Online Social Work Programs

Hybrid Online Learning

BSW & MSW Programs

CSWE-Accredited

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Grow Your Career and Make an Impact in the Social Work Field

Social workers are called on to lead in a variety of roles that require unique skills. Prepare to make a significant difference in the lives of individuals and in communities when you pursue your social work degree with Carlow University. Our programs are guided by the values of the Sisters of Mercy, ensuring you grow personally and professionally. Graduates with a BSW degree from a CSWE-accredited program are degree eligible to apply to sit for the Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW) exam.

Accreditation and Awards

Carlow University’s social work and business programs are accredited and recognized by leading organizations.

  • CSWE-Accredited
  • IACBE-Accredited
  • Yellow Ribbon School
  • Military Friendly®

Build a successful social work career with a CSWE-accredited online Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from Carlow University. Our program equips you with social work knowledge and skills that can be translated into generalist practice with individuals, families, organizations and communities.

  • Duration: Complete your bachelor’s degree in 2–4 years.
  • Total Credits: Earn your degree with 120 credits, including up to 90 transfer credits.
  • Courses: 100 percent online classes start twice per year.
  • Concentrations Offered: Choose from optional concentrations in Crisis and Trauma, Forensic Social Work, Healthcare Social Work and Restorative Justice.

This specialization is designed for those seeking careers that provide direct services to clients experiencing various challenges throughout the lifespan within a variety of settings, including hospitals, health and mental health agencies, public safety organizations, correctional facilities, community counseling centers and various social service organizations.

  • Duration: Complete your specialized degree in 18-48 months.
  • Total Credits: Earn your degree in 45-60 credits, depending on advanced standing status.
  • Courses: Hybrid classes start three times per year.

The curriculum for this specialization is grounded in a commitment to human rights and social, economic and environmental justice. It is designed for students seeking a future career in human services leadership and management, policy analysis and advocacy, or social change leadership at the local, state, or national levels.

  • Duration: Complete your specialized degree in 18-48 months.
  • Total Credits: Earn your degree in 45-60 credits, depending on advanced standing status.
  • Courses: Hybrid classes start three times per year.

Become an ethical and effective leader with dual master’s degrees in social work and business. 

  • Duration: Complete two degrees in 15-24 months.
  • Total Credits: Earn two degrees with 72-87 total credits. 
  • Courses: Hybrid online classes start three times per year.

Advance Your
Social Work Career

9%
Growth

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of social workers is expected to grow 9 percent between 2021 and 2031.

74,700
New Jobs

The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that the growth in the field will result in almost 75,000 new jobs by 2031.

“I chose online learning because I work full time and have a family. This option enables me to get a degree while still maintaining my income and responsibilities. I am so grateful that all the MSW professors are very understanding of the busy lifestyles of working, online learners.”

– Online MSW Student

Succeed with a Unique Online Experience

Flexibility

Carlow’s online programs offer the ultimate flexibility through courses that fit into your schedule, coursework that aligns with your passions and concentrations tailored to your interests.

Expert Faculty

Each instructor brings diverse experiences to the classroom to provide a more well-rounded, multi-perspective, ethical view of the world.

Support

Our diverse community welcomes and empowers. We work to help you achieve success on your terms through a tight-knit community of accessible instructors and fellow students who support their peers.

Student Resources

Our helpful advisers work hard to help you navigate our transfer credit policies and financial aid. We also offer technology support and the Center for Academic Achievement, which offers academic coaches and other resources to enable your success.

About Carlow University

Carlow is a private, co-educational, Catholic university located in the heart of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Founded by the Sisters of Mercy in 1929, Carlow’s curricula and partnerships reflect its strong commitment to social justice, along with ethical, forward-thinking and responsible leadership and service to the community. Rooted in its Catholic identity and embodying the heritage and values of the Sisters of Mercy, Carlow offers educational opportunities for a diverse community of learners. Transformational coursework and experiences at Carlow empower learners to excel in their chosen work as compassionate, responsible leaders in the creation of a just and merciful world.