Best Online Master of Social Work (MSW) Programs in Florida

Florida’s Traditional MSW Programs: A Look at Students’ Options

Traditional MSW programs in Florida are designed for students who hold a bachelor’s degree in any field, not just social work. Most traditional MSW programs in Florida can be completed within two years of full-time study. Plenty of Florida universities offer these traditional MSW programs in fully online or hybrid formats, providing greater flexibility to accommodate students who have work or personal commitments while pursuing their social work education.

No GRE MSW Programs for Florida Students

Many MSW programs in Florida no longer require Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) scores for admission, making the application process simpler and more accessible. Instead of test scores, these programs emphasize factors like your grade point average (GPA), professional experience, recommendation letters, and personal statements. This can be a great option for those who have had a long gap in their education and are ready to return to school.

Florida’s Advanced Standing MSW Programs

Advanced Standing MSW programs offer students who already hold a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) the chance to complete their MSW degrees in less time. In Florida, these programs typically require 30 to 35 credits of advanced coursework, as foundational first-year classes are waived based on prior undergraduate training. As a result, students can earn their MSWs in approximately 12 months of full-time study or up to two years of part-time study.

Part-Time MSW Program Options for Florida Students

Part-time MSW programs in Florida are perfect for busy professionals or those with family commitments, spreading coursework over two to four years. Offering evening and weekend classes or flexible online formats, these programs feature lighter semester loads, allowing students to balance work and family responsibilities while still completing required internships and achieving academic goals.

Student Support: FAQs About Florida’s MSW Programs

What are the requirements for becoming a licensed social worker in Florida?

In Florida, becoming a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) involves several important steps. These include:

• Earn an MSW from an accredited program, including required coursework in clinical topics such as psychopathology.
• Complete supervised field placements during your MSW program, focusing on direct client services.
• Gain two years of post-master’s supervised clinical experience, including at least 1,500 hours of face-to-face psychotherapy and 100 hours of supervision.
• Pass the national clinical-level exam administered by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB).
• Complete supplemental training courses mandated by the state, such as courses in Florida laws and rules, HIV/AIDS, and domestic violence.
• Submit your application, documentation, and required fees to the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy, and Mental Health Counseling.

Are there funding options available for online MSW students in Florida?

Yes, there are funding options available for both online and in-person MSW students in Florida. The most obvious place to start your funding search is at the financial aid offices of the schools you’re considering. A great online resource is the State of Florida’s Office of Student Financial Assistance website, where you can get information on student loans and a variety of state-sponsored scholarship and grant opportunities.

To find more help for funding your Florida MSW program, be sure to check out these scholarships for social work students and review our top 30 scholarships for public servant students.

Are online MSW degrees in Florida respected and accredited?

Yes, online MSW degrees in Florida are respected, provided they’re accredited by an official accrediting organization such as the CSWE. Accreditation ensures your program meets rigorous professional standards and prepares you for licensure.

Your diploma typically doesn’t specify “online,” simply showing potential employers that you graduated with an MSW from the institution. Since most Florida online programs include the same coursework and field internships as their campus counterparts, employers will typically care more about your skills and licensure eligibility than your method of study.

What careers can I pursue with an MSW in Florida?

An MSW opens doors to numerous rewarding careers throughout Florida’s diverse social services sector. Clinical social workers often provide counseling in private practice, mental health clinics, hospitals, or substance abuse centers.

Due to Florida’s large elderly population, healthcare social workers are also in demand, working in hospitals, hospice care, and long-term care facilities. Additionally, MSW graduates work in schools, child welfare agencies, government policy roles, or nonprofit management. Those aiming even higher may consider pursuing doctoral degrees to become researchers, educators, or advanced clinical specialists.

Can I work while pursuing my online MSW in Florida?

Yes, many Florida MSW students successfully balance employment with their studies, especially when enrolled in part-time or online programs. Careful planning is important because field internships usually require 15 to 20 hours weekly (about 900+ hours for traditional programs or around 500+ for advanced standing).

You might choose an internship at your current workplace (if qualified supervision is available) or discuss flexible scheduling with your employer. Good communication and planning can help you effectively manage both responsibilities.

The Future for MSW Graduates in Florida: Career & Salary Outlook

Resources for MSW Students & Professionals in FL

Navigating your MSW journey and career in social work is easier with the right support. Florida offers various resources, from professional associations to licensure information and career tools, to help MSW students and practicing social workers thrive and avoid social worker burnout. Below are five helpful state-specific resources, including organizations that provide networking, guidance on licensing, financial assistance, and job search support:

• Florida Association School Social Workers (FASSW) State affiliate of the School Social Work Association of America, the FASSW is dedicated to the promotion of the school social work profession and the development of school social workers throughout the state. Visitors to the site can access lots of useful information on Florida LCSW licensure, employment opportunities, association-sponsored scholarships, and more.
• Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling This State of Florida agency handles the licensing and practice of clinical social workers in the state, including licensed clinical social workers, certified master social workers, and registered clinical social worker interns. Visitors to the site can access detailed information on requirements for both initial licensure and license renewal.
• National Association of Social Workers Florida Chapter (NASW-FL) The NASW is the preeminent association of social work professionals in the United States. Joining the NASW includes membership in both the national organization and Florida’s state chapter. Student memberships are available that offer a variety of valuable benefits such as participation in state and national events, plus access to an array of valuable resources.
• Phi Alpha Honor Society Phi Alpha is the nation’s social work honor society. Florida schools with Phi Alpha chapters include Florida A&M University, Florida International University, and all six schools spotlighted in this guide. Membership benefits include networking opportunities and eligibility to apply for any of several member scholarships and other awards.
• Social Workers in Florida This Facebook group has nearly 3,000 members and gives all levels of social workers and students in social work throughout Florida a forum to discuss ideas and share creative interests. Access to content is limited to group members, so you’ll have to join to participate.

Best Online MSW Programs in Florida

There are lots of online MSW programs in Florida to choose from, so finding the best one to suit your needs can be a lengthy process. To help you get started, we’ve compiled a list of Florida’s top-ranked online MSW programs, rated on factors including availability of online coursework, support for online students, available scholarships, and more.

To find out more about our ranking systems, you can review the “About the Rankings” module below. Now, take a look and see if any of these schools stand out to you.