Master of Social Work (Online MSW)
Promote Meaningful Change as You Advance in Social Work
100% Online Courses
Hands-On Field Experiences
One of the Best Schools for Social Work1
CSWE-Accredited
Request More Information
Complete this form to receive information about coursework, admissions, tuition, and more.
- Duration 2-3 years
- Cost per Credit $980
- Credit Hours 57
Program Benefits
- Regular and Advanced Standing options
- Earn an optional Trauma Certificate
- No GRE/GMAT requirement
- No on-site residencies
- Transfer up to nine credits
Focus on Trauma to Enhance Your Support for Clients
Trauma is often a root cause of mental health challenges. In the online Master of Social Work program from Widener University, you’ll prepare to help children, adults, and families overcome the effects of trauma while delivering evidence-based services that make a difference in their lives.
Our faculty members are social workers who tailor the online courses and field experiences to the needs of busy professionals. Their mentorship and collaboration foster a high-value experience — in fact, we offer one of the top-ranked online MSW programs in Pennsylvania, according to Social Work Guide.2
Available MSW Tracks and Graduate Certificate
Explore the tracks available for our online social work graduate degree program, along with an optional certificate.
What You Learn at Widener Can Change Lives
Regular Standing: 19 Courses
Advanced Standing: 12 Courses
Earning your MSW online at Widener could be a turning point in your career and for people in your community. The online courses shine a light on how trauma causes long-lasting challenges, preparing you to help individuals overcome its effects. We offer an Advanced Standing track for students with a CSWE-accredited BSW and a Regular Standing track for students with bachelor’s degrees in other fields. Each option includes hands-on field experiences and delivers qualifications for attaining social work licensure in most states after acquiring your master’s in social work online.
Course Highlights
- Clinical Social Work Practice with Families
- Social and Economic Justice I and II
- Social Work Practice with Children and Adolescents
- Treating Trauma
An Admissions Process That Works for You
Application Deadline 04/25/25
Start Date 05/19/2025
At Widener, you’ll discover a supportive admissions process for beginning the online Master of Social Work program. You can choose from three start dates each year, and there are no GRE/GMAT requirements. We accept up to nine transfer credits and offer Advanced Standing admission to eligible students, accelerating the time it takes to complete the online master’s degree program.
| Online Application Form | Apply Now. |
|---|---|
| Degree | Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited university. A CSWE-accredited BSW earned within the last six years is required for those applying to the Advanced Standing option. |
| Minimum GPA | An undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0.* For Advanced Standing applicants, you must also show a minimum 3.3 GPA in your major courses. |
| Transcripts | Official college transcripts from each school you’ve attended |
| Statement of purpose | Your statement of purpose will consist of four to six pages, detailing your personal background, career objectives, and a personal evaluation |
| Two letters of recommendation | Two letters of recommendation are required for Regular Standing applicants. Advanced Standing applicants must provide one letter from a BSW field instructor or field director. |
| Résumé | Required |
| International students | TOEFL score of 95 or higher |
*Conditional admission is available to applicants if their GPA is below 3.0 and they show potential to complete the program.
Admission DetailsTuition for the Online MSW Degree
Regular Standing: $55,860
Advanced Standing: $35,280
Tuition Calculator Calculate your costs for attending Widener
We designed our CSWE-accredited online MSW program to provide a quality learning experience that leads to a rewarding career. Our program managers can share opportunities to make your education cost-effective, including financial aid and tuition savings for military students through the Yellow Ribbon program. Be sure to ask your human resources team if your organization offers tuition reimbursement benefits — it’s a way to lower your out-of-pocket tuition costs considerably.
Tuition Details“Being an online MSW student has been a wonderful experience. I have been able to connect with faculty and other online students all over the country. The online students are able to have the same learning experience as the on-campus students. The technology used is top notch.”
– Melissa Fisher, Online Master of Social Work Graduate
Acquire Social Work Skills That Set You Apart
It’s an excellent time to pursue your MSW degree online at Widener, as demand for social workers is outpacing most occupations.3 Through our online program, you’ll gain the skills needed to leap from entry-level to advanced positions in specialized areas, including clinical and medical social work, trauma-informed therapy, children’s services, and more. Plus, access valuable career services to search for open roles, prepare for interviews, and negotiate your salary.
