Introduction

California’s extensive public and private university system- one of the largest in the United States- provides residents with different social work programs to align with their needs. With state institutions, like Cal State Northridge, offering affordable MSW programs, and private institutions, like Loma Linda University, providing CSWE-accredited MSW programs, there are many options for prospective students.

Key State Takeaways:

• Total Online Programs: 14
• CSWE-Accredited Online Programs: 12
• Annual Online Tuition Average: $13,000 – $25,000 (PYR)
• Average Starting Salary: $70,000 – $80,000

CSWE-Accredited Online MSW Programs in California

MSW is a hands-on field, so online master’s programs in social work are designed to satisfy the experiential training needed to succeed in the field and gain licensure as a social worker. Most online MSW programs in California follow a similar format, combining classroom learning and coursework with supervised fieldwork placements where students apply their academic learning to work with real people in the communities where they live.

Any student hoping to eventually become a licensed social worker must attend an MSW program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). A program that is CSWE-accredited has met the minimum competency standards set by the CSWE Office of Social Work Accreditation for academic and practical training in social work. All the programs on this list are accredited by the CSWE or in the process of being accredited:

California Baptist University

Program: Master of Social Work (MSW)

Location: Riverside, CA.

Program Overview:

California Baptist University’s MSW prepares students for advanced social work practice with a mixture of evidence-based training, substantial field work, and options for both online and in-person study. The program seeks to equip graduates with the skills to serve vulnerable and marginalized populations through ethical practice, social justice focus, and community engagement. 

The degree requires a full 60-unit curriculum (or 30 units for qualified “Advanced Standing” students) and includes up to 900 hours of field practicum, which gives students strong hands-on experience in real community settings. The program is also flexible enough for working professionals or those needing scheduling flexibility, thanks to its online/hybrid delivery option.

Unique Components:

• Community Involvement: Students are expected to partner with a community organization for the capstone project. Students research by analyzing data, getting funding, identifying and addressing gaps in service, and directing new community programs.
• Practicum Experience: Students must complete 900 hours of fieldwork at an approved practicum site in the communities where students find themselves. This fieldwork generally takes place in school districts, foster care agencies, and inmate services.

Key Data Highlights:

• Format: Online
• Accreditation: CSWE
• Credit Hours: 30-60
• Online Tuition: $822 (PCH)
• Acceptance Rate: N/A
• Enrollment: N/A

Other Considerations:

• Faith-Based Approach: The integration of faith in students’ social work practice is also emphasized heavily in the program, with students being taught how to view their work in the communities where they find themselves through the lens of a Christian worldview.

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California State University – Stanislaus

Program: Master of Social Work (MSW)

Location: Turlock, CA.

Program Overview:

The Stanislaus State MSW is a 60-unit program (full-time) focused on clinical social work with a strong grounding in social justice, preparing students to work in health, behavioral health, and community service settings. The program is fully accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), which positions graduates to pursue licensure and professional social work practice in California.

Unique Components:

• Coursework Topics: In the program’s first year, students’ learning focuses on foundational concepts in social work and service with courses in research methods, human behavior and social environment, addictions, assessment, social welfare policy, and field instruction.
• Flexible Pace (2-year or 3-year tracks): There is a full-time accelerated 2-year option and a 3-year option for those needing a slower pace due to professional, work, or other commitments.

Key Data Highlights:

• Format: Online, hybrid
• Accreditation: CSWE
• Credit Hours: 60
• Online Tuition: $35,100 (TTL)
• Acceptance Rate: 77%
• Enrollment: N/A

Other Considerations:

• Behavioral-Health Practice Specialization: The curriculum emphasizes integrative clinical practice in health and behavioral health settings, preparing students for direct-service roles.

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National University

Program: Master of Social Work (MSW)

Location: San Diego, CA.

Program Overview:

National University’s MSW Master of Social Work is fully accredited by the CSWE and is completed in 60 credit hours if students take the generalist track. This includes twenty courses and practicum hours in which students earn hands-on experiential hours working in community settings. Foundation coursework must be completed before students can enroll in more advanced courses in social work.

