Each college or university offering a MSW degree through distance learning uses different methods to deliver courses to students. The University of Maine has six locations across the state where students meet and connect to others in the degree program via interlinked video. Michigan State University offers their courses online although students are required to attend a regional meeting in their area once every month as well as a week-long institute during the summer on their main campus. For students considering a distance learning MSW program, it's important they find a program which has delivery methods that work for their schedule and needs.
Any student considering a distance learning program in social work needs to check to ensure the program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education. This is a national accrediting agency that ensures college and university programs are teaching the information and skills students will need once they are employed in the social work field. When applying for a social work license, applicants are required to show proof of graduating from a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education to obtain their license.
Each university offering a MSW degree via distance learning sets their own time frame for degree completion. Michigan State University offers all students a three-year program, which includes classes during the fall, spring and summer semesters. Colorado State University has a three-year program as well, but students who have earned a bachelor's degree in social work can request advanced standing in the program. This eliminates some of the course work and cuts the length of the program down from three years to two years.
Although admission requirements can vary, students are usually required to submit an application for admission and transcripts from their undergraduate degree. Many, such as Michigan State University and Colorado State University, require students to volunteer or work a specific number of hours or years in a human service field before applying for their MSW distance learning program.
One of the biggest concerns students have returning to school for their master's degree is the cost. The number of credit hours varies between schools as Colorado State University requires 62 credit hours for their degree while Michigan State University only requires 57, as of 2009. However tuition is slightly higher for Michigan students who pay $478 per credit hour while Colorado students only pay $444. Fortunately, many distance learning programs in social work qualify for students to receive financial aid and scholarships if they are eligible.