Kentucky’s landscape of online Master of Social Work education has expanded significantly to address the Commonwealth’s distinctive social service needs, with multiple CSWE-accredited programs now available to students throughout the state’s diverse regions. From the Appalachian mountains in the east to the western coalfields, Kentucky’s online MSW offerings are designed to reach aspiring social workers in areas where traditional campus-based education may be less accessible. These programs feature specialized curriculum tracks that reflect Kentucky’s unique challenges and strengths, including Appalachian studies, addiction and recovery services, coal community transition support, and faith-based social work practice – concentrations that prepare graduates to serve populations facing economic transition, substance use disorders, and rural healthcare disparities.

The state’s online MSW programs emphasize culturally responsive practice and community-based interventions, preparing social workers to navigate Kentucky’s complex socioeconomic landscape where urban centers like Louisville and Lexington coexist with rural communities experiencing generational poverty and limited resource access. Kentucky’s social work education framework prioritizes trauma-informed care, given the state’s high rates of adverse childhood experiences and substance use challenges, while also incorporating innovative approaches to telehealth and digital service delivery that can bridge geographic barriers. Graduates emerge equipped for diverse career paths in healthcare systems, school districts, criminal justice settings, nonprofit organizations, and private practice, with particular emphasis on serving populations affected by the opioid crisis, economic displacement from declining coal industries, and the intersection of poverty with mental health challenges that characterize much of Kentucky’s social service landscape.

2026 Best Kentucky MSW Programs Online

Navigating the world of online Master of Social Work (MSW) programs in Kentucky can be challenging, but Masters in Social Work Online is here to help. Our comprehensive rankings highlight the top online MSW programs that provide exceptional education for aspiring social work professionals. Online programs have become increasingly important, offering flexible distance learning options for students who need to balance work, family, and academic commitments. These virtual programs enable students to pursue advanced social work degrees without geographic limitations, making higher education more accessible than ever before. Kentucky offers several outstanding online MSW programs that prepare students for impactful careers in social services, healthcare, and community development. For those seeking advanced social work education with maximum convenience, these online programs represent a transformative opportunity. Learn about our ranking methodology.
#1

University of Louisville

Louisville, KY - Public 4-Year - louisville.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Social Work

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Louisville's online Master of Science in Social Work offers a flexible and comprehensive program designed for aspiring social work professionals. This hybrid program accommodates diverse student needs with full-time and part-time tracks, emphasizing social justice and anti-oppression frameworks. Students can explore various concentrations, including Mental Health, Gerontology, and Military Social Work. The CSWE-accredited curriculum provides rigorous academic training and practical experiences, preparing graduates for advanced practice across different social work contexts. No specific entrance exam is required, making the program accessible to motivated students seeking to make meaningful social impacts.

  • 30-60 credit hour options
  • Online and on-campus formats
  • Multiple concentration tracks
  • CSWE accredited program
  • Full-time and part-time paths
  • Advanced Standing available
  • Dual degree opportunities
  • Military and HBCU friendly
  • Licensure-eligible curriculum
  • Focuses on social justice

Master's - Master of Science in Social Work

Concentration: Alcohol and Drug Counseling - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

University of Louisville's online Master of Social Work with a specialized Alcohol and Drug Counseling concentration provides advanced training for professionals addressing complex substance abuse challenges. This hybrid program offers flexible learning options, including Advanced Standing and Regular tracks for full-time and part-time students. Emphasizing evidence-informed practice and social justice principles, the curriculum meets master's level licensure requirements. Students receive comprehensive preparation in substance abuse intervention strategies, complemented by mentoring and networking opportunities. The program's CSWE accreditation ensures high-quality education for those committed to making a difference in addiction counseling and recovery support.

