MSW Programs in California Online

California leads the nation in social work education opportunities, with 25 fully accredited MSW programs offering comprehensive online learning options that have revolutionized accessibility for working professionals and students across the state’s diverse geography. The proliferation of online MSW programs has made it possible for students from San Diego to Sacramento to access rigorous, CSWE-accredited curricula without relocating or compromising their current responsibilities. These programs prepare graduates for the full spectrum of social work practice, from direct clinical services and mental health counseling to community organizing, policy advocacy, and administrative leadership roles in healthcare, educational, and social service settings.
The Golden State presents an exceptional landscape for MSW educated social workers, where demand remains consistently high driven by growing needs for social services and above-average salaries in metropolitan areas like Los Angeles and San Francisco. California’s complex social challenges from homelessness and immigration issues to mental health crises and educational inequities create diverse career pathways for MSW graduates who are equipped with evidence-based practice skills, cultural competency, and field experience. Whether pursuing licensure as an LCSW for clinical practice or focusing on macro-level interventions in policy and administration, students entering California’s online MSW programs can expect comprehensive preparation for immediate impact in communities that urgently need skilled, compassionate social work professionals.
2026 Best California MSW Programs Online
Point Loma Nazarene University
San Diego, CA - Private 4-year - pointloma.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Clinical Practice - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Point Loma Nazarene University's Master of Social Work (MSW) program prepares advanced generalist professionals to create meaningful social change through comprehensive training. Students develop critical skills in clinical counseling, program management, research, and advocacy across micro and macro levels. The hybrid format offers flexibility for working professionals, with four career-focused concentrations including Clinical Practice and Medical Social Work. Graduates are prepared for licensure and equipped to address complex social challenges through evidence-based solutions and interdisciplinary approaches.
- 24-month program duration
- Hybrid learning format
- Four career concentrations
- Licensure preparation nationwide
- Mission Valley campus location
- 60 units for regular track
- 33 units advanced standing
- $700 per unit cost
- Fall 2025 start date
- 3.0 minimum GPA required
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Medical Social Work - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Point Loma Nazarene University's Master of Social Work prepares advanced generalist professionals to create positive change. This comprehensive hybrid program offers flexible evening and online learning, preparing students for diverse social work careers. With four career-focused concentrations and an advanced standing track, students develop critical skills in clinical counseling, program management, and community advocacy. The curriculum integrates evidence-based solutions, fieldwork experiences, and comprehensive mentorship to equip graduates for licensure and impactful social service roles.
- Hybrid format with flexible learning
- Four career concentrations available
- Advanced standing track option
- 60 units regular track
- 33 units advanced standing track
- Fall 2025 start date
- $700 per unit cost
- Prepares for clinical licensure
- Experienced interdisciplinary faculty
- Mission Valley Regional Center
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Child Welfare - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Elevate your social work career with Point Loma Nazarene University's comprehensive Master of Social Work program. Designed for aspiring professionals, this hybrid degree prepares advanced generalists to make meaningful community impacts through clinical practice, research, and leadership. Students gain cutting-edge skills in counseling, program management, and advocacy across diverse concentrations like medical social work and child welfare. The flexible, two-year curriculum blends in-person evening classes with online learning, accommodating working professionals. With experienced faculty and robust fieldwork integration, graduates are primed for licensure and high-demand careers in healthcare, community services, and social support sectors.
- Two-year hybrid program format
- Four career concentrations available
- 60 total units required
- $700 per unit cost
- Advanced standing track available
- Licensure preparation included
- Fall 2025 start date
- Mission Valley campus location
- 3.0 minimum GPA requirement
- Prerequisites: Biology, Statistics
California State University-San Bernardino
San Bernardino, CA - Public 4-Year - csusb.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Embark on a transformative journey with California State University-San Bernardino's Master of Social Work (MSW) program. Designed to meet rigorous professional standards, this comprehensive degree prepares aspiring social workers for impactful careers. With flexible options including online and in-person learning at San Bernardino and Palm Desert campuses, students can choose advanced standing, two-year, or three-year tracks. The program offers diverse pathways, including a concurrent MSW/MPA degree for those seeking administrative roles. Accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, this program equips students with advanced skills to address complex social challenges.
