Accelerated Social Work Degree Programs

• A social work degree can launch your career in the community and social services field.
• You can earn a fast track social work degree online.
• Top-ranked accelerated social work programs help you graduate in under four years.

There's a high demand for social workers and other social services professionals. An accelerated social work degree can get you out of college and into the workforce quickly.

You'll learn about social work practice and social welfare while fast tracking your social work degree.

Ready to get started? Next, we'll look at how to earn a fast track social work degree online, including concentration options, application requirements, and career paths.

How Fast Can I Get an Online Bachelor's in Social Work?

The length of an accelerated degree in social work varies, but many schools condense full bachelor's programs into about two years of training. These programs usually require the same 120 credits as standard programs, just in more condensed class sessions.

Courses in an accelerated online bachelor's in social work may run for 5-8 weeks rather than the traditional 14-16 weeks. Every program and student is different, but you can expect to take about 10 courses per semester in an accelerated program, doubling the standard course load.

As a result, you might spend as much as 30 hours in class and 60 hours studying each week. If you have already completed some college coursework, you can earn your degree more quickly through a degree-completion program.

What Can I Expect From an Accelerated Online Bachelor's in Social Work Program?

A bachelor's in social work attracts all types of students, but many learners tend to be compassionate and empathetic. To work in this field, you should have strong skills in time management, communication, and problem-solving.

When choosing an accelerated program, you also need a strong work ethic and the ability to handle a heavy workload. In an online bachelor's degree in social work, you learn to use your skills to improve human rights and resources for disadvantaged people and communities.

Depending on your program, you might specialize in working with children, families, or the elderly. Or you might focus your studies on working in schools, the prison system, or other mental health facilities. Upon program completion, schools may award a bachelor of social work (BSW), BS, or BA degree.

What Courses Will I Take in an Accelerated Online Bachelor's in Social Work Program?

Want to know what you'll study? In most accelerated social work programs, you'll take courses in social work practice, policy, and ethics.

Social Welfare Policies

In this course, you'll learn about the development and implementation of social work policies. You'll study how policies impact people and communities and the role social workers have in shaping and delivering them.

Social Work Ethics

In this course, you'll learn about the ethical frameworks and standards used in the social work profession. Plus, you'll explore ways of solving ethical challenges and using your professional code of ethics to identify issues and improve your decision-making.

Human Behavior

This course examines how human behavior influences how we perceive and respond to events. You'll also study how society, culture, and development alter behavior and how to analyze that behavior.

Social Work Practice

In this course, you'll explore the various professional roles available to social workers. You'll also apply your schooling to practical situations, such as leading group sessions and working with community organizations.

Working with Trauma

In this course, you'll study various types of trauma and its effects. You'll also look at programs and methods for providing trauma-informed care and implementing management strategies. This course will also help you learn how to identify and educate clients on the impact of trauma.

What Are Admission Requirements for an Accelerated Online Bachelor's in Social Work Program?

You may encounter different admission requirements depending on your school and program. Most accelerated online bachelor's in social work programs require at least a high school diploma or GED certificate. More competitive programs may ask for a minimum GPA and completed prerequisites.

Compared to on-campus programs, online programs usually feature the same requirements. However, you must meet the school and program's minimum technical requirements for an online program.

Application

You must complete and submit your undergraduate application through your school's online portal or a college application system, such as the Common App. These systems make it easier for you to apply to multiple schools without replicating information and resubmitting materials.

Test Scores

Test scores from college entrance exams help schools choose between similar applicants. At the undergraduate level, results from the SAT and ACT provide insight into your math, verbal, writing, and analytical abilities. While schools may provide waivers for these tests, others require you to meet minimum scores for entry.

Letters of Recommendation

Most school applications require 1-3 letters of recommendation from professionals who know you. The most effective letters come from teachers, school counselors, or employers from relevant fields. They should speak to your academic strengths and readiness for college.

Essays

College application essays help you stand out among the other applicants. These essays typically focus on a personal topic, such as a defining moment or what makes you unique. Schools may provide essay prompts or give you the freedom to select your own topic.

Official Transcripts

Official transcripts are a major requirement for nearly all college applications. Schools need these records to see how you fared in your previous training and what prerequisites you have and need. For transfer students, previous college coursework may lead to transfer credits, which can save degree-seekers time and money.

