The 6 Best Online LCSW Programs

Have you ever thought about making a difference in the mental well-being of others? When it comes to personal mental health care, Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs) have become the largest segment of the mental healthcare industry, surpassing both Marriage and Family Therapists (MFTs) and Licensed Mental Health Counselors (LMHCs) in number. As society becomes more aware of the importance of mental health, the need for skilled LCSWs is also rising. Online LCSW programs prepare prospective LCSWs to offer a unique blend of compassion, expertise, and dedication to improve lives.

With the advent of technology, getting the education you need to start this career has become easier than ever, thanks to online LCSW programs. These programs offer the flexibility to balance life’s demands while pursuing a career that can truly make a difference.

Pursuing an LCSW degree online could be your first step toward a rewarding career. These programs not only provide in-depth training in social work but also equip you with clinical skills to assess and address complex mental health issues. Whether you’re debating which undergrad program to pursue, prepping for your graduate degree, or shifting careers, the LCSW track offers an opportunity to put you at the forefront of helping others improve their mental well-being.

Let’s take a deeper look at online LCSW programs; how they work, what they entail, and why this path is not only a career choice but also a commitment to making a lasting impact in the lives of individuals and communities.

Article Navigation: What is an LCSW?  | LCSW vs MSW Paths: Which is Right for You? | The 6 Best Online LCSW Programs | Online LCSW Programs: What to Look For | How Do Online LCSW Programs Work? | Is Becoming an LCSW Worth It? | Start Your LCSW Journey Today!

What is an LCSW?

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs) guide and support individuals through life’s most challenging moments. LCSWs are not only highly trained in social work but also possess specialized skills for helping people overcome personal and psychological obstacles using therapeutic methods.

To become an LCSW, one must first obtain a master’s degree in social work, which provides extensive knowledge and clinical skills essential for this demanding yet rewarding profession. Following their advanced education, aspiring LCSWs must accumulate real-world experience through supervised clinical hours and pass a comprehensive licensure exam. This rigorous process ensures that LCSWs are thoroughly equipped to provide effective treatment.

In their professional capacity, LCSWs are skilled in assisting individuals, families, and groups with mental, emotional, and behavioral issues. For example, they tackle a range of problems, including anxiety, depression, and substance abuse, through therapy. However, their role extends beyond counseling. As advocates and educators, LCSWs strive to enhance not only individual well-being but also the health of entire communities.

In short, an LCSW serves as a pillar of support, backed by a master’s degree in clinical social work and a deep-seated passion for aiding others. Their dedication to mental health and social justice is integral to building healthier, happier communities. Becoming an LCSW online offers a path filled with opportunities to empower and heal others.

Online LCSW Programs: Which is Right for You?

Looking into the field of social work can often lead to questions like, “What is the difference between MSW and LCSW?” or “What are the best online social work master’s programs for pursuing these paths?” Asking these questions is important for anyone who chooses this field of work. To answer them, we’ll take you through the entire process of becoming an LCSW. We’ll start with choosing the right bachelor’s degree. Then, we’ll guide your through the decision between standard online MSW degrees and an online master’s in clinical social work.

Beginning the Path to LCSW: Choosing Your Bachelor’s Degree

The first step for any aspiring LCSW begins with a bachelor’s degree, usually in subjects like psychology social work, or similar fields. Choosing a bachelor’s degree in one of these fields is important because it gives you a broad understanding of how people think and behave, how society works, and the basics of helping others. This early education is pivotal because it builds the basic skills and knowledge you need for the next step, which is more focused training in graduate school for social work. Essentially, what you learn in your undergrad helps prepare you for the more advanced skills you’ll learn later, like specific techniques and methods for helping people as a social worker.

From BSW to MSW

After completing a bachelor’s degree, pursuing a Master's in Social Work (MSW) is an essential step for those aiming to become Licensed Clinical Social Workers. Standard online MSW programs offer a comprehensive curriculum, tailored to provide a robust foundation in the field of social work. These programs typically focus on areas such as human behavior, advanced social work practices, and ethical principles, laying the groundwork for a career in social work.