  • Advanced Generalist Social Work Education
  • Online and On-Campus Options
  • 30-60 Credit Hour Programs
  • Multiple Concentration Options
  • CSWE Accredited Program
  • Full-Time and Part-Time Paths
  • Virtual Information Sessions
  • HBCU Student Support Program
  • Military Friendly School
  • Dual Degree Options Available

Master's - Master of Science in Social Work

Concentration: Mental Health - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Louisville's online Master of Social Work with a Mental Health concentration delivers specialized advanced generalist education for future clinical practitioners. This hybrid program provides comprehensive training in evidence-based mental health interventions, emphasizing ethical and culturally sensitive approaches. Students benefit from flexible learning formats, including full-time and part-time paths, with a curriculum designed to meet master's level licensure requirements. The program's focus on mental health equips graduates with sophisticated assessment, treatment, and intervention skills across diverse populations. With CSWE accreditation and supportive career services, students receive robust preparation for impactful mental health social work careers.

  • Advanced generalist social work education
  • Online and on-campus options
  • Full-time and part-time paths
  • 30-60 credit hour programs
  • Multiple concentration options
  • CSWE accredited program
  • HBCU Cardinal Express pathway
  • Military friendly school
  • Scholarships available
  • Licensure-eligible curriculum
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#2

University of Kentucky

Lexington, KY - Public 4-Year - uky.edu

Master's - Master of Social Work

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

University of Kentucky's online MSW program delivers a flexible, comprehensive curriculum for social work professionals. The Advanced Generalist track offers two-year and one-year standing options with hybrid and fully online formats. Designed for diverse practice settings including healthcare, clinical work, and community organizing, the program boasts Kentucky's highest clinical licensing pass rates. Students benefit from 1000+ field placement opportunities, multiple certificate options, and a 97% financial aid rate. Military-friendly and CSWE accredited, this program prepares graduates to make meaningful impacts across micro and macro social work domains.

  • Advanced Generalist MSW program
  • Two-year and one-year options
  • Hybrid and online formats
  • Multiple certificate options
  • Highest clinical licensing pass rates
  • Practice settings: healthcare, clinical, gerontology
  • CSWE accredited program
  • 97% students receive financial aid
  • 1000+ field placement options
  • Army MSW program available

Master's - Master of Social Work

Concentration: Clinical Social Work - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

University of Kentucky's Clinical Social Work MSW online program provides a transformative educational experience focused on advanced generalist practice. With full-time and part-time tracks available in hybrid and online formats, students gain comprehensive skills for diverse career paths in healthcare, mental health, policy, and community settings. The program emphasizes practical experience and research opportunities, maintaining the highest clinical licensing pass rates in Kentucky. CSWE accredited with multiple concentration areas, students receive extensive support through 1000+ field placement options and a remarkable 97% financial aid availability.

  • CSWE accredited program
  • Full-time and part-time options
  • Hybrid and online formats
  • Advanced generalist curriculum
  • Multiple practice settings
  • Highest KY licensing pass rates
  • Multiple certificate options
  • 1000+ field placement options
  • 97% students receive aid
  • Multiple concentration areas

Master's - Master of Social Work

Concentration: Child Welfare - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

University of Kentucky's Child Welfare MSW online program offers dynamic professional training for aspiring social workers. Students can choose between two-year regular and one-year advanced standing options with flexible hybrid and fully online formats. The Advanced Generalist curriculum prepares graduates for diverse practice settings including healthcare, clinical work, gerontology, policy, and mental health. Featuring exceptional clinical licensing pass rates and over 1,000 field placement opportunities, this CSWE accredited program equips students with specialized certificates and comprehensive skills to drive meaningful social change.

  • CSWE accredited program
  • Regular and advanced standing options
  • Full-time and part-time formats
  • Hybrid and online learning
  • Multiple practice setting opportunities
  • Highest clinical licensing pass rates
  • Over 1,000 field placement options
  • Multiple specialized certificates available
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#3

Eastern Kentucky University

Richmond, KY - Public 4-Year - eku.edu

Master's - Master of Social Work

Online Learning - Visit Website

Eastern Kentucky University offers a comprehensive online Master of Social Work (MSW) program that prioritizes flexibility and affordability. Fully CSWE-accredited, the program provides students with advanced interprofessional skills through an innovative interdisciplinary approach. With tuition at $649 per credit hour and complimentary textbooks, students can complete their degree in 12-24 months through full or part-time enrollment. The curriculum supports diverse learning needs, offering multiple start dates and no mandatory campus visits. Unique features include five specialized certificate options at no extra cost, advanced standing opportunities, and flexible practicum placements that can be completed in employer-based settings. The program is particularly appealing for working professionals seeking a rigorous yet adaptable social work education.