Explore CareersWhat You’ll Learn
Our online Master of Social Work provides training for engaging in trauma-informed practice, with an understanding of each client’s history and how to deliver resources that will assist them. The program imparts advanced assessment, intervention, and evaluation skills backed by policy knowledge, transforming you into an effective advocate for those in need.
Program Outcomes
- Dedicate yourself to the attainment of social and economic justice for the betterment of poor, vulnerable, and oppressed individuals, families, groups, and communities.
- Demonstrate care and compassion for clients from diverse cultural, social, and economic backgrounds.
- Hold an unwavering belief in client strengths, client empowerment, and the importance of the helping relationship.
Learn From Faculty Who Excel as Practitioners and Educators
Widener’s instructors understand where you want to go in your career and provide mentorship for getting there. We have professional experience across the social work field, helping us deliver skills for sparking positive change in your community. Here, you can forge important relationships focusing on your success — both as a student and social work practitioner.
Carly King, Director of the Online MSW Program
Faculty Spotlight: Carly King, MSSW, LSW — Director of the Online MSW Program
A Baltimore area native, Carly King is a licensed social worker who has resided in Philadelphia for more than 17 years. She has professional experience across child welfare programs and a special interest in prevention work, addressing needs within adoption communities and working with older youth in care. In her administrative role, she supports and witnesses emerging social work professionals on their journey as students in the online master’s in social work program.
Education
- MSSW, Policy Practice: Columbia University (NY)
- BA in Psychology: Temple University (PA)
Professional Affiliations & Memberships
- National Association of Social Workers (NASW-PA)
Faculty Spotlight: Jill M. Butler — Director of Field Education, Professor
Born and raised as a true Philadelphian, Jill Butler has more than 20 years of practical and administrative experience in the social work field. She has worked with adults, children, and their families from diverse backgrounds and within settings ranging from foster care, education, medical, and residential treatment to inpatient hospitalization. A graduate of Widener’s MSW, she is now a professor and Director of Field Education at the Center for Social Work Education.
Education
- MSW: Widener University (PA)
- MS in Criminal Justice: West Chester University (PA)
Professional Affiliations & Memberships
- National Association of Black Social Workers
Jill M. Butler, Director of Field Education, Professor
Online Courses. Tangible Connections.
Experience the connections and community found on Widener’s campus from anywhere. As an online student, you will engage other aspiring students through discussion boards and group projects, accessing opportunities to build your professional network. While completing courses in a convenient format, you will acquire knowledge and skills for becoming a force for good throughout your career.
- Get support from your personal student services coordinator
- Access course materials anytime using your laptop or mobile device
- Learn from a faculty of practitioners and nationally recognized experts
- Gain experience via hands-on learning and career preparation
- Become part of a diverse community of social work professionals
Become an Advocate for Change at Widener
Widener’s Center for Social Work Education empowers you to provide impactful support to diverse populations in your community. Our dedicated faculty mentors engage you through social work experiences that align with diverse career goals, whether you want to advance as a generalist or clinical social worker. We encourage and celebrate the unique traits of each student, fostering growth as a practitioner ready for career advancement. In 2024, Widener was ranked among the Best Schools of Social Work by U.S. News & World Report.
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore our frequently asked questions for in-depth answers. If you don’t find what you’re looking for, reach out to us.
The regular admission Master’s in Social Work program consists of 57 credit hours. Students pursuing their MSW while continuing with their careers may complete the program in just over three years taking courses part-time during the fall, spring, and summer semesters. Those who hold an undergraduate degree in social work may qualify to complete the program in just two years (part-time) through the 36-credit hour Advanced Standing Program.
Yes, students who earned an undergraduate degree in social work within the last six years may qualify for the 36-credit hour Advanced Standing admission option and can complete the Master’s in Social Work program in just two years.
Students take courses part-time for both programs concurrently and can complete the dual degree program in 3 years.
