Online Master of Social Work (MSW)

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Social work focuses on helping individuals, families, groups, communities, and organizations from a holistic perspective. The field was born out of an increased sense of social responsibility toward vulnerable populations and continues to advance economic and social justice.

At Regis College, one of our core values is “Love and service of the Dear Neighbor without distinction.” We believe that all social workers are called to support people in need; this is why we’ve created an accessible degree that empowers you to make an impact.

Our online MSW program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). It has been designed for those interested in growing in their current role, including earning licensure, as well as those interested in a new career in social work.

The Regis College MSW program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).

Calendar

Min. Length:
32 months (Traditional)
16 Months (Advanced)
Total Credits:
60 (Traditional)
30 (Advanced)

Application Deadlines:
Summer: 4/4/2024

Upcoming Start Dates:
Summer: 4/29/2024

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3 start times a year

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Apply with no GRE

Complete in 4 to 8 semesters

A requirement for the licensure exam*

Advanced and Traditional Tracks

The MSW program at Regis College prepares students to become an integral part of the social service delivery system and practice as clinical social workers employing evidence-based models for individuals, families, and groups.

*Because each state has its own regulations and requirements that are always evolving, it is critical to contact your state’s licensing board for current information on licensure.

Get Curriculum Info

Benefits of Pursuing a Master of Social Work Online

Earning your online Master of Social Work from Regis can be a crucial step toward advancing your career and making a greater impact in your community. Our flexible online program was built to fit into your busy life, with the only in-person requirement stemming from field education that can help you develop the real-world skills for success. The program can help equip you with the skills, connections, and confidence to serve as a social work leader.

Two Ways to Earn Your Online MSW

The online MSW is open to students of all backgrounds, whatever their bachelor’s degree. The part-time program can be completed in as little as 16 or 32 months, depending on your existing status. See below to find out which track is right for you.

An accountant works on a computer while sitting at her desk.

Traditional Track

  • For students with a non-social work bachelor’s degree
  • 60 credits
  • Graduate in as few as 32 months

Advanced Standing Track

  • For students with a BSW degree (earned within 6 years of application to our MSW program)
  • 30 credits
  • Graduate in as few as 16 months

*Students following the course carousel will be registered for an average of 6 -9 credit hours per semester. Please note that students must be registered for a minimum of 6 credit hours per semester to be eligible for federal financial aid.

Online MSW Career Paths

Earning your online MSW prepares you for a career of purpose. Job titles that our graduates hold include the following*:

School and Career Counselors and Advisors

Median Annual Salary (2021): $60,510

Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors

Median Annual Salary (2021): $48,520

Social Workers

Median Annual Salary (2021): $50,390

Health Education Specialists and Community Health Workers

Median Annual Salary (2021): $48,860

Correctional Treatment Specialists

Median Annual Salary (2021): $60,250

*Salary data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

In settings such as:

  • Schools and universities
  • Therapy clinics
  • Prisons and correctional facilities
  • Mobile response crisis teams
  • Hospitals
  • Rehabilitation facilities

What Is the Typical MSW Salary?

The median annual salary for individuals who hold an MSW was about $58,000 in 2022*. However, the salary range can vary widely depending on factors such as geographic location and occupation.

*Payscale.com, December 2022

Master of Social Work Job Outlook

The demand for quality social workers remains high and is only expected to grow in the coming years. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), demand for social workers will increase by 9% between 2021 and 2031, adding more than 60,000 new jobs. There’s also high demand for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors, with the BLS projecting 22% growth between 2021 and 2031.

Why Choose Regis for Your Master’s in Social Work?

Regis’ online MSW program is flexible, accessible, and meets you where you are. Whether you’re a career advancer or a career changer, we can help you develop the skills you need to earn licensure and make an impact. Our expert, field-experienced faculty will work closely with you to understand your goals and give you the guidance and instruction to graduate in a timely fashion.

