About Aurora University
Central to Aurora’s mission is encouraging students to discover what it takes to build meaningful and examined lives. Established in 1893, Aurora University offers four locations in Illinois and Wisconsin, as well as online. The four-year, private, nonprofit university offers a wide variety of undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral degrees, as well as certificates and endorsements.
With an online degree program, Aurora University students can take advantage of the ability to study in a flexible and convenient learning environment, while still receiving the personal attention and support expected of a small college. AU Online utilizes open educational resources to reduce textbook costs for distance students. Faculty are practitioners in their fields who are focused on helping working professionals reach their goals. Students can choose from a variety of bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programs.
Every degree program at Aurora University incorporates the core values of:
- Integrity
- Citizenship
- Continuous Learning
- Excellence
Accreditation & Licensing
Aurora University is accredited by:
Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Type:
4-year, Private not-for-profitHighest Level Offered:
Doctor's degreeReligious Affiliation:
Not applicableEnrollment:
Undergraduate: 4,458 ; Graduate: 2,550Percent of Fully Online Students:
Undergraduate: 15% ; Graduate: 64%Graduation Rate:
58%Median Earnings, 10-Years After Degree Completion:
$58,709Median Debt After Graduation (4-Year Degree):
$20,318Average Undergraduates Receiving Aid:
95%Per Undergraduate Average Aid Award:
$16,587Yellow Ribbon Program:
YesCredit for Military Training:
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Geographic and Educational Overview
Aurora University is located in Illinois
Illinois at a Glance:

Top Majors in Illinois:
Top Incentives in Illinois:
- Monetary Award Program (MAP): Up to $5,340 annually
Top Career Pathways in Illinois:
- Entry Level: Financial Analyst ($65,000)
- Mid Level: Senior Analyst ($95,000)
- Senior Level: Finance Director ($150,000+)
- Required Education: BS Finance
- Certifications: CFA, FRM
Online Programs offered by Aurora University
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All Programs
Art & Liberal Arts
Advance your career and boost your earning potential when you complete your degree in the Bachelor of Arts in General Studies program at Aurora University. You’ll initiate a major based upon your prior academic history and current interests and career goals. The customizable nature of this degree makes it appropriate for a variety of careers in any number of fields such as business, communications, and the humanities.
The program is designed for busy working adults, with courses taught by instructors who have real-world experience and can connect what you’re learning to the challenges you’ll face at work. Many of them also use open education resources in place of traditional textbooks for some courses, meaning you save on the cost of learning materials.
You graduate from the program ready to pursue advanced career opportunities with enhanced business acumen and problem-solving skills. Alumni hold management positions in fields such as manufacturing, financial services, health care, and government enterprises.
The flexibility of the online format means you can study in the times and locations best for you. And a generous credit-transfer policy allows you to transfer up to 90 credits, meaning you could graduate sooner to advance your career faster.
Business
The Bachelor of Arts in Business Management teaches you leadership skills and concepts applicable to a wide range of industries and settings. This online program from Aurora University provides a strong foundation in human resources, marketing, operations, and more.
Students in this online Business Management degree program learn how to make data-driven decisions to improve business performance. Courses explore topics in professional communication, collaboration, entrepreneurship, operations management, and financial management. An internship experience allows for hands-on application of skills and techniques learned in class.
Specializations are available in three management areas:
- Human resource
- Nonprofit
- Manufacturing
A bachelor's degree in business management with a Human Resource Management specialization from Aurora University will prepare you to serve as a human resource director, manager, specialist, consultant, and more. From online coursework delivered by our program's expert faculty, you'll gain the confidence to apply strategic human resource management skills in a wide range of organizational contexts and industries
In the business management and human resource degree program, you'll take core coursework designed to provide a broad understanding of marketing, operations, and leadership principles. As a student, you will learn to make data-driven human resource decisions that improve business outcomes. In specialized human resource courses, you'll study employee and labor relations, employee training and development, and compensation and benefits management.
Aurora University is committed to accessible education. Our business management program uses open educational resources (OER) instead of textbooks for some courses, providing digital, openly licensed content to you free of charge. With transfer credits, you can complete the human resource management degree in just two years, and advance your career faster.
A bachelor's degree in business management with a Nonprofit Management specialization from Aurora University will prepare you to lead nonprofit organizations as a director, consultant, manager, grant manager, and more. After graduation, your unique experience can apply to virtually any industry including animal activism, the arts, child and family services, disaster relief, the environment, health care, the military, and social equality.
