Does Strayer University Have an Online Social Work Degree? A Comprehensive Guide
Social work is a dynamic and fulfilling profession that involves helping individuals, families, and communities overcome challenges, access resources, and improve their quality of life. As the demand for social workers continues to rise, especially in fields such as healthcare, mental health, and child welfare, many aspiring professionals seek accessible and flexible ways to earn their degree. For those who need the flexibility of online education, the question arises: does Strayer University offer an online social work degree?
This article will explore Strayer University’s program offerings and whether they include a degree in social work. Additionally, we will provide insights into alternative online programs for social work, career prospects in the field, and how to navigate the search for an accredited and flexible online social work degree program.
Strayer University: A Brief Overview
Strayer University, established in 1892, is a private, for-profit institution that offers a wide range of degree programs designed for adult learners and working professionals. The university is known for its focus on business, management, information technology, public administration, and criminal justice. Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), Strayer University emphasizes flexibility through its online and on-campus courses, making higher education accessible for individuals balancing work, family, and other commitments.
While Strayer University is well-regarded for its business and technology programs, those interested in social work or human services may find their offerings to be more limited. To better understand if Strayer University is the right choice for those aspiring to enter the social work profession, let’s take a closer look at their program catalog.
Does Strayer University Offer an Online Social Work Degree?
At present, Strayer University does not offer a dedicated online social work degree. The university’s primary academic focus is on business, leadership, information systems, and public administration, with degrees in fields such as accounting, marketing, and cybersecurity. While these programs can provide valuable skills, they are not tailored to the specific requirements or licensure needs of social work professionals.
Social work is a highly specialized field that requires a curriculum focused on human behavior, social justice, ethics, and direct practice skills. Social workers must also meet state licensure requirements, which typically include completing an accredited Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) or Master of Social Work (MSW) program, along with supervised fieldwork.
Although Strayer University does not offer a social work degree, individuals interested in pursuing careers related to social work may want to explore alternative programs in related fields, such as public administration, criminal justice, or human resource management. These areas offer skills that can be valuable in human services roles but may not lead directly to a career as a licensed social worker.
Alternatives to Strayer University’s Programs
For those specifically seeking a career in social work, numerous other universities offer fully accredited online programs in social work. Below, we’ll outline some of the top online options for aspiring social workers and discuss what to look for when choosing a social work program.
What to Look for in an Online Social Work Degree Program
Before we dive into specific universities that offer online social work degrees, it’s important to understand the key factors to consider when selecting the right program. Social work education must meet certain academic and professional standards to prepare students for licensure and successful careers. Below are essential elements to consider when choosing an online social work program:
1. Accreditation
The most critical factor in selecting a social work program is accreditation. In the U.S., social work programs must be accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). CSWE accreditation ensures that the program meets national standards for social work education and that graduates will be eligible to sit for licensing exams. If you plan to become a licensed social worker, it is essential to enroll in a CSWE-accredited program.
2. Degree Level
Aspiring social workers can pursue either a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) or a Master of Social Work (MSW). The BSW is an entry-level degree that qualifies graduates for generalist social work practice, while the MSW allows for advanced clinical practice and specialization. Depending on your career goals, you’ll need to decide whether to pursue a BSW or MSW program.
3. Fieldwork Requirements
Social work programs typically include a field education component, which provides students with hands-on experience in real-world social work settings. This is a vital part of social work training, as it allows students to apply theoretical knowledge in practice. When choosing an online program, ensure that it offers field placement opportunities in your local area, even if the coursework is completed online.
4. Flexibility and Structure
For working professionals, flexibility is often a top priority when choosing an online program. Some programs offer asynchronous coursework, meaning you can complete assignments on your own schedule, while others may require synchronous (live) sessions. Consider whether the program offers full-time or part-time options and how long it typically takes to complete the degree.