A typical online MSW program is structured to accommodate various learning styles and schedules, often offering flexibility for students to balance their studies with other commitments. The coursework in these programs delves into clinical practices and theories, which are crucial for effective therapeutic work. Students engage with a range of subjects, from understanding complex social systems to developing skills in counseling and intervention strategies.

These online MSW programs are not only academic, but also practical, often including fieldwork components that allow students to gain real-world experience under supervision. This blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on practice is designed to prepare students for the multifaceted nature of clinical social work, equipping them with the skills needed to assess and address diverse social and personal challenges effectively.

By completing an online MSW program, students are well-positioned to pursue LCSW certification, which involves additional steps such as supervised clinical experience and a licensing examination.

MSW vs LCSW: What’s the Difference

Understanding the difference between general online MSW programs and online master’s in clinical social work programs is crucial. A Master’s in Social Work (MSW) is the educational foundation for LCSW certification, but the type of MSW program makes a difference.

For instance, some graduates of MSW graduates choose to pursue a PhD in Clinical Social Work to gain clinical skills and knowledge. However, it’s worth noting that an online MSW program with a clinical focus can prepare graduates much sooner to enter into clinical practice. These programs provide a comprehensive understanding of diagnosing and treating mental, emotional, and behavioral issues, which is essential for roles in therapy and counseling. As such, an online MSW with a clinical focus is an excellent option for those interested in pursuing a career as a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). In summary, graduates emerge ready to make a positive impact on the lives of their clients.

All the programs listed in this article follow the clinical MSW path. This is ideal for aspiring LCSWs, offering a headstart on the steps required after MSW completion. These include supervised clinical work specific to each state and passing the ASWB’s (Association of Social Work Board) licensing exam. Choosing an online master’s program with a clinical focus not only aligns with the LCSW prerequisites but also positions graduates for a wider range of responsibilities in the field. LCSWs, unlike their MSW-only counterparts, have the qualifications to engage in direct clinical work and even establish private practices.

Ultimately, the journey from an undergraduate degree to a clinical MSW, and then becoming an LCSW, is a progressive path. It begins with foundational social work knowledge and culminates in specialized skills, readying graduates for state licensure.

The 6 Best Online LCSW Programs

Ready to advance your social work career and become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker? Here our the top 6 online LCSW programs, designed for flexibility and excellence, equipping you with the skills and knowledge to excel in clinical practice. Let’s find the perfect program to match your goals.

1. Carlow University

   Accreditation: MSCHE, CSWE
   Tuition (In-State & Out-of-State): $29,970

   Carlow University offers an online Master of Social Work program with a specialization in Direct Practice. This CSWE-accredited program is designed to be completed in 18 to 48 months, depending on the student’s prior education and chosen track. In addition, this program is just $29,970, making it the top choice among inexpensive online MSW programs.

   The program features an Advanced Standing track for students with a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW).  This option allows them to complete the degree in as little as 18 months. For those without a BSW, the traditional track is available. Both tracks focus on trauma-informed care, a crucial aspect of today’s social work practice.

   To be sure, practical experience is a significant component of Carlow’s MSW program. Students are required to complete 900 hours of fieldwork, with Advanced Standing students completing 600 hours. This fieldwork combines on-campus and community-based experiences, offering a hands-on approach to learning and preparing students for real-world challenges in social work.

   Carlow’s flexible hybrid format is designed for working professionals. Additionally, it balances online coursework with vital practical experiences. This format, combined with the trauma-focused curriculum, not only readies graduates for licensure but also equips them with the skills essential for effective direct practice in social work settings.

   For all these reasons, this program ranks at the top of our list of the best LCSW online programs.

   Find Out More:
   Master of Social Work / Direct Practice

    

2. Liberty University

   Accreditation: SACSCOC
   Tuition (In-State & Out-of-State): $33,075

   Liberty University offers an online Master of Social Work (MSW) program with a specialization in Individual and Family Clinical, designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges facing modern social workers. This 100% online program is structured to transform a passion for serving others into a rewarding career in social work.