- CSWE-accredited program
- Online and in-person options
- Multiple program tracks
- 35-60 unit programs
- San Bernardino/Palm Desert campuses
- Advanced Standing Program
- Two-year traditional track
- Three-year extended track
- MSW/MPA concurrent degree
- Pathway Distance Education
Master's - Master of Social Work / Master of Public Administration
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Elevate your social work career with California State University-San Bernardino's comprehensive Master of Social Work (MSW) program. Designed to meet rigorous professional standards, this versatile degree offers multiple pathways including full-time, part-time, online, and in-person options. Students can choose from advanced standing or traditional two and three-year tracks, providing flexibility for diverse career goals. The CSWE-accredited curriculum prepares graduates for advanced practice, emphasizing practical skills and theoretical knowledge across San Bernardino and Palm Desert campuses.
- Online and in-person options
- CSWE-accredited program
- Multiple program lengths
- Advanced Standing Program (35 units)
- Two-Year Program (60 units)
- Three-Year Program (60 units)
- Campuses: San Bernardino and Palm Desert
- MSW/MPA Concurrent Degree available
- Concurrent practicum education
- Summer entry for Advanced Standing
California State Polytechnic University-Humboldt
Arcata, CA - Public 4-Year - humboldt.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Rural and Indigenous Communities - Online Learning - Visit Website
Cal Poly Humboldt's Master of Social Work (MSW) program offers an advanced generalist curriculum focused on rural and Indigenous communities. Students develop compassionate, ethical practice skills through multi-system approaches emphasizing collaboration, cultural humility, and social justice. The fully accredited program provides flexible learning options, including full-time, part-time, and online formats, preparing professionals to address complex social challenges with empowerment and critical reflection.
- Advanced generalist MSW program
- Rural and Indigenous focus
- Full-time, part-time, online options
- CSWE fully accredited
- California licensure preparation
- Online students must reside in CA
- Emphasizes cultural humility
- Multi-system practice approach
- Social justice oriented curriculum
Master's - Master of Social Work
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Cal Poly Humboldt's Master of Social Work (MSW) program offers an advanced generalist degree uniquely focused on rural and Indigenous communities. Students develop compassionate, ethical practices through multi-system approaches, emphasizing cultural humility and social justice. The fully accredited program provides flexible learning options, including full-time, part-time, and online formats, preparing professionals to address complex social challenges with collaborative, strengths-based strategies.
- Advanced generalist MSW program
- Rural and Indigenous community focus
- CSWE fully accredited
- Full-time, part-time, online options
- Emphasizes cultural humility
- Meets California licensure requirements
- Online students must reside in California
- Multi-system practice approach
- Strengths-based collaborative learning
University of the Pacific
Stockton, CA - Private 4-year - pacific.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Health Care, Behavioral Health - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
University of the Pacific's Master of Social Work (MSW) program is a dynamic, hybrid learning experience designed for aspiring social work professionals. The 16-month accelerated curriculum prepares students to excel in diverse healthcare settings, focusing on clinical practice and social justice. With a minimum 2.75 GPA requirement and flexible online and in-person classes, students can specialize in areas like mental health, aging, and community health while building skills for clinical social work licensing.
- 16-month accelerated hybrid program
- Online and in-person classes
- Two program tracks available
- Advanced Standing for BSW graduates
- Field placements in Northern California
- 2.75+ undergraduate GPA required
- Apply October 1 to May 31
- Priority deadline March 31
- CSWE accredited program
- Clinical practice specialization
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Behavioral Health - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
University of the Pacific's Master of Social Work offers a dynamic, hybrid learning experience designed for aspiring social work professionals. The 16-month accelerated program prepares students to practice in diverse healthcare environments, focusing on clinical skills, cultural sensitivity, and evidence-based approaches. With flexible online and in-person classes, students can earn their MSW while balancing personal and professional commitments. Applicants need a bachelor's degree with a minimum 2.75 GPA, and the program offers unique opportunities like field placements across Northern California and specialized training in areas such as diabetes care management.
- 16-month Accelerated Hybrid Program
- Online and in-person classes
- Field placements in Northern California
- Bachelor's degree required
- 2.75 minimum GPA
- Apply October 1 to May 31
- Priority deadline March 31
- Advanced Standing Program available
- CSWE Accredited Program
- Diabetes Care subspecialization option
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Health Care - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
University of the Pacific's Master of Social Work (MSW) prepares compassionate professionals to tackle complex healthcare challenges. The innovative hybrid program offers two tracks: a 16-month accelerated option for non-social work graduates and a 12-month advanced standing path for recent BSW degree holders. Students gain clinical skills across healthcare settings, focusing on mental health, aging, and community health. With a 2.75 GPA requirement and flexible online/in-person learning, graduates are primed for robust career opportunities in an expanding field.