You'll take core business management coursework designed to provide a broad understanding of marketing, operations, and leadership principles; Plus, you'll develop specialized skills in nonprofit development, fundraising, philanthropy, and grant writing. A diverse faculty of experts will bring their relevant business and nonprofit expertise to the online classroom.
Because the BA in Business Management is delivered in a flexible online format, you can complete your studies from anywhere while working full time. Aurora University is also committed to accessible education. Our business management program uses open educational resources (OER) instead of textbooks for some courses, providing digital, openly licensed content to you free of charge. With transfer credits, you can complete the degree in just two years, and advance your career faster.
The Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree is designed for busy, working students who have life experience relevant to the business profession. Courses are held in eight-week modules and transfer credit from other regionally accredited institutions is welcomed. The program provides you with an analytical view of business in the areas of accounting, finance, research, marketing, data analytics, and more. Graduates of the program hold management positions in fields such as manufacturing, financial services, healthcare, and government enterprises and work as account managers, financial managers, healthcare administrators, market research analysts, and project managers. Each course is taught by faculty members who have real-world experience.
Take an important step in boosting your earnings, job security, and career opportunities by earning a Master of Business Administration online from Aurora University. This versatile degree prepares you for any number of high-level positions in business.
Coursework in this online Business Administration degree program emphasizes important topics in organizational behavior and leadership. Students also gain competencies in marketing, finance, and accounting. Graduates will have the problem-solving and team-building skills employers seek.
A series of elective leadership courses allow you to gain specialized management skills. Students completing these courses earn digital badges able to be displayed on their resume, LinkedIn profile, and more to highlight their leadership knowledge.
Graduates will be qualified to pursue roles such as:
- Advertising executive
- Brand specialist
- Consultant
- Entrepreneur
- Marketing analyst
- Sales manager
Aurora University’s online MBA program is designed for working professionals who want to strengthen their business expertise and prepare for leadership roles in a variety of industries. With flexible online courses, the program helps students balance their education with work and personal responsibilities while gaining the skills needed to advance in today’s competitive job market.
The curriculum emphasizes critical business areas, including marketing, organizational behavior, leadership, finance, and accounting. You will develop essential problem-solving and team-building skills that apply directly to the workplace. Courses are taught by experienced faculty who bring real-world insight into every class, ensuring your knowledge is practical and relevant.
Students can tailor their experience by selecting one of three career-focused concentrations: Leadership, Marketing, or a combined Leadership and Marketing option. You can also enroll in the general MBA program where you can choose any electives you’re interested in. Whether you’re looking to guide teams, shape brand strategy — or all of the above, this program equips you with the tools to lead with confidence.
Built for impact and flexibility, the online MBA program prepares you to think strategically, communicate effectively, and deliver results no matter where your career takes you. Apply Today.
Aurora University’s online MBA program is designed for working professionals who want to strengthen their business expertise and prepare for leadership roles in a variety of industries. With flexible online courses, the program helps students balance their education with work and personal responsibilities while gaining the skills needed to advance in today’s competitive job market.
The curriculum emphasizes critical business areas, including marketing, organizational behavior, leadership, finance, and accounting. You will develop essential problem-solving and team-building skills that apply directly to the workplace. Courses are taught by experienced faculty who bring real-world insight into every class, ensuring your knowledge is practical and relevant.
Students can tailor their experience by selecting one of three career-focused concentrations: Leadership, Marketing, or a combined Leadership and Marketing option. You can also enroll in the general MBA program where you can choose any electives you’re interested in. Whether you’re looking to guide teams, shape brand strategy — or all of the above, this program equips you with the tools to lead with confidence.
Built for impact and flexibility, the online MBA program prepares you to think strategically, communicate effectively, and deliver results no matter where your career takes you. Apply Today.
Aurora University’s online MBA program is designed for working professionals who want to strengthen their business expertise and prepare for leadership roles in a variety of industries. With flexible online courses, the program helps students balance their education with work and personal responsibilities while gaining the skills needed to advance in today’s competitive job market.
The curriculum emphasizes critical business areas, including marketing, organizational behavior, leadership, finance, and accounting. You will develop essential problem-solving and team-building skills that apply directly to the workplace. Courses are taught by experienced faculty who bring real-world insight into every class, ensuring your knowledge is practical and relevant.
