- 100% Asynchronous Online Format: Complete your master's degree in social work on your schedule with no required campus visits
- Trauma-Informed Focus: Develop specialized knowledge in trauma-informed care principles and practices
- Flexible Options: Choose from Regular Standing (60 credits) or Advanced Standing (33 credits) for BSW holders
- Experienced Faculty: Learn from dedicated professors with extensive field experience and clinical expertise
- Networking Opportunities: Access strong local, regional, and national internship partners
- Career-Focused Curriculum: Prepare for licensure and a wide range of social work careers
- CSWE Accredited: Our program meets the Council on Social Work Education's rigorous standards
Online Master of Social Work (MSW) Program
Earn Your Master's Degree in Social Work at Pennsylvania Western University
The PennWest Master of Social Work (MSW) program delivers a career-focused online social work degree built around industry best practices, mentorship, and networking opportunities. As a university based in PA with deep community connections, PennWest offers an MSW program that prepares you for licensure and career opportunities throughout Pennsylvania and beyond. If you're passionate about being a voice for the vulnerable, our nationally recognized online MSW degree program offers the flexibility today's graduate students need without sacrificing academic excellence. Our curriculum focuses on trauma-informed practice, family practice, and rural social work practice—preparing you to address complex challenges in diverse settings.
Learn from dedicated faculty with extensive field experience who are committed to your success both academically and professionally. Our professors serve as mentors, guiding you through specialized areas of social work while connecting theory to real-world application. The PennWest MSW program offers strong local, regional, and national networks of internship partners, allowing you to gain extensive hands-on experience in your community. These valuable field placements often lead to full-time employment opportunities and help prepare you for state licensure exams. With a master's degree in social work from PennWest, you'll be equipped to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals, families, and communities.
Why Choose PennWest's Online MSW Degree?
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View the MSW Student Handbook View the MSW Student Outcomes Assessment
This program is for you if...
- You are passionate about advancing your social work career by addressing complex human needs and strengths in our changing society
- You want to develop advanced skills in trauma-informed practice, understanding diversity, and social justice that employers value in MSW graduates
- You aim to work in direct clinical social work practice or indirect administrative roles, enhancing your leadership capacities across healthcare, schools, community agencies, or mental health settings
- You seek a flexible online MSW degree program that allows you to balance your education with work and personal commitments
- You aspire to engage in advanced generalist practice with a strong foundation in cultural diversity and competence to serve diverse populations effectively
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Global Online
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60 Credits for MSW
MSW Curriculum: Social Work Degree Courses & Specializations
In the Master of Social Work (MSW) program at PennWest, you'll study a curriculum that emphasizes trauma-informed practice, diversity, and social justice. Courses include advanced clinical practice, research methods, and policy analysis. You'll learn to address complex human needs and strengths in various social contexts. The program also offers practical training through field placements, where you'll apply your knowledge in real-world settings. This comprehensive education prepares you for advanced generalist practice, equipping you with the skills to make a meaningful impact in your community.
MSW Field Internships: Hands-On Social Work Experience
Field education is the signature pedagogy of social work education. As an MSW student, you'll complete:
Regular Standing: 900 hours of supervised practice (300 hours foundation placement + 600 hours advanced placement)
Advanced Standing: 600 hours of supervised practice
You'll work with our field education team to secure placements in your local community that align with your career goals and interests.
MSW Degree Options: Regular & Advanced Standing Tracks
Regular Standing MSW Program (60 credits)
For students with undergraduate degrees in fields other than social work. This program includes foundation courses and advanced practice courses with 900 hours of supervised field placement.
Advanced Standing MSW Program (33 credits)
For students who have earned a BSW from a CSWE-accredited program within the last ten years. This accelerated option focuses on advanced practice courses with 600 hours of supervised field placement.
Degrees, Certificates
Meet Our Faculty
Our faculty are not just instructors; they are mentors, researchers, and industry professionals committed to providing an education grounded in real-world experiences and academic excellence. From engaging classroom discussions to hands-on experiential learning, our educators are here to support and inspire you every step of the way.
Concentrations
There are no concentrations for this program.
Online MSW Degree Format: Flexible & Accessible Learning
This program is offered 100% online. Our online MSW degree emphasizes asynchronous learning, meaning there are no specific times you need to be online. This flexible format allows you to balance your education with work and personal commitments.
What You'll Become
Your MSW degree from PennWest opens doors to diverse and rewarding social work careers with competitive salaries and strong growth potential. Graduates become skilled social work professionals equipped to address complex challenges using advanced knowledge in trauma-informed practice, diversity, and social justice principles. The master's in social work prepares you for licensure and positions in high-demand settings including healthcare facilities, mental health clinics, schools, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations. PennWest MSW alumni excel in both clinical roles providing direct therapeutic services and leadership positions developing programs and influencing policy. With the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting faster-than-average growth for social work positions through 2032, your MSW investment creates opportunities for meaningful work and professional advancement.
Career Paths
- Clinical Social Worker: Provides therapy and counseling services to individuals, families, and groups dealing with mental health and emotional issues.
- School Social Worker: Works within educational institutions to support students' social, emotional, and academic needs.
- Healthcare Social Worker: Assists patients in hospitals or clinics, helping them navigate the healthcare system and cope with illness or injury.
- Substance Abuse Counselor: Offers support and treatment plans for individuals struggling with addiction and substance abuse issues.
- Community Outreach Coordinator: Develops and implements programs to address community needs and improve public well-being.
- Policy Analyst: Researches and analyzes social policies, advocating for changes to improve social services and public welfare.
- Case Manager: Coordinates services for clients, ensuring they receive the appropriate resources and support for their needs.
- Child Welfare Specialist: Works with children and families in the child welfare system to ensure safety and promote family stability.
- Geriatric Social Worker: Supports older adults and their families, addressing issues related to aging, healthcare, and quality of life.
- Mental Health Counselor: Provides counseling and support to individuals dealing with mental health conditions.
- Social Work Administrator: Manages social service programs and organizations, overseeing staff and program development.
- Victim Advocate: Supports victims of crime, providing resources, counseling, and assistance throughout the legal process.
Joey Pagano '21, '22
Through PennWest's MSW program, Joey gained the professional credentials and skills needed to transform his lived experience into a career helping others in recovery. Today, he travels throughout the region assisting others battling addiction, has written two books on recovery, and received recognition from both state government and the military for his turnaround.
How We'll Help You Succeed
At Pennsylvania Western University (PennWest), we prioritize your success and well-being from the moment you join our community. Our comprehensive student support system is designed to meet you where you are, offering personalized guidance, academic assistance, and emotional support to ensure you can fully focus on your studies and personal growth. Whether you're a first-generation college student, returning for further education, or navigating career changes, our dedicated faculty and staff provide the encouragement and resources you need to overcome challenges and thrive. With a wide range of services from tutoring and career counseling to mental health resources, PennWest stands by your side, empowering you to achieve your academic goals and prepare for a successful future. Join us at PennWest, where you're not just a student; you're part of a supportive family committed to helping you find your place in the world.
Approved SARA Institution
We may admit online graduate students from all 50 states, as well as international students and the military.
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Affordable Programs
Tuition & FeesDiscover quality education that fits your budget with our affordable programs at PennWest.
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Success Coaching
Success at PennWestAchieve your academic goals with personalized guidance from our dedicated student success coaches.
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Post-Graduation Support
Life After PennWestWe're here for you even after graduation, providing support and resources to help you succeed in your career.
Better Together
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