- Hybrid online/classroom format
- 16-month accelerated program
- 12-month advanced standing option
- 2.75 undergraduate GPA required
- Field placements in Northern California
- Diabetes Care subspecialization available
- CSWE accredited program
- Application period: October-May
- Priority deadline: March 31
- Health care practice focus
Pacific Oaks College
Pasadena, CA - Private 4-year - pacificoaks.edu
Master's - Online Master of Social Work
Online Learning - Visit Website
Pacific Oaks College's Online Master of Social Work (MSW) empowers students to become culturally competent clinical social workers through a comprehensive, hands-on curriculum. Designed for flexibility, the program offers full-time (2 years) and part-time (3 years) options, allowing professionals to advance their careers while maintaining work-life balance. Students complete 60 credits and 900 supervised field education hours, preparing them for state licensure with a strong foundation in social justice and professional practice.
- 100% online MSW program
- 60 total credit requirement
- 2-3 year completion options
- 900 field education hours
- CSWE accredited program
- Prepares for clinical licensure
- Requires bachelor's degree
- Professional experience required
- Cumulative 2.0 GPA minimum
- Focuses on social justice values
Master's - Online Master of Social Work Advanced Standing Program
Online Learning - Visit Website
Pacific Oaks College's Online Master of Social Work Advanced Standing Program offers a fast-track pathway for BSW graduates to advance their careers. This accelerated online program enables students to complete their MSW in just one year and eight weeks, focusing on social justice and community impact. Designed for working professionals, the program requires a 3.0 GPA, recent BSW from a CSWE-accredited program, and involves 35 credits, 720 field education hours, and a capstone project. Graduates can pursue clinical licensure and careers in diverse social work settings like mental health, education, and substance abuse.
- Online Advanced Standing Program
- 35 total credit hours
- Three semesters long
- 720 field education hours
- Starts Fall 1 and Spring 1
- Must have BSW within 5 years
- 3.0 GPA requirement
- Two recommendation letters needed
- Interview required
- Candidates pursuing clinical licensure
California State University-Fullerton
Fullerton, CA - Public 4-Year - fullerton.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work Flex Program
Concentration: Child Welfare - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
California State University-Fullerton's Master of Social Work Flex Program is a comprehensive 60-unit graduate degree designed for working professionals. The program offers two specialized concentrations in Child Welfare and Community Mental Health, providing advanced knowledge and multicultural training. Students can complete the program in approximately three years, with flexible evening classes and a blend of in-person and online learning. The curriculum emphasizes professional development, research methods, and hands-on field experiences to prepare social work practitioners for diverse and challenging environments.
- 60-unit MSW Flex Program
- Complete in ~3 years
- Two concentration options
- Evening class schedules
- Campus-based program
- Two nine-month field experiences
- 16 hours/week field learning
- Multicultural social work emphasis
- Community-based agency placements
- Optional summer electives
Master's - Master of Social Work Flex Program
Concentration: Community Mental Health - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
California State University-Fullerton's Master of Social Work Flex Program offers a transformative educational journey for aspiring social work professionals. Designed for working adults, this comprehensive 60-unit program can be completed in approximately three years. Students choose between Child Welfare and Community Mental Health concentrations, gaining advanced multicultural skills to address complex social challenges. The flexible evening and hybrid class format enables professionals to balance academic pursuits with career responsibilities, providing a dynamic pathway to meaningful social work practice.
- 60-unit MSW Flex Program
- Three-year completion option
- Two concentration tracks
- Evening and hybrid classes
- Multicultural practice emphasis
- Field learning experiences
- Two required elective courses
- 16 hours weekly field instruction
- Campus-based program
California Baptist University
Riverside, CA - Private 4-year - calbaptist.edu
Master's - Social Work, MSW
Online Learning - Visit Website
California Baptist University offers a comprehensive Master of Social Work (MSW) program designed to empower students as agents of community change. With flexible online and in-person options, students can complete the program in two years, gaining advanced professional skills and hands-on experience serving marginalized populations. The CSWE-accredited program integrates faith-based learning with evidence-based social work practices, providing personalized mentorship and 900 hours of transformative field work experiences.
