Online Master of Social Work (MSW) programs in Alabama are helping to meet the state’s growing need for skilled social workers. With many communities facing challenges related to healthcare access, mental health services, child welfare, and rural social work, there is a critical demand for professionals trained in evidence-based practice and advocacy.
The CSWE accredited online MSW programs based in Alabama offer flexible pathways for students to gain advanced clinical and leadership skills without needing to relocate, making them especially valuable for working adults and those living in rural areas. These programs prepare graduates for licensed social work practice (LMSW and later LCSW) and equip them to address some of the state’s most urgent social challenges with cultural sensitivity, resilience, and community-focused solutions.
As Alabama continues to face urban and rural service gaps, master’s in social work graduates are key in strengthening support networks across the state.
List of Online MSW Programs in Alabama
Auburn, AL
Auburn University
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Online Learning - Website
- Fully accredited MSW program
- Traditional & Advanced Standing options
- Campus and online formats
- Traditional Program: 61 credit hours
- Advanced Standing: 39 credit hours
- Focus on health/mental health practice
- Accepts diverse undergraduate backgrounds
- Service-learning opportunities available
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Health and Mental Health - Online Learning - Website
- Fully accredited MSW program
- Traditional and Advanced Standing tracks
- Campus and online options
- Traditional program: 61 credit hours
- Advanced Standing: 39 credit hours
- Health and mental health focus
- Accepts diverse undergraduate backgrounds
- Service-learning opportunities
Birmingham, AL
Samford University
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Online Learning - Website
- Online and face-to-face options
- Full and part-time study paths
- Advanced Clinical Practice Concentration
- CSWE fully accredited program
- Application opens Aug. 1, 2024
- Early action deadline Nov. 1, 2024
- Fast-track 5-year bachelor's + MSW
- Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Advanced Clinical Social Work - Online Learning - Website
- Online and in-person options
- Advanced Clinical Practice Concentration
- CSWE fully accredited program
- Full-time and part-time tracks
- Advanced Standing available
- Application opens Aug. 1, 2024
- Early Action Deadline Nov. 1, 2024
- Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
Florence, AL
University of North Alabama
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Online Learning - Website
- Fully online MSW program
- CSWE accredited degree
- One-year advanced standing option
- $495 per credit hour
- Advanced Standing: $16,650 total
- Traditional MSW: $33,300 total
- No GRE required
- 2.85 GPA minimum requirement
Huntsville, AL
Oakwood University
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Clinical Social Work - Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Program
- 12-24 Month Completion
- Generalist: 60 Credit Hours
- Advanced Standing: 30 Credit Hours
- Open to All Undergraduate Majors
- Biblical Principles Integration
- Culturally Responsive Curriculum
- Accreditation Candidacy Pathway
Normal, AL
Alabama A & M University
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Fully accredited MSW program
- Two concentration options
- Advanced standing available
- 2-year and part-time tracks
- Lawson State Community College option
- Prepares Licensed Independent Clinical Social Workers
- Ecological perspective framework
- Focuses on rural and urban communities
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Community Mental Health - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Fully accredited MSW program
- Three program track options
- Two concentration choices
- Field experience included
- CSWE accredited curriculum
- Rural and urban focus
- Advanced generalist competencies
- Independent licensure potential
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Family & Child Welfare - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Fully CSWE accredited program
- Two concentration options
- Advanced standing available
- 2-year and part-time tracks
- Multiple campus options
- Prepares Licensed Clinical Social Workers
- Rural and urban community focus
- 60 credit hour traditional program
Troy, AL
Troy University
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Direct Practice - Online Learning - Website
- Direct Practice Specialization
- One and Two-Year Programs
- Online and Campus Options
- No Entrance Exams Required
- CSWE Accredited Program
- Military Family Focus
- Application Deadlines: May 15, Oct. 15
- Professional Licensure Preparation