National University’s program offers flexibility through a fully online format (with required practicum) that allows students to balance work and life while completing their degree and prepares graduates for a range of social work roles by combining generalist coursework, advanced practice instruction, and field-based experience.

Unique Components:

• Advanced Coursework: Classes in social work with children, families, and marginalized populations; social work in medical practice, and social work practice in mental health. These advanced courses are put into practice during the real-world experience portion.
• Practicum Approach: During the practicum, students take coursework that complements their experiences during fieldwork, and students have faculty supervisors who help them navigate their practicum experience.

Key Data Highlights:

• Format: Online
• Accreditation: CSWE
• Credit Hours: 60
• Online Tuition: $51,010 (TTL)
• Acceptance Rate: 80%
• Enrollment: N/A

Other Considerations:

• Rolling Admissions & Frequent Start Dates: Enrollment is open year-round, and the program advertises that new MSW cohorts can begin “every Monday,” enhancing accessibility and flexibility.

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California State University – San Bernardino

Program: Master of Social Work (MSW)

Location: San Bernardino, CA.

Program Overview:

This MSW program is called the Pathway Distance Education Program, a fully accredited online program that seeks to help students get the MSW education they want but either do not live near a traditional four-year university that offers a master’s in social work, or have jobs that make traditional on-campus coursework difficult.

The program emphasizes a generalist foundation with both micro (individual, family, clinical) and macro (community, policy, administration) social work practice, and also offers a concurrent MSW/MPA option for those interested in leadership and administrative roles. The availability of online (distance-education) and on-campus modalities (at the San Bernardino and Palm Desert campuses) further increases accessibility.

Unique Components:

• Practicum Experience: The practicum takes place in community settings, and students conduct their social service work under the supervision of faculty and an on-site mentor.
• MSW/MPA Concurrent Degree Option: For those interested in administration and leadership roles in public service or nonprofit agencies, CSUSB offers a combined MSW and MPA degree.

Key Data Highlights:

• Format: Online, on-campus
• Accreditation: CSWE
• Credit Hours: 60
• Online Tuition: $39,000 (TTL)
• Acceptance Rate: 60%
• Enrollment: 80-100 students

Other Considerations:

• Financial Support: The online MSW has a Pathway Program option for county public social services agency employees in the children’s services division. This pathway offers financial support to students.

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California Polytechnic University – Humboldt

Program: Master of Social Work (MSW)

Location: Arcata, CA.

Program Overview:

Cal Poly Humboldt’s Master of Social Work (MSW) is designed to prepare social work professionals to serve rural, tribal, and Indigenous communities, with a strong emphasis on culturally-humble, community-rooted, and justice-oriented practice. The program integrates theory and fieldwork, encouraging students to collaborate with community partners and to develop relational, multi-system approaches to support individuals, families, and communities.

Recognizing that many prospective students may be working or living outside the region, Humboldt offers multiple delivery options and an “Advanced Standing” track for those with a prior CSWE-accredited BSW, giving flexibility in pacing and format without sacrificing accreditation or quality of education.

Unique Components:

• Multiple Formats: A full-time, two-year program done on campus, a full-time advanced standing program that takes one year, a part-time advanced standing two-year online program, and a part-time online program that takes 3.5 years to complete.
• Community Focus: Cal Poly Humboldt’s MSW program is unique in its focus on training students to provide services to rural and indigenous communities. Students learn about the unique challenges in rural areas and within indigenous communities, and they are taught to identify resources specific to these groups.

Key Data Highlights:

• Format: Online, hybrid, on-campus
• Accreditation: CSWE
• Credit Hours: 60
• Online Tuition: $18,592 (TTL)
• Acceptance Rate: 88%
• Enrollment: N/A

Other Considerations:

• Support & Financial Aid Opportunities: The department and university advertise scholarships, stipends, and financial aid for MSW students (including support for those in remote or tribal communities) to help reduce financial burden.

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University of Massachusetts Global

Program: Master of Social Work (MSW)

Location: Aliso Viejo, CA.

Program Overview:

This no-GRE MSW in California offers a standard advanced generalist option, which takes two years to complete and includes 69 credits worth of courses. Students take courses that prepare them to work with diverse populations on issues and settings, including child protective services agencies; criminal justice, legal service, and military organizations; local, state, and federal agencies; home and school-based programs; hospitals and healthcare settings; mental health and substance abuse treatment programs; and nonprofit, human rights, and advocacy organizations.