- 60 total program units
- Online and in-person options
- 900 hours field work required
- Advanced standing available
- CSWE-accredited program
- Cost: $822 per unit
- Two-year standard program
- Faith-integrated curriculum
- Community-focused learning
- Personalized faculty mentorship
California State University-Northridge
Northridge, CA - Public 4-Year - csun.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Online Learning - Visit Website
California State University-Northridge's Master of Social Work (MSW) program prepares compassionate professionals to excel in clinical and macro practice. Students develop advanced skills in social justice, emotional resilience, and interpersonal processing. The program welcomes candidates from diverse backgrounds like sociology, psychology, and liberal arts, offering both traditional and advanced standing pathways. Competitive applicants typically have a 3.0 GPA, relevant work experience, and a commitment to ethical social work principles.
- Two MSW program tracks
- Traditional and Advanced Standing
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Baccalaureate degree prerequisite
- Post-baccalaureate work experience
- Fall application cycle
- $70 application fee
- CSWE accredited program
- Social justice focused curriculum
- Clinical and macro practice options
University of Massachusetts Global
Irvine, CA - Public 4-Year - umassglobal.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Massachusetts Global's Master of Social Work (MSW) program offers a comprehensive, advanced generalist approach to social work education. Designed for professionals seeking to make a meaningful impact, this flexible program prepares students to address complex social challenges through evidence-based practices. Students can choose between a Standard Advanced Generalist (69 credits) or Advanced Standing (39 credits) option. The curriculum emphasizes social justice, diversity, and ethical practice, with extensive field practicum experience. Admission typically requires a 3.0 GPA and a bachelor's degree, with potential pathways for portfolio evaluation and advanced standing for BSW graduates.
- Two MSW program tracks available
- CSWE accredited program
- Advanced generalist curriculum focus
- Requires field practicum experience
- Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
- Online and flexible learning options
- Advanced Standing for BSW graduates
- Focuses on social justice principles
- Prepares for diverse social work careers
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Pupil Personnel Services Credential in School Social Work - Online Learning - Visit Website
University of Massachusetts Global's Master of Social Work (MSW) program offers a comprehensive, advanced generalist curriculum designed to prepare compassionate, skilled professionals. Students gain critical skills in practice-informed research, policy engagement, and evidence-based interventions across diverse settings. The program emphasizes social justice, ethical practice, and leadership, equipping graduates to tackle complex societal challenges. With flexible Standard and Advanced Standing options, students can complete the program in 39-69 credits, focusing on advanced generalist skills and specialized electives that prepare them for roles in child welfare, healthcare, schools, and community organizations.
- CSWE-accredited MSW program
- Two program entry options
- 39-69 total credits
- Advanced generalist curriculum
- Multiple specialization electives
- Field practicum required
- Online and flexible learning
- Leadership skill development
- Social justice focused
- Diverse career preparation
California State University-Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CA - Public 4-Year - calstatela.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Cal State LA's Master of Social Work (MSW) program provides comprehensive graduate-level social work education with flexible pathways for diverse student backgrounds. Accredited by the Council on Social Work Education since 1999, the program offers advanced standing, two-year, and three-year options. Students can choose between Downtown Los Angeles and main campus locations, with structured curriculum preparing professionals for impactful social work careers across various settings.
- CSWE accredited since 1999
- Three program options available
- Advanced Standing Program (11 months)
- 2-year and 3-year traditional tracks
- Downtown LA and main campus locations
- Single online application process
- Requires personal statement, resume
- Need unofficial transcripts
- Provides reference form submissions
- Information meetings available
National University
San Diego, CA - Private 4-year - nu.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Online Learning - Visit Website
Elevate your social work career with National University's flexible online Master of Social Work program. Designed for both experienced professionals and career changers, this CSWE-accredited degree prepares you to make meaningful impacts across diverse social service settings. Complete your degree in just 24-38 months with no GRE requirements, offering two tracks: Generalist (60 credits) and Advanced Standing (36 credits). Affordable with $0 application fees and year-round enrollment starting every Monday, this program provides comprehensive training in ethical practice, social justice, and advanced intervention strategies.