   The program covers a wide array of subjects, including general social work concepts, human behavior in various social environments, best practices for serving individuals and families, social policy and justice, diversity and cultural humility, advanced social work methodology, psychopathology, and addiction. A key component of the program is the field experience, which entails at least 1,000 hours of practical training. This includes one 400-hour placement over two semesters and a subsequent 600-hour field placement, providing students with both practical and theoretical knowledge.

   Liberty University’s commitment to academic quality, affordability, and accessibility is evident in its ranking in the top 10% of Niche.com’s best online schools in America. The university has maintained frozen tuition rates for undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs for over nine years. Please note that at the time of this writing, Liberty’s program is in candidacy status for accreditation with the CSWE.

   To be admitted to the program, applicants must hold a regionally or nationally accredited bachelor’s degree with a GPA of 2.5 or higher. The admission process includes submitting an application, college transcripts, contact information for two recommenders, a Statement of Purpose, a department questionnaire, and department approval. Applicants whose native language is not English must also provide proof of English proficiency.

   Find Out More:
   Master of Social Work – Advanced Generalist – Individual and Family Clinical

    

3. Campbellsville University

   Accreditation: SACSCOC, CSWE
   Tuition (In-State & Out-of-State): $34,290

   Campbellsville University’s Master of Social Work (MSW) program is one of the best LCSW degree programs online. What’s more, it’s open to applicants with various undergraduate backgrounds. The program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) and has two distinct tracks. Students with an accredited Bachelor’s in Social Work qualify for the Advanced Standing track, which requires just 30 credit hours. By comparison, those with a non-social work undergraduate degree can enroll in the 60-credit Foundation Social Work program.

   Students can complete the program in as soon as 21 months, offering a quick route for advancement in social work. With 900 hours of practicum experience, it merges Bachelor of Social Work and Master of Social Work field practice. Students find their own placements, gaining practical experience in areas matching their career goals.

   Campbellsville University offers six start dates throughout the academic year, running from August 1 through July 31, with dates available in the spring, summer, and fall. Given that flexibility, it allows students to start the program at a time that best fits their schedule. The cost for the MSW program is $603 per credit hour, and the total credit requirement is 60 credits. The application deadlines for the program are 60-90 days before each start date.

   This program is ideal for those seeking a comprehensive and flexible education in social work, with a strong emphasis on clinical practice and field experience.

   Find Out More:
   Master of Social Work / Clinical

    

4. New Mexico Highlands University

   Accreditation: HLC, CSWE
   Tuition (In-State & Out-of-State): $33,075

   New Mexico Highlands University offers a CSWE-accredited online Master of Social Work program specializing in Clinical Practice. This program is designed to prepare students for social work licensure and equips them to work with diverse rural communities, particularly in the U.S. Southwest. Program duration varies, taking 2 to 3 years based on the student’s pace, requiring 63 credit hours. The cost per credit hour is $525, making it one of the most inexpensive online MSW programs.

   A significant component of this online MSW program is the field practicum requirement. Students need to complete 928 hours of field practicum over four semesters, divided into 448 hours for the first-year placement and 480 hours for the second-year concentration practicum. These hours must be completed in blocks of at least 4 continuous hours.

   The program offers several benefits, such as 100% online coursework, weekly Wednesday evening Zoom sessions, and support from experienced faculty. The curriculum is evidence-based, and there is no entrance exam requirement for admission. This program uniquely serves rural and indigenous communities, offering culturally responsive education to students.

   Find Out More:
   Master of Social Work / Clinical Practice

    

5. Sacred Heart University

   Accreditation: NECHE, CSWE
   Tuition (In-State & Out-of-State): $50,535

   Sacred Heart University offers an online Master of Social Work program specializing in Direct Clinical Practice. This LCSW online program, designed for those pursuing a career as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education. Typically, it takes about 3.5 years to complete the program. However, an Advanced Standing option is available for students with a bachelor’s degree in social work, allowing them to graduate in 20 months. The program, priced at $825 per credit hour and requiring 60 credit hours, covers key areas like social welfare, human behavior, social justice, research methods, and clinical assessment.

