Master's

Master of Social Work

Advance your impact with Pitt's part-time, online Master of Social Work (MSW), featuring flexible coursework, a curated practicum, and a social-justice-centered curriculum from a top-ranked school of social work.

Fully Online Program

All coursework will be completed online, virtually, with no on-campus requirements.

In-Person Experience

In-person projects or clinicals at non-campus sites required to complete your program.

Top Ranked

Recognized among the best in its field by national rankings like U.S. News & World Report.

Next Application Date

June 1 for Fall Term

Credits

60

Pacing

Part-Time

Format

Online

Type of Program

Master's

Advance Your Expertise in Master of Social Work

Designed for working professionals seeking flexibility without sacrificing quality, the University of Pittsburgh’s Part-Time Online MSW program prepares you to become a confident, licensed social work practitioner grounded in social justice, equity, and community impact. With 100% asynchronous online coursework, you can complete classes from anywhere while balancing career and personal commitments.

This part-time program builds advanced practice skills through a curriculum centered on Direct Practice with Individuals, Families, and Groups. Students complete two practicum experiences in their local communities — which may include their current workplace — to immediately apply learning in real-world settings.

Enhance your degree with one of four certificates: Children, Youth, and Families; Integrated Healthcare; Mental Health; or Gerontology. The program fulfills licensure requirements for LMSW, LCSW, and LICSW and includes free exam prep support. Online students receive in-state tuition rates regardless of residency. Rooted in more than a century of excellence, Pitt’s School of Social Work equips graduates to address complex social issues with compassion, competence, and confidence.

Eligibility

Requires a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.

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On-Campus

Experience

No on-campus attendance required.

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Accreditation

Accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).

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Important Application Dates 

The Master of Social Work has one application cycle per year.  You can start the program fall (August).

Application deadline

June 1

Class start

Fall Term

What to Expect in Your Classes 

This program offers 20 total courses, totaling 60 credits. All coursework is delivered in in an online asynchronous format, giving you the flexibility to study from anywhere. Classes run for 14 weeks (12 weeks for summer courses), allowing you to complete the program in 3 years. Students will study part-time.

  • Total Courses 20
  • Credit Hours 60
  • Format Online
  • Class Lengths About 14 weeks
  • Time to Completion 3 years
  • Pace Options Part-Time

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Plan Your Education With Confidence in Cost 

The Master of Social Work current tuition rates are listed for in-state and out-of-state students. To support students in financing their education, the University of Pittsburgh offers a range of financial aid options and payment plans, making it easier to manage tuition costs while completing your studies.

2026-27 tuition rates are pending approval by the Board of Trustees, expected in July 2026.

View additional fees and estimated expenses