- CSWE-accredited MSW program
- Online and flexible delivery
- Two program tracks available
- No GRE/GMAT required
- $0 application fee
- Start every Monday
- 24-38 month completion time
- Generalist track: 60 credit hours
- Advanced Standing track: 36 credit hours
- Year-round enrollment
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Advanced Social Work with Children and Families - Online Learning - Visit Website
Dive into National University's online Master of Social Work program, designed for flexibility and comprehensive learning. Earn your degree in just 24-38 months with no GRE requirements and year-round enrollment. The CSWE-accredited program offers two tracks: Generalist (60 credits) and Advanced Standing (36 credits) for those with a prior social work degree. Learn cutting-edge social work skills, engage in practical experiences, and prepare for diverse career opportunities in mental health, healthcare, community services, and more.
- CSWE-accredited MSW program
- Online learning with flexible schedule
- No GRE/GMAT required
- Two program tracks available
- Generalist track: 60 credit hours
- Advanced Standing track: 36 credit hours
- Start every Monday
- Year-round enrollment
- Zero application fee
- No group projects required
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Advanced Social Work Practice with Marginalized Populations - Online Learning - Visit Website
Elevate your social work career with National University's dynamic Master of Social Work program. Designed for flexible online learning, this CSWE-accredited degree prepares professionals to make meaningful community impacts across diverse practice settings. With two innovative tracks accommodating different backgrounds, students can complete the program in 24-38 months. Zero application fees and no GRE requirements make entry accessible. Graduates gain advanced skills in assessment, intervention, and policy practice, positioning themselves for high-demand roles in healthcare, mental health, child welfare, and social services.
- 100% Online Program
- CSWE-Accredited Degree
- Two Program Tracks
- $0 Application Fee
- No GRE Required
- Generalist Track: 60 Credit Hours
- Advanced Standing Track: 36 Credit Hours
- Start Every Monday
- Year-Round Enrollment
- 24-38 Month Completion Time
California State University-Stanislaus
Turlock, CA - Public 4-Year - csustan.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
California State University-Stanislaus offers a comprehensive Master of Social Work (MSW) program dedicated to advancing social justice. Designed for aspiring social work professionals, this graduate program prepares students to transform community conditions and address systemic challenges. The rigorous curriculum emphasizes integrative practice approaches, enabling graduates to work effectively with individuals, families, and communities. With flexible campus and online hybrid options, students can complete the program in two or three years, supported by experienced faculty committed to social change and personal liberation.
- Online and campus program options
- Fall 2025 application deadline Jan 31
- 2-3 year program length
- 2.5 GPA minimum requirement
- Social justice focused curriculum
- Requires 3 professional references
- Autobiographical statement required
- Competitive admissions process
- Practicum placement required
- Liberal arts background preferred
List of California Online MSW Programs
Arcata, CA
California State Polytechnic University-Humboldt
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Advanced generalist MSW program
- Rural and Indigenous community focus
- CSWE fully accredited
- Full-time, part-time, online options
- Emphasizes cultural humility
- Meets California licensure requirements
- Online students must reside in California
- Multi-system practice approach
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Rural and Indigenous Communities - Online Learning - Website
- Advanced generalist MSW program
- Rural and Indigenous focus
- Full-time, part-time, online options
- CSWE fully accredited
- California licensure preparation
- Online students must reside in CA
- Emphasizes cultural humility
- Multi-system practice approach
Fullerton, CA
California State University-Fullerton
- Master's - Master of Social Work Flex Program
Concentration: Child Welfare - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 60-unit MSW Flex Program
- Complete in ~3 years
- Two concentration options
- Evening class schedules
- Campus-based program
- Two nine-month field experiences
- 16 hours/week field learning
- Multicultural social work emphasis
- Master's - Master of Social Work Flex Program
Concentration: Community Mental Health - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 60-unit MSW Flex Program
- Three-year completion option
- Two concentration tracks
- Evening and hybrid classes
- Multicultural practice emphasis
- Field learning experiences
- Two required elective courses
- 16 hours weekly field instruction
Irvine, CA
University of Massachusetts Global
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Online Learning - Website
- Two MSW program tracks available
- CSWE accredited program
- Advanced generalist curriculum focus
- Requires field practicum experience
- Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
- Online and flexible learning options
- Advanced Standing for BSW graduates
- Focuses on social justice principles
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Pupil Personnel Services Credential in School Social Work - Online Learning - Website
- CSWE-accredited MSW program
