Online Social Work Degrees

Grand Canyon University’s online degrees in social work can provide future social workers the essential skills to advocate for individuals, families and communities. These online programs are designed to enable you to address social and behavioral health issues while championing social justice for diverse populations. Our flexible online social work programs can help balance your education with your full-time job and other personal responsibilities. If you are passionate about making a difference, pursue your calling with GCU’s online social work degrees. 

Explore GCU’s Online Social Work Programs

We offer comprehensive social work education online to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary for impactful careers. With options for both bachelor’s and master’s degrees, GCU’s programs emphasize a holistic approach to social work, integrating theory with practical application. You can pursue a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) that can prepare you for early-career positions, or position yourself to potentially advance your career with a Master of Social Work (MSW) that may allow for specialization. 

Begin Your Journey Helping Others

Earning your online Bachelor of Social Work degree at GCU can be the first step toward a career serving others. This program offers the essential skills to recognize the challenges individuals and communities face while empowering you to connect at-risk populations with vital resources. As you engage in hands-on learning and develop a deep understanding of social systems, you can build a solid foundation for fostering positive change and improving the well-being of those in need. An empathy-driven career can begin here.

Build on Your Foundation and Drive Change

The Master of Social Work programs can further your existing skills and knowledge in social work, empowering you to make a lasting impact in your community. This advanced social work curriculum caters to those with a social work background, allowing you to deepen your understanding of complex social issues and enhance your capacity for effective intervention. Focusing on specialized practice, leadership and policy advocacy, these degrees present the tools needed to drive consequential change and advance your career. Build on your foundation and prepare to become a leader in social work. 

Choose GCU for Your Social Work Degree

When choosing where to enroll in an online degree in social work, it is important to look for accreditation and experience. Our peer-reviewed quality programs feature specialized coursework taught by knowledgeable faculty. Take the next step in your professional journey by enrolling in one of our programs. 

Earn Your CSWE-Accredited Social Work Degree

GCU’s online social work programs comply with the standards and competencies established by the Council on Social Work Education (CWSE). GCU’s social work degrees are fully accredited by the CWSE. As a result, all Bachelor of Social Work students who successfully complete their degree at GCU are eligible to apply for licensure at the BSW level and can also apply to a Master of Social (MSW) graduate program with advanced standing. 

Additionally, GCU has been institutionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission since 1968. A university’s accreditation indicates the quality of its programs, helping to ensure you receive an education that meets high standards.  

Social Work Coursework

Our comprehensive programs are designed to equip students with essential skills for social work practice. The BSW curriculum focuses on analyzing human behavior through a biopsychosocial lens, covering developmental stages and the social work helping process, including intake and assessment. Key competencies developed include:

  • Understanding diversity
  • Upholding ethical standards
  •  Implementing trauma-informed care
  • Effective case management

The program culminates in a capstone project to demonstrate proficiency.

The MSW curriculum builds on the BSW foundation, preparing graduates for advanced practice while emphasizing ethical behavior, diversity and social justice. Students are taught to assess and intervene across various systems and apply evidence-based methods to practical challenges.

Together, these online programs empower students to advocate for clients and address issues such as abuse and marginalization, contributing positively to community well-being.  

Admission Requirements

Admission requirements vary by degree level. To find out more about eligibility for our undergraduate and graduate online social work programs, please visit our admission page and complete the inquiry form. Our university counselors are available to assist you throughout the process and answer any questions you may have about social work studies at GCU. 

Get More Information

 

Friendly Social Worker Meets With Community Member for Discussion

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can earn a social work degree online. The online social work degrees at GCU are designed for working professionals, offering courses through a digital learning platform that provides flexibility and convenience. Throughout the program, you will have access to knowledgeable instructors, valuable learning resources and opportunities to network with peers. Additionally, the program includes field experiences, ensuring that students complete the required hours for licensure.

A Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) can position you for entry-level roles in child and family services, mental health and healthcare. To pursue advanced roles, such as licensed clinical social worker or program manager, a Master of Social Work (MSW) is essential. It’s important to note that a bachelor’s degree in any field can lead to an MSW program, with common backgrounds in public policy, psychology or social science.1

To become a social worker, you generally need a bachelor’s or master’s degree in social work from an accredited program. Clinical social workers must also complete supervised clinical experience and pass a licensing exam. Licensing requirements vary by state, with some states requiring non-clinical social workers to be licensed as well. For specific information, consult your state licensing board.1

 

Social Worker Smiles From Work Desk After Earning Online Social Work Degree

Career Paths for Social Work Program Graduates

Grand Canyon University’s online social work degree programs can prepare graduates for a variety of career opportunities in the field of social work. Graduates with a Bachelor of Social Work may find employment in settings such as:1

  • Hospitals and outpatient facilities
  • Integrated healthcare and residential facilities
  • Private practices
  • Schools
  • Child welfare and community service agencies

Those who earn a master’s in social work may have the option to work directly with clients or engage in program development and human services management. Potential workplaces for MSW graduates include:1 

  • Advocacy groups and community organizations
  • Clinics, hospitals and nursing homes
  • Correctional facilities
  • Government departments
  • Mental health agencies
  • Military bases
  • Nonprofit organizations
  • Private practices
  • Schools

Support for Students of Online Social Work Degrees

GCU’s online social work programs provide support for students. The Learning Management System features web-enhanced tools like eBooks, forums and calendar reminders. You will also have access to technical support and student services counselors to guide you throughout your program. The Student Success Center and library offer resources to help you. 

 

1 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, Aug. 29). Social Workers. Retrieved Dec. 31, 2024. 

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