Master of Social Work Online
Boise State’s Master of Social Work (MSW) Online prepares you for advanced social work practice with individuals, families and communities. Through 100% online coursework and in-person field work in your local area, you’ll build the clinical, organizational and policy skills needed to promote social justice, advance equity and improve lives. With no out-of-state tuition and flexible scheduling, you can earn your MSW while continuing to live and work in your community.
Want to learn more about the Master of Social Work Online? Contact a student success coach.
Next Application Deadline: January 15
Admission to Boise State Online is offered every fall, spring and summer semester. While the current application deadline has passed, you can still apply for an upcoming session.
Admission to Boise State’s Master of Social Work Online is offered every spring, summer and fall semester. All application materials must be received by the deadline to be considered for the program. You must apply separately for admission to Boise State University.
Program Details
Use the program detail cards to learn more about the Master of Social Work Online. Still have questions? Register for a free MSW information session.
Two Pathways to Earn Your MSW Online
Boise State offers two options for earning your Master of Social Work Online — one for students with a background in social work and one for those from other fields.
Standard MSW Pathway
This option is for students who hold a bachelor’s degree in a field other than social work. It includes both foundational and advanced coursework, along with in-person field work in your community.
Advanced Standing MSW Pathway
If you have a Bachelor of Social Work from a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), you may qualify for the Advanced Standing MSW. This option lets you skip foundational coursework and complete your degree faster — in as little as three semesters full time or under two years part time.
Admission to the Advanced Standing MSW is evaluated case by case. All applicants must show relevant social work experience on their resume.
You may be eligible for the Advanced Standing MSW if either of the following apply:
- You earned your Bachelor of Social Work from a CSWE-accredited program within the last five years
- You earned your Bachelor of Social Work within the last 10 years and have significant post-graduation social work experience
If you do not meet these criteria, we encourage you to apply to the Standard MSW pathway.
Master of Social Work On-Campus Program
Master of Social Work graduate programs are offered on the Boise State campus. Our on-campus Master of Social Work was established in 1991 and is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education.
More Information About the Master of Social Work On-Campus Program
Unique Advantages of an Online MSW
Community Driven
Teaching social workers in their communities is a strategic approach that helps graduates connect closely with local needs. This encourages a responsive and community-based approach to social work, enabling professionals to navigate and address unique community needs with greater insight and cultural awareness.
High Quality
Nationally recognized for its affordability and excellence, the MSW Online consistently prepares graduates to uphold ethical standards in the realm of professional social work. This commitment ensures a high-quality learning experience, positioning graduates for success in their ethical practice and contributions to the social work profession.
Real-World Impact
Moving past theory, the MSW Online empowers graduates to actively challenge inequalities, positively impact individuals’ lives and create meaningful changes in communities and society. This hands-on approach equips them to be catalysts for positive transformations, making a lasting and tangible difference in the world around them.
Recognized for Quality Education and Affordability
Each year, Boise State’s Master of Social Work Online program is recognized for value. With no out-of-state tuition, 100% online coursework and licensing pass rates that exceed the national average by 10%, our program can help you reach your goals without leaving your community.
Boise State was listed as one of the Best Master’s in Social Work Online Programs in 2024 by the website, OnlineMastersDegrees.org (OMD). OMD, a national ranking body that uses the U.S. Department of Education data, analyzed more than 7,700 schools to create an algorithm to rank 70 unique master’s degree subjects. Only six percent of postsecondary institutions earned a ranking position, according to OMD.
Boise State’s Master of Social Work Online program was ranked No. 10 in the nation for best affordable MSW Online programs by Best Value Schools.
CSWE Accreditation
Boise State’s Master of Social Work Online is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education’s Board of Accreditation.
This accreditation affirms that Boise State’s MSW Online program meets or exceeds professional and academic standards required for high-quality social work education. Accreditation applies to all delivery methods, including online and ensures the program prepares students with the knowledge and skills necessary for responsible, ethical social work practice.
Boise State’s MSW program has been continuously accredited since 1992, demonstrating a long-standing commitment to excellence in social work education.
