MSW Programs in Pennsylvania Online
Pennsylvania stands as a major hub for Master of Social Work education, with the Commonwealth offering an impressive array of online MSW programs that reflect the state’s deep commitment to social service excellence and professional development. The state hosts multiple CSWE-accredited institutions providing fully online MSW options, including specialized programs with trauma concentrations, advanced generalist tracks, and clinical social work specializations designed for working professionals. Currently, Widener University in Chester, Temple University in Philadelphia, and several other Pennsylvania institutions offer comprehensive online MSW programs that combine rigorous academic preparation with flexible scheduling options. Additionally, Pennsylvania universities like Shippensburg University and Penn State World Campus have expanded their online offerings to serve students across the state’s diverse metropolitan and rural communities, ensuring accessibility from Pittsburgh’s urban corridors to the state’s mountainous regions.
Pennsylvania’s social work licensing framework establishes a straightforward yet rigorous pathway for MSW graduates through Licensed Social Worker (LSW) and Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) credentials. To become an LSW or LCSW in Pennsylvania, a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree is required, positioning graduate education as the foundation for professional practice. For clinical licensure advancement, candidates must complete 3,000 hours of supervised, post-masters, clinical experience that can be accumulated in no less than two years and no more than six years, with structured hour requirements per year to ensure comprehensive skill development. Pennsylvania maintains a two-year licensing cycle with 30 hours of continuing education required per renewal period, demonstrating the state’s commitment to ongoing professional development and evidence-based practice standards.
The career landscape for social workers in Pennsylvania reflects the state’s rich industrial heritage and contemporary social challenges, creating diverse opportunities across healthcare systems, educational institutions, criminal justice settings, and community-based organizations. Pennsylvania’s emphasis on integrated healthcare, mental health services, and substance abuse treatment aligns with modern MSW curricula that emphasize clinical competency and macro practice skills. The state’s aging population, urban revitalization efforts, and focus on addressing social inequities generate strong demand for MSW graduates prepared for direct practice, administration, and policy development roles. Online MSW programs in Pennsylvania prepare practitioners to navigate this complex landscape through comprehensive field education experiences and coursework that integrates the state’s unique blend of urban sophistication and rural community values.
2026 Best Pennsylvania MSW Programs Online
Kutztown University of Pennsylvania
Kutztown, PA - Public 4-Year - kutztown.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Behavioral Health - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Kutztown University of Pennsylvania offers an online Master of Social Work with a concentration in Behavioral Health, delivered in a hybrid format. This 60-credit program includes full-time, part-time, and executive schedule options, allowing completion in one to two years. It requires a 900-hour agency practicum for hands-on experience and does not mandate an entrance exam. Advanced standing is available, and the program is military-friendly, preparing graduates for roles in clinical practice and leadership with a focus on ethical, justice-oriented approaches in behavioral health settings.
- 60-credit MSW program
- Advanced standing option available
- Full and part-time formats
- Executive schedule option
- 900-hour agency practicum
- Fall semester deadline: August 1st
- Summer sessions deadline: May 1st
- Three recommendation letters required
- Multiple specialization paths
- Diverse practice settings
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Community Development - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The online Master of Social Work at Kutztown University of Pennsylvania specializes in Community Development through a hybrid delivery model. This 60-credit program offers flexible formats including full-time, part-time, and executive schedules, with advanced standing options. No entrance exam is required, and it features a 900-hour practicum for practical skills development. Military-friendly and emphasizing diverse practice settings, it equips students for leadership roles in community services, mental health, and healthcare sectors.
- 60-credit MSW program
- Advanced standing option available
- Multiple schedule formats
- 900-hour agency practicum
- Fall semester deadline: August 1st
- Summer session deadline: May 1st
- Executive schedule available
- Full and part-time options
- Specialization opportunities
- Comprehensive admission requirements
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Leadership and Management - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Kutztown University of Pennsylvania provides an online Master of Social Work concentrating on Leadership and Management in a hybrid format. The 60-credit program includes full-time, part-time, and executive schedules, with advanced standing reducing credits to 39. No entrance exam is needed, and it involves a 900-hour agency practicum for experiential learning. Military-friendly, it focuses on developing advanced clinical and management skills for careers in social services, child welfare, and community development.
