In other words, Applicants must submit a resume, three essays, three letters of recommendation, and transcripts. Students applying for advanced standing must also submit a list of their undergraduate social work courses.
Columbia offers online concentrations in Advanced clinical social work practice, Policy practice, Social enterprise administration, Dialectical behavioral therapy, Family, youth, and children’s services, and Health, mental health, and disabilities.
#2 UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
SCHOOL TYPE: Private Nonprofit, GRADUATION RATE: 92%, PERCENT RECEIVING LOANS: 28%, ONLINE ENROLLMENT: 5%.
The University of Southern California is a top research institution that attracts learners from around the world.
However, the school offers diverse on-campus and online programs, including a fully online masters in social work.
However, The University of Southern California is regionally accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).
The master’s in social work program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).
Among the country’s top online MSW programs, the traditional program comprises 60 credits, while the advanced standing program comprises 37 credits.
Both programs allow learners to choose between part- and full-time schedules. Students can also choose between three primary areas of study are Adult mental health and wellness, Children, youth, and families, Social change and innovation
Within these areas, degree candidates may optionally pursue one of two concentrations: military social work or school social work.
#3 BOSTON UNIVERSITY
SCHOOL TYPE: Private Nonprofit, GRADUATION RATE: 88%, PERCENT RECEIVING LOANS:P 32%, ONLINE ENROLLMENT: 5%
Boston University enrolls 35,000 students each year. The social work school houses two research centers and boasts a 93% MSW pass rate.
Students at BU can earn an MSW online, choosing from three tracks: traditional, human service experience, and advanced.
ll students complete fieldwork requirements at an approved local site and choose between two concentrations: clinical social work and macro-level social work.
Applicants need a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited school and need a minimum of 3.0 GPA.
#4 UNIVERSITY OF IOWA
SCHOOL TYPE: Public Nonprofit, GRADUATION RATE: 73%, PERCENT RECEIVING LOANS: 47%, ONLINE ENROLLMENT4%
The University of Iowa is one of the longest-standing and largest higher education institutions in the Hawkeye State.
The university offers diverse undergraduate and graduate programs on campus and online, including an online master’s in the social work program
However, the online MSW program features a cohort format, allowing learners to progress through classes with the same group of approximately 25 peers.
Also, the University of Iowa is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). The MSW online program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).
The program classes which prepare students for micro-level social work careers include human behavior in the social environment, social welfare policy and practice, and advanced social policy.
In addition, applicants must live in Iowa or bordering states. They also need an accredited bachelor’s degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA.
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#5 University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
SCHOOL TYPE: Public Nonprofit, GRADUATION RATE: 84%, PERCENT RECEIVING LOANS: 40%, ONLINE ENROLLMENT: 6%
U of I offers many online learning opportunities, including Massive Open Online Courses and more than 90 online certificates, degree, and endorsement programs, such as online masters in social work.
However, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). The MSW program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).
The program’s 72-credit traditional track applies to learners with bachelor’s degrees in subjects other than social work.
Also, the 44-credit advanced standing option allows learners with a bachelor’s degree in social work to expedite graduation.
Students can choose from any of these courses: School social work, Advocacy, Youth and family services, Healthcare, Mental health.
Moreover, Applicants need some human services experience through internships, paid work, or volunteering. They must also hold a minimum 3.0 GPA in the last 60 semester credits or 90 quarter credits of undergraduate work.
#6 Ohio State University
SCHOOL TYPE: Public Nonprofit, GRADUATION RATE: 84%, PERCENT RECEIVING LOANS: 37%, ONLINE ENROLLMENT: 9%.
Ohio State offers accessible and affordable online programs through its Office of Distance Education and e-Learning. All online learners pay in-state tuition rates regardless of where they live.
The university offers an online MSW program for learners with and without bachelor’s degrees in social work.
Ohio State University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). The MSW program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).
However, Learners on both tracks, the tradition track, and the Advanced Standing Alternative Plan (ASAP) can choose from two concentrations: Child and youth services, Mental health and substance misuse.
So, applicants for the traditional track need at least 15 social science credits. ASAP applicants need a bachelor’s degree in social work gained within the past five years. All applicants need a minimum of a 3.0 GPA.
#7 Michigan State University
SCHOOL TYPE: Public Nonprofit, GRADUATION RATE: 80%, PERCENT RECEIVING LOANS: 41%, ONLINE ENROLLMENT: 6%.
Established in 1855, Michigan State University is a public research university that offers many online degrees and certificates for undergraduate and graduate students, including an online MSW program.
Michigan State University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). The MSW program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).
So, MSU’s online master’s in social work includes traditional and advanced standing tracks. Students who earned an accredited bachelor’s degree in social work within the past six years with a minimum of 3.25 GPA qualify for advanced standing.
In other words, all other students pursue the traditional track. Both tracks offer two concentrations in Clinical Practice and Organizational community leadership.
Students take courses on topics like research methods, clinical assessment and diagnosis, and social work macro practice. Applicants need a bachelor’s degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA.
#8 University of Missouri
SCHOOL TYPE: Public Nonprofit, GRADUATION RATE: 69%, PERCENT RECEIVING LOANS: 44%, ONLINE ENROLLMENT: 7%.
