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Online Master of Social Work (MSW)

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Overview

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The online Master of Social Work (MSW) program at Regis College is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed for a rewarding career in social work.

The degree program emphasizes a flexible, fully online format, allowing students to balance their education with personal and professional commitments. With two track options (Traditional and Advanced Standing), the online MSW program accommodates both students with and without a background in social work, preparing them for clinical roles, licensure, and diverse career opportunities in healthcare, mental health, and social services.

*You may be eligible for a one-credit Community Builder Scholarship, valued at $900, if you start your journey this fall.

Scholarship Application Deadline: 12/15/25. Talk to an enrollment advisor to learn more.

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Calendar

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Traditional
Credits: 54-60
Courses: 20
Duration: 28-32

Advanced
Credits: 30
Courses: 10
Duration: 16 months

Application Deadline:
December 15, 2025

Upcoming Start Date:
January 5, 2026

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Choose from 3 start times a year
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Apply with no GRE
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Complete in 4 to 8 semesters
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Prepare for state licensure exams*
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Choose between Advanced Standing and Traditional Tracks
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The online MSW degree 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.
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*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.
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Two Ways to Earn Your Online MSW

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The online MSW degree 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 28 months, depending on your existing status. See below to find out which track is right for you.
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Traditional Track

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  • For students with a non-social work bachelor’s degree
  • 54-60 credits
  • Graduate in as few as 28 months
  • Develop a strong foundation in generalist practice and specialize in clinical social work
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Advanced Standing Track

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  • 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
  • Build on prior BSW education, with added focus on clinical social work
  • 3.0 GPA in required
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Students who earned their BSW more than six years ago may still apply for Advanced Standing; the Master of Social Work program director will review all requests.
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*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.
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Accreditation

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New England Commission of Higher Education

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Regis College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) a voluntary, nongovernmental, peer-based membership association dedicated to promoting standards of excellence and improvement in higher education. NECHE is the regional accreditation organization for colleges and universities in the six New England states: Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont.
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Council on Social Work Education

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The Regis College Master of Social Work (MSW) program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). CSWE is the sole accrediting body for social work programs in the United States.

Only graduates of CSWE-accredited schools are recognized by states as eligible to sit for state licensing examinations. Graduates of the Regis MSW program are well positioned for careers in social work with a degree from our CSWE-accredited social work program. For specific licensing requirements for your state, visit state requirements on our website.

As a CSWE-accredited program, the MSW at Regis College prepares students for careers as competent and professional clinical social work practitioners and leaders who work for a more just and humane society. In developing sound practice knowledge and skills, students benefit from the commitment and expertise of highly talented and experienced faculty and field instructors. The MSW program supports students in pursuing their practice passion and serving as social worker practitioners.

For more information about social work accreditation, please see:
https://www.cswe.org/Accreditation/Information/Frequently-Asked-Questions

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Assessment of Student Learning Outcomes

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All programs accredited by the Council on Social Work Education’s (CSWE) Commission on Accreditation (COA) are required to measure and report student learning outcomes. All students are assessed using a minimum of two measures on their mastery of the nine competencies that comprise the Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards (EPAS). These holistic competencies reflect the dimensions (knowledge, values, skills, and cognitive & affective processes) of social work practice that all social workers are expected to master during their professional training.

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Regis College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education
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The MSW program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education.
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Ranked among the Top 25 Fastest-Growing Colleges by The Business Journals
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Careers with an Online Master of Social Work

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Social work careers are ideal for students already working as case workers, case managers, or mental health assistants. Receiving your MSW online can open up opportunities across a number of practice settings where you can use your skills in a chosen specialty. Careers can include:

Social Work Supervisor

As a social work supervisor, you’ll mentor less experienced social workers and perform an array of administrative duties. You’ll review cases, critique work, and offer guidance to social workers on your team. Employers look for candidates with excellent communication, leadership, and relationship-building skills.

Employers often include:

  • Outpatient care centers
  • Hospitals
  • Community centers
  • Nonprofit organizations

Clinical Social Worker

This role is focused on the mental health care needs of individuals, families, couples, and groups with an emphasis on behavioral and emotional disorders. As a clinical social worker, you will share coping strategies and develop treatment plans under a physician’s guidance.

