An online bachelor's in social work (BSW) program trains students for a range of entry-level employment opportunities in the field, while master's and doctoral programs prepare graduates for clinical social work. Both online BSW degrees and online master's in social work (MSW) programs allow students to obtain practical experience through a practicum or internship while they're in school. Master's degree holders with at least two years of clinical experience can pursue their state-issued license to practice social work in a clinical setting.Ideal candidates for an online social work degree are interested in pursuing advocacy on behalf of underrepresented and disadvantaged people. They should be sympathetic and sensitive to the needs of others, with an interest in justice and a desire to make a better world.
Online Social Work Degree Overview
| Degree Level | Average Cost | Loan Default Rate | Time Commitment | Early Career Pay | Mid-Career Pay | Unemployment Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Associate | $6,396 | 22.76% | 2 years | $25,400 | $33,300 | 9% |
| Bachelor's | $15,188 | 9.06% | 4 years | $33,200 | $45,700 | 5% |
| Master's | $19,529 | 6.91% | 1+ years | $42,600 | $58,200 | 4% |
Pursuing an online social work degree can be rewarding at any level of study, and MSW programs tend to have the best financial ROI among online social work degrees. While the average degree cost is higher than for associate and bachelor's programs, MSW graduates stand to earn a higher average salary, with lower unemployment and default rates. Additionally, students enrolled in MSW online programs can gain the professional experience and training needed to qualify for licensing or credentials in their state.
Online Social Work Degrees
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| Career | Median Salary | Projected Growth | 2014 Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rehabilitation Counselor | $40,763 | 9% | 120100 |
| School Counselor | $53,370 | 8% | 273400 |
| Substance Abuse Counselor | $39,270 | 22% | 94900 |
| Health Educator | $42,580 | 13% | 115700 |
| Social Worker | $45,500 | 12% | 649300 |
Online Social Work Professional Requirements
Most states require non-clinical social workers to obtain certification, and all states require clinical social workers to have a license to practice in their state; specific rules and regulations vary between states. The Association of Social Work Boards oversees four categories of social work exams for licensure: bachelor's, master's, advanced generalist, and clinical. Each test was developed by licensed professionals according to a universal set of qualifiers spanning a variety of practical applications and settings in social work. Prospective licensees should consult the ASWB for state credentialing information.
Bachelor's Social Work Exam
The bachelor's exam comprises four major subject areas of social work: (1) human development, diversity and behavior in the environment; (2) assessment; (3) direct and indirect practice and professional relationships; (4) values and ethics. The structure of this exam is designed to test the candidate's general knowledge of broad social work concepts, along with professional competencies and knowledge, and skills and abilities statements (KSAs). The test focuses on acute development of introductory concepts and assessment techniques.
Master's Social Work Exam
The master's in social work exam tests the candidate's broad understanding of social work concepts, professional competencies and knowledge, and KSAs. The exam for master's students is organized into similar categories as the bachelor's exam (human development, diversity and behavior in the environment, assessment and intervention planning, direct and indirect practice and professional relationships, and values and ethics) though this test requires a rigorous understanding of treatment and intervention in action and direct practice techniques.
Advanced Generalist Exam
The broadest test, the advanced generalist exam features categories similar to the bachelor's and master's exams, but with a primary focus on professional relationships, values, and ethics. Additionally, the exam does not explore any one speciality in the field deeply, but instead tests the candidate's general knowledge of human development, diversity and behavior in the environment, micro assessment and planning, micro practice and social work relationships, and macro practice. The advanced generalist exam is intended for candidates aspiring to obtain licensure in their state for a niche or entry-level job in social work. This credential may qualify candidates for employment in a range of professional settings.
Clinical Exam
Clinical social workers are responsible for using advanced diagnostic and treatment methods, and the clinical exam helps evaluate the candidate's acute abilities in assessment, diagnosis and treatment planning, psychotherapy, clinical interventions, and case management. The exam also tests human development, diversity, and behavior in the environment (exploring the entire lifecycle) as well as professional ethics and values, including potential conflicts that may arise in this area.
Advanced Practice Specialty and Professional Social Work Credentials
Speciality credentials are available in a variety of areas to social workers who have already obtained state licensure and are otherwise qualified to legally practice social work. Advanced Practice Specialty Credentials (APSC) are aimed at social workers in individual areas of expertise, including treating a particular demographic (e.g. military, youth, and families) or providing specialized health care (e.g. addictions or hospice and palliative social work services). Other professional social work credentials such as the Academy of Certified Social Workers (ACSW) and the Diplomate of Clinical Social Work (DCSW) are exclusive to those who are members of the NASW. Speciality credentials vary according to state licensure laws and regulations.