How Do I Choose an Accelerated Online Bachelor's in Social Work Program?

Want to earn your fast track social work degree online? It's critical to choose the program that fits your needs and goals. Here are some factors to consider.

Cost

Cost almost always plays a central role in the college decision process. You might compare online vs. on-campus program costs, public and private school tuition, or the differences between in-state and out-of-state rates.

In an accelerated program, you should also consider how your schedule impacts your ability to work.

Program Format

Since schools offer various program formats, you should evaluate which delivery method meets your needs best.

For example, you might weigh the pros and cons of synchronous and asynchronous learning or see if full-time or part-time studies fit your schedule best. Accelerated bachelor's degrees, in particular, require considerable schedule flexibility.

Location

Regardless of whether a program is online or on campus, you should include location on your list of school considerations. You may need to satisfy on-campus residencies to graduate, or you may want to use the campus facilities and go to events.

In-state schools also offer tuition discounts to residents, though some online schools provide in-state rates.

Accreditation

Choosing a school with college accreditation is essential. Attending an unaccredited school can negatively impact your financial aid, employment, or continuing education opportunities. You can also look for programs recognized by the Council on Social Work Education.

Student Support

High-quality student services can greatly improve your educational experience. In particular, online student services might provide you with academic and career support. Schools might also offer mentorship programs, internships and practicums, and networking opportunities.

What Can I Do With a Bachelor's in Social Work (BSW)? 6 Career Paths

With an accelerated social work degree, you'll qualify for nonclinical roles like caseworker, correctional treatment specialist, and health educator. You can also work as a BSW social worker. Common job titles include community manager, child advocate, and social assistant.

With experience, you can move into management roles as a community service manager, case manager, or social service manager. For clinical social work careers, you'll need a master's degree.

Career Outlook

With an accelerated degree in social work, you can apply to various community and social service jobs. As one of the most popular college majors, social work programs equip you with applicable skills to use in a fast-growing sector.

The BLS projects 10% growth for community and social service occupations between 2021 and 2031, adding almost 300,000 new jobs over that time. These professionals earned a median annual salary of $48,410 in May 2021, more than the median annual wage of $45,760 for all occupations.

You can also use your training as a foundation for careers in education or counseling if you wish to pursue more advanced degrees.

Fastest Accredited Online Bachelor's in Social Work (BSW) Programs

Frequently Asked Questions About Accelerated Social Work Degrees

Can I get a bachelor's degree in one year?

Yes. By using transfer credits, you can earn a bachelor's degree in one year. Some schools allow transfer students to apply up to 90 credits, leaving only about 30 credits remaining for a bachelor's degree. Some degree-completion programs require you to finish in one year.

Without any transfer credits, however, you should expect to take two years to complete an accelerated degree, as condensing about 120 credits into 2-3 years may be too demanding.

Are accelerated degree classes worth it?

You must determine a degree's value for yourself, as it can vary depending on your perspective and goals. Accelerated degree classes provide substantial value if you need to complete your studies quickly.

Since accelerated courses cover the same material as standard courses, there is no difference between them other than the time it takes to complete them. In an accelerated program, you might gain more value from an online degree, as online training offers flexible study schedules and reduced travel requirements.

Are accelerated bachelor's degrees as valuable as traditional degrees?

Yes. An accelerated degree in social work should be as valuable as a traditional degree as long as it is accredited. These programs provide the same schooling and credentials in a more condensed package. The accelerated training may be even more valuable if you need an earlier graduation date.

Degrees do not typically disclose if you completed a traditional or accelerated program. However, you can provide this information to prospective employers, showcasing a high commitment and determination level.

Is an accelerated bachelor's degree in social work right for me?

To determine if an accelerated degree in social work is right for you, you should consider your learning style and schedule. You can complete an accelerated bachelor's in social work in about half the time of a standard program, but it may require twice the amount of studying each week.

In addition, accelerated programs often require full-time enrollment, making it very difficult to maintain a full-time job.

Are accelerated degree programs affordable?

Tuition for an accelerated degree in social work depends on the school and the program type. Typically, accelerated programs feature the same credits and costs as traditional programs.

Some schools may charge more for accelerated programs. In contrast, accelerated programs can cost less than standard programs, particularly in schools that charge by semester or year. Degree-completion programs may also cost less because of the reduced credit requirements.