Online MSW Programs in California: Finding Your School

If you have a bachelor’s degree in social work, social science, or liberal arts and you’re considering starting or advancing your social work career in California, this guide can help you find the perfect program.

In this article, you’ll discover the top online master’s in social work (MSW) programs in California that can fit your goals. We also offer valuable insights on why key factors like flexibility, affordability, and accreditation matter so much when selecting your program.

You might also be wondering exactly what career paths an MSW opens, or how to effectively compare different online programs as you get started. We’re here to provide clear information on the types of MSW programs, some schools that offer them, and a few practical tips for financing your education.

Keep reading to explore your options, make informed decisions, and find the MSW program that’s right for you.

Author: Jolissa Skow
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Top Traditional MSW Programs in California

Traditional MSW programs in California are designed for students who have earned a bachelor’s degree in a field other than social work, often in areas like social sciences or liberal arts. Traditional MSWs can be offered fully online, fully on-campus, or a hybrid between the two, and typically include options for full-time or part-time study. Most full-time programs are completed within two years, while part-time programs may take three to four years.

San José – MSW Full Time Program

San José State University offers a rigorous in-person full-time MSW program totaling 60 units. Designed for immersive learning, the program can be completed in two years through year-round coursework and extensive practical training. Students choose from two specialized tracks: Children, Youth, and Families or Health and Mental Health.

In your first year, you’ll develop core social work skills, taking four courses each semester with classes scheduled Mondays & Fridays or Wednesdays & Fridays during the daytime. You’ll also complete a foundational field internship of 16 hours per week on Tuesdays and Thursdays, alongside field seminars.

Your second year focuses on advanced specialization training. Courses continue at four per semester, held Mondays and Tuesdays from morning through evening.

Duration: Two years, 60 credits

Mode: On Campus

Cost: $630/credit

Curriculum:

  • Social Work Graduate Writing Course
  • Social Policy and Services: History and Values
  • Social Policy Analysis
  • Human Behavior in Social Environment I & II
  • Advanced Standing Bridge Course Integrated Theory, Practice, and Field Education
  • Transcultural Generalist Practice I & II
  • Social Work Practicum I – IV
  • Transcultural Multi-Systems Practice I & II
  • Social Work and the Law
  • Psychopharmacology for Social Workers
  • Advanced Generalist Practice in Substance Abuse
  • Research Methods and Design

FIND PROGRAMS NEAR YOU:

Non-GRE MSW Programs in California

Many MSW programs in California no longer require the General Record Examination (GRE) for admission, simplifying your application process. While GRE scores are typically still necessary for dual-degree programs (e.g., MSW/MPH, MSW/JD), choosing a non-GRE program won’t diminish your degree’s prestige.

University of Southern California – Online Master of Social Work

USC’s Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work offers a prestigious online MSW program that does not require the GRE, making your application process smoother and less stressful. Fully accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), this online program combines live virtual classes with local field placements, ensuring you gain practical experience close to home.

You can complete your degree in approximately two years full-time, or choose a flexible, part-time schedule to fit your personal commitments. The program also allows you to specialize your studies by selecting a focus area such as Adult Mental Health & Wellness, Children, Youth and Families, Social Change and Innovation, School and Educational Settings, or Military Populations and Settings.

Duration: Two years, 48 credits

Mode: Online

Cost: $33,845 (for full-time students0

Curriculum:

  • Human Behavior and the Social Environment
  • Professional Self-Care in Integrative Social Work Practice
  • Critical Decision Making in Integrative Social Work Practice
  • Foundations of Integrative Social Work Practice I & II
  • Policy and Advocacy in Professional Social Work
  • Science of Social Work
  • Applied Learning in Practicum Education I & II
  • Diversity, Social Justice and Interculturally Competent Social Work Practice

Spotlight on Advanced Standing MSW Programs in California

If you already have a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), an Advanced Standing MSW program can help you earn your master’s degree more quickly. These specialized programs recognize the foundational coursework and fieldwork you completed during your BSW studies, allowing you to skip the first year of a traditional MSW program and move directly into advanced graduate-level courses.

Typically, an Advanced Standing MSW can be finished in about one year of full-time study, significantly reducing the time and tuition you’d normally spend on a two-year program.

University of the Pacific – Online MSW (Advanced Standing)

The University of the Pacific, located in Stockton, CA, offers a fully online Advanced Standing MSW program specifically tailored for students holding a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW). This accelerated online format lets you complete your MSW degree in as little as 12 months, without any campus visits required, perfect for busy professionals balancing multiple commitments.