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Organizational Leadership and Management - Online Learning - Website
- One-year and two-year MSW paths
- Direct Practice specialization
- Online and campus options
- No entrance exam required
- CSWE accredited program
- Application deadlines: May 15, Oct 15
- Military family focus
- Prepares for professional licensure
Tuscaloosa, AL
The University of Alabama
- Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)
Online Learning - Website
- Primarily online MSW program
- Two program options: 42 and 60 credits
- CSWE accredited program
- Tuition: $440 per credit hour
- Advanced Generalist Concentration
- Virtual skills labs synchronous
- 500 hours practicum required
- Application deadline: April 1
- Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)
Concentration: MSW/JD Dual Degree - Online Learning - Website
- Primarily online MSW program
- Two program tracks available
- 42-60 credit hours
- Tuition $440 per hour
- Advanced Generalist concentration
- Virtual skills labs
- CSWE accredited program
- Fall/Summer admission options
- Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)
Concentration: MSW/MPH Dual Degree - Online Learning - Website
- Primarily online MSW program
- 42-60 credit hours
- $440 per credit hour
- Two program options available
- Advanced Generalist Concentration
- CSWE accredited program
- 60-credit option: April 1 deadline
- Advanced Standing: March 1 deadline
Tuskegee, AL
Tuskegee University
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Behavioral Health Social Work Practice - Online Learning - Website
- Online MSW program
- Pre-candidacy CSWE accreditation
- Advanced generalist practice focus
- Trauma-informed curriculum
- Telehealth service preparation
- Global social work opportunities
- Diverse field placement options
- Technology-integrated learning
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Child Welfare Social Work Practice - Online Learning - Website
- Online MSW program
- Pre-candidacy CSWE accreditation
- Advanced generalist clinical practice
- Trauma-informed curriculum
- Technology integration focus
- Global social work perspective
- Diverse practice settings
- Telehealth training
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Healthcare Social Work Practice - Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online MSW Program
- Advanced Generalist Clinical Practice
- Trauma-Informed Practice Focus
- Pre-Candidacy CSWE Accreditation
- Diverse Internship Opportunities
- Telehealth Service Training
- Global Social Work Perspective
- Interprofessional Education
2025 Best Alabama MSW Programs Online
Looking for the best Alabama MSW programs online? mastersinsocialworkonline.org has ranked the top options to help you find the right fit. Our list focuses on quality, affordability, and flexibility to meet your needs. Whether you're starting your career or advancing in social work, these programs offer the support you need. Check out our rankings to see which Alabama schools stand out. Learn more about how we rank programs here.
The University of Alabama
Tuscaloosa, AL - Public 4-Year - ua.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Alabama offers a primarily online Master of Social Work (MSW) program, designed for flexibility and accessibility. With two tracks—a 42-credit Advanced Standing Program for BSW graduates and a 60-credit program for others—it caters to a wide range of students. The program emphasizes advanced generalist practice and social justice, combining online coursework with synchronous virtual skills labs and mandatory field placements. At $440 per credit hour, it's an affordable option for those looking to enter the social work field. No entrance exam is required, making it accessible to all qualified applicants.
- Primarily online MSW program
- Two program options: 42 and 60 credits
- CSWE accredited program
- Tuition: $440 per credit hour
- Advanced Generalist Concentration
- Virtual skills labs synchronous
- 500 hours practicum required
- Application deadline: April 1
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Dual degree options available
Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)
Concentration: MSW/MPH Dual Degree - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Alabama's primarily online MSW/MPH Dual Degree program is tailored for those aiming to blend social work with public health. Offering both a 42-credit Advanced Standing and a 60-credit traditional track, the program is designed for working professionals seeking flexibility. With a focus on social justice and trauma-informed care, students engage in virtual labs, online courses, and field practicums. Priced at $440 per credit hour, this CSWE-accredited program does not require an entrance exam, welcoming applicants with a minimum 3.0 GPA.