Employers often include:

  • Private practice
  • Physician group practices
  • Individual and family services agencies

Hospice Social Worker

Hospice social workers provide emotional and logistical support to individuals and their families facing the end of life. Hospice social workers also provide assistance with insurance, hospice, and Medicaid/Medicare paperwork, as well as help with paperwork after the patient’s death.

Employers often include:

  • Hospitals and nursing homes
  • In-house or in-home hospice companies
  • Private hospice and palliative care settings
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Medical Social Worker

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Medical social workers provide patient care, draft discharge instructions, and outline aftercare information. Depending on the employer and/or setting, medical social workers might also communicate with patients and rehabilitation or care programs to ensure appropriate actions are taken.

Employers often include:

  • Hospitals and medical centers
  • In-house or in-home hospice companies
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Social Services Director

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Social services directors are in charge of directing social services tasks such as admissions and transfers, as well as providing leadership for social services staff in their organization. They motivate social services staff to reach all organizational goals. In all tasks, the director must follow strict privacy and safety regulations.

Employers often include:

  • Hospitals and medical centers
  • In-house or in-home hospice companies
  • Various in-patient facilities
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MSW Career Outcomes

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Earning your Master of Social Work (MSW) online prepares you for a career of purpose. Job titles that our graduates hold include the following:

  • School and Career Counselors and Advisors
  • Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors
  • Social Workers
  • Health Education Specialists and Community Health Workers
  • Correctional Treatment Specialists

Career settings include: schools and universities, therapy clinics, prisons and correctional facilities, mobile response crisis teams, hospitals, and rehabilitation facilities.

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 79% between 2023 and 2033, adding more than 50,000 new jobs. There’s also high demand for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors, with the BLS projecting 19% growth between 2023 and 2033.

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Ready for Your Next Step?

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Online MSW Curriculum

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The online Master of Social Work (MSW) program at Regis College is grounded in direct clinical practice, preparing you to work effectively with individuals, families, and groups. Through rigorous coursework and hands-on training, you’ll develop the skills needed to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of psychological and emotional issues. Our curriculum is designed to provide you with a deep understanding of the complexities of human behavior and the tools to create positive change.
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Our 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 Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from a CSWE-accredited program in the past five years.

Both tracks prepare students for clinical practice, social work licensure, and specialized career paths in fields like healthcare and mental health services.

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, then specialize in clinical social work in the second half. Our Advanced Standing Track builds on prior Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) education, focusing on clinical social work.

Explore the full course lists for both tracks on our MSW curriculum page.

The program also includes an experiential learning component with a field placement requirement (480 hours/Traditional; 600 hours/Advanced Standing). Like other Master of Social Work programs, the Regis MSW curriculum may include up to 1,080 hours of fieldwork to ensure licensure requirements are met.

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Student-Centered Curriculum

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Your voice matters at Regis College. We actively seek and value student input in shaping our curriculum. Our program is continuously evolving based on student feedback to ensure that it remains relevant and responsive to the needs of future social workers. By participating in course revisions, you’ll have the opportunity to influence your educational experience and contribute to the growth of the program.
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Traditional Generalist Track