Mizzou offers online learners the same standing, resources, and top-notch education as on-campus students.
Mizzou offers more than 125 online programs, including self-paced courses that candidates can start immediately. Students can use these courses to increase their GPAs and meet admissions requirements.
However, The University of Missouri is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). The MSW program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).
Mizzou’s College of Human Environmental Sciences offers an online master’s in social work program with traditional and advanced standing tracks.
Also, applicants qualify for the 39-credit advanced standing track if they earned an accredited bachelor’s degree in social work within the past seven years. And other students complete a 60-credit traditional track.
All students take courses on topics like social work research, human behavior and psychopathology, and social agency management. They also complete fieldwork requirements.
In addition, All online learners qualify for in-state tuition rates regardless of residency. They gain access to services and resources like tutoring, a career center, a writing center, and an online library.
#9 University of Kansas
SCHOOL TYPE: Public Nonprofit, GRADUATION RATE: 65%, PERCENT RECEIVING LOANS: 47%, ONLINE ENROLLMENT: 8%.
KU offers a type of online undergraduate and graduate programs through the Center for Online and Distance Learning, including online masters in the social work program.
University of Kansas is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). The MSW program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).
The university’s online MSW program features a blended learning format and traditional and advanced standing tracks.
However, the traditional track includes 36 credits of coursework and 28 fieldwork credits. After completing core classes, degree candidates take concentration courses in clinical or macro social work.
Also, students with an accredited bachelor’s degree in social work qualify for the 38-credit advanced standing track, which offers concentrations in clinical social work practice and social work administrative and advocacy practice.
All students complete core courses on topics like social work research, social policy and program analysis, and human behavior in the social environment.
Online student complete most of their coursework online but must still attend some classes on one of KU’s campuses.
In addition, Applicants need a bachelor’s degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Online students gain access to resources such as the KU Writing Center, online library services, tutoring, and technology support.
#10 Fordham University
SCHOOL TYPE: Private Nonprofit, GRADUATION RATE: 83%, PERCENT RECEIVING LOANS: 51%, ONLINE ENROLLMENT: 4%.
Fordham University is a Jesuit school that encourages students to fight for justice, strive for excellence, and care for others. The school offers diverse online and on-campus programs, all of which are rooted in Jesuit principles.
Fordham University is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). The MSW program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).
However, the school’s online MSW program includes foundational coursework in social work theories and practice.
After taking foundational courses, you can choose from any of the four areas of advanced study which are Individuals and families, Organizations and Community, Evaluation, Policy practice, and advocacy.
Also, the university prefers applicants with at least a 3.0 GPA, but it is not required.
Particular social work professions, such as clinical social workers, must hold a state license to practice in their field. In North Carolina, the Social Work Certification and Licensure Board administers, renews, and verifies state licensure for the field.
However, Each license sets different educational requirements, and all require passing scores on the appropriate ASWB exam.
Certified Social Worker (CSW)
In North Carolina, you can voluntarily pursue the title of CSW. To do so, you must have at least a bachelor’s degree in social work from an institution accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).
In addition, you must pass the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) bachelor’s level exam, which costs $230. The state also requires you to pay a $115 application fee.
Certified Master Social Worker (CMSW)
For this advanced voluntary social work license, you must have at least a master’s degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited institution.
You must also pass the ASWB masters-level exam, also $230, or a similar exam offered by the Academy of Certified Social Workers.
In this certificate no experience is required, but you must pay a $115 application fee.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate (LCSWA)
Receiving this license allows you to complete the supervised clinical experience necessary to become a fully licensed clinical social worker in North Carolina.
Also, you must have a master’s or doctoral degree from a CSWE-accredited institution.
However, you don’t need to pass to get this license but you must pass the ASWB-clinical exam if you cannot complete the needed clinical experience within two years. The state charges a $115 fee for this license.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
In order to diagnose and treat mental and behavioral issues, you must become an LCSW. To do so, you must first have a master’s or doctoral degree from a CSWE-accredited institution
Also, you must complete 3000 hours of supervised clinical experience in a period of no fewer than two and no more than six years. You must also pass the ASWB clinical exam, which costs $260. Finally, you must pay a $115 application fee.
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FAQS
Full-time MSW programs typically take two years to complete online, while part-time MSW programs can take two and a half years to four years to complete.
However, Students with a BSW can complete an advanced standing MSW in as few as 12 months.
The Differences between online and on-campus MSW programs depend on the university. Most of the time, an online program is exactly the same as it’s the on-campus counterpart.
Students without BSW can still apply for if they meet the university requirement. Basically,
MSW admissions program requirements include a bachelor’s degree from an accredited school along with certain prerequisite courses, minimum GPA, and standard application documents, such as a personal statement, undergraduate transcript, and letters of recommendation.
Typically a license depends on education specialization. Generally, professionals with a master’s can become a Licensed Master of Social Work (LMSW) or become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). MSWs can also earn certifications in hospice and palliative care and as school specialists.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, Social workers are on the front lines in counseling, mental health, substance abuse, child welfare, and crisis response. Through advanced training and development, you will gain expertise in the area of your focus.
So, since social work is a popular career field, obtaining an online master’s degree in the area will enable you to stand out in a competitive field.
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