Students can tailor their experience by selecting one of three career-focused concentrations: Leadership, Marketing, or a combined Leadership and Marketing option. You can also enroll in the general MBA program where you can choose any electives you’re interested in. Whether you’re looking to guide teams, shape brand strategy — or all of the above, this program equips you with the tools to lead with confidence.
Built for impact and flexibility, the online MBA program prepares you to think strategically, communicate effectively, and deliver results no matter where your career takes you. Apply Today.
Become a Master of Public Administration with an online degree from Aurora University distance learning. This program is designed with input from community leaders and public service professionals. Studies will cover topics such as:
- Nonprofit management
- Community relations
- Budgeting
Electives are customizable to reach leadership goals through a series of leadership courses and digital credential options. Graduates with this advanced degree may expand professional opportunity into executive directing, grant writing, budget analysis, and more. Enter the public administration sphere with an advanced online degree at Aurora University.
Criminal Justice, Safety & Law
You can fit a degree into your busy life with the Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice from Aurora University. The online criminal justice degree prepares you for work in such sectors as:
- Courts
- Parole
- Probation
- Private security
Through the online criminal justice bachelor’s degree program, you access your learning materials through free, openly licensed digital content. That means zero expenses for textbooks. Students personalize their curriculum through choices of electives.
Education
Take the next step in your education career with Aurora University's online Doctor of Education. The Advanced Standing: Leadership in Educational Administration program strand is designed for administrators who hold an Illinois Superintendent Endorsement and are ready to advance their careers in K–12 school district leadership through continued study. With this advanced standing program, you can complete your degree in as little as two years by transferring in previously earned credits from your Superintendent Endorsement.
As an AU student, you will research areas relevant to your practice as an educator and publish a final dissertation on an approved topic. AU students have a dissertation pass rate of 70–80%, surpassing the national average. The advanced standing strand includes 30 credits of research-related coursework, with students transferring in up to 30 credits to meet the 60-credit program completion requirement. Electives are available for students who transfer in fewer than 30 credits.
This program is delivered in a flexible online format ideal for education professionals balancing work, personal, and academic commitments. Our courses are led by experienced faculty, and the Aurora University School of Education programs are approved by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE), so you can be confident you're earning a valuable credential recognized for both rigor and quality.
The online Doctor of Education in Instructional Leadership: Coaching and Mentoring from Aurora University will prepare you for a professional future as a leader in education. Designed for working and experienced educators who strive for leadership positions, the fully online doctoral program is the perfect gateway for future thought leaders in the field. In this flexible online program, you will have the freedom to balance your work, life, and academic commitments while you pursue your degree.
As a generalist program, the online EdD in Instructional Leadership: Coaching and Mentoring is structured to help you advance your career. You'll engage and collaborate with other professional educators to build a strong network of peers. Notably, this program is the first Instructional Leadership degree at the doctorate level in Illinois.
In 3-6 years, you will have the opportunity to address pressing issues in the world of education. The curriculum, which is rooted in practice, aims to motivate students to bridge the gaps between educational theory and practice to best serve students and teachers. The curriculum covers traditional coursework, independent research, an internship, a qualifying self-assessment, comprehensive examinations, and a full dissertation. As a result, students will graduate prepared to be leaders in education.
Request more information from Aurora University today and begin your academic journey to the pinnacle of educational leadership.
Have A Greater Impact on Learning — Become a Superintendent
Aurora University's online EdD Leadership in Educational Administration: Superintendent Endorsement program takes you through rigorous, ISBE-approved coursework that prepares you on every level to demonstrate excellence as a school superintendent of K-12 schools. You can complete the program in three years or complete just the endorsement without the EdD credential in two years.
Coursework readies you to advance the learning of all students in K-12 schools, including curriculum development and assessment for all types of students at all levels of education. You're also prepared to support your students, staff, and parents, and to protect your schools, by identifying and solving issues within your district by studying organizational theory, law, HR, and coaching and mentoring.
Coursework in policy and finance at the district level helps you to prepare adequate budgets and set realistic goals. Experienced faculty act as mentors throughout the program and are dedicated to helping you secure your internship. Classes are small, typically between 10 and 12 students, so you'll get the individualized attention you need to succeed throughout the program.
The program requires 30 hours of research coursework, dissertation hours, and a superintendent internship in the Illinois School District to complete the program.