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Generalist Foundation Year

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SW 600: Social Work Practice with Communities & Organizations
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This course encourages students to apply critical thinking, explore different community practice settings, and discuss how social workers serve diverse and vulnerable communities and organizations. The course introduces students to the history, values, theory, processes and skills for generalist social work practice at the level of communities and organizations. The focus of the course is on change in large groups, social agencies, institutions, communities, and government. A special emphasis is on utilizing integrated social work practice to empower oppressed groups including members of racial, ethnic, and other non-dominant groups.
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SW 602 Human Behavior and Social Environment I
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This course focuses on the biological, psychological, and social changes throughout the life cycle in the context of culture and the physical environment. Using a multi-dimensional approach, students study major theoretical frameworks in order to evaluate and apply this knowledge to practice with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. This course advances the student’s ability to evaluate the roles of oppression, marginalization, power, and privilege in shaping a person’s life experiences.
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SW 604 Exploring Intersections of Power, Privilege & Identity
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This course examines and applies the theoretical perspectives of social justice and human rights that inform social work practice. Students study and implement the elements of culturally competent practice and self-assess their own cultural beliefs, attitudes, biases, and behaviors. The dominant values of the larger society are analyzed while examining the impact of privilege, oppression, and social justice in working with culturally diverse populations. Students are introduced to the values, attitudes, strengths, unique needs and lived experiences of diverse populations to broaden and deepen their awareness of cultures and identities outside of their own.
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SW 606 Social Welfare Policy
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This course introduces students to the history of social welfare, the values and principles that shape policy, and the role of social work in policy-making. Students critically analyze social policies and the impact on diverse, underserved, and vulnerable populations. The delivery of social welfare services to individuals, families, communities, and groups are discussed, as well as, the theoretical perspectives that guide policy. This course presents the challenges of various diverse groups and encourages students to reflect on ways to advocate for policies and social welfare programs that promote human rights, social justice and advocate for social change.
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SW 608 Human Behavior and Social Environment II
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This course builds on the knowledge gained in SW 602: Human Behavior and the Social Environment I. Students examine human behavior across the life span and how various social environmental factors influence the developmental process. This course focuses on the stages of development from infancy to late adulthood. Theoretical frameworks related to the physical, emotional, social, spiritual, and cultural development of individuals, families, groups, and communities are analyzed and applied to client systems.
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SW 610 Social Work Practice with Individuals
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This course provides students with a foundational understanding of the basic social work practice skills and knowledge. Students will be guided through the generalist planned change process to include developing relationship building skills to engage clients and gather data, assessment, treatment planning with identifying evidenced-based interventions, and implementing outcome evaluation of the interventions, within the context of a strength-based approach. Strategies for cultural competence and working with populations at risk will be presented throughout the course. The bio-psycho-social-spiritual and cultural assessment framework is a central focus of this course.
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SW 612 Field Education Internship & Seminar I
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This course is the first half of a two-semester course during which students develop generalist social work skills within a social work agency setting under the supervision of an experienced social worker. The seminar course provides support to the student throughout the field experience. During this course students present agency case examples and are encouraged to share their overall experience of the field education. Areas of ethics, diversity, safety, supervision, legal obligations, and practice skills are discussed.
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SW 614 Research I: Ways of Knowing
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This course introduces students to the basic concepts and methods of scientific inquiry used in social work practice. This course introduces qualitative and quantitative research design methodologies used in advancing social work knowledge and the evaluation of practice. Students learn to use and translate research evidence to inform and improve practice, policy, and service delivery. Particular attention in the course is given to cultural sensitivity and ethical guidelines for social research.
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SW 616 Social Work Practice with Families and Groups
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This course introduces students to specific theoretical and skills-based core concepts of generalist practice with families and small groups. It prepares students for engagement, assessment, intervention planning and decision-making for effective and ethical service delivery to diverse families and groups within the context of social systems. Students learn theoretical models that integrate systems and ecological theory, the strengths perspective, and the problem-solving model.
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SW 618 Field Education Internship & Seminar II
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This course is the second half of a two-semester course during which students develop generalist social work skills within a social work agency setting under the supervision of an experienced social worker. The seminar course provides support to the student throughout the field experience. During this course students present agency case examples and are encouraged to share their overall experience of the field education. Areas of ethics, diversity, safety, supervision, legal obligations, and practice skills are discussed.
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Specialized Clinical Year