- Primarily online MSW program
- 42-60 credit hours
- $440 per credit hour
- Two program options available
- Advanced Generalist Concentration
- CSWE accredited program
- 60-credit option: April 1 deadline
- Advanced Standing: March 1 deadline
- Virtual skills labs
- 500 practicum hours
Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)
Concentration: MSW/JD Dual Degree - Online Learning - Visit Website
For those interested in the intersection of law and social work, The University of Alabama provides a primarily online MSW/JD Dual Degree program. This program offers two pathways: a 42-credit Advanced Standing and a 60-credit traditional track, both emphasizing advanced generalist practice. Students benefit from virtual skills labs, field placements, and a curriculum focused on social justice and trauma-informed approaches. With tuition at $440 per credit hour and no entrance exam required, it's an excellent option for aspiring professionals with a 3.0 GPA or higher.
- Primarily online MSW program
- Two program tracks available
- 42-60 credit hours
- Tuition $440 per hour
- Advanced Generalist concentration
- Virtual skills labs
- CSWE accredited program
- Fall/Summer admission options
- Application deadline April 1
- 3.0 GPA requirement
Alabama A & M University
Normal, AL - Public 4-Year - aamu.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Family & Child Welfare - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Alabama A&M University's Master of Social Work program, with a concentration in Family & Child Welfare, is a hybrid program that stands out for its CSWE accreditation and focus on empowering vulnerable populations. Offering advanced standing, traditional two-year, and part-time tracks, this program is designed for those aiming to specialize in family and child welfare services. The curriculum, grounded in an ecological perspective, prepares graduates for licensure and diverse roles in social work, with a unique emphasis on both rural and urban communities. No entrance exam is required, making it accessible to a broad range of students.
- Fully CSWE accredited program
- Two concentration options
- Advanced standing available
- 2-year and part-time tracks
- Multiple campus options
- Prepares Licensed Clinical Social Workers
- Rural and urban community focus
- 60 credit hour traditional program
- Ecological perspective framework
- Lawson State Community College option
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Community Mental Health - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Focusing on Community Mental Health, Alabama A&M University's hybrid Master of Social Work program equips students with advanced generalist skills. This CSWE-accredited program offers flexibility with advanced standing, two-year, and part-time options, catering to students' diverse needs. Through a combination of classroom learning and field experiences, graduates are prepared for roles in clinical practice, consultation, and teaching, with a pathway to independent licensure. The program's emphasis on both rural and urban settings ensures a comprehensive understanding of community mental health challenges. No entrance exam is required, facilitating easier access for prospective students.
- Fully accredited MSW program
- Three program track options
- Two concentration choices
- Field experience included
- CSWE accredited curriculum
- Rural and urban focus
- Advanced generalist competencies
- Independent licensure potential
Master's - Master of Social Work
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Alabama A&M University offers a versatile Master of Social Work program in a hybrid format, accredited by the CSWE. Without a specified concentration, this program provides a broad foundation in social work, with the option to specialize in Family & Child Welfare or Community Mental Health. It features advanced standing, two-year, and part-time tracks, accommodating various student schedules. The program's focus on ecological perspectives and preparing students for licensure as Licensed Independent Clinical Social Workers makes it a robust choice for aspiring social workers. Notably, the program does not require an entrance exam, broadening its accessibility.
- Fully accredited MSW program
- Two concentration options
- Advanced standing available
- 2-year and part-time tracks
- Lawson State Community College option
- Prepares Licensed Independent Clinical Social Workers
- Ecological perspective framework
- Focuses on rural and urban communities
Tuskegee University
Tuskegee, AL - Private 4-year - tuskegee.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Child Welfare Social Work Practice - Online Learning - Visit Website
Tuskegee University offers an online Master of Social Work (MSW) with a concentration in Child Welfare Social Work Practice, designed for those aiming to specialize in supporting vulnerable children and families. This program stands out for its trauma-informed curriculum and emphasis on social justice, preparing students to address the complexities of child welfare with empathy and expertise. With a focus on technology integration and telehealth training, graduates are equipped for modern social work challenges. The program does not require an entrance exam, making it accessible to a wide range of aspiring social workers.