Unique Components:

• Field Practicum: Students must complete 1,000 hours of field practicum in social work agencies or organizations. Practicum takes place within community organizations near the student’s place of residence.
• Standard vs Advanced Standing: The standard 69-credit track for non-social-work bachelor’s, and a 39-credit Advanced Standing track for students with a CSWE-accredited BSW, shortening time and cost.

Key Data Highlights:

• Format: Online
• Accreditation: CSWE
• Credit Hours: 69
• Online Tuition: $750 (PCR)
• Acceptance Rate: 89%
• Enrollment: N/A

Other Considerations:

• License-Ready Curriculum: The program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), and the curriculum is designed to meet licensing requirements for many states, including California.

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Alliant International University

Program: Master of Social Work (MSW)

Location: San Diego, CA.

Program Overview:

Alliant’s online MSW prepares students for licensure with its 60-credit, two-year program. Students are given a strong theoretical foundation through coursework and faculty mentorship and later apply that learning through hands-on, supervised internships. 

The program’s 100% online format is designed for working professionals who have returned from school. While the fieldwork portion may require some compromise with the work schedule to complete the required hours, students are generally given a flexible option to complete their MSW.

Unique Components:

• Field Evaluation: Used to assess students on nine competencies, 31 foundational behaviors, and 18 specialized behaviors during the field experience. Students conduct their field placements at organizations with which Alliant’s California School of Professional Psychology has developed relationships and partnerships.
• Clinical Social Work Practice: The degree includes both micro- and macro-level social work training (individuals, families, community/organization), preparing graduates for a range of social work careers, including clinical, policy, advocacy, and agency administration.

Key Data Highlights:

• Format: Online
• Accreditation: CSWE
• Credit Hours: 60
• Online Tuition: $820 (PCH)
• Acceptance Rate: N/A
• Enrollment: N/A

Other Considerations:

• Cost Considerations: With tuition at $820/unit and a 60-unit requirement, the program is a substantial financial investment; budgeting should include tuition, fees, living expenses, and potential costs related to practicum placement.

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California State University – Northridge

Program: Master of Social Work (MSW)

Location: Northridge, CA.

Program Overview:

CalState Northridge’s MSW program places a heavy emphasis on service to urban communities. The program can be completed in two years if taken on a full-time basis. Classes are asynchronous except for a weekly synchronous practicum education class, and students take two eight-week classes at a time, totaling 60 credit units.

The program is accredited by the CSWE and does not require GRE scores for consideration. Students learn the generalist approach to social work, which better encompasses the complex nature of social work and social justice in the city. Unlike some MSW programs, CalState Northridge’s MSW does not require students to come to the campus for in-person residencies, nor are students required to come to campus for other reasons.

Unique Components:

• Field Work Experience: The 16-week practicum classes are a supplement to the fundamental social work concepts taught in the classroom. Here, students gain hands-on experience in the social work field.
• Practicum Format: While taking courses, students attend their practicum for 16 hours per week. With five different practicum program models, students are placed in agencies around the state and country, including the San Fernando Valley and Los Angeles County.

Key Data Highlights:

• Format: Online
• Accreditation: CSWE
• Credit Hours: 60
• Online Tuition: $813 (PCH)
• Acceptance Rate: 70%
• Enrollment: N/A

Other Considerations:

• Schedule Flexibility: The part-time evening track and online option make CSUN’s MSW accessible to working professionals or those with daytime responsibilities.

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Loma Linda University

Program: Master of Social Work (MSW)

Location: Loma Linda, CA.

Program Overview:

Loma Linda’s Advanced Clinical Social Work Program is fully online, only for California residents. It uses both synchronous and asynchronous classroom formats, and these classes have the same curriculum and core faculty members as the on-campus MSW program. The coursework itself totals 78 quarter units and takes three years part-time to complete.

Coursework is approached from a biopsychosocial-spiritual approach to social work, and students’ practical application is focused on trauma-informed interventions related to prevention, early intervention, diagnosis, and treatment for children, adolescents, and adults.