- 60-credit MSW program
- 39 credits for advanced standing
- Flexible full/part-time formats
- Executive schedule available
- 900-hour agency practicum
- Multiple specialization tracks
- Fall semester deadline: August 1st
- Summer sessions deadline: May 1st
- Multiple learning format options
- Concentration development in advanced year
University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, PA - Public 4-Year - pitt.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Pittsburgh's online Master of Social Work (MSW) program, established in 1918, is nationally ranked and prepares students for roles as licensed clinicians, community leaders, and policymakers. It emphasizes evidence-informed practice, cultural humility, and social justice advocacy through rigorous coursework. No entrance exam is required for admission. This flexible online program includes specialization opportunities, dual degree options, and a focus on multicultural and global perspectives, making it ideal for working professionals seeking advanced skills in social work.
- In-person and online options
- Established in 1918
- Six generalist foundational courses
- Specialization opportunities available
- Multiple certificate options
- Dual/joint degree possibilities
- Multicultural society focus
- Evidence-informed practice approach
- Global perspective emphasis
Millersville University of Pennsylvania
Millersville, PA - Public 4-Year - millersville.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Millersville University of Pennsylvania, in collaboration with Shippensburg University, offers a hybrid Master of Social Work program that combines online and on-campus elements for flexibility. This CSWE-accredited program features regular and advanced standing tracks, emphasizing advanced generalist practice without a specific concentration. No entrance exam is required, and it includes field placements across Pennsylvania, preparing graduates for diverse roles in human services with a focus on social justice and evidence-informed practice. The program starts in Summer 2025, with an application deadline of April 15, 2025, catering to both working professionals and full-time students.
- Joint program with Shippensburg University
- On-campus and online delivery options
- Regular and Advanced Standing tracks
- CSWE accredited program
- Flexible full-time/part-time schedules
- Starting Summer 2025
- Application deadline April 15, 2025
- Advanced generalist practice focus
- Field placements across Pennsylvania
Saint Joseph's University
Philadelphia, PA - Private 4-year - sju.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Saint Joseph's University's online Master of Social Work (MSW) program is tailored for working professionals, offering flexible synchronous and asynchronous courses that can be completed in 1-4 years. With a 62-credit curriculum focused on social justice, anti-racism, and community engagement, it prepares graduates to advocate for vulnerable populations. The program does not require an entrance exam, has affordable tuition starting at $862 per credit, and provides options like advanced standing and zero textbook costs. It is CSWE-accredited and designed for career advancement in diverse social work settings.
- Online synchronous/asynchronous courses
- 1-4 years program length
- 62 total credits
- CSWE candidacy accreditation
- Tuition starts $862/credit
- Advanced standing option
- 4+1 accelerated pathway
- Zero textbook cost
- Small class sizes
- Philadelphia-based program
Pennsylvania Western University
California, PA - Public 4-Year - pennwest.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Online Learning - Visit Website
Pennsylvania Western University's online Master of Social Work program is a 60-credit, fully remote offering that emphasizes trauma-informed and socially just practices for aspiring professionals. It features an advanced generalist focus with no specific concentrations, preparing students for diverse careers and state licensure through comprehensive field placements and national internship networks. The program does not require an entrance exam and supports flexibility for working adults with mentorship opportunities.
- 100% Online Program
- 60 Total Credit Hours
- Trauma-Informed Curriculum
- No Specific Concentrations
- National Internship Networks
- Prepares for State Licensure
- Diverse Career Pathways
- Mentorship Opportunities
- Advanced Generalist Practice Focus
- Comprehensive Field Placements
Eastern University
Saint Davids, PA - Private 4-year - eastern.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Online Learning - Visit Website
Eastern University's online Master of Social Work is a CSWE-accredited program offering flexible 100% online coursework, with traditional and advanced standing tracks requiring 30-60 credits. Rooted in a Christian worldview, it emphasizes trauma-informed care and ethical practices, preparing students for advanced generalist roles. No entrance exam is required, and it features competitive tuition at $450 per credit, with start dates in August and January. Internships are arranged near students, and the program is military-friendly, supporting diverse social service careers.
