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 not only prepare graduates for licensed social work practice (LMSW and later LCSW) but also 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 both urban and rural service gaps, master’s in social work graduates play a key role 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's primarily online Master of Social Work (MSW) program provides a flexible and comprehensive pathway for aspiring social work professionals. Designed to accommodate diverse student backgrounds, the program offers two dynamic tracks: a 42-credit Advanced Standing Program for BSW holders and a 60-credit program for those without a social work bachelor's degree. With a focus on advanced generalist practice and social justice, students gain cutting-edge skills through virtual coursework, synchronous skills labs, and essential field placements. Competitive tuition at $440 per credit hour makes this accredited program an accessible route to a meaningful career in social work.
- 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
Unlock your potential in social work with The University of Alabama's innovative primarily online Master of Social Work (MSW) program. Designed for working professionals and career changers, this flexible degree offers two pathways: a 42-credit Advanced Standing Program for BSW holders and a comprehensive 60-credit track for those without a social work background. With competitive tuition at $440 per credit hour, the program prepares students for advanced generalist practice through virtual skills labs, online coursework, and practical field placements. Emphasizing social justice and trauma-informed frameworks, graduates develop critical skills to address complex social challenges across multiple system levels.
- 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
- Dual degree options: MSW/JD, MSW/MPH
- Social justice framework
- Trauma-informed approach
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Begun in 1965
Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)
Concentration: MSW/JD Dual Degree - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Alabama's Master of Social Work (MSW) program offers a flexible, primarily online degree designed for working professionals. Prepare for a rewarding career by gaining advanced skills in social justice and trauma-informed practice. With two program options—42-credit Advanced Standing and 60-credit Traditional tracks—students can complete their degree in as little as three semesters. The program features virtual skills labs, comprehensive field placements, and an Advanced Generalist concentration that equips graduates to address complex social challenges across diverse systems and settings.
- 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
- 500 hours practicum
- Optional dual degree programs
- Social justice framework
- Trauma-informed approach
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's innovative online Master of Social Work (MSW) program prepares advanced social work professionals to serve vulnerable populations with cutting-edge skills. The program focuses on trauma-informed practice, social justice, and technology integration, equipping students to work effectively with diverse communities. Students gain comprehensive training in clinical practice, telehealth, global social work opportunities, and evidence-based interventions. Designed for working professionals and career changers, the program offers flexible online learning that develops ethical, culturally competent practitioners ready to make meaningful societal impacts.
- 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
Tuskegee University's online Master of Social Work (MSW) program prepares advanced generalist practitioners to work with traumatized children, families, and communities of color. Designed for aspiring social workers seeking to make meaningful impacts, the program focuses on developing culturally competent professionals who can address complex social challenges. Students gain comprehensive skills in trauma interventions, telehealth services, and global social work practices through a rigorous curriculum emphasizing ethical, empathetic practice. The program offers flexible online learning, preparing graduates to become innovative leaders in social work across diverse settings.
- 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
Tuskegee University's online Master of Social Work (MSW) program prepares advanced generalist social workers to address complex challenges facing vulnerable populations. Designed for professionals seeking to make meaningful community impact, the program emphasizes trauma-informed practice, technological integration, and social justice. Students gain comprehensive skills in clinical interventions, telehealth services, and global social work perspectives. The flexible online format accommodates working professionals, with opportunities for specialized fieldwork and interprofessional collaboration.
- 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
Finding affordable online MSW programs is key for students in Alabama looking to advance their education without high costs. The table lists 10 schools offering various degree levels, from Bachelor's to Doctorate, with details on program highlights and tuition range. It helps compare low-cost options, making it easier to choose a program that fits your budget. Whether you're in Birmingham, Mobile, or elsewhere in Alabama, economical education options are within reach for 2025.
School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
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University of North Alabama |
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The University of Alabama |
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Troy University |
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University of Alabama at Birmingham |
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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 |
---|---|---|
Auburn University | Auburn, AL | CSWE |
Samford University | Birmingham, AL | CSWE |
Troy University | Troy, AL | CSWE |
University of Alabama | Tuscaloosa, AL | CSWE |