Unique Components:

• Practicum Format: Students complete an in-person practicum at an approved site that is no more than 75 miles away from the student’s residence. The student completes 1080 hours of this practicum and must do work at the practicum site at least one weekday a week.
• Dual-Degree Option: For students interested in forensic/social-justice work, LLU offers a combined MSW + MS in Criminal Justice degree, enabling training in behavioral health, social work, and criminal justice systems simultaneously.

Key Data Highlights:

• Format: Online
• Accreditation: CSWE
• Credit Hours: 78 (quarter units)
• Online Tuition: $38,188 (PYR)
• Acceptance Rate: 74%
• Enrollment: N/A

Other Considerations:

• Tuition Waiver: Students who enter the program within the Department of Social Work and Social Ecology can receive a tuition waiver for certificate programs in play therapy or drug and alcohol counseling.
• Flexible Pacing: Students may choose from a full-time 2-/3-/4-year on-campus, or a part-time online 3-year track (for CA residents), or an accelerated 12-month advanced-standing track for BSW holders.

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California State University – East Bay

Program: Master of Social Work (MSW)

Location: San Francisco, CA.

Unique Components:

• Coursework Approach: CalState East Bay’s program focuses on the urban environment, with coursework geared toward working with multicultural and multiracial populations on justice issues like poverty, discrimination, racism, ageism, sexism, and many others.
• Degree Concentrations: Students in the program can choose one of two concentrations: Children, Youth, and Families (CYF) and Community and Mental Health (CMH).

Key Data Highlights:

• Format: Online
• Accreditation: CSWE
• Credit Hours: 60
• Online Tuition: $8,429 (PSR)
• Acceptance Rate: N/A
• Enrollment: N/A

Other Considerations:

• Internship Experience: Along with coursework, students also complete practicum or internship hours in community agencies under supervision. Internships may take place at community mental health agencies, crisis intervention centers, case management agencies, or mental health clinics, among other options. Students must complete 60 units along with their internship hours to graduate.

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University of Southern California

Program: Master of Social Work (MSW)

Location: Los Angeles, CA.

Program Overview:

The University of Southern California (USC) Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work offers a Master of Social Work (MSW) designed to prepare graduates for clinical, community, and policy-oriented social work practice. Courses are taught by award-winning faculty and provide a blend of theoretical knowledge and applied practice.

USC’s MSW can be completed online, on campus, or in hybrid formats, with flexible pacing options (full-time or part-time). It also offers an Advanced Standing option for students with a CSWE-accredited BSW, allowing degree completion in as few as 12 months. USC’s MSW integrates virtual and community-based field practicums so students gain substantial hands-on experience alongside their coursework.

Unique Components:

• Advanced Standing for BSW Graduates: Those holding a CSWE-accredited BSW may qualify for Advanced Standing and complete the MSW in as few as 12 months (24 units).
• Five Specialized Tracks: Students can focus on areas like Adult Mental Health and Wellness, Children, Youth & Families, Military Populations, School & Educational Settings, or Social Change & Innovation within the 48-unit curriculum.
• Community Placement: The program uses both virtual practising sessions with faculty and actor-simulated clients and local in-person practicum placements to ensure students complete over 1,000 hours of field experience.

Key Data Highlights:

• Format: Online, hybrid
• Accreditation: CSWE
• Credit Hours: 42
• Online Tuition: $108,288 (TTL)
• Acceptance Rate: N/A
• Enrollment: N/A

Other Considerations:

• Financial Planning: While the program’s prestige and network can be valuable, total tuition (~$108k) is significantly higher than many state MSW programs, and financial aid packages vary by student.
• Competitive Admission: USC looks for strong academic records and service experience; BSW holders interested in Advanced Standing must have recent degrees and CSWE-accredited backgrounds.

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Pacific Oaks College

Program: Master of Social Work (MSW)

Location: Pasadena, CA.

Program Overview:

Pacific Oaks College’s Master of Social Work (MSW) is a CSWE-accredited clinical program built around trauma-informed, culturally responsive practice and social-justice values. The program is designed to prepare graduates for LCSW-track clinical practice in California by combining rigorous coursework with supervised field education in community, school, and behavioral-health settings.

