Questions to Ask About Online Social Work Programs

How to Compare Online Social Work Programs

You want to help change the world for the better, but your plans need to fit into your real-world life. An online degree in Social Work allows to choose a field that can impact those most in need, while you learn in a format that’s flexible and convenient. But how do choose a single program among the hundreds of social work degree programs out there? Consider your goals, do your research, and ask the right questions.

Is the Social Work Degree Program High Quality?

Beyond its core accreditation, the program curriculum should include fundamentals of the field, along with contemporary research and technologies. Upon graduation, you’ll want an in-depth understanding of such integral components of social work as psychology, social welfare programs and policies, and intervention strategies.

It may also be worthwhile to take a look at a social work program’s ranking and reviews. Have students who’ve attended been satisfied with their experiences? Is the program respected among its peer institutions?

Does the Institution’s Philosophy Align with Yours?

Wherever you attend college – whether in person, or online – you need to feel like you fit in. Certainly, you want your mind expanded, but not to the detriment of your core values. Look to the university’s mission and make sure the one you choose shares your philosophical beliefs.

Can You Gain Hands-On Social Work Experience?

Your program may be online, but you’ll still want field experience before you graduate. Find out what kind of field placements might be available to you. Will the school assist you in procuring one? Or will you be left on your own to find something near where you live? How many hours are required and how long will you have to complete it? Field practicums allow you to bring what you learn in the classroom out into the real world.

Will There Be Financial Aid Available?

Just because a program is online doesn’t mean you need to sacrifice financial aid. In addition to federal grants and loans that might be available to you once you fill out the FAFSA form, research the types of scholarships that may be offered by the institution. Does it offer any scholarships specifically to those who major in social work?

Is the Social Work Program Synchronous or Asynchronous?

A synchronous program is one that requires you be online at certain times to attend lectures, participate in class discussions, or take a timed test. An asynchronous program does not require you to be online at any particular time and allows you the flexibility to build class time into your schedule. If you prefer autonomy and convenience, asynchronous classes may be a better option for you. Asynchronous offerings may also fit better with a job, family, or other offline priorities.

Does the Social Work Program Offer Blended Learning?

Maybe you want the best of both worlds – the flexibility of an online program and the social interactions offered in in-person classes. If you do, look for a program that offers a blended learning format so you can take a mix of both face-to-face and online classes.

What Will the Social Work Classes Be Like? 

At many institutions, you’ll be required to take four to five classes per semester to qualify as a full-time student, and therefore, certain types of financial aid. Can you handle that many classes in your already busy schedule? Or do you need a lighter course load? Some online BSW programs are designed so you can focus on only a couple of classes at a time, over a shorter term. These allow you more opportunity to balance your schoolwork with other priorities.

Are the Social Work Class Sizes Small? 

In your search for the perfect fit, you should compare not just the programs, but the schools as well. Take a look at the size of the university. Do you prefer a large school or a small school? A large school can connect you with a lot of people, but it can also make you feel like a number and not a student. A smaller school can offer you smaller class sizes and a more personalized experience. Your instructors will have more time to answer your questions or tutor you on a topic when they have fewer students to teach.

Do the Instructors Have Experience in the Social Work Field?

There are a lot of great instructors out there, but the best instructors have experience in the field of social work. They know what the industry standards are and what employers want out of a college graduate. They can also share their professional experiences with you and give you real-world examples of what you might encounter on the job.

As you consider a school for an online social work degree, be sure to take a look at Limestone University. Our social work programs are well-respected, accredited, and conveniently offered online. The Online Bachelor of Science in Social Work program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education and is approved by the South Carolina Board of Social Work Examiners. If you’d like a quality degree that’s both affordable and online, request more information on our Online BSW program today.