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Online master’s in international social work

Explore our guide to online master's in international social work degrees and see how social work with a global focus can offer a meaningful and fulfilling career.

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Why earn an online master's in international social work degree?

Advance your career around the world

This graduate degree opens up leadership roles in amazing locations throughout the globe.

Explore a network with global reach

An assortment of training opportunities allows you to gain vital experiences in the field and around the globe.

Enjoy flexible study on your own schedule

Online programs allow you to balance school with personal and professional obligations.


If you're interested in addressing social issues around the globe, interacting with a wide array of communities, then pursuing an online master's in social work (MSW) degree with an international focus may be a great choice for you.

From admissions requirements to career details, find out how earning an online master's in international social work degree can empower you to make a real difference while jumpstarting your social work career.

Browse MSW programs that cover international social work topics

Prestigious
An immersive cohort-based learning experience that is designed to optimize learning outcomes and ensure global networking opportunities.
Flexible
Choose your path with a range of completion options and class times.
Equivalent to on-campus
Earn the same degree and complete the same curriculum as on-campus students.

Explore online master's in international social work programs

If you plan to pursue an online master's in international social work degree, anticipate coursework and hands-on learning experiences that prepare you to address issues like human rights, poverty, and social justice on the global stage. Whether tackling global policies or disaster relief, graduates will have the tools to handle complex social issues worldwide.

Ideal candidates for an online master's in international social work program have a deep passion for working with diverse populations while often having experience in community outreach, social services, or psychology. Through a flexible online delivery, this pathway helps prepare graduates for roles in government agencies, international organizations, and global nonprofits.

What is an international social worker?

An international social worker addresses social issues outside of the United States while working with diverse populations, dealing with everything from poverty and conflict to natural disasters and human rights issues. This specialized area of social work strives to empower underserved populations while promoting social justice and services like education, housing, and healthcare.

As an international social worker, you'll likely intervene in crisis situations and advocate for vulnerable populations.

Where can you work as an international social worker?

As an international social worker, you can work in a long list of professional settings, including international NGOs, government agencies, and various humanitarian organizations.

While it's difficult to collect employment data for international social workers, some regions have a higher demand for social services, including parts of Africa, Asia, and South America, as well as global crisis situations. In the U.S., the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that jobs for social workers will grow by 9% from 2023 to 2033.

Similar to domestic social workers, salaries can vary widely. According to the BLS, social workers as a general group in the U.S. earn a median annual salary of $58,380 as of May 2023. Factors like education, experience, location, and specialization can greatly affect your income though.

Curriculum for MSW programs with an international focus

The curriculum for your online master's in international social work can vary between programs. Still, you'll likely tackle core social work topics while completing specialized coursework dealing with global issues.

Common courses include topics such as international social and economic development theory, management of organizations, and social policy analysis.

In addition to rigorous online coursework, students pursuing their master's in international social work typically complete their degree-culminating, hands-on practicum in an international setting.

Admissions requirements for online master's in international social work programs

Admissions requirements for an online master's in international social work can vary between schools. Still, most programs review a blend of academic and professional qualifications.

Some common prerequisites for MSW programs with an international focus include:

  • Bachelor's degree: An undergraduate degree, typically in social work or a related field like psychology or sociology, is required.
  • GPA requirement: A minimum grade point average (GPA) of around 3.0 for undergraduate coursework is often necessary.
  • Professional experience: Some programs may prioritize applicants with related professional or volunteer experience.
  • Letters of recommendation: These reference letters are often written by former instructors or employers.
  • Personal essay: A personal statement allows you to highlight your skills while explaining why you're a quality candidate for a master's in international social work program.
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