7 Best Online Social Work Degrees in Ohio 2025

If you're planning to study social work in Ohio, choosing a high-quality program is essential. Perhaps you're wondering which schools in your state offer the best social work degrees online.

Keep reading as we explore some of the best online bachelor's in social work, along with top master's programs and low-cost online social work degrees. We'll also answer questions you may be asking about enrolling in an online program.

Best Online Social Work Degree Programs in Ohio

Several schools in Ohio offer online social work courses and degree programs. Let's take a closer look at some of the best options.

1. Ohio State University

Ohio State University is a large public school with an enrollment of more than 60,000 students. Located in Columbus, it provides various online degrees, including bachelor's and master's programs in social work.

Both programs are accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). Students in these programs are prepared for a variety of social services career paths like school social worker, mental health counselor, and child welfare specialist.

2. Ohio University

Ohio University is a public school located in Athens. Students at this school can earn an online Master of Social Work degree.

This is a top online master's in social work program, as it provides advanced training in clinical social work and advocacy. Students benefit from flexible course scheduling and the ability to qualify for an accelerated advanced-standing program.

3. University of Cincinnati

The University of Cincinnati is a public school known for its large student population and variety of online programs. One of the degrees available is an online Bachelor of Social Work.

Students in this BSW program gain a fundamental understanding of generalist social work practice and build skills to assist them in various careers. Flexible coursework and field education placements make this program highly accessible for many students.

4. University of Akron

The University of Akron is a public school in the University System of Ohio. It provides an online Master of Social Work degree program.

Students already holding a BSW and looking for accelerated social work degrees available online can enroll in the advanced-standing program and earn their degree in just 11 months. The program provides concentrations in micro and macro social work, preparing graduates for a wide range of social work professions. All coursework is asynchronous, and students gain hands-on experience by completing high-quality fieldwork experiences.

5. Cleveland State University

Cleveland State University is another member of the University System of Ohio. This public school provides online bachelor's and master's degrees in social work.

Both programs are highly accessible, featuring flexible coursework and field practicums. Master's degree students can pursue certificates to specialize in particular areas of social work, gaining specific preparation for various social welfare careers.

6. Ursuline College

Ursuline College is a small private school located in Pepper Pike. It provides an online Bachelor of Social Work degree.

The program offers flexible coursework in 15-week semesters and can be completed as a full degree or degree completion program. Students can pursue a micro-credential in trauma-informed care, gain real-world experience at field placements in their own communities, and pursue a range of careers with this degree.

7. Malone University

Malone University is a private school with various online degrees. Located in Canton, one of the school's online programs is a social work bachelor's degree.

This program focuses on real-world education, with classes taught by licensed social workers and three fieldwork assignments during the course of the program. Students in the program prepare to advocate for human rights in various social work professions.

Our Selection Criteria

Since we endeavor to select only top colleges for our school lists, we used the following criteria when choosing the schools in this article:

• Accreditation: Each university maintains institutional accreditation, and each school of social work provides CSWE-accredited programs.
• Reputation: Each of the schools has a reputation for maintaining high academic standards both for online and in-person educational programs.
• Accessibility: The programs typically feature flexible coursework, low tuition rates, financial aid, a generous transfer policy, and other features to make school more accessible for students.

Steps To Choose an Online Social Work Program

When exploring different social work programs, it's important to know what you're looking for. Make a list of things you consider priorities in your future school. Consider factors such as:

• tuition and financial aid
• program flexibility
• school reputation
• student support services
• clubs and organizations

Once you know what is most important to you in your future institution, it will be easier to compare schools against each other. Then, you will be able to make an informed decision about which institution is the best fit for you.

Admission Requirements for Online Social Work Degrees

Depending on whether you're pursuing a bachelor's or master's degree, admission requirements will likely vary. Some common bachelor's degree admission requirements include:

• high school diploma
• high school transcripts showing you've met minimum GPA requirements
• SAT or ACT test scores

As a master's degree student, you will need to meet additional requirements. These requirements are typically as follows:

• bachelor's degree from an accredited school
• GRE or GMAT test scores
• letters of recommendation
• personal essay
• college transcripts demonstrating you've met minimum GPA requirements

FAQs About Online Social Work Degrees in Ohio

If you're still wondering about an online Bachelor or Master of Social Work, keep reading. Below, we'll answer some common questions you may be curious about.

What Degree Do You Need To Be a Social Worker in Ohio?

There are three levels of social work licensure in Ohio, each with different degree requirements. Registered social work assistants (SWAs) can get started in the field with only an associate degree. Licensed social workers (LSWs) must hold at least a bachelor's degree, and licensed independent social workers (LISWs) must hold a master's degree or higher.

Why Choose an Online Social Work Program in Ohio?

Choosing an online social work program can have various benefits. Online degrees are often highly flexible with full-time, part-time, and self-paced options all available. Many online programs provide multiple start dates throughout the year so you can start whenever it's convenient.

Online degree programs often provide lower tuition rates than on-campus programs, and accredited online colleges that accept FAFSA and other forms of aid can help students save even more. Plus, students won't have additional expenses like transportation or room and board since they can study from home.

Is an MSW Worth It Financially?

Online MSW programs are generally more affordable than in-person programs, but they can still be quite expensive. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), social workers are experiencing a faster-than-average job growth rate but are paid only modestly for their services.

For this reason, some students find that getting an MSW isn't worth the time and money. That said, those who get their master's degree often qualify for higher-paying jobs and are generally seen as more desirable job candidates, so many students find that earning their MSW does pay off in the long run.

Discover Online BSW and MSW Degrees Today

If you're ready to start your path to becoming a licensed social worker in Ohio, explore the schools featured on Learn.org. Reach out to any of the schools to learn more about their programs, educational requirements, and how each program might benefit you.