  • 100% Online Program
  • 31-62 Credit Hours
  • $649 Per Credit Hour
  • Free Books for Students
  • CSWE Accredited
  • Multiple Start Dates
  • Full and Part-time Options
  • No Campus Visits Required
  • 5 Certificate Specializations
  • Flexible Practicum Placement
#4

Spalding University

Louisville, KY - Private 4-year - spalding.edu

Master's - Master of Social Work

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Spalding University's online and hybrid Master of Social Work program offers a dynamic educational pathway for aspiring social work professionals. CSWE-accredited and featuring two distinct tracks, students can choose between a comprehensive 60-credit regular standing program or a streamlined 31-credit advanced standing option for BSW graduates. The program uniquely provides flexible part-time and full-time learning formats, with classes strategically scheduled on alternating Thursday and Friday nights. Students benefit from substantial federal tuition scholarship and practicum stipend support, totaling over $2.3 million. Emphasizing critical thinking and global perspectives, the curriculum prepares graduates for diverse social work settings and state licensure opportunities. No specific entrance exam is prominently required, enhancing accessibility for prospective students.

  • CSWE-accredited MSW program
  • Part-time and full-time options
  • Regular and Advanced Standing tracks
  • Classes on alternating Thurs/Fri nights
  • $1.2M federal tuition scholarship grant
  • $1.15M federal practicum stipend support
  • Eligible for state licensure
  • Multiple career setting opportunities
  • Expert faculty with field experience
#5

Northern Kentucky University

Highland Heights, KY - Public 4-Year - nku.edu

Master's - Social Work, M.S.W.

Concentration: Children and Families - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Northern Kentucky University's online MSW program specializes in Children and Families, offering a dynamic CSWE-accredited clinical pathway. Students explore advanced interventions for diverse populations through a hybrid learning model. The program uniquely provides micro-credentials in trauma-informed care, forensic social work, and gerontology. Designed for working professionals, it supports clinical licensure preparation with flexible 60 or 30 credit hour tracks. Multiple start dates and comprehensive field education (600-900 hours) enable students to develop sophisticated clinical skills while addressing social and economic justice challenges in healthcare and community settings.

  • CSWE accredited program
  • Fully online and hybrid options
  • Standard and Advanced Standing tracks
  • 60 or 30 credit hour curriculum
  • 600-900 hours field education
  • Start dates: Summer/Fall/Spring
  • Clinical behavioral health focus
  • Micro-credentials available
  • Licensure preparation
  • Multiple career path options

Master's - Social Work, M.S.W.

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Northern Kentucky University's online Master of Social Work program offers a comprehensive educational experience focusing on clinical behavioral health and community practice. The CSWE-accredited curriculum prepares students for diverse professional roles through flexible hybrid and online formats. Graduates can pursue two distinct degree paths: a standard 60-credit MSW or an advanced standing 30-credit option. The program distinguishes itself by offering micro-credentials in specialized areas like trauma-informed care and forensic social work. With full-time completion possible in 1-2 years and extensive field education opportunities, students gain practical skills for mental health, healthcare, and social advocacy careers.

  • CSWE Accredited Program
  • Online and Hybrid Options
  • Two Degree Paths Available
  • Standard MSW: 60 Credit Hours
  • Advanced Standing: 30 Credit Hours
  • Full-Time Completion: 1-2 Years
  • 900 Hours Field Education
  • Multiple Start Dates
  • Micro-Credential Options
  • License Eligibility Preparation
Show 1 More Programs ˅
*NCES IPEDS database, 2023 release. Available at: https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

List of Kentucky Online MSW Programs

Jump to City:

Campbellsville, KY

Campbellsville University

  • Master's - Master of Social Work – Advanced Standing

    Concentration: Clinical - Online Learning - Website

    • Online Advanced Standing MSW
    • 30 Credit Hours Total
    • 9-Month Completion Time
    • $603 Per Credit Hour
    • CSWE Accredited Program
    • Multiple Focus Areas Available
    • 450 Field Practice Hours
    • GPA Requirement: 3.0
  • Master's - Master of Social Work – Advanced Standing

    Concentration: Substance Use Disorder - Online Learning - Website

    • Online Advanced Standing MSW
    • 30 credit hours total
    • Completed in 9 months
    • $603 per credit hour
    • 5 specialized focus areas
    • CSWE accredited program
    • Next start date: 03/17/2025
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA required

Highland Heights, KY

Northern Kentucky University

  • Master's - Social Work, M.S.W.