Aurora University’s online Doctor of Education: Leadership in Higher Education Administration program is built for working professionals seeking to earn a doctorate degree without putting their career on hold. Learning in flexible, asynchronous courses taught by highly qualified faculty members with experience in the field, you’ll gain the expertise you need to elevate your career and advance to new levels of leadership.
This EdD program emphasizes practice-based learning and includes an internship course that you can complete at your place of employment. You’ll study a comprehensive, engaging curriculum that explores concepts such as higher education organization and policy, strategic planning and governance, program evaluation, adult learning theory, contemporary issues within the field, and institutional DEI. Finally, complete a dissertation to graduate with your doctorate in as little as three years.
If you’re a postsecondary educator or administrator who’s ready to pursue leadership roles at the level of director, dean, and provost, AU's Doctor of Education can help you take the next step toward reaching your goals. Learn more today.
Become a qualified and competent school administrator with the online Master of Arts in Educational Leadership with Principal Endorsement Program. This online master’s in education administration is designed specifically to help current educators prepare for administrative and leadership roles.
Participants will explore organizational theory, supervision strategies, school law, and fiscal management. Courses are led by experienced faculty and taught in a flexible online format, ideal for professionals balancing work, personal, and academic commitments. Students have the opportunity to complete internship experiences at their current workplace to gain hands-on experience and skills.
Aurora University's Special Education Endorsement (LBS 1) graduate program prepares you to work effectively with students with varying disabilities. In the program, you will complete a comprehensive curriculum, learn to evaluate current research, and conduct research in the classroom. You'll work with classmates and faculty to gain diverse experience that you can apply to real-world situations in your school district immediately.
Students complete assignments, projects, and key assessments that use varied modalities and focus on research and application within the field. Research-based key assessments are required for each course to fulfill licensure requirements. The program is ISBE approved and aligned with Illinois Professional Teaching Standards, as well as the Council for Exceptional Children Professional Teaching Standards, Illinois SEL Standards, Illinois Culturally Responsive Teaching and Leading Standards, and INTASC Standards.
Our students work as special education teachers, behavioral specialists, home-bound teachers, hospital and treatment center teachers, special education advocates, and more. No internship is required. Graduate as soon as six months, ready to make a difference in your school and community.
Healthcare
Learn how to lead vital healthcare organizations with a Bachelor of Science degree in Healthcare Administration. This field allows you to combine business acumen with a passion for helping others.
Students will learn how to plan, coordinate, and manage medical services. Coursework additionally covers topics involving patient records and healthcare laws. Real-world experiences augment online learning to prepare students for the unique challenges of the healthcare industry.
This healthcare administration degree online features topics such as:
- Healthcare systems and informatics
- Healthcare ethics
- Principles of marketing
- Economics for public policy
- Medical terminology
The online Master of Science in Exercise Science prepares you for a career in health and fitness. Upon completion of coursework and a capstone or internship experience, graduates will be eligible to sit for the Clinical Exercise Physiologist exam from the American College of Sports Medicine.
The curriculum focuses on exercise physiology, sports psychology, program administration, and sports nutrition. The program can be completed in just one to two years online. An optional specialization is available in Clinical Exercise Physiology.
Psychology & Human Services
The Advanced Standing Master of Social Work program from Aurora University is designed to be faster and more affordable than the traditional MSW. The program is CSWE accredited and provides you with a foundation in generalist clinical social work practice and specialized study. Choose from eight tracks that match your unique interests and career goals.
If you have earned your BSW from a CSWE-accredited program in the last five years, you may be eligible to earn your degree in half the time. Aurora University’s Advanced Standing MSW reduces the required credit hours from 60 to 30, so you can graduate faster and start supporting individuals and communities in clinical or direct practice.
Tailor your learning experience to your interests and career goals with a specialization in Addictions, Child Welfare, Forensics, Gerontology, Health Care, Leadership Administration, Military and Veteran, or School Social Work.
Each class is taught by faculty members who have real-world experience, and you’ll have the opportunity to apply the theories you learn to professional practice through 600 hours of field instruction. Field placement may be employment-based, if applicable.
Graduates from the MSW program work as clinical social workers, healthcare social workers, marriage and family therapists, social service administrators, forensic social work practitioners, community leaders, and in nonprofit leadership roles. Begin your journey today with one of Chicagoland’s first CSWE-accredited Master of Social Work online programs. Aurora also offers a traditional MSW program for students who do not qualify for Advanced Standing.
Your Future. Our Promise. Learn more and apply today.