The fieldwork practicum is designed to expand your professional social work perspective beyond your current experience. Students may be able to fulfill the field requirements of the program through his or her place of employment. The field director will work with the student and the agency to develop a field plan that clearly differentiates the student’s field placement from the job responsibilities.
Yes, Widener does help with finding field work. Students will work along with their field instructor to find the location and field experience of their choice. For more information, view our Field Experience page.
Wideners’ Master’s in Social Work requires students work in a supervised social work setting for two days (sixteen hours) per week for a total of 1,010 hours in Field Instruction & Seminar I and II. After completing the first two field work courses, students will be able to complete the second half of their field instruction and must work in a supervised social work setting for three days (twenty-four hours) per week for a total of 560 hours in Field Instruction & Seminar III and IV. For more detailed information, view our Field Experience page.
No. However, online students are welcome to attend on-campus events of interest, including career fairs, recruiting opportunities, and graduation ceremonies.
The Master’s in Social Work consists of 57 credit hours at a cost of $943 per credit hour. Up to nine credits of previous graduate level courses may be transferred or up to 27 credits from a previous MSW, pending departmental approval.
The Master’s in Social Work Advanced Standing option consists of 36 credit hours at a cost of $943 per credit hour.
Our MSW/MEd in Human Sexuality Studies Dual Degree program consists of 98 credit hours: 19 MSW courses (57 credits) and 13 MEd courses (39 credits). The cost per credit hour varies depending on the type of course. MSW cost per credit hour is $943 and the MEd cost per credit hour is $860.
Widener University requires MSW candidates to meet a few basic and professional competencies. No GMAT or GRE required.
Candidates must have:
- An earned baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university
- An undergrad GPA of at least 3.0*
- TOEFL score of 75 or higher (For International Students Only)
- Applicants must submit a statement of purpose, two recommendation forms and official transcripts from every institution attended.
To learn more about the admission requirements or the statement of purpose, contact a Program Manager at 844-386-7321 or request more information.
*Conditional admission is available for those with GPAs below 3.0 who show potential to successfully complete the program.
In addition to the basic admission requirements, advanced standing applicants must have:
- A baccalaureate degree from a Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)–accredited social work program earned within six years from the date of matriculation.
- An overall GPA of 3.0 or better, and a GPA of 3.3 in the social work major.
- A letter of recommendation from the BSW field instructor or field director.
To learn more about the admissions requirements, contact a Program Manager at 844-386-7321 or request more information.
A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution of higher learning with a 3.0 GPA or higher and submission of scores from the Graduate Record Exam (GRE).
In addition to the basic requirements, students will need to submit the following:
- Official transcripts from all completed undergraduate and graduate programs
- Three letters of recommendation: two academic, one professional/volunteer
- A professional and personal goals statement
- An autobiographical essay
- Attendance of an Admissions Day (scheduled after receipt and review of completed application)
To learn more about the admissions requirements or the personal goals statement, contact a Program Manager at 844-386-7321 or request more information.
No. Candidates eligible for the Master’s in Social Work are not required to have completed any professional requirements.
However, many of our applicants have backgrounds in fields such as:
- Human services
- Education
- Counseling
- Therapy
- Clinical social work
No. Candidates eligible for the Hybrid MSW/MEd are not required to have completed any professional requirements.
Yes, graduates of Widener University’s online masters in social work are fully prepared and eligible to sit for the Licensed Social Worker (LSW) exam. And, after two years of supervised clinical practice, graduates may sit for the Licensed Clinical Social Work (LCSW) exam.**
Students graduate with a clinical specialization in human sexuality with eligibility for American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists (AASECT) certification.
The MSW program is an online program with all courses being offered online. The MEd program is a hybrid program with most classes offered on the weekends. Some of the MEd classes have online components where students may be required to blog, participate in message boards, and online modules.
H/MSW/MEd Human Sexuality Studies degree students are automatically enrolled in the Sex Therapy track. The Sex Education track is not available for dual degree students.
The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) has accredited Widener University’s online masters in social work.
Yes, Financial Aid is available for undergraduate or graduate students primarily in the form of federal loans. To apply, complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Widener University’s FAFSA code is 003313.
