Washington – Featured Online Programs in Social Work
Explore and compare a list of accredited schools to enroll in your next program.
In Washington State, advanced generalist and clinical social workers need to complete at least a master’s in social work (MSW) and supervised work experience. Studying online can make your graduate school experience more convenient. Explore our ranking of the state’s top online MSW programs, social worker salaries, and employment growth projections.
Popular Online Social Work Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Online Master’s in Social Work (MSW) Programs in Washington
- Heritage University
- Certification Options: School Social Work, Substance Use Disorder
- Enrollment Options: Full-Time, Advanced Standing
Accreditation for Online Social Work Programs in Washington
Washington requires social workers to earn a master’s or doctoral degree accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). The CSWE is recognized as the national accrediting agency for social work programs. CSWE accreditation ensures that an online MSW meets the state’s educational requirements for either license.
Accreditation also offers other advantages. You can apply for federal financial aid such as loans and grants if you plan to attend an accredited program. Employers and other state licensing boards may not recognize a degree without CSWE accreditation. CSWE provides a national directory of accredited master’s-level social work programs.
Benefits of Studying Social Work Online in Washington
People choose online learning for many reasons. An online MSW in Washington State gives students the flexibility to fit classes around work and family obligations. Online learning also expands access to MSW programs outside of students’ geographic area.
Some social work schools charge cheaper tuition for online learners than their on-campus peers. You can also save on commuting and living expenses. Online learners have access to support services such as academic advising, technical support, and career counseling to help them succeed.
Course Formats in Online Social Work Degrees
Online learning has come a long way, with a variety of delivery formats now available. Explore the different options to determine which format is right for your learning needs.
- 100% Online: Students attend classes, access course materials, and complete coursework entirely online. Online MSWs in Washington State still require supervised learning requirements that you must complete in person.
- Hybrid: These MSW programs blend online and in-person learning. This format may involve you taking most classes online with the exception of weekend residencies to connect with faculty and peers on campus.
- Asynchronous: The asynchronous format provides great flexibility. Students access pre-recorded lectures, course materials, and online discussions at their own pace without set schedules. Students may have set deadlines to submit assignments and other materials.
- Synchronous: With synchronous learning you attend live classes on set schedules. Students log into class using video conferencing or live streaming. Key benefits include immediate faculty feedback and the opportunity to communicate and collaborate with peers.
Although most of your MSW coursework can take place online, Washington State requires supervised learning experiences as part of licensure regulations. CSWE-accredited online MSW programs typically allow you to complete in-person fieldwork and internships at an approved site in your local area.
Washington Social Worker Career and Salary Information
Washington’s demand for social workers is expected to grow. According to the Department of Labor’s Projections Central, social workers in the Evergreen State could see a 9.8%-14.6% employment growth rate between 2022-2032. Mental health and healthcare social workers are projected to experience the fastest growth, followed by those specialized in child, family, and school social work.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average social worker in Washington makes between $64,860-$70,390 as of May 2023. This is much higher than the $59,190-$68,800 national average.
You’ll need to earn a CSWE-accredited degree to qualify for licensure as an LASW or LICSW in Washington. An online MSW in Washington State can help prepare you for this growing field.
| Occupation | Average Annual Salary | Projected Job Growth (2022-32) |
|---|---|---|
| Child, Family, and School Social Workers | $64,860 | 11.3% |
| Healthcare Social Workers | $70,390 | 12.5% |
| Mental Health and Substance Use Social Workers | $67,280 | 14.6% |
| Social Workers, All Other | $90,580 | 9.8% |