Pacific’s curriculum emphasizes clinical social work skills and aims to shape graduates into impactful “agents of change” who promote diversity, inclusion, and social justice. To customize your learning experience, the program offers two specialized concentrations: Behavioral Health and Health Care Social Work.

Duration: One year, 32 credits

Mode: Online

Cost: $983/credit

Curriculum:

  • Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM)
  • Clinical Interventions in Health
  • Practice-Informed Research in Health Settings II
  • Specialized Practice Field Placement I

Inside Part-Time MSW Programs in California

Part-time MSW programs in California are ideal if you’re balancing your studies with professional or personal responsibilities. These programs are designed specifically for working students or those who have other significant commitments.

Typically, the coursework for part-time MSW degrees is spread over a longer period compared to full-time programs: about two years for advanced standing and three to four years for traditional programs.

Cal Poly Humboldt – Distributed Learning MSW program

Cal Poly Humboldt (formerly Humboldt State) offers a unique part-time Distributed Learning MSW program tailored specifically for students dedicated to serving rural and Indigenous communities. Delivered almost entirely online, this program provides exceptional flexibility, making it one of California’s most accessible MSW options.

While the coursework is completed online, students come together once annually for an intensive on-campus weekend in January. These in-person sessions offer practical workshops, hands-on learning opportunities, and valuable professional networking, enriching your online education and connecting you directly with peers and faculty.

Duration: 3.5 years, 75 credits

Mode: Online

Cost: $540/credit

Curriculum:

  • Social Work Practice in Native American and Rural Communities
  • Human Development, Diversity, & Relationships: Change through the Life Course
  • Dynamics of Groups, Agencies, Organizations, and Communities
  • Social Policy
  • Qualitative and Quantitative Evaluation and Data Analysis
  • Wellness and Sustainability
  • Clinical Social Work Practice
  • Advanced Practice and Indigenous and Rural Communities
  • Child and Family Welfare
  • Communities & Organizations
  • Values & Ethics – The Philosophy of Social Work

Student Help Center: Common MSW Questions Answered

1. Do I need a Bachelor’s in Social Work (BSW) to apply for an MSW program?

No, you don’t need Bachelor’s in Social Work to apply for most California MSW programs. Students often come from diverse backgrounds like psychology, sociology, education, or even unrelated fields. Without a BSW, you’ll complete the traditional MSW track (usually 60 units in two years). Admissions committees prioritize academic performance, relevant experience, and dedication to human services.

2. Do MSW programs in California require the GRE?

Most California MSW programs no longer require the GRE for admission. Schools increasingly focus on your academic achievements, personal experiences, and professional recommendations rather than standardized test scores. Even programs that list GRE requirements often waive them for applicants with strong GPAs or existing graduate degrees. Always confirm with your specific program.

3. How do field placements work for online MSW students?

As an online MSW student in California, you’ll collaborate closely with your program’s field education office to secure a placement near your home. After discussing your interests—such as mental health, healthcare, or schools—your program matches you with a local approved agency.

Experienced social workers supervise you during your placement. Online students typically complete the same number of field hours as on-campus peers (approximately 900 hours for traditional tracks or 500 hours for advanced standing).

4. What are the steps to become a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in California after I graduate?

  1. To become a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in California, you must:
  • Earn an MSW degree from a CSWE-accredited school.
  • Register as an Associate Clinical Social Worker (ASW) with California’s Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS).
  • Complete 3,000 supervised hours over at least 104 weeks (2,000 clinical hours, with 750 in face-to-face psychotherapy).
  • Take required California-specific coursework, including Law and Ethics, Child Abuse Reporting, and additional mandated topics.
  • Pass two exams: the California Law and Ethics Exam and the national ASWB Clinical Exam.
  • Submit your application and documentation to the BBS, including fingerprinting and fees.

5. Are online MSW degrees respected by employers and eligible for the same careers as traditional degrees?

Yes, an online MSW degree from an accredited program is equally respected by employers and licensing boards as a traditional on-campus degree. The critical factor is accreditation: as long as your program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)—like all the programs highlighted in this guide—it fully meets professional standards and qualifies you for the same career opportunities.