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SW 620 Advanced Clinical Practice with Individuals
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This advanced clinical course prepares students for direct clinical practice with individuals. The course builds on the generalist-level courses and introduces students to evidence-based theories and strengths-based intervention strategies applicable for working with individual clients in a variety of clinical settings. Particular attention is given to the importance of the therapeutic relationship, ethical decision-making frameworks, and culturally sensitive relational techniques that foster therapeutic alliances with diverse clients.
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SW 624 Clinical Practice Evaluation
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This specialized course builds on the generalist-level research course with an emphasis on evaluating and advancing clinical practice through single-subject design studies. Quantitative and qualitative methodologies are examined as means to inform social work research and clinical practice. In conjunction with their field placement, students will design, conduct, and report on a single-subject design study as a part of direct practice for assessing clients, monitoring intervention implementation and delivery, and evaluating client change.
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SW 626 Clinical Assessment and Diagnosis
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This specialized course focuses on the incidence, etiology, and assessment of health and mental health issues among children, adolescents, adults, and families using a holistic bio-psycho-social-spiritual and cultural approach and strengths perspective to evaluate human functioning through the life cycle. The course examines and utilizes the classification systems and theories applied in psychopathology and advanced clinical social work practice to assess and understand diagnostic categories within the DSM and to identify, analyze, and implement empirically based assessment tools.
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SW 632 Field Education Internship & Seminar III
Main Content
This specialized course is the first half of a two-semester seminar course that facilitates students’ fieldwork learning by providing an environment to critically reflect on the agency experience. Throughout the semester students develop an understanding of professional advanced clinical practice by integrating theory, research, policy, and ethical standards into their agency fieldwork. The purpose of the seminar is to allow students to share their field experiences with the instructor and their peers to enhance professional growth through mutual consultation. The areas of safety, self-care, and mandate reporting are discussed.
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SW 634 Advanced Clinical Practice with Groups
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This advanced clinical course prepares students for direct clinical practice with groups. The course builds on the knowledge of the generalist-level courses and focuses on the advanced clinical skills necessary for group work practice with clients experiencing a variety of social, emotional, and/or psychological issues. Evidence-based theories, interventions, and techniques used in social work group practice are examined in the context of developing strategies to engage, plan, implement, and facilitate groups across a diversity of practice settings.
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SW 636 Clinical Practice: Policies & Administration
Main Content
This specialized course emphasizes current policies, laws, and trends in clinical practice. Students develop knowledge and skills in the roles and functions of social workers in social work management, administration, and supervision in non-profit and public organizations. This course provides opportunities for students to build the necessary skills to become effective service providers and change agents in the context of their work in social service organizations.
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SW 638 Field Education Internship & Seminar IV
Main Content
This specialized course is the second half of a two-semester seminar course that facilitates students’ fieldwork learning by providing an environment to critically reflect on the agency experience. Throughout the semester students develop an understanding of professional advanced clinical practice by integrating theory, research, policy, and ethical standards into their agency fieldwork. The purpose of the seminar is to allow students to share with the instructor and their peers, client case studies and receive professional supervision and consultation. The areas of safety, self-care, and mandate reporting are discussed.
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SW 642 Advanced Clinical Practice with Families
Main Content
This advanced clinical course prepares students for advanced clinical practice with families. The course builds on the knowledge of the generalist-level courses and introduces students to evidence-based theories and strengths-based intervention strategies applicable for working with families in a variety of clinical settings. The course pays particular attention to interventions and skills in helping families overcome issues such as trauma, oppression, and social and economic injustices while also focusing on the unique experiences that shape the lives and development of family systems.
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SW 644 Trauma in Children and Adolescents (Elective)
Main Content
This course prepares students for clinical practice with traumatized child and adolescent populations from diverse backgrounds. It introduces students to evidence-based theories and strengths-based intervention strategies applicable for working with traumatized children and adolescents in a variety of clinical settings. Theoretical and practical approaches to treatment of chronic stress, acute stress and trauma-related stress disorders specific to children and adolescents are examined with the goal of advancing students’ knowledge of best practices.
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SW 646 Trauma in Adults (Elective)
Main Content
This course prepares students for clinical practice with traumatized adult and older adult populations from diverse backgrounds. The course introduces students to evidence-based theories and strengths-based intervention strategies applicable for working with traumatized adults in a variety of clinical settings. The course pays particular attention to trauma theory and skill development specific to the engagement, assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of adult populations, their families, and larger communities who have been exposed to potentially traumatizing experiences.
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Advanced Standing Track

