Social workers are the backbone of a community. They provide much-needed assistance to vulnerable members of a population who require care in mental health, housing, crisis intervention, food resources and many other areas. These vital professionals are well-trained through social work programs and hold degrees such as a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) or a Master of Social Work (MSW).
But do you need a BSW to get an MSW? Not necessarily. Learn how you can earn an MSW without a BSW by choosing the online Master of Social Work online Master of Social Work – Standard program from Arkansas State University.
What’s the Difference Between BSW and MSW Programs?
Although both a BSW and MSW prepare individuals for careers in social work, they differ in educational depth, scope of practice and career opportunities. A BSW introduces students to the general practice of social work, focusing on the foundations of psychology, human behavior, case law and social work policy. Students earning a BSW also learn research methodologies and apply interpersonal skills to form strong relationships with their clients. BSWs typically take four years to complete and include a minimum number of hours in the field (around 300 to 400).
MSW programs take the fundamentals of a BSW in a more advanced direction. Students in an MSW program graduate with a specialized focus on areas of social work, such as psychopathy, intervention strategies, public health programs, social welfare services, mental health, cognitive-behavioral therapy and substance abuse. Social workers with an MSW can go on to earn licensure as a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed independent social worker (LISW) to provide advanced services to their community and populations in need. Like most master’s programs, an MSW takes about two years to complete, plus about 900 field hours.
Do I Need a BSW to Get an MSW?
Students don’t need a BSW to earn an MSW. Most MSW programs offer two separate tracks based on experience. A standard track MSW program is designed for non-BSW students who hold bachelor’s degrees in other areas and who require prerequisites and foundational courses to earn their MSW. An advanced-standing MSW program is for students who have a BSW and do not need to make up prerequisites or foundational social work courses.
A-State offers both standard and advanced standing tracks, allowing students to enroll in the MSW program that best meets their academic needs. A-State’s online MSW – Standard program consists of 63 credit hours that students can complete in around 25 months, while the MSW – Advanced Standing program includes 36 credit hours that can be completed in as few as 12 months.
What Are Accelerated MSW Programs Without BSW Requirements?
Accelerated MSW programs without BSW requirements are similar to the standard track described above. The primary difference between Advanced and Standard is that Advanced requires a BSW and Standard does not. So, students in the advanced program move more quickly because their BSW provided the prerequisite requirements.
If you are looking to complete an online MSW on a part-time schedule around your current work requirements, an accelerated MSW program may not be a fit for you. The online MSW – Standard track is more suitable for students needing flexibility and the ability to balance work or family responsibilities.
What Career Paths Are Open to MSW Graduates Without a BSW Background?
MSW graduates without a BSW qualify for a wide range of careers options. Aside from becoming an LCSW or LISW, these graduates can pursue roles such as:
- Victim advocate
- Social work supervisor
- Employee assistance program (EAP) advocate
- Telehealth therapist
- Social services director
- Mental health counselor
These careers are in high demand in every community, particularly in areas where mental health and assistance may be insecure for people and families in various populations. Roles for social workers are projected to grow by about 6% over the next 10 years, while occupations related to social work (including family therapists and substance abuse therapists) are expected to expand by more than 15% in the next decade.
Make a Difference in Your Community With an MSW from A-State
So, do you need a BSW to get an MSW? The answer is no. You can complete an online MSW – Standard program if you do not already have a BSW. At Arkansas State University, both the standard and advanced standing MSW programs prepare social workers for the legal, logistical, sociological and psychological aspects of advanced social work. Both programs are accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).
Before you enroll in an online MSW program, review your career goals and coursework requirements. Decide whether you’d rather complete your coursework quickly over a shorter period of time, or if a part-time plan that allows you to study at your own pace would be more beneficial. No matter what you decide, A-State’s online MSW programs offer you a unique opportunity to improve the lives of people in your community while advancing your career in a high-growth field. Learn more about A-State’s online MSW programs by contacting the admissions office today.