Colorado offers a few programs for students and professionals looking to obtain their Master of Social Work degrees online. The Metropolitan State University of Denver offers fully online programs as well as a mixed traditional program where coursework can be accessed on campus, hybrid, or online. Lastly, Colorado State University at Fort Collins offers a distance hybrid course, combining off campus courses with two intensive learning weekends a semester at different areas in the state.

Please note: All online MSW programs require students to complete field education at a local health services agency.

In the tables below, click on the school name to learn more about the programs offered by that school.

Metropolitan State University of Denver also offers a fully online program requiring no visits in addition to offering a mixed traditional program. This program allows for coursework to be accessed online and on campus. Both of these online MSW programs offer traditional and advanced standing admissions either full time or part time.

Colorado State University (CSU) offers hybrid MSW cohorts that combine mostly online coursework with limited required in-person learning. CSU’s hybrid cohorts are available in Denver, Boulder, and Fort Collins, and the program typically includes one in-person learning weekend per semester at the cohort location.

CSU also offers both traditional (full program) and advanced standing pathways (for students who already hold a CSWE-accredited BSW), with part-time online/hybrid options designed for working professionals.

Many online MSW programs accept students who live in Colorado, but eligibility may depend on the school’s state authorization status and whether the program includes field placements (practicum/internships) that must be completed in Colorado. Schools often satisfy state-authorization requirements through the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA), which Colorado participates in.

For example, the University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA) lists Colorado on its authorization-by-state page and notes that it offers distance education under SARA (students pursuing professional licensure should still confirm state-specific requirements). Similarly, the University of Missouri (Mizzou) notes that it participates in SARA, while also emphasizing that program availability can vary by state and that practicums/clinical placements may be affected by state rules.Tip: Before applying, students should confirm (1) the school is authorized for Colorado, and (2) the MSW program can support required field education placements in the student’s local area.

All online MSW programs require field education at a local health services agency. Programs that are 100% online do not require students to visit the campus during the program.

The Colorado State Board of Social Work Examiners regulates social work credentials in the state, including the Licensed Social Worker (LSW) and Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). Colorado also uses additional credentials in the pathway to practice, such as the Clinical Social Worker Candidate (SWC) registration and, in limited circumstances, a Provisional Social Worker credential.  Information regarding licensure in Colorado was last retrieved in January 2026.

For more detailed information on becoming a social worker in Colorado, visit the Colorado State Board of Social Work Examiners. You can also refer to our guides on general requirements for becoming a social worker and becoming an LCSW.

Information last updated: January 2026