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Social Work, M.S.W.

Prepare for the next step in your professional journey with a Master of Social Work from IU Online. Our clinical practice curriculum arms you with the broad knowledge to work across social work’s continuum and be licensed for both micro- and macro-level practice. 

A group of social workers converse in a school setting

Program quick facts

Course Delivery

100% Online

Total Credits

60

Campuses Hosting

  • Indianapolis

Degree Type

Master of Social Work

A social worker speaks with an elderly client.

Degree overview

Accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, the IU Online Master of Social Work lets you tailor your degree to your career goals. Core coursework prepares you to work effectively with individuals and communities across cultures and lived experiences, while building skills in social policy and social work practice in organizations and communities.

Personalize your path by selecting a "focus area" that aligns with your interests:

  • Children, Youth, and Families
  • Behavioral Health
  • School Social Work

If you prefer a broader approach, the "special practice" area provides a focused introduction across each of these areas rather than concentrating on a single path.

You’ll graduate with an Indiana University degree respected by employers worldwide and join the world’s largest living alumni network. This program offers the flexibility to learn anytime and anywhere, with personalized support services throughout your academic journey. Many IU Online students advance in their careers even before completing their degree.

To be considered for this program, you must have:

A bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.

To apply to this program:

Complete an online application that includes:

  • Transcripts
  • One letter of recommendation 
  • Writing sample and statement (five pages or less, double-spaced)
  • Resume

Your IU Online M.S.W. prepares you to work in a broad range of practice settings, including community mental health agencies, nursing homes, hospitals, schools, employee assistance programs, family service agencies, and community service agencies, in careers such as:

• Clinical Social Worker
• Medical Social Worker
• Behavioral Health Therapist
• Substance Use Therapist
• School Social Worker
• Child Protective Services Social Worker
• Law Enforcement Social Worker
• Foster Care or Adoption Social Worker
• Adult Protective Services Social Worker
• Family Services Social Worker
• Youth Services Social Worker
• Hospice or Palliative Care Social Worker
• Community Outreach Coordinator
• Nonprofit Program Manager
• Community Engagement Specialist
• Grant Program Coordinator
• Employee Assistance Program therapist
• Veterans Services Social Worker
• Community Mental Health Social Worker

  • The program requires 60 credit hours for regular-standing students (applicants without a BSW) and 30 credit hours for advanced-standing students (applicants with a BSW from an accredited program).
  • The curriculum is broken down into three parts:
      • Foundational courses (19 credit hours) (waived for advanced-standing students)
      • Concentration courses (15 credit hours)
      • Focus area courses (12 credit hours)

Core
Core Classes for the MSW in Social Work
Course Number Course Name Credits

SWK 502

Research 1

3 Credits

SWK 506

Foundations of Ethical Social Work Practice

3 Credits

SWK 507

Diversity, Human Rights, and Social Justice

3 Credits

SWK 508

Generalist Theory and Practice

3 Credits

SWK 505

Social Policy Analysis and Practice

3 Credits

SWK 509

SWK Practice: Organizations, Communities, and Societies

3 Credits

SWK 515

Theory and Practice with Groups

3 Credits

SWK 555

Practicum 1

3 Credits

Concentration Courses
Concentration Courses for the MSW in Social Work
Course Number Course Name Credits

SWK 518

Clinical Theory and Practice

3 Credits

SWK 661

Executive Leadership Practice

3 Credits

SWK 517

Assessment in Mental Health and Addictions

3 Credits

SWK 519

Community and Global Theory and Practice

3 Credits

SWK 651

Practicum 2

3 Credits

SWK 618

Social Policy and Services

3 Credits

SWK 623

Practice Evaluation

 3 Credits

SWK 652

Practicum 3

3 Credits

Find course descriptions with our Search Schedule of Classes/Courses tool.

Program cost information

Plan your finances

Program cost can vary by campus, resident status, and type of program. Use the resources below to get accurate cost estimates for your specific situation.

Contact Student Financial Services at iuosfs@iu.edu for cost information.

Find the answers you need or start your application. We’re here to help!