MSW Graduate Salaries in California

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Area Occupation 10th Percentile 90th Percentile Median
U.S. Social Workers $39,580 $104,580 $63,770
California Social Workers $41,060 $120,870 $63,680
Bakersfield, CA Social Workers $37,610 $91,940 $45,680
Chico, CA Social Workers $46,830 $103,880 $74,070
Fresno, CA Social Workers $38,250 $99,380 $57,120
Hanford-Corcoran, CA Social Workers $52,130 $79,320 $67,670
Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA Social Workers $41,060 $117,310 $62,820
Modesto, CA Social Workers $39,050 $93,140 $62,610
Napa, CA Social Workers $48,780 $132,340 $87,730
Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura, CA Social Workers $36,260 $95,890 $51,660
Redding, CA Social Workers $43,350 $93,870 $59,680
Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, CA Social Workers $38,870 $124,400 $83,350
Sacramento–Roseville–Arden-Arcade, CA Social Workers $40,260 $122,100 $60,030
Salinas, CA Social Workers $57,050 $119,660 $78,840
San Diego-Carlsbad, CA Social Workers $39,660 $127,960 $65,400
San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA Social Workers $46,680 $124,160 $67,140
San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA Social Workers $47,180 $126,690 $75,400
San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles-Arroyo Grande, CA Social Workers $52,820 $113,760 $77,020
Santa Cruz-Watsonville, CA Social Workers $42,380 $136,180 $61,250
Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA Social Workers $41,770 $118,270 $88,720
Santa Rosa, CA Social Workers $53,100 $135,220 $98,710
Stockton-Lodi, CA Social Workers $39,800 $128,400 $59,030
Vallejo-Fairfield, CA Social Workers $50,440 $130,210 $75,090
Visalia-Porterville, CA Social Workers $37,880 $62,480 $46,000
Yuba City, CA Social Workers $38,290 $109,900 $66,870

Source: Social Workers, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2023, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.


Area Occupation Curr. Jobs Proj. Jobs New Jobs Growth %
United States Social Workers 68,400 72,900 4,500 6.60%
California Social Workers 8,700 9,900 1,200 13.80%

Source: Projections Central

Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.

Resources for Californian MSW Students

California provides numerous resources for MSW students and social work professionals, including networking opportunities, continuing education, clinical supervision, licensing guidance, and scholarship information. These organizations help you build connections and skills crucial for career advancement in social work across diverse communities.

  • California Association of Black Social Workers (CABSW)
    The California affiliate of the National Association of Black Social Workers, the CABSW is a professional association of social workers dedicated to the promotion of positive family preservation within the African American community. There are seven chapters located throughout the state.
  • California Association of School Social Workers (CASSW)
    Association of active and retired California social workers, social work graduate students, and other school professionals. Its mission is to promote professional development of school social workers to enhance the education experiences for California students and their families. Student memberships are available for a reduced fee.
  • California Society for Clinical Social Work (CSCSW)
    Professional organization specifically focused on advancing and promoting the practice of clinical social work in California as well as advocating for the interests of clinical social workers and their clients. Membership benefits include free continuing education units, networking and workshop events, free ethical consultations, and more.
  • National Association of Social Workers (NASW) – California Chapter
    The NASW is a professional association of social workers whose mission is to enhance member professional growth and development, create and maintain professional social work standards, and to advance sound social policies. Each member is part of one of nine regional groups within the state, some of which have additional smaller city-based or county-based units.
  • State of California Employment Development Department (EDD)
    The EDD’s website is a great resource connecting employers and job seekers in all career fields throughout the state. Use the search engine on its California Occupational Guides webpage to find tons of helpful information on social work careers in a variety of specialized practice areas.

Best Online MSW Programs in CA

As with lots of other majors, distance learning has become a common component of MSW programs in California and around the nation. In fact, many California colleges and universities now offer their MSW programs with academic coursework that can be accessed and completed entirely online.

The exemplary California MSW online programs featured in our rankings below can serve as a great starting point for your college search. These schools rank highly on key features like CSWE accreditation, quality instruction, robust student services, and flexible class schedules. Learn more about our top picks and see if one is a good match for your budget, schedule, and career goals.