Employer tuition reimbursement arrangements are available to qualified students with employer documentation.
Widener participates in educational benefit programs offered through the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs and the Yellow Ribbon Program, and offers matching tuition assistance to eligible undergraduate and graduate students. Additionally, Montgomery GI Bill® and Post 9-11 Bill benefit programs are available to qualified veterans.
Once you request information, a Program Manager will be assigned to assist you with your research and your admissions file. Upon acceptance, you will have a designated Student Services Coordinator to assist you throughout your program.
The MSW program offers three sessions per year to allow you the greatest flexibility and convenience. View our full academic calendar here. The MSW/MEd dual degree program is offered once a year in the fall. Request information or contact a Program Manager for the next session date.
No, at Widener we welcome students from all backgrounds. The requirement is to have a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited university. Only students looking to pursue the Advanced Standing admission option must hold a BSW.
Yes, for the Regular MSW admission option, with department approval, you may potentially transfer in up to 27 graduate credits from an accredited MSW program or up to 9 graduate credits from a related master’s degree.
If you have earned a Bachelor of Social work from a CSWE-accredited institution within the last six years, you are eligible to apply for the Advanced Standing option, which allows you to waive seven courses from the MSW curriculum.
We review applications on a rolling basis throughout the year. Please call us at 844-386-7321 to talk to a Program Manager who can help you get started, or request more information.
Scholarships are not offered at this time.
Tuition for the Master’s in Social Work program is $53,751. You need to complete 57 credits at $943 each. You can review all tuition costs here.
You should expect additional costs for textbooks, supplies, personal expenses, or loan fees. You can learn more about all tuition fees here.
Widener University requires MSW candidates to meet a few basic and professional competencies. No GMAT or GRE required. Candidates must have:
- An earned baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university
- An undergrad GPA of at least 3.0*
- TOEFL score of 75 or higher (For International Students Only)
- Applicants must submit a statement of purpose, two recommendation forms and official transcripts from every institution attended.
To learn more about the admission requirements or the statement of purpose, contact a Program Manager at 844-386-7321 or request more information.
*Conditional admission is available for those with GPAs below 3.0 who show potential to successfully complete the program.
The first step is to start your online application.
No, prior work experience is not required. You can learn more about our admissions policy here as some individuals may qualify for advanced standing.
Yes, the Master’s in Social Work program accepts up to nine credits of previous graduate level courses may be transferred or up to 27 credits from a previous MSW, pending departmental approval. You can learn more about our admissions policy here.
Up to nine credits of previous graduate level courses may be transferred or up to 27 credits from a previous MSW, pending departmental approval. You can learn more about our admissions policy here.
You’ll need a minimum GPA of 3.0 to apply to the program. You can learn more about our admissions policy here.
The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) has accredited Widener University’s online Masters in social work.
The cost per credit hour is $943.
The regular admission Master’s in Social Work program consists of 57 credit hours. Students pursuing their MSW while continuing with their careers may complete the program in just over three years if taking courses part-time during the fall, spring, and summer semesters. Those who hold an undergraduate degree in social work may qualify to complete the program in just two years (part-time) through the 36-credit hour Advanced Standing Program.
You have 5 years to complete the program.
The online program is designed for professionals who work full-time and is only offered part-time. To review the courses, visit the Curriculum page here.
Designed for professionals who work full time, the online Master of Social Work is available in a part-time format with two classes every eight weeks. This schedule helps with balancing your work, school, and personal responsibilities and gives you the opportunity to absorb the information in your coursework. To review the courses, visit the Curriculum page.
An MSW is a versatile degree. Upon graduation, you can pursue a variety of in-demand careers as a clinical social worker. Explore career options here.
Those who hold a Master of Social Work often pursue career titles such as Clinical Social Worker. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for data scientists in 2023 was $58,380. Learn more about your career options by visiting our Career’s page.
You’ll complete 57 credits to earn the Master’s in Social Work degree. You can review the courses here.
You’ll complete eighteen courses to earn the Master’s in Social Work degree. You can learn more about coursework for this program here.
The online MDS program does not offer any specializations. However, you may customize your education by choosing elective courses based on your professional interests. You can learn more about coursework for this program here.