Summary
SW 620 Advanced Clinical Practice with Individuals
Main Content
This advanced clinical course prepares students for direct clinical practice with individuals. The course builds on the generalist-level courses and introduces students to evidence-based theories and strengths-based intervention strategies applicable for working with individual clients in a variety of clinical settings. Particular attention is given to the importance of the therapeutic relationship, ethical decision-making frameworks, and culturally sensitive relational techniques that foster therapeutic alliances with diverse clients.
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SW 624 Research II: Evaluation of Clinical Social Work Practice
Main Content
This specialized course builds on the generalist-level research course with an emphasis on evaluating and advancing clinical practice through single-subject design studies. Quantitative and qualitative methodologies are examined as means to inform social work research and clinical practice. In conjunction with their field placement, students will design, conduct, and report on a single-subject design study as a part of direct practice for assessing clients, monitoring intervention implementation and delivery, and evaluating client change.
Summary
SW 626 Clinical Assessment and Diagnosis
Main Content
This specialized course focuses on the incidence, etiology, and assessment of health and mental health issues among children, adolescents, adults, and families using a holistic bio-psycho-social-spiritual and cultural approach and strengths perspective to evaluate human functioning through the life cycle. The course examines and utilizes the classification systems and theories applied in psychopathology and advanced clinical social work practice to assess and understand diagnostic categories within the DSM and to identify, analyze, and implement empirically based assessment tools.
Summary
SW 632 Field Education Internship & Seminar III
Main Content
This specialized course is the first half of a two-semester seminar course that facilitates students’ fieldwork learning by providing an environment to critically reflect on the agency experience. Throughout the semester students develop an understanding of professional advanced clinical practice by integrating theory, research, policy, and ethical standards into their agency fieldwork. The purpose of the seminar is to allow students to share their field experiences with the instructor and their peers to enhance professional growth through mutual consultation. The areas of safety, self-care, and mandate reporting are discussed.
Summary
SW 634 Advanced Clinical Practice with Groups
Main Content
This advanced clinical course prepares students for direct clinical practice with groups. The course builds on the knowledge of the generalist-level courses and focuses on the advanced clinical skills necessary for group work practice with clients experiencing a variety of social, emotional, and/or psychological issues. Evidence-based theories, interventions, and techniques used in social work group practice are examined in the context of developing strategies to engage, plan, implement, and facilitate groups across a diversity of practice settings.
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SW 636 Clinical Practice: Policies & Administration
Main Content
This specialized course emphasizes current policies, laws, and trends in clinical practice. Students develop knowledge and skills in the roles and functions of social workers in social work management, administration, and supervision in non-profit and public organizations. This course provides opportunities for students to build the necessary skills to become effective service providers and change agents in the context of their work in social service organizations.
Summary
SW 638 Field Education Internship & Seminar IV
Main Content
This specialized course is the second half of a two-semester seminar course that facilitates students’ fieldwork learning by providing an environment to critically reflect on the agency experience. Throughout the semester students develop an understanding of professional advanced clinical practice by integrating theory, research, policy, and ethical standards into their agency fieldwork. The purpose of the seminar is to allow students to share with the instructor and their peers, client case studies and receive professional supervision and consultation. The areas of safety, self-care, and mandate reporting are discussed.
Summary
SW 642 Advanced Clinical Practice with Families
Main Content
This advanced clinical course prepares students for advanced clinical practice with families. The course builds on the knowledge of the generalist-level courses and introduces students to evidence-based theories and strengths-based intervention strategies applicable for working with families in a variety of clinical settings. The course pays particular attention to interventions and skills in helping families overcome issues such as trauma, oppression, and social and economic injustices while also focusing on the unique experiences that shape the lives and development of family systems.
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SW 644 Trauma in Children and Adolescents (Elective)
Main Content
This course prepares students for clinical practice with traumatized child and adolescent populations from diverse backgrounds. It introduces students to evidence-based theories and strengths-based intervention strategies applicable for working with traumatized children and adolescents in a variety of clinical settings. Theoretical and practical approaches to treatment of chronic stress, acute stress and trauma-related stress disorders specific to children and adolescents are examined with the goal of advancing students’ knowledge of best practices.
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SW 646 Trauma in Adults (Elective)
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This course prepares students for clinical practice with traumatized adult and older adult populations from diverse backgrounds. The course introduces students to evidence-based theories and strengths-based intervention strategies applicable for working with traumatized adults in a variety of clinical settings. The course pays particular attention to trauma theory and skill development specific to the engagement, assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of adult populations, their families, and larger communities who have been exposed to potentially traumatizing experiences.
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Additional Electives*: Students in either track of the online MSW program at Regis may also fulfill one or both elective requirements from select courses in the Master of Public Health, Master of Applied Behavior Analysis, Professional MBA, and Master of Health Administration online programs at Regis College.

*Elective courses TBD. Check with an enrollment advisor for more details.

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Experiential Learning Component

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The online MSW program also includes an experiential learning component known as a field placement. Traditional track students complete two field experiences: 480 hours in the first field placement; 600 hours in the second field placement. Advanced Standing track students complete 600 hours in their field placement. Put your newly acquired knowledge to use while familiarizing yourself with the responsibilities and requirements of the social work profession.

Read about one student’s field placement in her community here.

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Admission Requirements

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The admissions process for the MSW degree program at Regis College is designed to be accessible for both traditional and advanced standing students. The program is open to students with diverse academic backgrounds, and those with a recent Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) may qualify for advanced standing.