1

California State University-San Bernardino

San Bernardino, California

Why We Selected California State University-San Bernardino:
California State University, San Bernardino offers a Master of Social Work (MSW) program through its Pathway Distance Education Program, which can be completed in three years. The program requires 60 credit hours and involves 1,080 hours of field education. It is structured as an advanced generalist concentration with both micro and macro practice elements. Admission typically requires a minimum GPA of 3.0, though a GPA of 2.8 may be considered if the application is strong; the GRE is not required. Financial aid includes the Title IV-E Public Child Welfare Stipend Program. The program prepares students for various social work roles and offers pathways like the Pupil Personnel Services (PPS) credential for work in school settings. It is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), ensuring a recognized qualification.
Program Highlights
  • The program offers unique tuition waivers for high-achieving out-of-state students, significantly reducing their overall cost of attendance.
  • Students can access specialized scholarships based on their backgrounds, including first-generation college status, enhancing financial support.
  • The program boasts strong employer partnerships, ensuring high clinical placement rates and solid job opportunities after graduation.
School Details
  • AccreditationWASC
  • Average Tuition$7,176
  • Student/Faculty Ratio25/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course79%
Why We Selected California State Polytechnic University-Humboldt:
Cal Poly Humboldt’s Master of Social Work (MSW) program is an advanced generalist degree emphasizing work in rural and Indigenous communities, preparing students for professional practice responsive to unique challenges through a compassionate approach. Its multi-system strategies enhance community resilience, with Council on Social Work Education accreditation and California licensure eligibility. Full-time, part-time, and community-rooted enrollment options are available at approximately $540 per unit, supported by grants and scholarships. Community placements provide hands-on experience, cultivating cultural humility and social justice skills for careers in child welfare, clinical settings, and community organizing.
Program Highlights
  • The program offers significant tuition waivers for eligible students, reducing overall educational costs and easing financial burdens.
  • Students can benefit from strong employer partnerships that facilitate high clinical placement rates, enhancing job readiness and industry connections.
  • The program provides specialized career tracks tailored to in-demand fields, preparing graduates for successful employment opportunities.
School Details
  • AccreditationWSCUC
  • Average Tuition$7,176
  • Student/Faculty Ratio16/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course96%
Why We Selected California State University-Stanislaus:
The Master of Social Work (MSW) program at California State University, Stanislaus is a 60-unit curriculum completed in 24 months, focusing on socially-just clinical social work practice. Students gain essential competencies for integrative clinical practice in health and behavioral health settings through eight-week courses and two full-time summer field placements totaling 26 weeks. Tuition is approximately $35,000, with scholarships available. Admission requires a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and good academic standing. Upon graduation, students are prepared for diverse careers, including clinical practice, program administration, and policy making, qualifying them for the Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) credential.
Program Highlights
  • This program offers tuition waivers for eligible students, significantly reducing education costs.
  • It provides accelerated completion options to help students graduate faster and start working earlier.
  • The program includes employer partnerships for job placement and career advancement opportunities.
School Details
  • AccreditationWSCUC
  • Average Tuition$7,176
  • Student/Faculty Ratio20/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course93%
4

California State University-Bakersfield

Bakersfield, California

Why We Selected California State University-Bakersfield:
The Master of Social Work (MSW) program at California State University, Bakersfield, uses an advanced-generalist curriculum model, preparing graduates for diverse roles across micro, mezzo, and macro levels. The program includes 60 semester units of coursework and a 960-hour internship. Admission requires a bachelor’s degree with a liberal arts foundation, a GPA of 2.5 or higher, and completion of the MSW Writing Proficiency Exam. Career paths include mental health, child and family services, gerontology, and corrections, emphasizing culturally responsive practice and social justice. Graduates are equipped for leadership roles in interprofessional environments.
Program Highlights
  • Tuition waivers are available for students who demonstrate financial need or meet specific criteria, significantly lowering the cost of education.
  • The program boasts high clinical placement rates, ensuring students gain hands-on experience and enhance their employability upon graduation.
  • Specialized career tracks are offered, allowing students to tailor their education to meet industry demands and personal career aspirations.
School Details
  • AccreditationWSCUC
  • Average Tuition$7,176
  • Student/Faculty Ratio21/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course91%
5
Why We Selected California State University-Chico:
The California State University, Chico offers a hybrid Master of Social Work (MSW) program focused on Advanced generalist social work practice with specializations in mental health or families, children, and youth services. The traditional standing option requires 61 credits and takes three years to complete, involving 1,200 hours of field education. The advanced standing option is a one-year program requiring 34 credits with 720 hours of field education. Admissions require a minimum GPA of 3.0 and no GRE. Career outcomes include roles in healthcare, education, government, and community services. The MSW is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education. A Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) is also available on-campus and through a Distributed Learning program. Financial aid opportunities are available.
Program Highlights
  • Tuition waivers offer reduced costs for eligible students, enhancing affordability.
  • Tuition waivers can be combined with scholarships for greater financial benefits.
  • Employer partnerships provide tuition reimbursement opportunities for students.
School Details
  • AccreditationWSCUC
  • Average Tuition$7,176
  • Student/Faculty Ratio22/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course90%
6
Why We Selected California State University-Northridge:
The Master of Social Work (MSW) program at California State University, Northridge, prepares students for careers in social services with a focus on urban community practice. The 60-credit, two-year program includes core courses and field internships. Admission requires a bachelor’s degree (preferably in sociology, psychology, or a related field) with a recommended 3.0 GPA, plus a personal statement, three letters of recommendation, and transcripts. The curriculum covers social work practices, ethics, research methods, and diverse populations. Graduates pursue careers in healthcare, schools, and community organizations. The program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). Financial aid options may be available.
Program Highlights
  • The program offers substantial tuition waivers for eligible students, reducing financial burdens significantly.
  • Distinct scholarships are available, providing additional financial support for meritorious and needy students.
  • Employer partnerships ensure robust job placement opportunities, enhancing career prospects for graduates.
School Details
  • AccreditationWASC
  • Average Tuition$7,176
  • Student/Faculty Ratio26/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course95%
7
Why We Selected California State University-Long Beach:
California State University, Long Beach offers a hybrid Master of Social Work (MSW) program through its School of Social Work, accredited by the Council on Social Work Education. This part-time program is completed over three years, with admissions in the fall semester only. Students complete 60 credit hours and engage in field education, though the exact hours are not specified in available information. The program offers specializations such as Child and Family Wellbeing, among others. Admissions require a minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.5, not 2.8, and a prerequisite statistics course, with no GRE required. Graduates are prepared for professional roles in family and community services.
Program Highlights
  • The program offers significant tuition waivers, allowing eligible students to reduce or eliminate their tuition costs based on financial need or specific qualifications.
  • Students benefit from high clinical placement rates, ensuring practical experience and job readiness upon graduation through established employer partnerships.
  • The school provides accelerated completion options, enabling students to finish their degrees faster and enter the workforce sooner, enhancing career opportunities.
School Details
  • AccreditationWASC
  • Average Tuition$7,176
  • Student/Faculty Ratio23/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course87%
8

