MSW Programs in Arkansas Online

The landscape of social work education has transformed dramatically with the widespread adoption of online Master of Social Work (MSW) programs, offering unprecedented flexibility for working professionals and students with geographic constraints. Arkansas residents seeking advanced social work credentials have access to several high-quality options within the state, including fully online MSW offerings.

Arkansas presents a robust climate for MSW-educated social workers. The state’s growing need for mental health services, substance abuse treatment, and community support programs creates strong job security for graduates, while national projections show over 66,800 social work job openings annually through 2030. Whether pursuing clinical practice, community organizing, or administrative leadership roles, students entering online MSW programs can expect rigorous CSWE-accredited curricula that blend theoretical knowledge with practical field experience, preparing them for immediate impact in Arkansas communities and beyond.

2026 Best Arkansas MSW Programs Online

At Masters in Social Work Online, we've carefully researched and ranked the best online Master of Social Work (MSW) programs in Arkansas, understanding the critical need for flexible education pathways in this transformative field. Online programs have become increasingly essential for working professionals and students seeking advanced social work degrees without disrupting their current careers. These virtual learning opportunities provide unparalleled accessibility, allowing students to complete rigorous coursework from the comfort of their homes while maintaining professional and personal commitments. Our comprehensive rankings consider factors like curriculum quality, faculty expertise, field placement support, and student outcomes to help prospective social work students make informed decisions about their graduate education. Learn more about our ranking methodology.

#1

University of Arkansas

Fayetteville, AR - Public 4-Year - uark.edu

Master's - Master of Social Work

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Arkansas delivers a strategic online Master of Social Work program tailored for bachelor's-level social work professionals seeking rapid career advancement. Uniquely designed as an Advanced Standing track, this comprehensive 39-credit hour program enables students to complete their degree entirely online within just one year. With CSWE accreditation, the program eliminates GRE requirements and emphasizes practical experience through a year-long 22-hour internship. Students benefit from flexible virtual classrooms, local internship placements, and a curriculum that prepares graduates for leadership roles. The program maintains rigorous academic standards, requiring a 3.0 undergraduate GPA and professional references for admission.

• 100% Online Program
• 39 Credit Hours
• 1 Year Completion Time
• GRE Exempt
• BSW Required
• Year-long 22-hour Internship
• CSWE Accredited
• 3.0 Undergraduate GPA
• Application Deadline Jan 15
• Per Credit Hour $446.29

*Institutional data extracted from: IPEDS 2023, NCES.

List of Arkansas Online MSW Programs

List of Arkansas Advanced Standing Online MSW Programs

Advanced standing MSW programs in Arkansas are specifically designed for students who have completed a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from a CSWE-accredited program, allowing them to pursue their master’s degree through an accelerated pathway. These programs focus on advanced clinical skills, policy advocacy, and evidence-based practice to address the unique social challenges facing Arkansas communities, including rural poverty, healthcare disparities, and substance abuse issues. Students develop specialized competencies in areas such as child welfare, gerontology, and community organizing while preparing to serve the state’s diverse populations across both urban centers and rural areas.