Most Popular Online MSW Programs in Michigan
Online MSW programs in Michigan are ideal for working professionals and cover clinical practice, policy, and advocacy, combining theoretical and practical learning. You can choose from full- or part-time options to fit your schedule, all aimed at preparing you for advanced licensure and various social work roles. The online format promotes collaboration through virtual discussions and projects, equipping you with the skills to tackle complex social issues.
Key Takeaways:
- The University of Michigan - Ann Arbor has a high graduation rate of 93%, which places it in the top 2% of schools.
- Michigan State University is the most popular online graduate school on our list, with over 2,000 enrolled online.
- Spring Arbor University Online has a solid student-to-faculty ratio of 10:1, ensuring plenty of personalized attention.
We utilize online enrollment data from IPEDS to find Michigan's most popular online schools that host MSW programs. For more details, visit the methodology page.
List Of Accredited Online MSW Schools
| School | Online Enrollment | Annual Tuition | Median Earnings | CSWE Accredited | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Michigan State University | $16,967 | N/A | Yes | ||
| University of Michigan - Ann Arbor | 1,494 | $71,055 | N/A | Yes | |
| Spring Arbor University Online | 880 | $39,840 | N/A | Yes | |
| Andrews University | 458 | $21,747 | N/A | Yes | |
| Northern Michigan University | 274 | $17,575 | N/A | Yes |
Most Popular Online MSW Programs in Michigan
Michigan State University Michigan State University Michigan State University
- Online Enrollment: 2,117
- Salary Score: N/A
- Annual Tuition: $16,967
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Accreditation: CSWE
Online degree:
Why we like them: MSU leads with a total online enrollment of 2,117 graduate students, ranking it in the top 14% of universities for online popularity. This strong enrollment reflects a solid infrastructure for distance learners and ensures a wealth of resources and an engaging online community. The MSU hybrid Master of Social Work program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education and spans 57 credits over three years. Students can choose between the Clinical Practice or Organization and Community Leadership concentrations, equipping them for licensure and diverse roles in the social work field.
University of Michigan - Ann Arbor University of Michigan - Ann Arbor University of Michigan - Ann Arbor
- Online Enrollment: 1,494
- Salary Score: N/A
- Annual Tuition: $71,055
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Accreditation: CSWE
Online degree:
Why we like them: UM's online MSW program features a total online enrollment of 1,494 graduate students, positioning it in the top 19% among online graduate programs. The program boasts a graduation rate of 93%, highlighting its dedication to student success. The program requires 45 credits and covers Interpersonal Practice in Integrated Health, Mental Health, and Substance Abuse. Starting in Fall 2024, a Welfare of Children and Families concentration will also be offered. Local field placements provide valuable practical experience, equipping graduates to meet licensure requirements and succeed in the social work field.
Spring Arbor University Online Spring Arbor University Online Spring Arbor University Online
- Online Enrollment: 880
- Salary Score: N/A
- Annual Tuition: $39,840
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Accreditation: CSWE
Online degree:
Why we like them: SAU Online ranks third for its online graduate enrollment, attracting 880 students. This solid popularity demonstrates SAU's capability of providing quality online education. The CSWE accredits the MSW at SAU, and the school offers generalist and specialized tracks, each including a 60-credit hour curriculum. Students with an accredited BSW may qualify for an accelerated one-year program. With multiple start dates, the program can be completed through online or in-person formats. Ethical considerations and Christian values are integral to the curriculum, preparing graduates for various social service roles.
Andrews University Andrews University Andrews University
- Online Enrollment: 458
- Salary Score: N/A
- Annual Tuition: $21,747
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Accreditation: CSWE
Online degree:
Why we like them: AU enrolls hundreds online at the graduate level, reflecting its strong appeal to distant learners. With a graduation rate of 71%, AU effectively supports students through to completion. The online MSW program requires 33 credits for those with a BSW and 56 credits for those with other degrees. The program emphasizes trauma, clinical/counseling, and human services management by offering live online classes and self-paced learning. Dual degree options are available, along with multiple start dates each year, enhancing flexibility for both full-time and part-time students.
Northern Michigan University Northern Michigan University Northern Michigan University
- Online Enrollment: 274
- Salary Score: N/A
- Annual Tuition: $17,575
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Accreditation: CSWE
Online degree:
Why we like them: NMU's online MSW degree ranks fifth for reflecting substantial online enrollment at the graduate level. The program offers two options: a 50-credit regular standing program and a 36-credit advanced standing program for those with a BSW from a CSWE-accredited institution. Students engage through the Global Campus with synchronous online classes. The MSW program focuses on Clinical Practice or Advanced Generalist Practice, ensuring flexibility based on prior coursework and preference for the delivery method. Accredited by the CSWE, this program maintains a high standard of academic excellence.