   A significant part of the program is the 1,100-hour clinical practicum, beginning in the last semester of the first year. It requires 500-1,000 field hours across four courses, which students can complete within their community. The program prepares students for licensure, emphasizing the need to meet specific state requirements. Notably, the program can be completed entirely online without any campus visits, catering to the needs of students seeking flexibility in their education. Students have up to six years to finish the program, so they can balance their studies with other commitments.

   Find Out More:
   Master of Social Work / Direct Clinical Practice

    

6. Baylor University

   Accreditation: SACSCOC, CSWE
   Tuition (In-State & Out-of-State): $85,600

   Baylor University offers an accredited online Master of Social Work program with a Clinical Practice specialization. This program ensures the same quality of collaboration, engagement, and practicum placement as the residential program.

   The program offers two tracks. The Standard Program (58 credit hours) is for students with a bachelor’s degree from any field. Meanwhile, the Advanced Standing Program (30 credit hours) is for students with a BSW from a CSWE-accredited college or university. Both tracks allow specialization in Clinical Practice, equipping students as mental health professionals.

   The Directors of Practicum Education assign practicum placements, based on students’ interests and locations. The generalist practice internship requires 480 hours (240 per term). By comparison, the advanced practice internship requires 550 hours (275 per term). Students typically complete 18-20 hours per week across two 14-week terms.

   The program offers three start dates throughout the year. In short, students can begin in the fall, spring, or summer, with applications accepted and reviewed on a rolling basis. This flexibility allows students to choose the start date that best fits their schedule. Competitive applicants typically have a GPA of 3.0 or higher and demonstrate effective communication and critical thinking skills. GRE scores are not required for admission at this time.

   Baylor University’s online MSW program is accredited, offering a curriculum on par with its on-campus counterpart in quality and engagement. The program, recognized by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), offers a specialization in Clinical Practice. In short, it prepares students to work as mental health professionals with individuals, families, and groups in various settings.

   Find Out More:
   Master of Social Work / Clinical Practice

    

Online LCSW Programs: What to Look For

As you explore social work and consider online programs, it’s vital to understand what to look for. So, let’s discuss accreditation, admission requirements, and financial commitments of LCSW degree programs online.

Accreditation

Firstly, accreditation is crucial in Licensed Clinical Social Work (LCSW) education, involving two key types. First, the school itself should be accredited by a regional or national body like the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), Higher Learning Commission (HLC), or Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). This ensures the school meets overall educational quality standards. Second, the program itself specifically needs accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).

Most states in the U.S. require that candidates for LCSW licensure have completed a Master of Social Work (MSW) program accredited by the CSWE. This accreditation ensures that the program meets the educational standards and criteria necessary for professional practice in social work. In fact, you won’t be eligible to take the LCSW exam in many states without graduating from a CSWE-accredited program. It’s always advisable to check the specific licensure requirements of the state where you intend to practice, since they vary.

Online LCSW Program Admission Requirements

Entrance into online master’s in clinical social work programs typically requires a bachelor’s degree, preferably in a related field like psychology or social work. Some programs may also ask for relevant work experience or specific undergraduate coursework. The admissions process often includes submitting transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. Some require test scores like the GRE, but many schools do not. In addition, some schools provide an Advanced Track option, whereas graduates from CSWE-accredited BSW programs can complete the degree even faster.

Time and Financial Commitment

Online LCSW programs offer flexibility for busy lives. However, understanding the time and financial commitment involved is crucial for informed decision-making. Program lengths generally range from 1.5 to 3 years, depending on your prior educational background and course load.

