If you are interested in pursuing a career in social work, understanding the differences between a bachelor of social work (BSW) and a master of social work (MSW) is a must.

Is a social work degree worth it? That depends on your career goals. BSW and MSW degree programs are both designed to help develop the social workers of tomorrow—but which one is right for you?

This guide is here to help. Below, we’ll break down the BSW vs. MSW conversation to help you choose the best possible educational track for your career and needs.

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Exploring the BSW and the MSW 

Before we jump into comparisons, let’s define each social work degree program in detail:¹

• Bachelor of social work (BSW) – BSW degree programs focus on preparing students for entry-level roles and long-term careers in the social work profession. BSW curricula typically cover foundational information related to social welfare policy, human behavior, and community resources. After graduating from a BSW program, a student could pursue a job as a social service assistant, case manager, or community outreach worker—careers that make a substantial impact on individuals and communities.
• Master of social work (MSW) – MSW degrees focus on advanced clinical approaches, leadership in the social work practice, and more. MSW students typically explore in-depth and specialized concepts in clinical social work and other advanced practice skills (like research approaches). MSW graduates often pursue more senior-level roles as licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs) or social work supervisors.

Key Differences Between a BSW and MSW 

BSW and MSW programs differ in a few key ways:

• Educational requirements – A BSW is an undergraduate degree while an MSW is a graduate degree—so, naturally, the latter often requires students to complete more advanced coursework. However, some MSW programs are shorter than BSW programs.
• Focus on practice – BSW programs are general and community-focused; they give future social workers a broad picture of the industry landscape and best practices. However, MSW programs allow students to develop specialized skills: clinical, policy-related, or administrative acumen, for example.
• Licensing and credentials – While the MSW vs. LCSW conversation is nuanced, MSWs are generally eligible to take the Licensed Clinical Social Worker examination. BSW graduates don’t automatically qualify for licensure, but they often have access to roles that may not require licensure—roles that certainly still make a positive impact.²

The Path from BSW to MSW 

Instead of choosing just one of these degree programs, many prospective social workers decide to pursue both: After graduating with a BSW, they go on to complete an MSW program.

This can be an advantageous pathway for students; some may be able to pursue advanced standing programs that allow BSW graduates to complete their MSW in a shorter time frame. There are professional benefits, too:

• Expanded job opportunities – What can you do with a master’s in social work? In many cases, more than you might be able to do with a BSW. Graduate degrees inherently expand students’ career opportunities, allowing them to both expand their knowledge and get into more specialized career paths.
• Clinical eligibility – Only MSW graduates qualify for the LCSW licensure exam; LCSW licensees are some of the only social workers authorized to work in a clinical capacity (as mental health counselors, for instance). Thus, many future social workers pursue an advanced degree to reach their clinical goals.

How to Decide Between a BSW and MSW 

With all of the above in mind, which program is right for you?

• Consider a BSW degree if you’re interested in community-level work, policy, advocacy, or support roles. A BSW degree can also serve as a springboard for degrees in other disciplines, including law.
• An MSW degree might be a good match for you if you’re interested in direct practice, therapy, clinical work, or social work leadership roles.

As you assess your goals, consider:

• Timeline – While master’s programs are typically shorter than bachelor’s degree programs, pursuing both can take multiple years.
• Cost – Graduate programs typically cost more than undergraduate programs; depending on your ideal career, it may not make sense to pursue a more advanced degree if you won’t recoup the cost.³

Educational Pathways for Both Degrees 

BSW and MSW programs feature distinct academic pathways:

• BSW degree tracks are structured like other bachelor’s degree programs; they require students to complete general education requirements, major-specific courses (in social welfare policy or history, for example), fieldwork, and internships.
• MSW degree tracks, like other graduate programs, can be tailored to both full- and part-time students, may be offered online, and can give students an opportunity to specialize in a social work niche (like working with a specific clinical population, for instance).

The Importance of Accreditation 

No matter which degree track you choose (or if you choose to complete both BSW and MSW programs), make sure to choose a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). A degree from a CSWE-accredited program ensures high-quality education and eligibility for key credentials, like becoming a certified social worker.

CSWE’s vision is “To ensure a well-educated social work profession equipped to promote health, well-being, and justice for all people in a diverse society.”⁴ To achieve this vision, the organization reviews and accredits social work degree programs to maintain high standards across the academic landscape.

A degree from a CSWE-accredited program is the gold standard for social work education.

Start Your Pathway to Become a Social Worker 

In short, a BSW is an undergraduate degree, while an MSW is a graduate degree; the former is less advanced than the latter. Each degree track opens unique career opportunities for prospective social work professionals.

Do you need a master’s to be a social worker? Not necessarily, but an MSW opens up many more opportunities, especially for those aiming for clinical roles or leadership positions.

Ready to start your social work career with a strong foundation? Explore the master of social work program at Alliant International University. We’re committed to helping future social workers build the professional and clinical skills they need to achieve fulfilling careers.

Learn more about our program and apply today.

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Sources: 

1.   Amaral, Fernanda Vargas. “MSW vs. BSW: 6 Differences Between the Social Work Degrees.” Indeed. April 18, 2024. https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/msw-vs-bsw. Accessed December 10, 2024.
2. “Types of Social Work Degrees.” National Association of Social Workers. 2024. https://www.socialworkers.org/Careers/Career-Center/Explore-Social-Work…. Accessed December 10, 2024. 
3. Kerr and Wood. “Is Graduate School Worth the Cost?” US News. March 17, 2023. https://www.usnews.com/education/best-graduate-schools/paying/articles/…. Accessed December 10, 2024. 
4. “About CSWE.” Council on Social Work Education. 2024. https://www.cswe.org/about-cswe/. Accessed December 10, 2024.