Most Popular Online MSW Programs in Connecticut
Online MSW programs in Connecticut are rare. The one we chose to feature below is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). Connecticut鈥檚 strong emphasis on mental health and family services prepares graduates to thrive in diverse social work settings.
Key Takeaways:
- Sacred Heart University is the most popular online graduate school in Connecticut with an MSW program online. There are over 1,000 graduate students studying online here, making it a solid choice for many.
We rank schools based on their total online graduate enrollment, with descriptions that explore program quality and student outcomes. Evaluations draw on data from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) and College Scorecard. For a deeper look at our process, visit our methodology page.
List Of Accredited Online MSW Schools
| School | Online Enrollment | Annual Tuition | Median Earnings | CSWE Accredited | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sacred Heart University | $16,800 | N/A | Yes |
Sacred Heart University Sacred Heart University Sacred Heart University
- Online Enrollment: 1,051
- Salary Score: N/A
- Annual Tuition: $16,800
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Accreditation: CSWE
Online degree:
Why we like them: SHU ranks among the top online institutions for graduate-level education, with a total online enrollment of 1,051 students. The university offers a CSWE-accredited online social work master's degree with two potential specialization tracks: Direct Clinical Practice and Direct Community Practice. The program is designed to address contemporary global and community issues and prepare students for licensure exams and diverse roles in social work. With an Advanced Standing option available for those holding a BSW, students can complete their degree in as little as 20 months, benefiting from a unique Field Experience model for practical learning.
Overview of Online MSWs in Connecticut
Social Workers in Connecticut can find themselves working in a variety of fields such as substance abuse, healthcare, mental health, and geriatric health. Choosing to work in this industry can allow graduates to work with individuals, couples, families, and communities from all backgrounds. The overall responsibility of a social worker is to help those in need, as well as those who desire to improve. Social workers in Connecticut can help people through counseling, case management, interventions and group discussions. Students who are looking for a career that provides opportunities to help in all aspects of the community should consider social work.
Are There Online MSW Programs in Connecticut With CSWE Accreditation?
There is currently only one CSWE-accredited online MSW program in Connecticut, offered by Sacred Heart University. Located in Fairfield, Sacred Heart University has an average graduate tuition of $34,852 per year.
CSWE accreditation is vital as it ensures the program meets rigorous academic and professional standards set by the Council on Social Work Education, the national accrediting body for social work education in the U.S. Graduates of CSWE-accredited programs are eligible to sit for licensure exams, which is a requirement for most social work careers, including roles as Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs). Additionally, employers often prefer or require candidates who have completed an accredited program, making it an essential credential for advancing in the field.
Becoming a Social Worker in Connecticut
Connecticut social work is regulated by the Connecticut Department of Public Health. This state agency oversees licensure requirements as well as the practice of social work throughout the state. Unlike many other states, Connecticut does not require a license to practice nonclinical social work, but graduates must hold a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from a school that is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). Nonclinical social work careers typically incorporate therapy, case management, and administration. These jobs often involve working with individuals who are looking to enter rehabilitation programs or who need assistance in finding work.
To pursue a social work career in a clinical setting that includes psychotherapy, counseling or therapy, an advanced degree and licensure are required in Connecticut.
To pursue a social work career in a clinical setting that includes psychotherapy, counseling or therapy, an advanced degree and licensure are required in Connecticut. The Connecticut Department of Public Health issues two social work licenses:
- The Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW)
- The Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
Both licensure options require that students pass an examination from the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) and complete a specific number of clinical hours, with many of those hours requiring direct supervision.
Licensed Master of Social Work
A master鈥檚 degree in social work is the minimum education level required for anyone pursuing a career as a licensed social worker in Connecticut. After completing a bachelor鈥檚 degree, it takes about two years to earn a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from a CSWE-accredited program. While graduates can enter the master鈥檚 program with any bachelor鈥檚 degree, having a BSW can significantly cut down on the amount of coursework required to complete a master鈥檚 program. Coursework will often include classes in human behavior, social work research methods, substance abuse, child maltreatment, family therapy, and case management. Additionally, MSW programs will also require students to complete fieldwork in a clinical setting throughout their studies.
Upon earning an MSW, candidates can take the ASWB Masters Exam, which can be retaken until a sufficient score is received. Upon passing the exam, candidates can apply for licensure by sending an application to the Connecticut Department of Health for review. Applicants will receive licensure if they are approved by department officials.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
An LCSW credential is available to those who are interested in practicing social work privately. This licensure level allows social workers to provide psychodiagnostic assessment and treatment to their patients. To qualify, candidates must hold an MSW from a CSWE-accredited program or a doctoral degree in social work. It is also required that candidates complete 3,000 hours of supervised, post-graduate clinical work. If the hours are completed in Connecticut, candidates must first obtain LMSW licensure. The post-graduate clinical hours must be supervised by an LCSW, and a minimum of 100 of those hours must be spent meeting face-to-face with them.
After their supervised hours are completed, candidates must then pass the ASWB Clinical Exam. At this time, an application can also be submitted to the Connecticut Department of Health accompanied by proof of employment with regard to the supervised clinical hours. Once an applicant has passed the exam, test scores are sent directly to the Connecticut Department of Health, where state health officials will review the application. Social workers can begin private practice upon receiving their state license number.
Navigating Social Work Licensure in Connecticut
Social Work License Reciprocity in Connecticut
The Connecticut Department of Health offers an endorsement for those who hold a social work license earned in another state. As long as the candidate is in good standing and the license was earned by meeting standards equal to those in Connecticut, they can expect to receive license reciprocity. A student that is interested in applying for an LCSW credential that did not complete 3,000 hours of supervised clinical work is able to use three years of independent social work experience to fulfill this requirement.
To receive social work license reciprocity, out-of-state social workers must send an application to the Connecticut Department of Health for approval. Along with the application, social workers will be asked to provide documentation that includes proof of current licensure and ASWB exam scores.
Licensing Renewal and Continuing Education Information
Connecticut requires social workers to renew their license every year. This can be done by submitting an application to the Connecticut Department of Health 60 days prior to the license expiration date. Additionally, Connecticut social workers must complete 15 hours in continuing education each year and must send in copies of their certificates of completion along with their application. Of the 15 required hours, only six can be completed online and two must be focused on mental health issues related to veterans and their families. The board accepts hours spent in continuing education courses, workshops and training conferences toward this requirement.
Bottom Line
While options for online MSW programs in Connecticut are limited, Sacred Heart University offers a CSWE-accredited program that prepares students for diverse roles in social work. With a focus on clinical and community practice, SHU equips graduates with the skills needed to meet Connecticut's rigorous licensure requirements for both LMSW and LCSW credentials.
Connecticut's strong emphasis on mental health and family services provides a solid foundation for meaningful careers in healthcare, education, and community work. Whether pursuing initial licensure, renewing annually, or transferring from another state, understanding the requirements set by the is essential for success.
If you want a wider selection to choose from, check out our list of the most affordable online MSW programs, ranked by tuition rates to help you find the best fit for your budget.