Skip to main contentSkip to Xpert Chatbot
HOW_University_Horizontal_RGB_REV.svg

Howard University Master of Social Work (MSW) online

Howard MSW Online prepares learners to transform oppressive systems into ones that sustain and uplift Black and other marginalized communities.

Request more info

About the program

  • A vibrant HBCU community: The Howard social work community unites generations of Howard-prepared leaders who continually uplift one another.
  • No GRE scores required: Howard University looks for passion and potential, not standardized test scores. 
  • The Black Perspective: Howard MSW online learners practice with empathy and sociocultural sensitivity, affirming the strengths of all populations.

About Howard University 

Since its founding in 1867, Howard University has been a leading HBCU and one of the top research universities in the nation. Determined to eliminate racial, social, economic and political inequities, Howard University's long-lasting mission remains the same: To produce leaders who are uniquely positioned to excel in their industries and uplift their communities.

Tuition and fees

Tuition and fees are subject to change and may increase each academic year. Tuition does not include student fees, technology platform licensing, or support services. Learners are also responsible for travel and accommodation costs related to any in-person immersions or residentials.

Technology and services powered by 2U, Inc., the parent company of edX.

Howard MSW Online curriculum

Howard MSW Online, the online Master of Social Work program, empowers aspiring social workers to promote and sustain a high quality of life for marginalized individuals and communities. The online curriculum is grounded in the Black Perspective, a lens that empowers learners to develop an inclusive, strengths-based approach to direct and macro practice. Learners follow one of two tracks below:

  • Traditional: This 60-credit track is for learners who hold any bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university. Learners can complete this track part time in as few as 36 months. The full-time track can be completed in as few as 16 months.
  • Advanced Standing: This 45-credit track is for learners who hold a Bachelor of Social Work from a CSWE-accredited institution. Learners can complete this track part time in as few as 24 months. The full-time track can be completed in as few as 12 months.
Request more info

Admissions

Howard MSW Online enrolls individuals who show potential to become passionate social work leaders. Howard University maintains the same admissions standards for both the online MSW program and the on-campus master’s degree program. Howard MSW Online is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). To complete an application, you will need to submit the following items:

  • Online application 

  • Current résumé 

  • Transcripts from all previously attended institutions 

  • Personal essay and application essay

  • Three letters of recommendation


Field education courses

HOW-MSW_MKTGAD-14661_flex component_339x230.jpg

In addition to taking foundation and concentration courses, you will complete field education courses, too. These courses will help you to develop expertise in a specific area of social work and will prepare you to put your classroom skills to practice in agency settings.

Field of practice courses: In addition to a concentration, you’ll choose a specialized field of practice — Child and Family Welfare, or Mental Health — to develop your expertise in a specific area of social work. Your electives will address topics like substance use, human sexuality, as well as race, class and gender.

Agency-based education courses: These courses are designed to complement and support your agency-based education placements. As you learn and master new techniques, competencies and concepts in the classroom, you will also start applying them directly to your work with clients.

Want to learn more?

Request more info