The MSW program is only available online. This allows you to study in the times and locations that are best for you throughout your entire program without a requirement of ever coming to campus.
The online Master of Social Work has been offered for 10 years.
Our Advanced Standing track is available to applicants who completed a CSWE-accredited bachelor’s in social work in the last six years. The program includes 12 courses, comprised of core courses, advanced concentration courses, and two electives. Visit the Curriculum page to learn more.
Yes. The Regular Standing track takes an average of three years to complete. Meanwhile, the Advanced Standing track is an online MSW program that students with a CSWE-accredited Bachelor of Social Work can complete in two years.
We designed the Advanced Standing track for established social work practitioners wanting to complete an MSW program online. A CSWE-accredited BSW earned in the last six years is required. By contrast, the Regular Standing track is available to applicants with a bachelor’s degree in any field from a regionally accredited university. Visit the Admissions page for more details.
Yes. Tuition for the Advanced Standing track is $35,280, compared to $55,860 for the Regular Standing track. For more details, visit the Tuition page.
We’re here to provide valuable information as you look for the right online Master of Social Work program for you. Review these frequently asked questions to learn about the program duration, tuition, career opportunities, and more. You’re also invited to call 844-386-7321 or email SWAdmissions@widener.edu to discuss these topics further with a program manager.
We designed the online MSW for working professionals with busy lives. If something interrupts your normal course of study, you don’t have to worry about losing the courses you’ve completed. You can take up to five years to complete the degree. To review the courses, visit the Curriculum page.
The online program is designed for professionals who work full-time and is only offered part-time. To review the courses, visit the Curriculum page.
Designed for professionals who work full time, the online Master of Social Work is available in a part-time format with two classes every eight weeks. This schedule helps with balancing your work, school, and personal responsibilities and gives you the opportunity to absorb the information in your coursework. To review the courses, visit the Curriculum page.
Tuition for the online MSW program is $980 per credit hour. The Regular Standing track consists of 57 credit hours, compared to 36 credit hours for the Advanced Standing track. Review the complete program costs on the Tuition page.
The cost per credit for the online Master of Social Work is $980. Here is the total tuition for the two program options:
- Regular Standing (57 credit hours): $55,860
- Advanced Standing (36 credit hours): $35,280
Review all program costs on the Tuition page.
The online Master of Social Work program includes a $50 semester fee. Please visit the Tuition page for details about the costs associated with this program.
The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) has accredited Widener University’s online Master of Social Work.
In 2024, U.S. News & World Report ranked Widener University among the Best Schools for Social Work. According to Social Work Guide, our online Master of Social Work is one of the top programs in Pennsylvania, and the Social Work Degree Center recognized us for offering one of the 20 best CSWE-accredited online MSW programs.
No entrance exams are required for admission to the online Master of Social Work program. To review the complete application requirements, visit our Admissions page.
Take the first step by starting your application.
There are no professional requirements for the online Master of Social Work. Our applicants come from many career fields, including:
- Human services
- Education
- Counseling
- Therapy
- Clinical social work
To review the complete application requirements, visit our Admissions page.
Here are the GPA requirements for the Regular and Advanced Standing tracks:
- Regular Standing: Minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0
- Conditional admission is available to applicants if their GPA is below 3.0 and they show potential to complete the program
- Advanced Standing: Minimum GPA of 3.3 for your major courses and 3.0 for your other undergraduate courses
To review the complete application requirements, visit our Admissions page.
You’ll need to meet these admission requirements for the online Master of Social Work program:
- Baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university
- Minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0
- Conditional admission is available to applicants if their GPA is below 3.0 and they show potential to complete the program
- Statement of purpose
- Two letters of recommendation
- Official transcripts from every institution attended
- International students: TOEFL score of 75 or higher
The online MSW has no GMAT or GRE requirements. You can learn more on the Admissions page.