Aurora University's online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology program focuses on the scientific study of the mind and human behavior from a lifespan developmental perspective, including topics like abnormal and normal behavior, personality development, motivation, the cultural environment, and interaction with others. This flexible degree allows students to tailor their learning and pursue a double major in studies like criminal justice, sociology, social work, recreation, political science, business, or communication, while still graduating in four years.
Students will also have the opportunity to apply what they learn in the classroom to real-world settings, bringing their academic interests to life. Graduates from the bachelor's in psychology program have a variety of career options available to them, including human services, business management, personnel, counseling, behavioral instruction, or family worker and youth advocate. Aurora University students have worked in local hospitals, social service agencies, group homes, and schools, as well as in various businesses, state institutions, and government offices.
Applicants wanting to develop skills and knowledge to begin social work practice may consider this online bachelor’s in Social Work from Aurora University. Students will learn how to work with communities, groups, families, and individuals in an array of settings, as well as with various populations and issues.
Graduates of the online BSW can take the Illinois State Social Work licensing test after two years of work experience. Those completing the program can also apply for advanced standing in Aurora University’s MSW program.
The program material covers issues including:
- Social work with groups
- Human behavior from infancy to adult
- Social work with communities and organizations
- Individuals and families
- Social work research
Aurora University's Bachelor of Social Work in Addictions will prepare you with the skills and knowledge you need to effect a positive change in your community. In this program, you will complete coursework that leads you to explore topics in social welfare and social justice while practicing strategies for working with diverse populations. Taught by expert, student-centered faculty, this renowned BSW program will help you launch a fulfilling and successful career in social work.
At AU, you'll gain real-world experience through in-person field work that offers you the opportunity to apply lessons from your courses to authentic scenarios. You will graduate equipped with skills in the evaluation and treatment of addictions as well as knowledge of the latest best practices in addictions counseling. Upon completion of your BSW in Addictions, you will be qualified to sit for the Illinois Alcohol and other Drug Abuse Counselor (CADC) exam for certification to counsel individuals with addictions in the state of Illinois.
AU's social work programs are accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) and regionally recognized for producing highly effective graduates. Financial aid is available, and transfer credits are accepted.
Graduate from an accredited program with a track record for helping students achieve lasting success. Enrollment for the BSW in Addictions program is now open for fall 2022.
Discover an academic pathway to the social work career you want with the online Bachelor of Social Work – Child Welfare program from Aurora University. Designed with your career success in mind, this program will prepare you for the Child Welfare Employee License (CWEL). It grants Child and Adolescent Needs and Strengths (CANS) certification and will prepare you for Child Endangerment Risk Assessment Protocol (CERAP) upon graduation. When you graduate, you'll be prepared for success as a social worker or pursue a Master of Social Work degree.
Courses for the online BSW – Child Welfare program are taught by industry-experienced faculty dedicated to helping each student succeed academically and professionally. With their guidance, you'll build foundational skills to support individuals and groups and examine human behavior in social environments. Additionally, you'll also explore the effects of trauma on children, techniques for supporting the vulnerable, and child welfare services as you prepare to make a difference in the lives of others through your social work career.
All of Aurora University's online programs are taught in an interactive, virtual classroom. As an online student, you'll receive the flexibility you need to maintain your personal and professional commitments while completing your education. Access course materials, discuss your ideas with classmates, and conference with faculty members at a time and place that's convenient for your schedule.
The online MSW/MBA dual degree from Aurora University prepares you for careers that necessitate a combination of skills in social work and business management. The Master of Social Work curriculum serves as the foundation for this program, providing generalist social work skills while you also gain leadership abilities in both nonprofit and private settings.
Students in this online Business Administration degree program gain a deeper understanding of how social service and business practices connect. Studies include social welfare policy and institutions, ethics and decision making, strategic management, and much more. Courses are taught by faculty with extensive real-world experience.
Graduates will be well suited for roles including:
- Clinical social worker
- Nonprofit leader
- Behavioral health director
- Community leaders
- Social service director
- Corporate social responsibility manager
Develop a foundation in generalist clinical social work and specialized study with the online Master of Social Work (MSW) from Aurora University. Through 1,050 hours of field instruction, you’ll have the opportunity to apply theories to real-world situations. Customize your learning experience with a specialization in Addictions, Child Welfare, Forensics, Gerontology, Health Care, Leadership Administration, Military and Veteran, or School Social Work. You may also pursue an MSW/MBA or MSW/MPA dual degree option. Each class is taught by faculty members who have real-world experience and instructors in MSW program use open educational resources in place of traditional textbooks for some courses, reducing the cost of required textbooks. Graduates from the MSW program work as clinical social workers, health care social workers, marriage and family therapists, social service administrators, forensic social work practitioners, community Leaders, and in nonprofit leadership roles. Begin your journey today with one of Chicagoland’s first CSWE-accredited online programs.
