Florida State University
Online MSW for Mississippi Residents
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Part-time to balance your busy life- First online MSW accredited by CSWE
- Clinically-focused curriculum
This course focuses on reciprocal relationships between human behavior and social environments. Content includes empirically based theories and knowledge that focus on the interactions between and among systems of all sizes, including individuals, groups, societies, and economic systems. Theories and knowledge of biological, psychological, sociological, cultural, and spiritual development across the lifespan are critiqued, especially as they relate to at-risk populations. In addition, theories and knowledge about the range of social systems (individual, family, group, organizational, and community) in which people live are examined, including the ways social systems promote or deter people in maintaining or achieving health and well-being.
Prepare for the future of social work in Mississippi—and across the country—with Florida State University. Don’t let your location limit your education. Our online Master in Social Work (MSW) program is regularly listed as one of the best in the nation. Part-time coursework allows you to continue working full-time as you build your knowledge, practical skills and national network.
This course provides students with knowledge and skills related to the theory, research, and implications of child and adolescent maltreatment for child development and psychopathology. Course content is presented within the context of child welfare practice and social work with children and adolescents in public agencies and programs. Particular attention will be given to common psychological disorders that result from maltreatment and accompanying treatment issues. Issues related to individuals, families, groups, and communities are covered and attention is given to working with ethnic minorities, women, gays and lesbians, and persons with disabilities.
There are two options for earning your MSW online:
Advance Standing Program: For those with a Bachelor's of Social Work. Complete in 2 years with 1 in-field placement.
Traditional Program: For those with a Bachelor's in another area of study. Complete in 3 years with 2 in-field placements.
This advanced practice course emphasizes development of clinical skills. Students will refine their clinical skills, building on the research-based, nonspecific (common factors) components of therapeutic work (i.e., therapeutic alliance, empathy, goal consensus/collaboration, positive regard/affirmation, and genuineness) and specific factors (validated treatments). The course provides in-depth coverage of three empirically based models; Solution Focused, Motivational Interviewing, and Interpersonal Therapy. Learning applications of techniques informed by these models provides opportunities to enhance professional use of self. The course examines similarities and differences among models and allows students to discern appropriate use of techniques, client populations, settings, and problem interactions. Students will develop competency in the ethical and strength-based use of these models.
By 2030, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects social work job growth will increase nationally by 12%.1 This translates to approximately 89,200 new job openings for social workers to make a difference. It’s estimated that nearly 75% of social worker positions require an MSW or higher qualification.2 Earning an MSW could elevate your impact, employability and earning potential by over $13,000 more than those with a BSW alone—based on various factors such as industry, title and location.3
Social Work in Mississippi
- Mississippi employs more than 5,600 social workers.4
- The Kaiser Family Foundation reported that mental health in Mississippi is changing. 39.2% of residents reported increased depression and anxiety.5 Social workers can help address behavioral health and promote well-being through assessment, diagnosis, and treatment.
- Born in Mississippi, Ida B. Wells-Barnett was an early leader of the civil rights movement who advocated for issues dealing with civil rights and women’s suffrage.6
- Over 40% of social workers in Mississippi hold an MSW or higher qualification.7
- The Mississippi Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers denotes the following causes for state-level advocacy8:
- Mental Health Association of South Mississippi
- Mississippi Adequate Education Program
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program
If you wish to the title of Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Mississippi, you will need to take the following steps:
- Graduate from a bachelor’s or master’s degree program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).
- Apply for a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) license through the Mississippi Board of Examiners for Social Workers and Marriage & Family Therapists.
- Complete two years of professional social work experience supervised by an LCSW.
- Request an at-home fingerprint card for the criminal background check.
- Submit a completed LCSW application.
- Pass the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Clinical exam.
Requirements for licensure may change so be sure to frequently check Mississippi state requirements to ensure you are on the correct path to licensure.
Our devoted faculty and commitment to research help put us in the top 15% of social work graduate schools ranked by U.S. News & World Report.
Join the vibrant FSU community consistently recognized by INSIGHT Into Diversity for its commitment to diversity and inclusion.
As one of the first online MSW accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, we rigorously adhere to CSWE accreditation standards.
Curriculum Snapshot
Our clinically-focused curriculum qualifies you to pursue a license in clinical social work in Mississippi. This is a sample list of courses you will take while enrolled in our MSW programs. For the complete Traditional and Advanced MSW program course list, please download your guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
For more than 100 years, FSU has offered classes on social welfare—establishing us as a center of social work practice and policy.
We are renowned for our research contributions and quality of education. U.S. News & World Report ranks us in the top 15% of social work graduate schools.
Yes, all coursework is completed online except for field placements that develop practical competence and confidence through hands-on experience.
The difference between our programs is dependent on your undergraduate experience.
The Advanced Standing MSW is available to students who have completed a bachelor’s degree in social work from a Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredited institution.
The Traditional MSW is for students who hold a bachelor’s degree in any concentration other than social work.
The Traditional MSW program is 61 credit hours, the Advanced Standing MSW is 39 credit hours. Tuition varies based on your location:
- In-state (Florida): $444 per credit hour
- Out-of-state: $625 per credit hour
Costs are subject to change. Additional course fees may apply.
An online Master of Social Work equips you to achieve and lead greater outcomes in schools, communities, government, healthcare, and public and private organizations. Possible roles could include:
- Case management supervisor
- Clinical social worker
- Crisis manager
- Licensed mental health therapist
- Private practitioner
All field placements are completed in person, generally during regular business hours. Traditional MSW students complete two field placements, Advanced Standing MSW students must complete one field placement.
For this online program, there is currently only a part-time option. You can take a maximum of two courses at a time.
No, the College of Social Work does not require a GRE at this time.
Hear From Our Students
The weekend intensive was great. It's been awesome to meet some of the students that I've doing the course with, and I've learned a tremendous amount just in the two days I've been here.
Frederico Bravo
MSW Graduate
We have all the support that you'd need in this program. I really don't think I can encounter any situation where I wouldn't have the support of my faculty and fellow classmates.
Dana Pina
MSW Graduate
I chose FSU because I did a lot of research online, and I really felt like this was the best program. You do have to come a couple of times to the campus, but I really think that enhances the experience. The quality of the education so far has been top notch.
Michelle O'Neill
MSW Graduate
Anyone who's considering it should do it. Every month the goes by could be a semester. Make your life bigger, better, and more exciting.