- Two program entry options
- 39-69 total credits
- Advanced generalist curriculum
- Multiple specialization electives
- Field practicum required
- Online and flexible learning
- Leadership skill development
Los Angeles, CA
California State University-Los Angeles
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Online & Campus Based - Website
- CSWE accredited since 1999
- Three program options available
- Advanced Standing Program (11 months)
- 2-year and 3-year traditional tracks
- Downtown LA and main campus locations
- Single online application process
- Requires personal statement, resume
- Need unofficial transcripts
Northridge, CA
California State University-Northridge
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Online Learning - Website
- Two MSW program tracks
- Traditional and Advanced Standing
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Baccalaureate degree prerequisite
- Post-baccalaureate work experience
- Fall application cycle
- $70 application fee
- CSWE accredited program
Pasadena, CA
Pacific Oaks College
- Master's - Online Master of Social Work Advanced Standing Program
Online Learning - Website
- Online Advanced Standing Program
- 35 total credit hours
- Three semesters long
- 720 field education hours
- Starts Fall 1 and Spring 1
- Must have BSW within 5 years
- 3.0 GPA requirement
- Two recommendation letters needed
- Master's - Online Master of Social Work
Online Learning - Website
- 100% online MSW program
- 60 total credit requirement
- 2-3 year completion options
- 900 field education hours
- CSWE accredited program
- Prepares for clinical licensure
- Requires bachelor's degree
- Professional experience required
Riverside, CA
California Baptist University
- Master's - Social Work, MSW
Online Learning - Website
- 60 total program units
- Online and in-person options
- 900 hours field work required
- Advanced standing available
- CSWE-accredited program
- Cost: $822 per unit
- Two-year standard program
- Faith-integrated curriculum
San Bernardino, CA
California State University-San Bernardino
- Master's - Master of Social Work / Master of Public Administration
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Online and in-person options
- CSWE-accredited program
- Multiple program lengths
- Advanced Standing Program (35 units)
- Two-Year Program (60 units)
- Three-Year Program (60 units)
- Campuses: San Bernardino and Palm Desert
- MSW/MPA Concurrent Degree available
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Online & Campus Based - Website
- CSWE-accredited program
- Online and in-person options
- Multiple program tracks
- 35-60 unit programs
- San Bernardino/Palm Desert campuses
- Advanced Standing Program
- Two-year traditional track
- Three-year extended track
San Diego, CA
National University
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Online Learning - Website
- CSWE-accredited MSW program
- Online and flexible delivery
- Two program tracks available
- No GRE/GMAT required
- $0 application fee
- Start every Monday
- 24-38 month completion time
- Generalist track: 60 credit hours
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Advanced Social Work Practice with Marginalized Populations - Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Program
- CSWE-Accredited Degree
- Two Program Tracks
- $0 Application Fee
- No GRE Required
- Generalist Track: 60 Credit Hours
- Advanced Standing Track: 36 Credit Hours
- Start Every Monday
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Advanced Social Work with Children and Families - Online Learning - Website
- CSWE-accredited MSW program
- Online learning with flexible schedule
- No GRE/GMAT required
- Two program tracks available
- Generalist track: 60 credit hours
- Advanced Standing track: 36 credit hours
- Start every Monday
- Year-round enrollment
Point Loma Nazarene University
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Child Welfare - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Two-year hybrid program format
- Four career concentrations available
- 60 total units required
- $700 per unit cost
- Advanced standing track available
- Licensure preparation included
- Fall 2025 start date
- Mission Valley campus location
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Clinical Practice - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 24-month program duration
- Hybrid learning format
- Four career concentrations
- Licensure preparation nationwide
- Mission Valley campus location
- 60 units for regular track
- 33 units advanced standing
- $700 per unit cost
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Medical Social Work - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid format with flexible learning
- Four career concentrations available
- Advanced standing track option
- 60 units regular track
- 33 units advanced standing track
- Fall 2025 start date
- $700 per unit cost
- Prepares for clinical licensure
Stockton, CA
University of the Pacific
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Behavioral Health - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 16-month Accelerated Hybrid Program
- Online and in-person classes
- Field placements in Northern California
- Bachelor's degree required
- 2.75 minimum GPA
- Apply October 1 to May 31
- Priority deadline March 31
- Advanced Standing Program available
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Health Care - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid online/classroom format
- 16-month accelerated program
- 12-month advanced standing option
- 2.75 undergraduate GPA required
