7 Best Online Social Work Degrees in Florida 2025

If you'd like to pursue any of various social work professions, getting a degree in the field is essential. Perhaps you live in Florida and you're looking for the best online bachelor's programs � or maybe you'd like to know more about affordable online social work degrees at both undergraduate and graduate levels.

Keep reading to find out more about some of the best accredited social work degrees online. We'll also provide some basic information about studying social work online and answer some questions you may have.

Top Online Social Work Degree Programs in Florida

Though no online Bachelor of Social Work programs are available in Florida, full-time and part-time students can pursue online social work master's degree programs at various schools in the state. Let's look closer at some of the best in-state programs available for online students.

1. Florida State University

Florida State University (FSU) is a public school located in Tallahassee, FL. It offers an online Master of Social Work degree program with both advanced standing and traditional tracks.

This is considered one of the top online master's in social work programs because of its long-standing reputation and experience. It is one of the oldest online MSW programs in the country and is known for providing a student-centered experience that prepares learners for success.

2. University of South Florida

The University of South Florida is a public school headquartered in Tampa with additional campuses in Sarasota and St. Petersburg. The school offers an online Master of Social Work degree accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).

Students in this program gain the necessary skills to work with vulnerable populations in clinical social work practice and various other social justice fields. The school boasts hundreds of partnerships so students can complete field education requirements at a location convenient to them.

3. University of Central Florida

The University of Central Florida is located in Orlando and boasts an enrollment of nearly 70,000 students. One of the online degrees available is a Master of Social Work.

This CSWE-accredited program provides a traditional and an advanced standing track. Students learn about how physical and mental health can impact individuals, gaining skills to improve the well-being of those suffering from substance abuse, trauma, and other challenges. Students gain real-world experience by completing fieldwork and are eligible to sit for licensure exams upon graduating.

4. University of West Florida

The University of West Florida is located in Pensacola. This public school provides various online degree programs, including an accredited Master of Social Work.

This degree features an advanced standing program, comprising 30 credit hours, and a traditional program, comprising 60 credit hours. This program blends flexible online coursework in behavioral healthcare topics with internships and practicums to help students gain hands-on skills. Topics covered include social service policy, human behavior, and social work research.

5. Florida Atlantic University

Florida Atlantic University is a public school in Boca Raton. Those studying at this school can earn an online Master of Social Work degree.

Students can pursue a traditional or advanced standing MSW through this program, which covers various topics, such as child welfare, criminal justice, and gerontology. Those who earn this degree are equipped with skills to work as school social workers, substance abuse counselors, and much more.

6. Saint Leo University

Saint Leo University is a private school with its main campus in St. Leo, FL. Graduate students at this school can earn an online Master of Social Work.

This intensive, full-time program requires students to attend some live online classes during weekday afternoons or evenings. The program focuses on human rights, economic justice, and social welfare. Students in this traditional program are prepared for advanced social work practice in various fields.

7. Barry University

Barry University is a private school located in Miami Shores. It offers an online Master of Social Work program for traditional and advanced-standing students.

This program prepares students for generalist social work careers before transitioning to an advanced practice concentration. The program requires 1,000 hours of field experience, and most students earn their degree within 28 months.

Our Selection Criteria

We use a rigorous vetting process to select the schools for our rank lists. We used the following criteria when selecting the social work degrees in this article.

• Accreditation: All programs come from accredited institutions that maintain regional or national accreditation and specialized programmatic accreditation from the CSWE.
• Reputation: Each school is well-respected and has a reputation for providing high-quality programs for both online and on-campus students.
• Accessibility: These programs all provide flexible coursework, local field placements, affordable tuition rates, and financial aid opportunities to make the learning experience more accessible for students.

Benefits of Online Programs in Social Work

There are many benefits to getting your social work education online. Remote learners typically have much more flexibility than those who study in person, making it possible for busy students with work and family commitments to get their education in a way that works for them. Online students receive the same high-quality education as campus-based learners, often at lower prices and with added support services from faculty members committed to helping them succeed.

When studying social work online, students can often set their own schedules, completing assignments when and where it works for them. Highly motivated students looking for accelerated online social work degrees can finish their education faster, often in three years or less.

Admission Requirements for Online Social Work Degree Programs

Admission requirements vary depending on your program level. If you are pursuing an online bachelor's degree in social work, you will likely be required to have and submit:

• high school diploma or GED
• official transcripts showing you meet the minimum GPA
• ACT or SAT scores

If you are working toward an online master's degree, you will also need to already have a bachelor's degree, either in social work or another field. You may be asked to submit GMAT or GRE scores, letters of recommendation, and a personal essay. You may also be subject to a higher minimum GPA.

FAQs About Online Social Work Degrees

If you still have questions about starting your social work career with an online learning experience, keep reading. Below, we'll answer some commonly asked questions you may be curious about.

How Much Does an Online Social Work Program Cost?

Getting a social work degree is never cheap, though online schools that accept FAFSA and other financial aid can help lighten your financial burden. On average, tuition costs range from around $30,000 to $45,000 for online social work degrees. However, these rates may vary, with some schools providing lower tuition and others charging higher rates.

Additional expenses like mandatory fees and books can add to your overall degree cost.

What Degree Do You Need to Be a Social Worker in Florida?

Those hoping to become Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSW) in Florida must have at least a master's degree from an accredited school. Completing an online MSW program can give you an accessible path forward when pursuing licensure.

How Long Does It Take to Become a Licensed Social Worker in Florida?

Those aspiring to become licensed social workers in Florida will typically spend at least seven to eight years meeting the requirements. They must first earn a bachelor's degree, which takes about four years, and then a master's degree, which takes an additional one to two years. Finally, they must complete two years of supervised work experience to earn their license.

Explore Online BSW and MSW Degrees Today

If you're ready to begin taking online social work courses toward your bachelor's or master's degree, check out the schools featured on Learn.org. Contact any of the schools today to learn more about their programs and to find the right one for you.