5. Licensure Preparation
After completing a degree in social work, graduates must pass a licensure exam to practice as a licensed social worker (LMSW or LCSW, depending on the state). When choosing a program, ensure that it provides adequate preparation for licensure and meets the requirements for the state in which you plan to practice.
Top Online Social Work Degree Programs
Since Strayer University does not offer a social work degree, aspiring social workers will need to consider alternative institutions. Fortunately, many universities offer online BSW and MSW programs that provide flexible, accredited pathways to a career in social work. Below are some of the top online programs for social work:
1. University of Southern California (USC) – Online Master of Social Work
USC offers one of the most well-regarded online MSW programs in the country. The program is CSWE-accredited and offers both traditional and advanced standing options. Students can specialize in areas such as adult mental health and wellness, children, youth, and families, or social change and innovation. The program includes field placements in students’ local communities, allowing for hands-on experience.
2. Arizona State University (ASU) – Online Bachelor of Social Work
ASU’s online BSW program prepares students for entry-level generalist social work practice. The program is CSWE-accredited and covers topics such as human behavior, social policy, and ethics in social work practice. ASU’s program also includes a field education component, ensuring that students gain practical experience in real-world social work settings.
3. University of Denver (DU) – Online Master of Social Work
The University of Denver offers a CSWE-accredited online MSW program with several specialization tracks, including mental health, aging services, and child welfare. The program is designed for working professionals, offering both part-time and full-time options. Like other MSW programs, DU includes field placement opportunities in the student’s local community.
4. Fordham University – Online Master of Social Work
Fordham’s online MSW program is designed for students seeking a flexible and comprehensive social work education. The program is CSWE-accredited and prepares students for licensure in all 50 states. Fordham offers traditional and advanced standing options, as well as field placement support for online students.
5. Western New Mexico University (WNMU) – Online Bachelor of Social Work
WNMU offers an affordable online BSW program that is CSWE-accredited and designed for students who want to pursue a career in social work. The program covers core social work topics such as social justice, ethics, and policy. It also includes field education requirements that can be completed in the student’s local area.
Career Opportunities in Social Work
Social work is a versatile and impactful career with opportunities in various sectors, including healthcare, education, government, and nonprofit organizations. Below are some common career paths for social work graduates:
1. Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
LCSWs provide mental health services, including counseling and therapy, to individuals, families, and groups. They often work in settings such as hospitals, clinics, and private practice. To become an LCSW, individuals must earn an MSW, complete supervised clinical hours, and pass a licensing exam.
2. Child and Family Social Worker
Child and family social workers help families navigate challenges such as poverty, abuse, and neglect. They may work in child protective services, foster care agencies, or schools. A BSW or MSW is typically required for this role, depending on the level of responsibility.
3. Healthcare Social Worker
Healthcare social workers assist patients in navigating the healthcare system, accessing resources, and coping with illness. They may work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, or nursing homes. An MSW is often required for this role, particularly for clinical positions.
4. School Social Worker
School social workers work within educational settings to support students’ emotional, social, and academic development. They collaborate with teachers, parents, and administrators to address issues such as bullying, mental health, and truancy. A BSW or MSW is typically required, and many states require school social workers to hold a specific certification.
5. Substance Abuse Social Worker
Substance abuse social workers provide counseling and support to individuals struggling with addiction. They work in rehabilitation centers, outpatient clinics, and community organizations. An MSW is often required, and additional certification in addiction counseling may be necessary.
Conclusion
While Strayer University does not offer an online social work degree, many other accredited institutions provide flexible and comprehensive online programs for those aspiring to enter this rewarding field. Whether you pursue a BSW or MSW, choosing an accredited program with strong field placement opportunities and licensure preparation is key to a successful career in social work.
With a growing demand for social workers across sectors, now is an excellent time to pursue
a career in this impactful profession. By researching accredited online programs and carefully considering your career goals, you can find the right educational pathway to achieve your dream of becoming a social worker.
