M.S.W. goes online

Walla Walla University launches online M.S.W. program

Walla Walla University is expanding its Master of Social Work (M.S.W.) program with a fully online format, increasing flexibility and access for aspiring social work professionals across the country.

Rooted in WWU's mission to cultivate ethical and competent social workers who embody integrity, value all individuals, serve their communities, and advocate for social justice, the online M.S.W. program mirrors the rigorous curriculum of its on-campus counterpart. The program equips students with comprehensive training to meet the evolving demands of today’s social work field.

Program highlights:

  • Flexible online format: Designed for working professionals, the program offers synchronous sessions on Tuesday and Thursday evenings via Microsoft Teams, allowing students to balance their studies with personal and professional commitments.
  • Accreditation: The M.S.W. program is fully accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, ensuring adherence to the highest educational standards in social work.
  • Curriculum: Students engage in a curriculum that emphasizes ethical practice, social justice, and evidence-based interventions, covering areas such as human behavior, social welfare policy, research methods, and advanced clinical practice.
  • Field education: The program includes supervised field placements in students' local communities, providing hands-on experience in diverse settings such as hospitals, schools, and nonprofit organizations.

The online program offers two distinct enrollment tracks to accommodate students from diverse academic backgrounds. The Advanced Standing track is for students with a Bachelor of Social Work from an accredited program and can be completed in as little as one year. The Regular Standing track is designed for students with a bachelor’s degree in any discipline and typically takes at least two years to complete.

Both tracks combine synchronous and asynchronous training in ethical and evidence-based social work practice, preparing graduates for impactful careers in a variety of settings. 

"Our synchronous practice courses give students the chance to build skills in real time, just like our in-person program," said Deisy Haid, associate professor of social work and sociology. "It's convenience without compromising quality."

WWU offers various financial aid options, including scholarships and grants, to support students in their educational journey. Prospective students are encouraged to apply early to secure their place in the program and to explore scholarship opportunities.

To learn more or start your application, visit wallawalla.edu/online-msw.

Posted July 15, 2025