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • CSWE Accredited Program
    • Online and Hybrid Options
    • Two Degree Paths Available
    • Standard MSW: 60 Credit Hours
    • Advanced Standing: 30 Credit Hours
    • Full-Time Completion: 1-2 Years
    • 900 Hours Field Education
    • Multiple Start Dates
  • Master's - Social Work, M.S.W.

    Concentration: Children and Families - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • CSWE accredited program
    • Fully online and hybrid options
    • Standard and Advanced Standing tracks
    • 60 or 30 credit hour curriculum
    • 600-900 hours field education
    • Start dates: Summer/Fall/Spring
    • Clinical behavioral health focus
    • Micro-credentials available

Lexington, KY

University of Kentucky

  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Advanced Generalist MSW program
    • Two-year and one-year options
    • Hybrid and online formats
    • Multiple certificate options
    • Highest clinical licensing pass rates
    • Practice settings: healthcare, clinical, gerontology
    • CSWE accredited program
    • 97% students receive financial aid
  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Child Welfare - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • CSWE accredited program
    • Regular and advanced standing options
    • Full-time and part-time formats
    • Hybrid and online learning
    • Multiple practice setting opportunities
    • Highest clinical licensing pass rates
    • Over 1,000 field placement options
    • Multiple specialized certificates available
  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Clinical Social Work - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • CSWE accredited program
    • Full-time and part-time options
    • Hybrid and online formats
    • Advanced generalist curriculum
    • Multiple practice settings
    • Highest KY licensing pass rates
    • Multiple certificate options
    • 1000+ field placement options

Louisville, KY

Spalding University

  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • CSWE-accredited MSW program
    • Part-time and full-time options
    • Regular and Advanced Standing tracks
    • Classes on alternating Thurs/Fri nights
    • $1.2M federal tuition scholarship grant
    • $1.15M federal practicum stipend support
    • Eligible for state licensure
    • Multiple career setting opportunities

University of Louisville

  • Master's - Master of Science in Social Work

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 30-60 credit hour options
    • Online and on-campus formats
    • Multiple concentration tracks
    • CSWE accredited program
    • Full-time and part-time paths
    • Advanced Standing available
    • Dual degree opportunities
    • Military and HBCU friendly
  • Master's - Master of Science in Social Work

    Concentration: Alcohol and Drug Counseling - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Advanced Generalist Social Work Education
    • Online and On-Campus Options
    • 30-60 Credit Hour Programs
    • Multiple Concentration Options
    • CSWE Accredited Program
    • Full-Time and Part-Time Paths
    • Virtual Information Sessions
    • HBCU Student Support Program
  • Master's - Master of Science in Social Work

    Concentration: Mental Health - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Advanced generalist social work education
    • Online and on-campus options
    • Full-time and part-time paths
    • 30-60 credit hour programs
    • Multiple concentration options
    • CSWE accredited program
    • HBCU Cardinal Express pathway
    • Military friendly school

Pikeville, KY

University of Pikeville

  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Clinical Mental Health and Addictions - Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online MSW program
    • Mental health/addiction specialization
    • Multiple completion paths
    • Year-round course offerings
    • $10,000 HRSA stipends available
    • Advanced standing option
    • 30-60 credit hour options
    • CSWE accredited program

Richmond, KY

Eastern Kentucky University

  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% Online Program
    • 31-62 Credit Hours
    • $649 Per Credit Hour
    • Free Books for Students
    • CSWE Accredited
    • Multiple Start Dates
    • Full and Part-time Options
    • No Campus Visits Required
*Based on: NCES IPEDS 2023 data collection. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

List of Kentucky Advanced Standing Online MSW Programs

Advanced standing MSW programs in Kentucky are designed for students who have earned a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from a CSWE-accredited program, enabling them to complete their master’s degree through an accelerated pathway. These programs emphasize advanced clinical practice, substance abuse treatment, and community engagement to address Kentucky’s specific social challenges, including coal industry transitions, opioid addiction crisis, rural poverty, and healthcare access in Appalachian communities. Students develop specialized skills in areas such as addiction counseling, family preservation, and rural social work while preparing to serve communities ranging from urban Louisville and Lexington to mountainous eastern Kentucky and rural western regions.

