Discover the Uncommon Benefits of Online Study
With over a century of excellence, Virginia Commonwealth University’s School of Social Work is a pioneer in social work education. We take pride in our history of innovation and are committed to evolving our programs to meet the needs of individuals, families and communities through cutting-edge curricula and real-world field placements. Our Master of Social Work Program online option extends this commitment to students nationwide.
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“A quote from a student about the online learning experience.”
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Online Class Features
Small Class Size
Our classes ensure direct contact with faculty and provide opportunities for you to get to know your classmates on a first-name basis.
Manageable Time Commitment
Each course includes approximately six to eight hours of work per week. Additionally, you’ll spend 14–22 hours per week at your field placement site.
Hands-On Learning
Course modules feature a fictional agency, Commonwealth Health and Human Services (CHHS), enabling you to go beyond theory and solve social work problems firsthand.
What is it like to learn online?
Collaborative class sessions
Each course features three live online classes per semester. These synchronous sessions include discussions between students and group breakout assignments that encourage connection and collaboration.
Centralized course content
Our learning management system, Canvas, acts as your centralized hub for all course content and activity. It’s where you’ll access asynchronous materials, course syllabi and assignments — and communicate with instructors and peers.
Intuitive learning technology
Online students utilize user-friendly tools such as Kaltura, Zoom and VoiceThread during their studies. Our IT Support Center is here to help whenever you need it through email, live chat and 24/7 Canvas phone support.
A Comprehensive Support Network
As a student in our program, you’ll learn on your own schedule from wherever you are and receive personalized guidance at every step of the way. We are committed to helping you not just succeed but thrive.
- Student Success Advisor
A student success advisor will mentor you throughout your time at VCU — from orientation to graduation. They’ll work around your schedule to ensure you receive the help you need. - Accessible Faculty
You can connect virtually with your professors during their on-campus office hours. Faculty members are just as available to online students as on-campus students. - Student Support Coach
In addition to a student success advisor, you’ll be assigned a student support coach, who will provide individualized guidance and help — to assist you before and during the program, ensuring you have the resources you need to succeed.
- Field Education Support
Our field education coordinators and placement advisors will help secure a local field placement and provide assistance whenever you have questions. - M.S.W. Community
With a strong history of collaboration, VCU is committed to training practitioners who value partnership and collegiality. You’ll find our student cohorts form a genuine community of advocates. - Student Accessibility and Educational Opportunity
Prospective and current students who need to discuss possible accommodations or disability-related support may contact VCU’s Office of Student Accessibility and Educational Opportunity via phone or email. Students can also find answers to many commonly asked questions by visiting the office’s FAQ page.