- Online MSW program
- Pre-candidacy CSWE accreditation
- Advanced generalist clinical practice
- Trauma-informed curriculum
- Technology integration focus
- Global social work perspective
- Diverse practice settings
- Telehealth training
- Social justice emphasis
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Behavioral Health Social Work Practice - Online Learning - Visit Website
The online MSW program at Tuskegee University, concentrating on Behavioral Health Social Work Practice, is tailored for students passionate about mental health and substance abuse issues within communities of color. It combines advanced generalist practice with a trauma-informed approach, offering unique training in telehealth services and global social work perspectives. This program emphasizes cultural competence and ethical practice, preparing graduates for leadership roles in diverse settings. No entrance exam is required, facilitating easier access for dedicated professionals.
- Online MSW program
- Pre-candidacy CSWE accreditation
- Advanced generalist practice focus
- Trauma-informed curriculum
- Telehealth service preparation
- Global social work opportunities
- Diverse field placement options
- Technology-integrated learning
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Healthcare Social Work Practice - Online Learning - Visit Website
Focusing on Healthcare Social Work Practice, Tuskegee University's online MSW program prepares students to navigate the healthcare system's challenges, advocating for vulnerable populations. The curriculum highlights trauma-informed care, interprofessional education, and evidence-based interventions, with special attention to telehealth services. This program is ideal for those seeking to make a difference in healthcare settings, offering flexible online learning without the need for an entrance exam. Graduates emerge ready to contribute to patient care and policy with a comprehensive understanding of social work's role in health.
- 100% Online MSW Program
- Advanced Generalist Clinical Practice
- Trauma-Informed Practice Focus
- Pre-Candidacy CSWE Accreditation
- Diverse Internship Opportunities
- Telehealth Service Training
- Global Social Work Perspective
- Interprofessional Education
- IASSW Membership Program
- Evidence-Based Intervention Training
2025 Affordable Online MSW Program Options
Looking for affordable online MSW program options in Alabama for 2025? You're in the right place. We've gathered details on 10 schools offering a range of degree levels from Bachelor's to Doctorate, including Graduate Certificates. Online programs are a game-changer, especially for those balancing work or family commitments. They offer the flexibility to study from anywhere in Alabama, be it Birmingham, Montgomery, or smaller towns, making distance learning a practical choice for advancing your education without relocating. Virtual classrooms bring quality education to your doorstep, ensuring you don't have to put your life on hold to pursue your degree.
University of North Alabama |
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The University of Alabama |
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Troy University |
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Alabama A & M University |
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Auburn University |
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Tuskegee University |
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Oakwood University |
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Samford University |
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List of Alabama Advanced Standing Online MSW Programs
Advanced standing MSW programs in Alabama are designed for students who already hold a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from a CSWE-accredited institution, allowing them to complete their master’s degree on an accelerated timeline. These programs emphasize advanced clinical practice, leadership skills, and ethical service across diverse communities.
University | Location | Accreditation |
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Auburn University | Auburn, AL | CSWE |
Samford University | Birmingham, AL | CSWE |
Troy University | Troy, AL | CSWE |
University of Alabama | Tuscaloosa, AL | CSWE |
2025 Affordable Online Alabama Advanced Standing MSW Programs
Looking for an affordable online Advanced Standing MSW program in Alabama for 2025? You're in the right place. Alabama offers a variety of online programs across different degree levels, including Bachelor's, Master's, Graduate Certificate, and Doctorate. These programs are perfect for students who need flexibility due to work or family commitments. Online learning, or distance learning, makes it easier to pursue higher education without having to relocate. Whether you're in Birmingham, Mobile, or anywhere else in Alabama, these virtual programs provide the same quality education as on-campus options. Start your journey today and advance your career with a degree that fits your life.
University of North Alabama |
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Jacksonville State University |
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The University of Alabama |
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Auburn University |
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