Unique Components:

• Advanced Standing Pathway: Applicants with a CSWE-accredited BSW may qualify for the Advanced Standing program (approximately 35 credits and reduced practicum hours).
• Extensive Field Education: The program combines classroom learning with supervised field placements; Advanced Standing practicum expectations are explicitly described (e.g., 720 field hours for the Advanced Standing sequence).

Key Data Highlights:

• Format: Online, hybrid
• Accreditation: CSWE
• Credit Hours: 60
• Online Tuition: $74,760 (TTL)
• Acceptance Rate: N/A
• Enrollment: N/A

Other Considerations:

• Flexible Delivery: Pacific Oaks offers multiple start dates (several online starts per year) and both online and campus-based options to support adult learners. Although coursework can be online, students must secure and complete in-person field placements.
• Licensure Path & State Rules: The program is structured to support California licensure pathways (LCSW readiness), but graduates must confirm state licensing board (BBS) requirements and post-MSW supervised hours in their intended state of practice.

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Non-Accredited Online MSW Programs

Even though CSWE accreditation is often considered the “gold standard” for MSW programs, non‑accredited programs in California can still offer valuable opportunities for aspiring social workers. These programs may provide flexible scheduling, lower tuition, specialized concentrations, or innovative fieldwork experiences that suit specific career goals or geographic needs:

Institution	Location	Accreditation	Credit Hours
California State University – Chico	Chico, CA.	WASC	60
San Jose State University	San Jose, CA.	WASC	60

Career Outlook

Graduates of California MSW programs have strong opportunities across clinical, community, and policy-focused social work. Urban centers and underserved communities provide high demand for trained social workers in mental health, child welfare, healthcare, and nonprofit sectors. The following are examples of entry-level roles:

• Clinical Social Worker / Behavioral Health Specialist
  • Provide therapy, counseling, and case management services in hospitals, clinics, or community mental health centers. Focus areas include children, families, trauma, and mental health interventions.
• Child Welfare Social Worker / Child Protective Services (CPS) Social Worker
  • Work with children and families to ensure safety and well-being, conduct investigations, case management, and connect families to community resources.
• School Social Worker
  • Support students’ emotional, social, and academic development in K–12 schools. Conduct assessments, provide counseling, and connect students/families with school and community resources.
• Community Program Coordinator / Case Manager
  • Work in nonprofit or government agencies to manage social service programs, coordinate community resources, and provide support to vulnerable populations such as seniors, immigrants, or low-income families.
• Healthcare Social Worker / Hospital Case Manager
  • Assist patients and families with care planning, discharge planning, and access to healthcare resources. Collaborate with medical teams to improve patient outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Are online MSW programs in California accredited?

Yes, several online MSW programs in California are CSWE-accredited. Accreditation ensures the program meets national social work education standards and qualifies graduates for licensure (LCSW) in California. However, some online programs are non-accredited; students in these programs should verify licensure eligibility if they plan to pursue clinical social work.

2. Do I have to complete field placements in person?

Yes. Even fully online MSW programs in California require local in-person field placements (practicum). These are supervised experiences in hospitals, community organizations, or mental health agencies, essential for skill development and meeting CSWE requirements. Placement locations typically must be within a commutable distance from the student’s residence.

3. Can I work while enrolled in an online MSW program?

Many online programs offer part-time or extended tracks designed for working professionals. Students should plan their schedules to accommodate both coursework and required practicum hours. Evening, weekend, or flexible placements may be available depending on the program and agency partner.

4. What is the difference between advanced standing and traditional online tracks?

Advanced standing is available to students with a CSWE-accredited BSW degree, allowing them to complete the MSW in roughly 12–18 months. Traditional tracks are designed for students without a BSW and generally take 2–3 years to complete, including foundation and advanced coursework.

5. Will I be eligible for licensure in California after graduating online?

Graduates of CSWE-accredited online MSW programs are generally eligible to pursue LCSW licensure, provided they complete the required supervised post-graduate hours. Non-accredited online program graduates may face restrictions and should consult the California Board of Behavioral Science for licensure requirements.