Why Accreditation Matters
Accreditation is an important part of your path to becoming a licensed social worker. It shows that a program has the resources, curriculum and support systems in place to prepare students for advanced social work practice.
A CSWE-accredited program like Boise State’s:
- Undergoes regular review through a national peer evaluation process
- Prepares students to meet professional standards for licensure
- Follows the Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards
- Assures academic quality and faculty support
Choosing an accredited program helps ensure that your degree is respected, recognized and aligned with licensing requirements in most states.
Planning for Licensure in Your State
Boise State’s MSW Online is designed to prepare you for licensure. However, licensure requirements vary by state.
Before applying, we strongly recommend checking with the licensing board in your home state to ensure:
- The program meets your state’s educational requirements
- Online delivery is approved in your location
- You understand any state-specific licensure processes
If you are considering an academic program that leads to a professional license or certification in your state, we highly recommend seeking guidance from the appropriate licensing agency in your home state before beginning the academic program located outside your state or upon changing states. Some online programs may not be available in some states or may not be designed to prepare a student for professional licensure.
Hear From MSW Graduates
Get to know our graduates and discover how their unique journeys have been shaped by the Master of Social Work Online’s commitment to providing a practical and transformative education.
Richard Renz
“You can still be a professional and continue your education. Professors are available anytime. Instead of guessing at a client issue, you can call people who may have seen it before, because they have been doing this for 40 years.”
Ashlie Thacker
“I have fallen in love with it in terms of what social work means. I love helping people and helping advocate for people alongside them. I love giving people a voice who don’t normally have one, which has stood out as a huge value of mine. This program really helped highlight that value.”
Sebastian Calderon
“Because of the flexibility of doing the degree online, I found an internship site near me, instead of having to travel to Twin Falls, Pocatello or farther away from me. I could stay where I was with my family, where I grew up, in the community I want to be in.”
Student Support
From application to graduation, students are supported throughout their journey at Boise State.
Frequently Asked Questions About the MSW Online Program
Do I need a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) to apply?
No. Boise State’s Master of Social Work Online offers two pathways: the standard MSW for students with a degree in another field and the advanced standing MSW for students who hold a BSW from a CSWE-accredited program.
Is the program fully online? Will I need to visit campus?
Yes, all coursework is delivered 100% online. However, you’ll complete in-person field work in your local community — no campus visits are required.
How long does it take to complete the MSW Online program?
You can complete the standard MSW in 2–3 years, depending on your course load. If you qualify for the advanced standing MSW, you can finish it in as little as three semesters full time or under two years part time.
Is Boise State’s MSW Online program accredited?
Yes. The program is fully accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) and has been continuously accredited since 1992. This accreditation is required for licensure in most states.
What types of careers can I pursue with an MSW?
Graduates go on to become clinical social workers, mental health counselors, therapists, case managers, nonprofit leaders and more. Our students work in healthcare, schools, community organizations and government agencies.
Can I complete my field work where I live?
Yes. You’ll complete your field placement in your local area, with guidance and support from Boise State’s dedicated field placement team.
What are the admissions requirements?
You’ll need a completed bachelor’s degree, a personal statement, a resume, three letters of recommendation, a notarized disclosure form and a background check. Applicants for advanced standing must have a CSWE-accredited BSW and relevant experience.
How much does the program cost?
Tuition is $565 per credit with no out-of-state tuition or online fees. Financial aid and payment plans are available.
Does this program prepare me for licensure?
Yes. Boise State’s MSW Online prepares students to sit for the Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) exam and meet other requirements for state licensure. Pass rates for Boise State MSW graduates exceed the national average.
When can I start the program?
We offer spring, summer and fall start dates. It is important to submit all application materials prior to the application deadlines.
Master of Social Work Online Student Success Stories and News
We Bring The Blue To You
Students in Boise State’s Master of Social Work Online can be found across the nation.
Didn’t find what you were looking for?
Contact our enrollment and student success team for support by emailing us at MSWOnline@boisestate.edu or calling (208) 426-5921.