- 100% Online Coursework
- 2-Year Traditional Track
- 1-Year Advanced Standing
- $450/credit Tuition
- CSWE Accredited Program
- August & January Start Dates
- Trauma-Informed Curriculum
- Internships Near Student
- Total Cost: $14,400-$28,800
La Salle University
Philadelphia, PA - Private 4-year - lasalle.edu
Master's - Social Work (MSW)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
La Salle University's online MSW program, offered in a hybrid format, prepares students for advanced social work practice without requiring an entrance exam. Rooted in a person-in-environment perspective, it integrates theory with hands-on field experience to address complex challenges in diverse settings like schools and mental health clinics. As a CSWE-accredited program, it includes a mental health concentration, leadership courses, and projects a 19% job growth, making it ideal for those seeking high-demand careers with competitive salaries and robust satisfaction.
- CSWE Accredited Program
- Hybrid Learning Format
- Advanced Practice Focus
- Field Practicum Required
- Mental Health Concentration Available
- Leadership Course Included
- 19% Job Growth Projected
List of Pennsylvania Online MSW Programs
California, PA
Pennsylvania Western University
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Program
- 60 Total Credit Hours
- Trauma-Informed Curriculum
- No Specific Concentrations
- National Internship Networks
- Prepares for State Licensure
- Diverse Career Pathways
- Mentorship Opportunities
Kutztown, PA
Kutztown University of Pennsylvania
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Behavioral Health - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 60-credit MSW program
- Advanced standing option available
- Full and part-time formats
- Executive schedule option
- 900-hour agency practicum
- Fall semester deadline: August 1st
- Summer sessions deadline: May 1st
- Three recommendation letters required
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Community Development - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 60-credit MSW program
- Advanced standing option available
- Multiple schedule formats
- 900-hour agency practicum
- Fall semester deadline: August 1st
- Summer session deadline: May 1st
- Executive schedule available
- Full and part-time options
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Leadership and Management - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 60-credit MSW program
- 39 credits for advanced standing
- Flexible full/part-time formats
- Executive schedule available
- 900-hour agency practicum
- Multiple specialization tracks
- Fall semester deadline: August 1st
- Summer sessions deadline: May 1st
Millersville, PA
Millersville University of Pennsylvania
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Joint program with Shippensburg University
- On-campus and online delivery options
- Regular and Advanced Standing tracks
- CSWE accredited program
- Flexible full-time/part-time schedules
- Starting Summer 2025
- Application deadline April 15, 2025
- Advanced generalist practice focus
Philadelphia, PA
La Salle University
- Master's - Social Work (MSW)
Online & Campus Based - Website
- CSWE Accredited Program
- Hybrid Learning Format
- Advanced Practice Focus
- Field Practicum Required
- Mental Health Concentration Available
- Leadership Course Included
- 19% Job Growth Projected
Saint Joseph's University
- Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)
Online Learning - Website
- Online synchronous/asynchronous courses
- 1-4 years program length
- 62 total credits
- CSWE candidacy accreditation
- Tuition starts $862/credit
- Advanced standing option
- 4+1 accelerated pathway
- Zero textbook cost
Pittsburgh, PA
University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh
- Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)
Online Learning - Website
- Nationally-ranked social work program
- In-person and online options
- Established in 1918
- Six generalist foundational courses
- Specialization opportunities available
- Multiple certificate options
- Dual/joint degree possibilities
- Multicultural society focus
Saint Davids, PA
Eastern University
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Coursework
- 2-Year Traditional Track
- 1-Year Advanced Standing
- $450/credit Tuition
- CSWE Accredited Program
- August & January Start Dates
- Trauma-Informed Curriculum
- Internships Near Student
2026 Affordable Online PA MSW Program Options
| Eastern University |
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| Saint Joseph's University |
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| Kutztown University of Pennsylvania |
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| Pennsylvania Western University |
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| La Salle University |
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| Millersville University of Pennsylvania |
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| University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh |
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List of Pennsylvania Advanced Standing Online MSW Programs
Pennsylvania’s accelerated MSW programs for advanced standing candidates provide a concentrated educational track for graduates holding a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from a CSWE-accredited institution. These intensive programs focus on post-industrial community development, aging services, and healthcare navigation to serve Pennsylvania’s diverse populations across historic urban centers, Rust Belt communities, rural Appalachian regions, and the agricultural landscapes of Pennsylvania Dutch country.
