Social workers play an important role in our society. These professionals guide and assist people with various challenges in their day-to-day lives. They offer mental health services, respond to crisis situations in families, and connect people to resources like food stamps and childcare.
Social workers make an annual median salary of $50,470, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Additionally, the BLS projects careers in social work to grow 13% between 2019-2029 — much faster than average.
To qualify for jobs in this field, aspiring social workers need to earn a master’s of social work (MSW). Students can enroll in either two-year, traditional, on-campus programs, or they can choose a master’s in social work online. Distance learning programs usually offer more flexibility and convenience, which allow students to study at their own pace. Online MSW programs can also be a good option for learners with full-time jobs or family responsibilities.
University of Central Florida
UCF offers two affordable masters of social work online programs accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). Degree-seekers who hold non-social work bachelor’s degrees can enroll in the 62-credit, part-time program, which is delivered in a three-year cohort format. Students with a bachelor of social work degrees from CSWE-accredited programs can qualify for the 32-credit advanced standing track. This option, also delivered in a part-time cohort format, takes 18-24 months to complete.
Both tracks emphasize diverse client populations, family practice, and preventive and therapeutic interventions. Students enroll in one class per term that runs for seven weeks. In addition to online coursework, the curriculum requires a capstone project, a comprehensive exam, and 600 hours of practicum experience. Distance learners may arrange to complete their practicum experiences within an hour’s drive of their home communities.
UCF provides online students with online coaches who guide them through the program and keep them on track for graduation.