- Field placements in Northern California
- Diabetes Care subspecialization available
- CSWE accredited program
- Application period: October-May
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Health Care, Behavioral Health - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 16-month accelerated hybrid program
- Online and in-person classes
- Two program tracks available
- Advanced Standing for BSW graduates
- Field placements in Northern California
- 2.75+ undergraduate GPA required
- Apply October 1 to May 31
- Priority deadline March 31
Turlock, CA
California State University-Stanislaus
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Online and campus program options
- Fall 2025 application deadline Jan 31
- 2-3 year program length
- 2.5 GPA minimum requirement
- Social justice focused curriculum
- Requires 3 professional references
- Autobiographical statement required
- Competitive admissions process
2026 Affordable Online California MSW Program Options
California State University-Northridge |
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California Baptist University |
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California State University-Los Angeles |
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California State University-San Bernardino |
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California State University-Stanislaus |
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California State University-Fullerton |
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California State Polytechnic University-Humboldt |
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National University |
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University of the Pacific |
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List of Califonria Advanced Standing Online MSW Programs
Advanced standing online Master of Social Work (MSW) programs in California create an accelerated pathway for students with a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) to deepen their professional expertise. These programs recognize prior academic achievement while preparing graduates to address complex social issues across diverse communities. In a state marked by both opportunity and challenge, advanced standing MSW pathways equip future social workers to lead with compassion, skill, and evidence-based practice.
Chico, CA
California State University-Chico
- Master's - MSW Distributed Learning Program
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid program format.
- 67% online, 33% face-to-face.
- 1200 practicum hours required.
- One-year accelerated option.
- Three-year part-time option.
- CSWE and WASC accredited.
- Prepares for diverse careers.
- Focus on social justice.
Hayward, CA
California State University-East Bay
- Master's - Social Work, M.S.W: Advanced Standing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Advanced Standing M.S.W
- Hybrid learning format
- For BSW holders
- Focus on leadership
- Financial aid available
Irvine, CA
University of Massachusetts Global
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Online Learning - Website
- CSWE-accredited online MSW
- Flexible eight-week sessions
- Multiple start dates yearly
- Two pathways: Advanced Standing and Standard
- Advanced Standing: 39 credits, 1 year
- Standard: 69 credits, 2 years
- Includes fieldwork practicum
- Covers crisis intervention, child welfare
Loma Linda, CA
Loma Linda University
- Master's - MSW Advanced Standing Program
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid learning options
- 52 quarter units
- 800 practicum hours
- LCSW licensure preparation
- Clinical practice specialization
- Biopsychosocial-spiritual approach
- Trauma-informed interventions
- Resiliency-focused training
Pasadena, CA
Pacific Oaks College
- Master's - Master of Social Work Advanced Standing Program
Online Learning - Website
- Accelerated online format
- 35 credits for completion
- 720 hours field education
- Focus on social justice
- Advanced clinical skills training
- Multicultural perspective
- Evidence-based interventions
- Three semesters, full-time
Riverside, CA
California Baptist University
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Online Learning - Website
- CSWE-accredited program.
- Online and in-person options.
- 900 hours of field work.
- Advanced standing available.
- $822 per unit tuition.
- Personal faculty mentorship.
- Focus on marginalized populations.
- Evidence-based training.
San Bernardino, CA
California State University-San Bernardino
- Master's - MSW Advanced Standing Program
Online Learning - Website
- 35-unit program
- Online or in-person
- 12-month completion option
- 5-semester completion option
- CSWE accredited
- BSW required for admission
- Practicum education included
- Flexible for professionals
San Diego, CA
National University
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Advanced Standing - Online Learning - Website
- 100% online learning.
- No residency required.
- No group work.
- 36 credit hours.
- 12 courses.
- Estimated 18 months to complete.
- One-on-one faculty engagement.
- Flexible scheduling.
San Jose, CA
San Jose State University
- Master's - Master of Social Work, Concentration in Advanced Standing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- One-year completion.
- Hybrid program format.
- 37 units required.
- In-person internships.
- 3.5 GPA minimum.
- A- in social work courses.
- 400 hours experience needed.
- CSWE accredited.
2026 Affordable Online California Advanced Standing MSW Programs
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