Applicants are required to meet specific educational prerequisites and provide supporting documentation, including:

  • Current resume that includes educational, work, and volunteer history
  • Official academic transcripts
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Letter of Recommendation is no longer required.
  • 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 required social work courses in a BSW program
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Background Checks

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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.
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Our Mission

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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.
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Why Choose Regis for Your Online MSW Program?

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At Regis College, our Master of Social Work (MSW) program is designed to empower you with the skills, knowledge, and hands-on experience needed to make a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals, families, and communities.

Whether you’re looking to advance your career or begin a new journey in social work, our program offers a unique blend of field placement flexibility, faculty support, and a compassionate community that is committed to your success.

Here are some of the reasons why you should consider Regis for earning your MSW online:

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No GRE

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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 Master of Social Work (MSW) program.
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Flexibility

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Our flexible online social work master’s 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. You can access course materials anytime, anywhere, making it ideal for working professionals seeking a dynamic and adaptable education.
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Accreditation

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The Master of Social Work program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), ensuring it meets the highest standards for social work education. This accreditation is crucial for licensure and career advancement in the social work field.
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Career Outcomes

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Our MSW graduates are prepared for diverse career opportunities in healthcare, mental health, and community organizations. Explore their success stories in our student testimonials and discover potential MSW careers.
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Personalized Support

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Our small class sizes and dedicated faculty ensure that you receive the individualized attention you deserve. From academic advising to career counseling, we are here to guide you every step of the way, helping you to achieve your goals and succeed in the field of social work.
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Preparation for Social Work Licensure

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Our online social work master’s program prepares students for social work licensure across various states, including the Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) exam. We provide state-specific licensure guidance to ensure you meet the necessary requirements.
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Our Community

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At Regis College, we believe that a strong community is key to your success. Our online learning platform fosters a dynamic and interactive environment where you can connect with peers, engage with experienced faculty, and participate in discussions that challenge and inspire you. With 24/7 access to MSW program materials and resources, you’ll have the flexibility while also being part of a supportive and engaged community.
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Game Nights with Faculty

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We know that building relationships and having fun are important parts of the graduate experience. That’s why we host regular game nights with faculty, offering a unique opportunity to unwind, connect, and strengthen bonds with your professors and fellow students. These events foster a sense of camaraderie and make learning more enjoyable, helping to build a lasting network of support.
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Hear What Our Students Are Saying

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“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.”
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- Lesley Ayala, online MSW student
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Meet Our Faculty

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The Master of Social Work (MSW) faculty at Regis College consists of experienced professionals and scholars with diverse backgrounds in clinical practice, policy advocacy, and community development.

Each faculty member is dedicated to mentoring students and providing real-world insights, bringing a wealth of knowledge and expertise to help prepare students for impactful careers in social work. Through personalized guidance and support, they foster a dynamic learning environment that emphasizes both academic and professional growth.

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Kareem Ayodeji, Ed.D, LCSW

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Assistant Professor, Social Work
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Donette C. Considine, PhD, LCSW

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MSW Program Director, Associate Professor-Social Work
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Lisa Gray, PhD, LCSW

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Assistant Professor, Social Work
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Ruth Gerritsen-McKane, PhD, LCSW

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MSW Field Education Director and Associate Professor of Social Work
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Mininder (Mimi) Sodhi, PhD, LCSW

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Assistant Professor, Social Work
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Henry W. Kronner, PhD, LCSW

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Associate Professor, Social Work
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Why We Love Social Work

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https://www.youtube.com/embed/It8AfwpknNQ?si=NbkD9HdOfxKPVLkw
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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.
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Frequently Asked Questions

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What makes the online MSW program at Regis College unique from other social work programs?
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Regis was founded in 1927 on the core values of gracious hospitality, love, and service of the Dear Neighbor without distinction, peaceful resolution of conflict, and care for all God s creation. Those values are a natural fit for our Master's in social work program.

You will find that we are a student-centered graduate program. So even though you are not physically taking courses at Regis College, we include you in our events, such as Founders Day and Heritage Week. You will also have the opportunity to provide input and feedback on the MSW program. Each semester we hold the MSW Student Community Meeting where you can give input and provide feedback about things such as curriculum, course schedule plans, elective course offerings, and more. We also have the MSW Student Advisory Board and MSW Student Ambassadors to make you feel even more a part of the program.

The specialization in clinical social work practice is another aspect of the MSW program that makes us unique. We designed our program so you can graduate with strong clinical skills and feel confident working with individuals, families, and groups in the direct practice setting. Each full-time faculty member has direct clinical practice experience, and all are licensed clinical social workers.