Overview of Online MSW Programs in Michigan
Social workers in Michigan can help provide support and treatment to individuals and families in their local communities. A social work license can be obtained in Michigan at the following levels: a Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW) to a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW). An LMSW can also specialize in either a Clinical or Macro field if they desire. The Michigan Board sets the requirements for becoming a social worker and requires all applicants to meet them. Michigan social work license holders can find work in hospitals, schools, and community programs.
Becoming a Social Worker in Michigan
The minimum education required to get a social work license in Michigan is a bachelor鈥檚 degree. Students might take classes in human behavior, psychology, and social welfare throughout their schooling on their way to becoming a Licensed Bachelor Social Worker. Those who work at this level will be able to work on cases and provide training, but they can鈥檛 diagnose or treat anyone.
Those who wish to further their education can complete a Master of Social Work online or in-person, as long as it's through an accredited college. Students with a master鈥檚 degree can become a Licensed Master Social Worker, or LMSW, which allows them access to more specializations. The Michigan Board of Social Work allows LMSW license holders to specialize in one of two fields, Macro or Clinical. Those who specialize in Macro perform administrative tasks like training and evaluation, while the Clinical specialization is more focused on therapy and diagnosis of patients.
Licensed Bachelor of Social Work
To receive an LBSW license in Michigan, applicants must have a bachelor鈥檚 degree from a CSWE-accredited program and must complete 4,000 hours of supervised social work within a two-year period after earning a degree. New BSW graduates should apply for their LBSW by examination, which requires students to pass a Bachelor's Examination administered by the Association of Social Work Boards.
Once a student has met these requirements, they must submit an application with the required fee. The final step to the licensing process is a criminal background check, which includes taking fingerprints. This background check is not required if the applicant has already completed one for another Michigan health professional license.
Licensed Master of Social Work
Michigan LMSW applicants must have a master鈥檚 degree from a CSWE accredited program. This social work license also requires applicants to complete at least 4,000 hours of supervised experience in social work. To be licensed as an LMSW, an applicant must also pass either the Advanced Generalist or Clinical Examination, which is administered by the ASWB.
Once all of these requirements are met by the student, they must submit an application, which includes a fee. Finally, the student will have to have a criminal background check completed and have their fingerprints taken. Those who already have a Michigan health professional license do not need to have this background check performed.
Licensed Clinical Social Workers in Michigan
Those who wish to become a licensed clinical social worker must first have an active LMSW license. Applicants are required to pass the ASWB Clinical Examination or the ASWB Advanced Generalist Examination. If the applicant completed their license exams in another state, their scores must be sent to Michigan by the ASWB. Michigan social work clinical hopefuls must first finish an extra 2,000 hours of social work in either the clinical or macro specialty after finishing their degree. These social work license-required hours must be finished in one year and also require a minimum of 50 hours of supervisory review. A Supervisor鈥檚 Verification of Social Work Experience for Master鈥檚 Social Worker form must be submitted along with the application so these clinical hours can be verified. The final step in becoming a social worker with a clinical or macro license is to submit an application along with the required fee.
Michigan social work clinical hopefuls must first finish an extra 2,000 hours of social work...
Social Work License Reciprocity in Michigan
Any Michigan social work applicant who has a license from another state must go through an endorsement process, whether they have an LBSW or LMSW. This social work license requires that the applicant鈥檚 examination scores on either the Association of Social Work Board Bachelors or Masters Examination be submitted to the Michigan Board by the ASWB. The applicant must also provide proof that they have completed their post-degree work experience hours in their licensed state, even if their license has expired. Once this information is submitted, an application along with the required fee must be sent to the Michigan Board.
Licensing Renewal and Continuing Education Information
A Michigan social work license expires every three years on the 30th of April. Both the LMSW and LBSW have the same requirements for renewal, whether the social worker is currently practicing social work or not. A social work license renewal applicant must complete 45 hours of continuing education, with two of those hours in pain management and five in ethics. Documents that prove this continuing education has been completed should be saved for four years after the license was renewed.
Bottom Line
Online MSW programs in Michigan provide a flexible and accessible pathway for aspiring social workers to achieve advanced licensure and career advancement. These programs, accredited by the CSWE, offer a balance of theoretical coursework and practical field placements, preparing students for roles in clinical or macro-level social work. Options like the University of Michigan's high-graduation-rate program and Michigan State University's popular hybrid MSW ensure that students can find a program tailored to their schedules and career goals.
From competitive tuition rates to specialized tracks in areas like Trauma and Community Leadership, Michigan's online MSW offerings cater to diverse professional interests. With the potential for significant salary increases and career growth, these programs are an excellent choice for those committed to making a meaningful impact in their communities while enjoying the flexibility of online learning.
Overall, earning an online MSW is worth it for aspiring social workers. These programs offer comparable quality to traditional degrees, prepare students for licensure, and lead to higher earning potential through career advancement.
For cost-conscious students, we鈥檝e curated a list of the most economical online MSW programs across the nation.