Explore accelerated online MSW programs

Looking to develop your career with an accelerated MSW program? Learn more about graduate education for social work majors.

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A group of social workers shares a group hug before an outdoor community event.

Why earn an accelerated online MSW?

Save time

Accelerated MSW programs can help you finish your degree faster and spend less time in school.

Save on tuition

Many programs let you save on tuition costs by taking fewer courses and graduating in fewer semesters.

Find a job faster

An accelerated program can help you enter the workforce sooner and potentially start earning money faster.

If you have a social work background and want to quickly advance your career, an accelerated master's in social work (MSW) can be a great option. can also give you the flexibility to earn a degree without relocating or quitting your current job. Learn more about accelerated MSW programs, including admissions requirements, career outcomes, and answers to common questions.

See all accelerated online MSW programs

Prestigious

An immersive cohort-based learning experience that is designed to optimize learning outcomes and ensure global networking opportunities.

Flexible

Choose your path with a range of completion options and class times.

Equivalent to on-campus

Earn the same degree and complete the same curriculum as on-campus students.

What is an accelerated MSW program?

An accelerated master of social work (MSW) is an intensive graduate social work program that lets you complete your studies faster than a traditional degree program. Most traditional MSW programs take two years to complete. Accelerated progams can be completed in 12 to 16 months.

One type of accelerated MSW program is an advanced standing MSW. Advanced standing programs build on the knowledge gained in a bachelor's in social work (BSW) program, letting you skip introductory courses.

To apply to an advanced standing MSW, you need a BSW with accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education. These programs can be completed in as little as 9 to 12 months.

Accelerated MSW programs build advanced skills for social work practice, helping prepare you for leadership, counseling, and management roles. Common course topics often include:

Human behavior
Social welfare policy
Clinical practice
Social justice

Alongside core courses, you may also be able to specialize in one , such as addiction counseling or school social work. Nearly all programs also include a set number of practicum hours, in which you work at a social services organization under close supervision.

What can you do with an accelerated online MSW?

Accelerated MSW programs most commonly prepare you for a career as a licensed social worker or for careers in social work organizations and other social services agencies. However, social workers can find jobs in many different places, such as:

Schools
Hospitals
Mental health clinics
Hospices

Most jobs focus on either connecting clients to resources or providing counseling services.

Many advanced social work careers, especially clinical roles, require you to hold social work licensure. Requirements vary between states, but you always need to hold an accredited social work degree, complete a set number of practicum hours, and pass your state's licensing exam. Advanced standing MSW programs often lead directly to social work licensure.

Most MSW graduates end up in social work, but the degree can also prepare you for other related careers, including:

Family therapist
Community organizer
Substance use counselor

How much can you make with an accelerated MSW?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that social workers of all types earned an annual median salary of $58,380 in 2023. However, salaries vary by area of social work and field of employment. The BLS projects jobs for all social workers to grow by 7% from 2023 to 2033, which is faster than the national average.

Some of the highest-paid social workers work in healthcare fields. These professionals earned a median annual salary of $62,940 as of May 2023. Social workers employed in local government also earn higher wages, with an annual median salary of $64,550 as of May 2023. The BLS reports the top 10% of social workers earned more than $94,910 during the same time period.

Frequently asked questions

What are the admissions requirements for an accelerated MSW program?

All accelerated MSW programs require you to hold at least a bachelor's degree. Most programs require you to hold a bachelor's in social work and/or have professional experience in the field to enter with advanced standing. Most programs also call for letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a résumé.

Can you work while earning an accelerated MSW online?

While it's possible to work while earning an accelerated MSW, the fast pace and heavy course load can make it difficult to work full-time. When compared to a traditional program, however, the flexibility of online coursework may help you balance your studies with part-time or even full-time employment. If you're concerned about taking on too much, talk to prospective programs about options for working students.

How many credits are required in an accelerated online MSW?

Credit requirements vary widely among accelerated MSW programs, but you can expect to complete anywhere from 36 to 63 credits to earn your degree. Advanced standing programs, which require you to hold a bachelor's in social work, usually include fewer credits than traditional programs.

Is an accelerated MSW worth it?

Accelerated MSW programs can be a great option if you want to reduce your time in school and find a job as soon as possible. If you already have a bachelor's in social work, an accelerated program can greatly reduce your required credits and practicum hours, saving you both time and money.