Can You Get a Social Work Degree in 2 Years?

Earning a social work degree allows students to qualify for many careers in human services. The time needed to complete a social work program depends on the type of degree and available learning format. Learn more about accelerated degree programs that can allow you to start your social work career as quickly as possible.

Is It Possible To Earn a Social Work Degree in Two Years?

The time needed to complete a social work degree is best understood through the different degree types and the credit hours to complete them. Always select an accredited program and identify the licensing requirements for your desired job role.

Associate Degrees in Social Work

An associate degree is an entry-level degree that will familiarize students with the basics of a topic and allow them to complete common prerequisites and general education courses. An associate degree in social work typically requires 60 credits and can be completed in two years of full-time study in a traditional learning format. Students can often explore financial aid programs to earn an associate degree quickly and affordably at most community colleges.

Bachelor's Degrees in Social Work

A Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) is a popular qualification that gives students a strong grasp of the social sciences and the fundamentals of social work practice. BSW programs usually require 120 credits and have traditionally been considered four-year degrees. Students who want to complete a bachelor's program in less time should consider online programs and other non-traditional learning formats that may offer accelerated timelines.

Remember that the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) sets guidelines for accredited social work programs. Social workers have important responsibilities that impact the lives of vulnerable individuals, so proper training is an important ethical consideration. In some cases, students may be able to earn a bachelor's degree in two years, however, this typically requires alternative learning formats and some previous credits.

Students undertaking 120-credit degrees have traditionally completed 30 credit hours per year over four years. This breaks down to 15 credits or 5 three-credit classes per semester. While accelerated learning formats can greatly reduce the time needed to complete a bachelor's degree, the education requirements for professional licensure suggest a thoughtful approach to social work studies.

Master's Degrees in Social Work

A Master of Social Work (MSW) degree is an important milestone to becoming a licensed professional. Master's programs are typically designed to prepare students to take the Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) exam and will usually have a field experience component. MSW programs can be completed within two years. The coursework in an MSW program is designed to help students master topics such as child welfare, social services policy, advocacy mental health counseling, and the healthcare system.

Tips for Earning a Social Work Degree Faster

Students at any level of study can accelerate their learning progress with these innovative strategies.

Enroll in an Accelerated Degree Program

Accelerated degree programs are the most straightforward way to earn a social work degree as fast as possible. Speak to an admissions counselor about your intended timelines and career aspirations. Identifying an accelerated learning program and planning is crucial to rapid degree completion.

Accelerated degree programs may allow students to take more credits per term or move quickly through content they have mastered. Competency-based formats will benefit students who have previous professional or non-traditional experience.

Take Advantage of Transfer Credits

Students who complete a degree across multiple institutions should ensure that all of their credits are put to use if they want to earn a degree quickly. Check the transfer policy at a potential institution and ask the admissions team which previous classes you can apply towards your degree. General education classes such as English or college algebra will usually transfer easily. More specific classes may be counted as electives.

Test Out of Courses Through CLEP Exams

The College Level Examination Program (CLEP) allows students to take a standardized test and earn college credit for a passing score. CLEP tests correspond to many different subject areas, so find out which tests can be applied to your social work degree. Fieldwork can not be completed in a CLEP test format. CLEP tests allow students to save time and money by skipping on-campus versions of required classes.

Register for an Online Degree Program

Online degrees are an excellent choice for students who want a faster degree. Innovative online programs allow students to complete courses in short, efficient formats and move quickly through the degree. Online programs are also effective for part-time or working students who must schedule their study time around other commitments.

Speak to an Academic Advisor

Talking to an academic advisor about your desire to complete a social work degree is crucial to success. Each social work program will have slightly different rules and requirements, so checking your plans with a knowledgeable staff member will ensure that your plan is feasible and will allow you to earn the credits you need to graduate.

Two-Year Online Social Work Degree Programs

Students looking for high-quality social work degrees with accelerated learning formats should consider these programs.

Simmons University

Simmons University's School of Social Work offers efficient training programs and quality instruction. Students can earn an MSW degree in as little as nine months thanks to a cutting-edge online format and a streamlined degree structure. Simmons University also has an advanced standing program for BSW graduates meeting minimum GPA requirements.

Syracuse University

Students wanting to complete a social work degree in less time should consider Syracuse University's online MSW program. The master's degree can be completed online and an accelerated learning format is available.

Master's students can choose between an Advanced Integrated Practice and Advanced Clinical Practice track depending on their career goals. The program emphasizes social welfare and justice and will equip graduates to become caseworkers, case managers, or clinical practitioners.

Arizona State University

Arizona State University (ASU) is a great option for a flexible and efficient Bachelor's in Social Work. ASU's online BSW program is formatted into short seven-week classes that enable faster degree completion.

Students will learn about substance abuse, family systems, social policy, and many factors influencing human behavior. Graduates have succeeded as:

• school social workers
• caseworkers
• clinical social workers

Temple University

Temple University's MSW program is perfect for ambitious students who want to enter the field without delay. The program is highly flexible to accommodate the needs of professional students and offers several concentrations. Students interested in clinical practice can choose the Clinical Practice with Individuals and Families track while students interested in policy can opt for the Macro Practice in Organizations, Communities, and Policy Arenas track.

Columbia University

Columbia University has one of the country's most historic and reputable social work programs. Students can complete an MSW degree online and propel themselves to career success. Students with a BSW degree can choose the advanced standing option and complete the master's degree in one year. The program has a record of success and places 98% of students in jobs within one year.