In addition to the basic admission requirements, Advanced Standing applicants must meet these requirements:
- Baccalaureate degree from a social work program with accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), earned within six years from the date of matriculation
- An overall GPA of 3.0 or better, and a GPA of 3.3 in the social work major
- Statement of purpose
- Two letters of recommendation; one letter must be from a BSW field instructor or field director
- Official transcripts from every institution attended
- International students: TOEFL score of 75 or higher
The online MSW has no GMAT or GRE requirements. You can learn more on the Admissions page.
No. At Widener, we welcome students from all backgrounds. You’ll need a bachelor’s degree in any field from a regionally accredited university to apply to the Regular Standing program. To apply to the Advanced Standing program, you’ll need a baccalaureate degree from a social work program with accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), earned within six years from the date of matriculation. Review the complete application requirements by visiting our Admissions page.
We designed the Master of Social Work to fit your life, with convenient online courses and three start dates in January, May, or August. To review the application requirements, visit our Admissions page.
You can watch previous sessions on our Virtual Open House page. Be sure to check that page for updates about future events.
Once you request information, a program manager will assist you with your research and admissions file. Upon acceptance, a student services coordinator will provide guidance throughout your program.
The number of credit hours varies based on whether you’re eligible for the Regular or Advanced Standing track:
- Regular Standing: 57 credit hours
- Advanced Standing: 36 credit hours
Review the Curriculum page for course information or visit the Admissions page to learn the admission requirements for each track.
The number of courses varies based on whether you’re eligible for the Regular or Advanced Standing track:
- Regular Standing: 19 courses
- Advanced Standing: 12 courses
Review the Curriculum page for course information or visit the Admissions page to learn the admission requirements for each track.
The online Master of Social Work does not include concentrations or specializations. That said, you can pursue an optional Trauma Certificate while seeking your MSW online. To review the course details, visit the Curriculum page.
In the Master of Social Work program, you will complete each course online. This format allows you to study when and where you prefer without on-campus requirements. The program also includes field experiences, enabling you to apply what you learned in an agency setting.
The online Master of Social Work includes no on-site residencies. That said, we invite you to visit campus for career fairs, graduation ceremonies, and other events.
During this program, you’ll work in a supervised social work setting for two days (16 hours) per week for a total of 450 hours during the Field Instruction I/II & Seminar course. After completing those requirements, you can complete the second half of your field instruction by working in a supervised social work setting for three days (24 hours) per week for a total of 560 hours in the Field Instruction III/IV & Seminar course. For additional information, please visit our Field Experiences page.
Yes, we can assist with finding a setting for your fieldwork. Students will work with their field instructor to find the location and field experience of their choice. For more information, view our Field Experiences page.
Yes, we can assist with finding a setting for your fieldwork. Students will work with their field instructor to find the location and field experience of their choice. For more information, view our Field Experiences page.
Most of the faculty in the online MSW program are tenured. They stay current on the needs and news of the industry and educate the next generation of social workers to make a difference in their communities.
Widener University has offered the Master of Social Work program online since 2014.
Our dual master’s degree is offered once a year with a start date in the fall.
You can watch previous sessions on our Virtual Open House page. Be sure to check that page for updates about future events.
Our dual master’s degree includes 98 – 101 credit hours and allows for an optional MSW or MEd clinical course. The MSW component includes 51 – 54 credit hours, and the MEd component includes 47 – 50 credit hours. Review the Curriculum page.
You’ll complete 34 – 35 courses to complete our dual master’s degree program, with the option to take an additional MSW or MEd clinical course. Visit the Curriculum page to review the course descriptions.
Our dual master’s degree program does not include concentrations or specializations. Review the Curriculum page for details about the courses.
In our MSW component of this program, you’ll complete each course online. The MEd component is a hybrid program with most classes offered on the weekends. Some of the MEd classes have online components where students may be required to blog and participate in message boards and online modules. This program also includes field experiences and practicum courses.
In this dual master’s degree program, you’ll automatically enroll in the Sex Therapy track. The Sex Education track is not available for dual degree students.
Complete this dual master’s degree to get on track for careers in social work, counseling, therapy, and education. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of counselors, social workers, and other community and social service specialists is projected to grow 9% from 2023 to 2033. Additionally, the MEd component of this program provides training on how to become a sex therapist with preparation for meeting AASECT certification requirements. Visit our Careers page to explore additional outcomes.