San Jose State University

San Jose, California

Why We Selected San Jose State University:
The Master of Social Work (MSW) program at San Jose State University is a two-year, 60-unit program requiring 1,200 hours of field education. It offers advanced generalist practice training with transcultural focus, preparing graduates to serve diverse and marginalized populations. Admission requires a minimum 2.5 GPA; GRE scores are not required. Career paths include leadership roles in policy innovation and social justice advocacy. Financial aid options are available through the university.
Program Highlights
  • The program offers tuition waivers for eligible students based on financial need or special circumstances.
  • It provides networking opportunities through employer partnerships and specialized career tracks.
  • Faculty expertise enhances educational experiences with tailored mentorship and guidance.
School Details
  • AccreditationWSCUC
  • Average Tuition$7,176
  • Student/Faculty Ratio24/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course86%
9
Why We Selected University of Massachusetts Global:
The University of Massachusetts Global offers both a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Social Work program. The Bachelor’s requires 120 semester units in social welfare policy, human behavior, and ethics, plus 400 hours of field practice for entry-level roles. The Master’s offers two licensure pathways: a one-year advanced standing option for BSW holders and a two-year standard option, both requiring 600-1000 practicum hours. A 3.0 GPA is required for the Master’s (no GRE needed). Graduates pursue careers in healthcare, justice, education, and nonprofits. Inquire directly for tuition and aid details.
Program Highlights
  • Fee waivers and exemptions are offered to specific student populations, such as foster care alumni and veterans.
  • Tuition-free opportunities are available through specialized programs like the A-State Promise Plus for low-income students.
  • Employer partnerships and networking opportunities enhance job prospects and professional connections for graduates.
School Details
  • AccreditationWSCUC
  • Average Tuition$12,240
  • Student/Faculty Ratio22/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course99%
10
Why We Selected California State University-East Bay:
California State University, East Bay offers a Master of Social Work (MSW) program tailored to address social injustices and inequalities. The MSW is a 60-credit program focusing on Children, Youth, and Families and Community Mental Health. Applicants need a minimum GPA of 2.8, prerequisites in statistics and human biology, and three letters of recommendation. The program costs about $51,960 over two years, with financial aid available. Graduates are prepared for roles in community mental health and children’s services, with career paths in advocacy and leadership aimed at transforming communities. The program emphasizes a strengths-based approach.
Program Highlights
  • Tuition waivers and scholarships significantly reduce financial burdens for eligible students.
  • Application fees are waived for qualifying students through easy-to-use fee waiver programs.
  • Employment-based tuition waivers are available for employees and their dependents.
School Details
  • AccreditationWASC
  • Average Tuition$7,176
  • Student/Faculty Ratio24/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course85%
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Jolissa Skow AUTHOR

Jolissa Skow is an experienced health and education writer with a passion for making complex topics accessible to a wide audience. With a background in English and journalism, she has spent over a decade crafting research-driven content that informs and empowers readers. Her work spans health, wellness, and medical education, blending clear communication with evidence-based insights. Through her experience in digital content strategy, Jolissa ensures that important health information reaches those who need it most, helping individuals make informed decisions about their well-being.

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