Aurora University's Master of Social Work in Addictions will prepare you with the skills and knowledge you need to advance social change and build solutions to problems in your community. In this program, you will complete coursework that leads you to explore substance abuse disorders and strategies for counseling addictions. Taught by expert, student-centered faculty, this renowned MSW program will help you better serve individuals, families, and communities.
At AU, you'll gain real-world experience through internships that offer you the opportunity to apply lessons from your courses to authentic scenarios. You will graduate equipped with skills in the evaluation and treatment of addictions as well as knowledge of the latest best practices in addictions counseling. Upon completion of your MSW in Addictions, you will be qualified to sit for the Illinois Alcohol and other Drug Abuse Counselor (CADC) exam for certification to counsel individuals with addictions in the state of Illinois.
AU's social work programs are accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) and regionally recognized for producing highly effective graduates. Financial aid is available, and transfer credits may apply.
Graduate from an accredited program with a track record for helping students achieve lasting success. Enrollment for the MSW in Addictions program is now open for fall 2022.
Students of the online MSW degree through Aurora University apply academic theories to real-world situations through extensive field instruction. The general online Social Work degree helps students develop a broad foundation in topics including social welfare policy, theories of human development, research methods, and social work practice for individuals, families, and groups.
Applicants can choose from the general Social Work program or one of five optional tracks: Faith-Based Social Work, Forensics, Health Care, Leadership Administration, or School Social Work.
Advanced coursework includes:
- Perspectives on psychopathology
- Clinical theory and methods
- Clinical knowledge and application
- Social policy
The online Master of Social Work - Forensic Social Work program from Aurora University is designed to help you make a lasting impact in the lives of vulnerable children and families. Combining mediation concepts with advanced social work expertise, this program will prepare you for a variety of professional advancement opportunities that will allow you to stand up for others and make a difference within the legal system. When you graduate, you'll be fully equipped with the skills to succeed as a forensic social work practitioner.
Aurora University's MSW degree is Chicagoland’s first CSWE-accredited online graduate program and is taught by seasoned experts with diverse, real-world field experience. As a student, you'll receive personalized attention and academic support from faculty members as you build a strong understanding of forensic social work practice and theory. You'll explore mediation essentials and learn to challenge existing biases while gaining specific clinical skills to help various subpopulations in your career.
The online MSW program is delivered in an interactive, virtual classroom that provides convenient schedule options. You'll receive the flexibility you need to maintain your personal and professional commitments while completing your education. Access course materials, discuss your ideas with classmates and faculty members from a time and place that's convenient for your schedule.
Designed with your career advancement in mind, the online Master of Social Work – Gerontology program from Aurora University delivers the expertise necessary to make a positive impact in the lives of older individuals. Serving as a stepping stone to advanced professional opportunities within social work, this program delivers the competitive edge you need to play a major role in geriatric communities in assisted-living facilities, nursing homes, and hospice care settings.
The MSW with Aurora University is Chicagoland’s first CSWE-accredited online graduate program and is taught by expert educators with real-world social work experience in diverse settings. Guided by their expertise, you’ll explore intervention essentials for gerontology, plus the biology and health of aging. You’ll also build your own hands-on experience through an internship completed within an aging community. Students can complete the Gerontology track alongside the Healthcare track by taking an additional healthcare elective.
The online Gerontology program is delivered in an interactive, virtual classroom that provides the flexibility you need to maintain your personal and professional commitments while completing your education. When you graduate, you’ll be equipped with the expertise to take the next step in your career through roles including clinical social worker, social service administrator, healthcare social worker, family therapist, and more.
Take the next step in your social work career and make an impact in the ever-changing medical field with the online Master of Social Work – Healthcare program from Aurora University. Designed to help you prepare for professional advancement opportunities, this program provides the skills you need to assist underserved and vulnerable individuals in diverse medical settings. When you complete your degree, you’ll graduate fully qualified for roles including healthcare social worker, community leader, social service administrator, clinical social worker, and more.
