June 6, 2025
The University of Washington School of Social Work is excited to offer a new Online Master of Social Work (MSW) Program option in the Fall of 2026. This part-time, fully online MSW program option is designed to expand access to high-quality graduate education for students across Washington State and the broader Pacific Northwest region.
The Online MSW Program option offers the same renowned UW curriculum and degree as the campus-based programs. This option reflects our commitment to equity, accessibility and community-engaged learning, and is delivered in a way that supports students’ lives and strengthens their capacity to lead change where it is needed most. This program is ideal for individuals who are deeply rooted in their communities, interested in clinical social work practice, committed to advancing social justice and ready to take the next step in their professional journey—without needing to relocate or commute to a campus.
Classes are delivered in a real-time, virtual classroom environment, combining the flexibility of online education with the structure, engagement and community-building of live instruction. Over the course of 11 quarters (or less), students will join a cohort of peers and faculty in regularly scheduled sessions, creating a dynamic learning experience that mirrors the rigor and connection of our in-person programs. This program option also offers opportunities to engage in course content and discussion boards that are available any time, providing flexibility for students in preparing for live class sessions.
This program is intended to extend access to those who cannot feasibly attend an in-person option, but does not duplicate or replace the in-person MSW program offered at UW Seattle and UW Tacoma. Applicants living in close proximity to campus are still encouraged to explore in-person options.
Applications for all MSW programs — including the new online option — will open in September 2025 for admission in Fall 2026.
As more details about this new program become available, we will post updates to our website. Consult this page for frequently asked questions or connect with our admissions office for more information.