MSW Programs Online: No GRE

At Regis, we believe that your work experience and existing educational credentials can tell us more than any standardized test. That’s why we don’t require a GRE for admittance into the online MSW program.

Online MSW Program Curriculum

The online MSW program offers two tracks: a 60-credit Traditional track for non-BSW students, and a 30-credit Advanced Standing track for students who have already earned a BSW from a CSWE-accredited program in the past five years. Students who earned their BSW more than five years ago may still apply for Advanced Standing; the MSW program director will review all requests.

The Traditional track of our online MSW is broken into two segments. Students will develop a strong foundation in generalist practice in the first half of the program, and specialize in clinical social work in the second half. Explore the full course list at our curriculum page.

The program also includes an experiential learning component with a field placement requirement (480 hours/Traditional; 600 hours/Advanced Standing).*

*Similar to other MSW programs, the Regis MSW curriculum may include up to 1,080 hours of fieldwork to ensure that licensure requirements are met.

Our Community

We’re a student-centered MSW program. In our online environment, our students have many opportunities to get involved and work collaboratively to form a strong network of students and faculty.

Explore Our Community

Hear What Our Students Are Saying:

MSW student Lesley head shot

“The faculty is great, instructors are great, the design of the program is great. This program isn’t just an educational program, it is a family. Rest assured you will get the most out of your education and develop skills you didn’t even know you had.”

– Lesley Ayala, online MSW student

Student Testimonials

Admission Requirements

  • Current resume that includes educational, work, and volunteer history
  • Official academic transcripts
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • Program director reserves the right to request an interview

Traditional Track Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution
  • 3.0 cumulative GPA (preferred)

Advanced Track Requirements

  • BSW from a CSWE-accredited program
  • 3.0 GPA in social work classes in a BSW program

Prior to fieldwork placement, applicants will undergo a criminal background check, the results of which may affect a student’s ability to participate in the clinical/fieldwork component. The fees required to obtain a background check and any additional tests are the sole responsibility of the student.

The Advanced Standing track is for students who have completed their BSW in the past six years.

Ways to Save on Your Tuition

Employee Discounts

Regis partner employees can receive a discount on their tuition. Find out if your employer is a partner.

Federal & Military Discounts

Federal government employees as well as active and reserve military and veterans are eligible for a 15% discount on tuition. Find out more.

Alumni Discounts

Regis alumni who have earned a previous degree from Regis are eligible for a 10% discount on tuition. Speak to an advisor for more information.

Financial Aid

We’re here to support you through the process. Speak to an advisor to learn more.

Regis discounts cannot be combined with any other discount or scholarship offered by Regis. Some exceptions may apply.

New England Commission of Higher Education

Regis College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education

The MSW program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education.

Fastest Growing College in the U.S. Top 25

Ranked among the Top 25 Fastest-Growing Colleges by The Business Journals

Meet Our Faculty

Why We Love Social Work

MSW faculty video

Watch the MSW faculty talk about what they love about social work, their advice for aspiring social workers, and why they think you should choose Regis College for your MSW.

Watch Now

Frequently Asked Questions

What can you do with a master’s in social work?

Earning an online MSW from Regis College can open career opportunities in counseling, therapy, advocacy, rehabilitation, community health, and more.

What is the typical salary for MSW graduates?

The median annual salary for an individual who holds an MSW degree was about $58,000 in 2022.

How long is the online MSW?

You can earn your online MSW in four to eight semesters, depending on your track.

Our Mission

Rooted in the Catholic intellectual tradition and inspired by the social justice values of our founders, the Sisters of St. Joseph of Boston, Regis College is a welcoming and inclusive community. We are called to provide access to an academically rigorous education through innovative learning opportunities and collaborative engagement at all degree levels. We educate the whole person, preparing our students to pursue excellence, to become change agents in their own communities, and to serve and lead as advocates for a more just and compassionate global society.