Accredited Online Schools with Social Services Programs: How to Choose

Students wishing to begin or advance a career in social services may earn a degree in the field of social work online. Associate's and master's degrees are the most common online options, though very few offer fully-online programs.

How to Choose an Online Social Services School

Award Levels

The two most prevalent online options in social work are associate's and master's degrees. Several schools that offer associate's programs include transfer options to graduates who wish to earn a bachelor's degree in social work. Most schools with online programs also include practical experience within the program through on-site training or internship opportunities. Master's programs may also include on-site practicums, which may be completed through internships, current employment or local community service.

Accreditation Standards

An important factor in an academic social work program is the accreditation status. Accredited colleges that offer an associate degree typically allow credit to be applied to a bachelor's or a master's program. Additionally, state regulations may require licensure or certification for social workers, which generally necessitate graduation from an accredited institution and program. Some social workers may also be required to complete continuing education courses through an accredited school to maintain licensure or certification.

Flexibility

Online education allows students the freedom to set their own schedule and work at their own pace. Some schools provide flexibility of experience requirements by allowing students to participate in social work at a variety of local agencies. Communication and assignment submission may be completed entirely online, and many schools assure online students of adequate availability to online instructors.

List of Online Social Services Programs

Online Associate of Science in Social Work

Some schools offer 2-year associate's degrees in social work online, though mostly in a hybrid format. Due to the common educational restrictions of social work, students are encouraged to enroll in an associate's program that includes transfer arrangements with 4-year colleges and universities. Courses often include introductory lessons in social work, counseling and advocacy services. Some programs may require practicums, though a few include only online coursework, anticipating experience will be covered in an advanced degree program.

Online Master's in Social Work

While online master's degrees do allow some flexibility, students are typically required to complete the program within a given time period. Online coursework may be provided in the form of streaming Internet video, online reading materials or digital media sent to the student's home. Topics include evaluation of human behavior, social work practices, and welfare services. The length of an online master's program depends on a student's previous education and background. Graduates of a bachelor's program in social work may decrease the coursework requirements, and those who have worked in a social services field may be able to apply life experience as credit toward the degree.