Something else you’ll appreciate about our program is that all the courses are designed and developed by full-time faculty. We do not rely on part-time “content experts” or curriculum/course developers. Each member of the faculty in the MSW program has one or more areas of specialization, and we use that experience to develop and design strong courses for our students. We also incorporate a variety of learning materials - including books and articles, podcasts, custom-designed media, online videos, and other materials - because we know some students are visual learners while others may be auditory.

And finally, our class sizes are small. With smaller online class sizes, you can receive individual attention from the faculty and have more opportunities to interact with peers. In our MSW program you will take most of your courses with a cohort, which means you begin and end the program with the same people.
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How long does it take to complete the online Master of Social Work program?
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If you enter the program with a bachelor’s degree in something other than social work, the program takes three years to complete on a part-time basis, or eight semesters. If you enter the program with a bachelor’s degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited school, we consider you Advanced Standing, so it will take 16 months to complete the program, or four semesters.
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How many credits is the online MSW program?
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If you enter the program with a bachelor’s degree in something other than social work, you will need to earn 60 credits to graduate, or 20 courses, including the field education internships. If you enter the program with a bachelor’s degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited program you may receive Advanced Standing and be eligible for up to 30 credits of transfer credit toward the generalist curriculum of the online MSW program. If you receive the maximum of 30 credits, you will need to complete the 30-credit specialization curriculum to graduate.
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How much does the online MSW program cost?
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The online MSW program at Regis College costs $1025 per credit hour. Textbooks are an estimated $200-$400 per course.
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Is the MSW program accredited by CSWE?
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Yes, the Regis College online MSW program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).
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Are all of the Master of Social Work (MSW) courses offered online?
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Yes. There are four field seminar courses that you will complete online, but those courses have six live (synchronous) sessions required per course. Since all MSW courses are offered online, you aren’t required to go to campus. However, if you live near campus, you are welcome to visit and use the library or other campus services.
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What specialization is offered for the online MSW program?
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The MSW program has one specialization: clinical social work practice. Clinical practice is a term used to describe direct social work practice that incorporates theories and skills aimed at helping clients and their families alleviate social and emotional problems. That means you will get to work one on one with clients or as a member of an interdisciplinary team with the client system - individual, group, or family. Clinical practice also includes prevention work and other forms of nontraditional practice methods, such as youth and group work. Clinical social work is done at child welfare agencies, mental health centers, youth and family service agencies, addictions programs, hospitals, schools, and many other social service settings.
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Can I work at my own pace, or are there required live class sessions online (synchronous)?
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The Field Education Internship & Seminar courses have required live (synchronous) sessions for you to attend during the semester, typically six times over the course of 16 weeks. Some courses in the online MSW program offer optional live sessions, but it’s strongly encouraged that you attend.
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How long is each MSW course?
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The majority of our online MSW courses are eight weeks long, with a few that are 16 weeks, including the four field education seminar courses and the second research course.
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How much time will I need to devote to my courses?
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Most MSW courses meet for eight weeks, not the typical 16-week semester. You still cover the material for a full semester course but will work your way through it at a faster pace than other programs. To prepare for discussion forums, video posts, and other collaborative projects, you will need to dedicate approximately 12 hours per week to reading, writing, and preparing for assignments. While taking the Moodle course you will spend an additional six hours each week on projects, videos, and peer projects.
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Is there a time limit for how long I have to complete the program?
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Yes. The online MSW program at Regis College must be completed within five years from the date you begin the program. This includes any semesters you take off.
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Is there help available when I need to register for courses or if I have a question?
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Yes. There are Regis College student support specialists who are personally invested in your online learning experience. They will help with administrative tasks, such as registration, and support positive study habits by customizing a degree plan that fits into your lifestyle. You will also have an MSW faculty advisor who is available for professional and educational support while earning your master’s in social work degree online.
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If my cumulative GPA is below 3.0, can I still apply and be admitted to the online MSW program?
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Yes. Our program is rigorous and we want to admit students who are academically prepared for the challenging curriculum, but we also know that the undergraduate GPA is only one measure of your readiness for graduate school. The MSW Admission Committee looks at the entire application package, including the personal statement, letters of recommendation, and GPA. If your GPA is below 3.0, we recommend that you use your personal statement to address factors that impacted your undergraduate studies and outline how you’ve prepared for the rigor of graduate school studies. If your GPA is below 3.0 and you are admitted to the program it may be on a conditional basis, which means you must receive grades of “B” or above in the first two courses to continue the program.
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Can I apply to the online MSW program before completing my bachelor’s degree?
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Yes. We recommend that you apply after completing the first semester of your senior year. After applying you may be admitted to the MSW program on a contingent acceptance, which means you must submit an official transcript denoting the award of a regionally accredited bachelor’s degree prior to enrollment in the MSW program.
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What does Advanced Standing mean?
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If you have a bachelor’s in social work from a CSWE-accredited school and apply for your master’s in social work within six years of earning your BSW degree, you are eligible for Advanced Standing. The benefit of doing this is that you can transfer your BSW credits directly into the MSW program. In the Advanced Standing track, you can complete the program in four semesters instead of eight in the traditional track.
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How do I receive Advanced Standing?
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You must complete a bachelor’s degree in social work (BSW) from a CSWE-accredited program within six years of applying to the MSW program and meet the following criteria:

  • Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 in all courses in the undergraduate social work program
  • Letter grades of a B- or above in all courses eligible for transfer
  • Satisfactory completion of an undergraduate generalist practicum, including at least 400 hours of field education

When applying to the MSW program, make sure to indicate that you are applying for Advanced Standing.

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How many field placements/internships are students required to complete?
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If you enter the program with a bachelor’s degree in something other than social work you will complete two internships while in the MSW program. If you enter the program with a bachelor’s degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited program and are awarded Advanced Standing you will receive credit for the BSW internship and then complete one internship in the MSW program.
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How many hours are required for the internship?
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The first internship requires a minimum of 480 hours, or roughly 15 hours a week for two semesters (32 weeks). The second internship will be completed during the specialization curriculum and consists of 600 hours, or roughly 20 hours a week for two semesters (32 weeks). Field education is a significant commitment in the MSW program, so before beginning the program you will need to reflect on whether you are comfortable with the time commitment.
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Will someone help me find my field placements?
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You know your community better than the faculty and field staff, so you are required to research potential settings and identify possible internship sites. That means it will be up to you to make initial contact to see if the agency is interested in hosting you and gather contact information. That information is then given to the MSW field director who will contact the agency. Depending on where you live, you may be required to travel outside of your community for an internship.

Read about one student’s field placement in her community here.

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Is there a difference between an online degree and an on-campus degree?
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No, the only difference is the delivery of the curriculum. When students graduate, the degree conferred will be for a Master's of Social Work. There is no reference to the format in which a student completed the program.
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Online Master of Social Work Resources

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In your academic and professional journey, a lot of the learning process involves learning from others. This page serves as a resource of articles on relevant developments and topics in the field of social work and our MSW program.

Is Getting an MSW Worth It?

If you’re wondering “is getting an MSW worth it?” learn more about how earning an online Master of Social Work degree can help you achieve your career goals.

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Starting a private practice, and how an MSW can help

Moving into private practice creates occupational freedom and opportunities, but it also comes with a lot of responsibility. Is it right for you?

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What you can learn about spirituality and social work in an MSW program

Issues of spirituality can play a vital role in social work practice. Read on to learn more about this trend and how an MSW program can help you develop skills in this area.

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Social Work or Human Services: Which Master’s Degree Is for You?

Many of the subjects covered in social work and human services programs are similar. However, there are a few key distinguishing points that prospective students must keep in mind.

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LCSW or LMSW: Exploring Your Future in Social Work

The LMSW and LCSW licenses are closely related. Here’s a look at each one’s role to help you set your goals for the license that is the best fit for your needs.

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What You Can Learn About Social Work Supervision and Administration in an MSW Program

Pursuing an online master’s in social work can be a first step in advancing your career. Learn about how an MSW can prepare you for roles in social work administration and supervision.

Read More

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Tuition and Fees

$1025

Per credit hour

$200-$400

Estimated cost of textbooks per course

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Ways to Save on Your Tuition

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Employee Discounts
Regis partner employees can receive a discount on their tuition. Find out if your employer is a partner.
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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.
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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.
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Financial Aid
We’re here to support you through the process. Speak to an advisor to learn more.
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Regis discounts cannot be combined with any other discount or scholarship offered by Regis. Some exceptions may apply.
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