By completing this dual master’s degree program, you’ll gain qualifications for meeting the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists (AASECT) certification requirements and sitting for the Licensed Social Work (LSW) exam in most states. After two years of supervised clinical practice, graduates may sit for the Licensed Clinical Social Work (LCSW) exam. Note that requirements vary by state — check the licensure details to learn more.
Students graduate with a clinical specialization in human sexuality with eligibility for American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists (AASECT) certification. To learn more, visit the Certification and licensure page.
In the sex therapy field, clinicians work with clients to address issues and empower clients on all topics related to sexuality. In our MSW/MEd dual degree program, you can prepare to enter this field and work to become an AASECT-certified sex therapist after graduation. To learn more, visit the Certification and licensure page.
Sex therapists work with diverse populations to address sensitive issues involving sexuality. According to Payscale, the average sex therapist salary is $59,425 per year. For additional outcomes for the MSW/MEd dual degree program, visit our Careers page.
Students take courses for the MSW and MEd degrees concurrently, with the option to complete the part-time program in three years.
We designed this dual master’s degree for working professionals with busy lives. If something interrupts your normal course of study, you don’t have to worry about losing the courses you’ve completed. You can take up to five years to complete the degree. To review the courses, visit the Curriculum page.
The online program is designed for professionals who work full-time and is only offered part-time. To review the courses, visit the Curriculum page.
Designed for professionals who work full time, this dual master’s degree is available in a part-time format with two classes every eight weeks. This schedule helps with balancing your work, school, and personal responsibilities while providing room for fully absorbing the course information. To review the courses, visit the Curriculum page.
This dual master’s degree consists of 98 – 101 credit hours, which includes an optional MSW or MEd clinical course. The MSW portion includes 51 – 54 credit hours at $980 per credit, and the MEd component includes 47 – 50 credit hours at $855 per credit. Review the complete program costs on the Tuition page.
Our financial aid team can guide you through opportunities for making the dual master’s degree cost-effective, including scholarships and grants. It’s also important to complete the FAFSA® to determine your eligibility for financial aid. When you complete the FAFSA, enter Widener University’s school code: 003313. Visit the Tuition and aid page to review all costs for the Master of Social Work/Master of Education in Human Sexuality Studies program.
We review applications on a rolling basis throughout the year — you can even apply now. To review the complete application requirements, visit our Admissions page.
To apply, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution of higher learning with a 3.0 GPA or higher. Additionally, conditional admission is available to applicants if their GPA is below 3.0 and they show potential to complete the program. You can learn more on our Admissions page.
To apply to our dual master’s degree program, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution of higher learning with a 3.0 GPA or higher.
Additional admission requirements include:
- Official college transcripts from each school you’ve attended
- Statement of purpose
- Two letters of recommendation
- Résumé
You can learn more on our Admissions page.
No, the dual master’s degree does not follow a cohort model. You may take courses in the order you choose, as long as the prerequisites are met. To review the course details, visit the Curriculum page.
We offer this dual master’s degree program in a hybrid format. While all MSW courses are offered online, you’ll complete the MEd in Human Sexuality Studies through a blend of online and campus-based courses. The program also includes field experiences, enabling you to apply what you learned in an agency setting.
This dual master’s degree includes no on-site residencies. That said, we invite you to visit campus for career fairs, graduation ceremonies, and other events.
Our dual master’s degree includes MSW field experiences and MEd practicum courses. Learn about these requirements by visiting our Field experiences page.
Most of the faculty in this program are tenured. They stay current on the needs and news of the industry and educate the next generation of social workers to make a difference in their communities.
If you’re interested in advancing as a social worker or entering this field, it is worth it. Our online Master of Social Work aligns with licensure requirements in many states and provides a solid clinical skillset to help you move beyond entry-level roles. Visit our Careers page to explore the Social Work, MSW outcomes.
Here are the costs per credit hour for this dual master’s degree:
- Master of Social Work (51 – 54 credit hours): $980
- MEd in Human Sexuality Studies (47 – 50 credit hours): $855
The total tuition for this dual master’s degree is $96,040 – $97,020, depending on whether you take an optional MSW or MEd clinical course. Review all program costs on the Tuition page.