In similar fashion to LMHC or MFT programs, the clinical component of online LCSW programs occurs through supervised field placements. All in all, expect to dedicate up to 1000 hours to clinical practicums. Whether it’s conducting individual therapy sessions, facilitating group work, or navigating crisis intervention, you’ll gain tangible experience that equips you for a wide range of future roles.

Finally, the financial investment varies widely, and the total program cost ranges between $30,000 and $50,000. Then again, factors like scholarship opportunities, employer benefits, and potential loan options can help you with this. Remember, the long-term career rewards and fulfillment in supporting others may outweigh the initial investment.

How Do Online LCSW Programs Work?

As has been noted, a master’s in clinical social work online typically consists of a blend of academic coursework and practical clinical training. The academic part often includes subjects such as human behavior, social work ethics, clinical practice, and research methods. These courses are designed to provide a deep understanding of social work theory and application and can be completed online.

Online Education vs In-Person Requirements

The online LCSW programs listed here are designed to be completed primarily, if not entirely, online. This flexibility allows students to balance their studies with personal and professional responsibilities. However, some programs may include in-person components. These might be in the form of occasional on-campus workshops, seminars, or hands-on training sessions, for example. To be sure, students should check the specific requirements of each program to understand the online and in-person commitments.

Practicum Hours & Program Length in Online LCSW ProgramS

The best LCSW online programs typically require clinical practicums, which are integral to the curriculum. These practicums involve supervised, real-world clinical experiences, offering hands-on learning in a clinical setting. The specifics of duration and frequency may vary, but these in-person experiences are vital for developing practical skills and insights into clinical social work.

Generally, students are responsible for finding and securing their field placements, allowing them to align their practical training with personal interests, career goals, and location. This process emphasizes the program’s dedication to real-world, practical training, a cornerstone for building necessary skills and knowledge in social work.

A master’s in clinical social work online, including practicum hours, matches traditional on-campus programs, usually taking two to four years. Of course, this depends on the student’s enrollment status and the program’s structure.

In essence, online LCSW programs provide a balanced mix of online coursework and in-person clinical experience. This blend ensures a comprehensive education, preparing students for a successful social work career by combining the flexibility of online learning with the depth of traditional academic training.

Is Becoming an LCSW Worth It?

Pursuing a career as an LCSW provides a distinct path in social work. In diverse settings like healthcare, schools, and private practices, LCSWs offer direct care and counseling. In addition, they contribute to community organization and policy development.

To become a licensed LCSW, you usually need to finish a CSWE-accredited MSW program, gain supervised clinical hours, and pass a state exam. It’s important to note that requirements vary by state.

In terms of earnings, the median annual wage for social workers was $55,350 as of May 2022. LCSWs, on the other hand, earned an average of $62,310. This figure can vary based on factors like location, specialization, and years of experience. For instance, LCSWs in Nevada earn an average of $82,820 per year, while those in Florida earn an average of $77,557.

LCSWs who venture into private practice earn even higher incomes. In fact, as of December 2023, the average nationwide salary for LCSWs running a private practice was $94,158.

The job outlook for LCSWs is also promising. Social workers can expect above-average job growth of 7% from 2022 to 2032. Meanwhile, since LCSWs bridge the gap between social work and psychotherapy, the demand is even higher. As a result, expected job growth exceeds 11% over the next decade.

Overall, becoming an LCSW not only promises a stable and potentially lucrative career but also offers the opportunity to make a significant impact on individuals and communities, fulfilling a critical role in addressing mental health and social challenges.

Start an Online LCSW Program Today!

Embarking on a career as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) today opens a world of opportunities. It’s your time to make meaningful impacts in the lives of individuals and communities. With the growing recognition of mental health and social welfare’s importance, the demand for skilled LCSWs is on the rise. The flexibility of earning an LCSW degree online makes it more accessible than ever to get the education and skills you need, no matter your current lifestyle or commitments. Starting this journey now not only sets you on a path to a rewarding and stable career but also positions you to be a part of a noble field dedicated to creating well-being and positive change in society. Now is the time to take that first step towards a fulfilling future in clinical social work!