The online Healthcare concentration is part of Aurora University’s MSW degree, Chicagoland’s first CSWE-accredited online graduate program. The program’s courses are taught by expert educators with diverse experience in social work who are committed to helping you succeed as a student and as a professional after graduation. Educators develop lessons and lectures based on their real-world experience to ensure you develop career-ready skills to apply in the workplace immediately. With their guidance and support, you’ll explore community social service and human behavior through the lens of medical social work.
With AU, you can complete your MSW online in an interactive, virtual classroom. Flexible course options allow you to balance education with your schedule and access course materials from the time and place of your choice. Get started today.
The online Master of Social Work - Leadership Administration program from Aurora University is designed for the next generation of social work leaders. This MSW concentration is part of Chicagoland’s first CSWE-accredited online graduate program and is offered in partnership with AU's Dunham School of Business and Public Policy. When you complete your degree, you'll graduate with the management and leadership expertise required for diverse professional advancement opportunities within the field. Find success in roles such as community leader, nonprofit manager, clinical social worker, and more.
As a student of the online MSW - Leadership Administration program, you'll learn from a faculty of educators with years of real-world experience in the field of social work. Dedicated to your success as a student and a professional, your educators will provide you with the academic support and personalized attention you need to achieve your goals and advance your expertise. Choose from MBA-level electives in management and leadership to align your studies with your specific career goals.
This program can be completed entirely online in Aurora University's interactive, virtual classroom. Choose from flexible schedule options that allow you to balance your education with your personal schedule as you access course materials and discuss your ideas with classmates and faculty at the time and place of your choice.
Take on a Master of Social Work and Master of Public Administration dual degree program with Aurora University online. This program prepares students for those careers set at the intersections of social work. Studies include but are not limited to:
- Social Work Practices
- Human Development
- Organizational Behavior
Expert faculty bring real-world experience to the virtual classroom, where opportunities from field instruction to work electives are offered. Armed with this online dual degree graduates may find pursuable pathways such as community leadership, city management, clinical social work, and more. Expand knowledge in two fields to make a difference in today’s challenging marketplace with Aurora University online.
Aurora University's online Master of Social Work (MSW) program includes a track designed for students with a BSW who are interested in working as social workers serving active-duty military members and veterans. The program is delivered in a flexible format and can be completed in three years. The online MSW is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), so students receive an education recognized for academic quality and industry standards.
The military track includes nine credits of focused coursework that, when combined with the core MSW curriculum, will prepare you for a successful career. Topics include military culture, customs, and traditions, as well as clinical social work practice with military and veteran populations. Each eight-week course is taught by faculty members who have real-world experience and are dedicated to student success. Students also complete 450 hours of the 600-hour field placement requirement working with military and veteran populations in a social service or medical setting.
Graduates of the MSW program who complete the military track have the knowledge and specialized skills required to pursue employment as licensed social workers in contexts like Veterans Affairs, personnel or case management, counseling, and more.
The online Master of Social Work – School Social Work program from Aurora University is designed to open the door to advanced professional opportunities within your chosen area of social work. Developed by industry experts for the next generation of school social workers, this program will prepare you to earn a Professional Educator License in School Social Work and take the next step in your career. This MSW track is part of Chicagoland’s first CSWE-accredited online graduate program. It is approved by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) to ensure you graduate with the expertise and credentials you need for the social work career you want.
Courses are based on real-world social work practice and are taught by expert faculty with diverse experience in the field. As a student, you’ll receive personal attention and expert instruction from faculty as you build the skills to provide social services in schools and maximize children’s academic success.
The program’s career-focused curriculum explores school social work policy and exceptional children. Additionally, you’ll gain hands-on experience through a field instruction requirement. You can complete courses entirely online in an interactive, virtual classroom that allows you to access materials and discuss ideas with classmates and faculty at the time and place of your choice.
With the Post-MSW Professional Educator’s License program, social workers will become accredited to work in school settings in the state of Illinois. Out-of-state students should note that field experiences must be completed in Illinois, and the Professional Educator’s License is only valid for Illinois.
Participants in this online social work degree program will study policy, exceptional children, and field instruction. Students will learn how to improve children’s academic functioning, maximize family well-being, and improve children’s lives both socially and psychologically. Graduates will be prepared to take on roles as public or private school social workers in Illinois.

