Jump to City:

Lexington, KY

University of Kentucky

  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Online Learning - Website

    • CSWE-accredited program.
    • Online and hybrid formats available.
    • Regular Standing: 60 credits.
    • Advanced Standing: 30 credits.
    • Multiple certificate options.
    • No GRE required for admission.
    • 3.0 GPA minimum for Regular Standing.
    • 3.5 GPA for Advanced Standing.

Louisville, KY

University of Louisville

  • Master's - Master of Science in Social Work

    Online Learning - Website

    • Advanced Standing option available
    • 30 or 60 credit hour tracks
    • Online and on-campus formats
    • Multiple concentration options
    • Accredited by CSWE
    • Flexible full-time and part-time paths
    • Dual degree opportunities
    • Focus on social justice

Pikeville, KY

University of Pikeville

  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Clinical Mental Health and Addictions - Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online program
    • Clinical Mental Health focus
    • Flexible completion paths
    • Year-round courses
    • Financial aid for licensure
    • 3.0 GPA requirement
    • Relevant coursework needed
    • Personal statement required

Richmond, KY

Eastern Kentucky University

  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online program format
    • 8-week courses
    • Part- and full-time options
    • Advanced standing available
    • 63 credit hours
    • Interprofessional focus
    • Field practicum included
    • 2.7 GPA minimum
*U.S. Department of Education, National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2023.

2026 Affordable Online Kentucky Advanced Standing MSW Programs

Kentucky offers several online advanced standing programs for social work students seeking to advance their education. As technology continues to transform higher education, distance learning options have become increasingly important for working professionals and students with complex schedules. These virtual programs provide flexible pathways for students across Louisville, Lexington, and other urban and rural regions of the state to pursue graduate-level social work credentials. Online advanced standing programs can help students complete their degrees more efficiently, often allowing transfer of previous academic credits and reducing overall time to graduation. Students can explore options across multiple degree levels, including master's degrees, certificates, and doctoral programs, all designed to meet the growing demand for skilled social work professionals in Kentucky's diverse communities.
University of Pikeville
  • Fully online program
  • Clinical Mental Health focus
  • Flexible completion paths
  • Year-round courses
  • Financial aid for licensure
  • 3.0 GPA requirement
  • Relevant coursework needed
  • Personal statement required
  • $6,800 - $10,300 (Graduate)
University of Kentucky
  • CSWE-accredited program.
  • Online and hybrid formats available.
  • Regular Standing: 60 credits.
  • Advanced Standing: 30 credits.
  • Multiple certificate options.
  • No GRE required for admission.
  • 3.0 GPA minimum for Regular Standing.
  • 3.5 GPA for Advanced Standing.
  • $11,500 - $17,200 (Graduate In-State)
  • $28,400 - $42,600 (Graduate Non-Resident)
Eastern Kentucky University
  • Online program format
  • 8-week courses
  • Part- and full-time options
  • Advanced standing available
  • 63 credit hours
  • Interprofessional focus
  • Field practicum included
  • 2.7 GPA minimum
  • $8,500 - $12,700 (Graduate In-State)
  • $11,500 - $17,200 (Graduate Non-Resident)
University of Louisville
  • Advanced Standing option available
  • 30 or 60 credit hour tracks
  • Online and on-campus formats
  • Multiple concentration options
  • Accredited by CSWE
  • Flexible full-time and part-time paths
  • Dual degree opportunities
  • Focus on social justice
  • $11,500 - $17,300 (Graduate In-State)
  • $23,300 - $34,900 (Graduate Non-Resident)
*Data provided by: National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2023 collection.