This dual master’s degree includes a $50 semester fee. Please visit the Tuition page for details about the costs associated with this program.
This dual master’s degree is offered by Widener University’s Center for Human Sexuality Studies and Center for Social Work, which is accredited by CSWE.
Admission to this dual master’s degree does not require GRE/GMAT scores. To review the complete application requirements, visit our Admissions page.
Start your application here to take the first step.
We offer a simple admission process for this dual master’s degree with no professional requirements. To review the complete application requirements, visit our Admissions page.
We accept up to nine graduate credits for the MSW courses in this dual master’s degree. To review the complete application requirements, visit our Admissions page.
By earning your Master of Social Work online at Widener University, you can prepare for social work roles in various sectors, including individual and family services, government, and education. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects social work employment will increase by 7% from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations. Visit our Careers page for additional Social Work, MSW outcomes.
Yes. Graduates of Widener University’s online Master of Social Work are fully prepared and eligible to sit for the licensed social worker (LSW) exam. After two years of supervised clinical practice, graduates may sit for the Licensed Clinical Social Work (LCSW) exam. Note that licensure requirements vary — be sure to check the requirements for your state.
Yes. Our online Master of Social Work program prepares you to sit for the Licensed Social Worker (LSW) exam in most states. After two years of supervised clinical practice, graduates may sit for the Licensed Clinical Social Work (LCSW) exam. Keep in mind that licensure requirements vary — be sure to check the requirements for your state.
Our program managers are here to assist with opportunities to make the online Trauma Recovery Certificate cost-effective. Although scholarships are unavailable for this program, you can pursue a variety of financial aid options, including the following:
- Complete the FAFSA® to determine financial aid eligibility. Our FAFSA code is 003313.
- Apply for a Sallie Mae loan.
For additional tuition details, visit the Program Overview page.
The online Trauma Recovery Certificate includes a $500 fee for the eight supervised seminars.
To begin the online Trauma Recovery Certificate program, you’ll need to have a current clinical placement or work in a professional setting. Visit the Program Overview page for additional admission requirements.
This online Trauma Recovery Certificate includes 12 credit hours. Visit the Program Overview page to learn more about each course.
You’ll complete four courses to earn your Trauma Recovery Certificate online. During the program, you’ll learn to engage in trauma-informed practice with an understanding of human behavior, trauma treatments, and best practices for clinical social work. Visit the Program Overview page for additional details.
The online Trauma Recovery Certificate does not include concentrations or specializations. All students complete four courses that delve into the treatment of trauma, human behavior, and clinical social work topics. To review the courses, visit the Program Overview page.
According to the Trauma-Informed Care Implementation Resource Center, committing to transparency is essential to building trust with clients. It’s also important to conduct proper assessments to understand the root cause of trauma and identify the proper treatment. To learn how the online Trauma Recovery Certificate prepares you to support individuals affected by trauma, visit the Program Overview page.
The online Trauma Recovery Certificate program prepares you to become a trauma social worker, rehabilitation counselor, and trauma-informed therapist. The courses also explore the treatment of traumatic symptomatology, making the program appeal to professionals interested in learning how to become a trauma counselor. Learn more about your career options by visiting the Careers page.
By earning this graduate certificate online, you can grow as a trauma-informed social worker through courses that explore human behavior, the treatment of trauma, and best practices for clinical social work. However, the program does not confer social work trauma certification, trauma counselor certification, or other professional certifications in trauma. To learn more about the program, visit the Program Overview page.
Sources
- U.S. News & World Report. “Best Schools for Social Work.” Retrieved August 20, 2024, from https://www.usnews.com/best-graduate-schools/top-health-schools/social-work-rankings.
- Social Work Guide. “Pennsylvania – Featured Online Programs in Social Work.” Retrieved August 20, 2024, from https://www.socialworkguide.org/schools/pennsylvania/.
- Bureau of Labor Statistics. U.S. Department of Labor. Occupational Outlook Handbook. “Social Workers.” Retrieved August 20, 2024, from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/social-workers.htm.