California, PA
Pennsylvania Western University
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Online Learning - Website
- 100% online asynchronous format.
- CSWE accredited program.
- Trauma-informed curriculum focus.
- 60 credits for regular standing.
- 33 credits for advanced standing.
- Hands-on field placements required.
- Prepares for state licensure.
- Experienced faculty mentors.
Mechanicsburg, PA
Messiah University
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Online Learning - Website
- Flexible online format
- Advanced Generalist specialization
- Focus areas in health, leadership, mental health
- Experienced faculty
- Hands-on field practicum
- Small class sizes
- Transparent tuition with discounts
- Prepares for diverse social work roles
Philadelphia, PA
Saint Joseph's University
- Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)
Online Learning - Website
- Online program for flexibility.
- 62-credit curriculum.
- Zero textbook costs.
- Paid practicum opportunities.
- Designed for working professionals.
- Admission requires 3.0 GPA.
- Flexible completion in 1-4 years.
- CSWE candidacy status.
Temple University
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid learning format
- 60-credit MSW degree
- Full-time and part-time options
- Advanced Standing available
- Two concentrations offered
- Focus on social justice
- Trauma-informed care emphasis
- CSWE accredited
Pittsburgh, PA
Carlow University
- Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)
Online & Campus Based - Website
- CSWE accredited program.
- Online delivery option.
- Specializations in Direct, Macro, School Social Work.
- Trauma-informed curriculum.
- Focus on social justice.
- Advanced standing for BSW graduates.
- 24 months to completion.
- 39-60+ credits required.
Reading, PA
Alvernia University
- Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)
Online Learning - Website
- Online program format
- Focus on behavioral health
- Two pathway options
- $516 per credit cost
- 3.0 GPA requirement
- Fieldwork placements included
- CSWE accredited
- Franciscan values guide
Saint Davids, PA
Eastern University
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Online Learning - Website
- Online program available.
- Advanced standing option.
- BSW required for advanced standing.
- Minimum GPA 2.5 for 2-year track.
- Focus on social justice.
- Essay and resume required.
- Interview with faculty.
- Comprehensive curriculum.
Shippensburg, PA
Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Online Learning - Website
- CSWE-accredited program
- Online and evening classes
- No entrance exam
- Affordable tuition
- Small class sizes
- Real-world internships
- Flexible for working professionals
- Advanced generalist approach
Slippery Rock, PA
Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania
- Master's - Social Work - Advanced Standing, Master of Social Work (MSW)
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid learning format
- 39 credit hours
- Advanced Standing track
- Focus on clinical social work
- Field education included
- Electives in trauma care
- BSW required for admission
- Financial aid available
- Master's - Social Work - Advanced Standing, Master of Social Work (MSW)
Online Learning - Website
- Online or hybrid format
- 60-credit program
- 39 credits for advanced standing
- Full-time completion in 2 years
- Advanced standing in 1 year
- Part-time options available
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Certificate
- Advanced clinical electives
2026 Affordable Online Pennsylvania Advanced Standing MSW Programs
| Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania |
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| Pennsylvania Western University |
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| Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania |
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| Messiah University |
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| Alvernia University |
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| Saint Joseph's University |
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| Temple University |
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| Carlow University |
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| Eastern University |
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