Online MSW Programs in Missouri (MO)

As of January 2026, Missouri offers two fully online MSW programs through in‑state institutions: the University of Missouri and Missouri State University.

The University of Missouri School of Social Work in Columbia delivers its online MSW in a cohort format with a structured plan of study. Most coursework is asynchronous, though some live, synchronous sessions are required for activities such as role‑playing and interactive learning with faculty and peers.

Missouri State University also offers a fully online MSW program, available in both full‑time and part‑time formats. Coursework is delivered entirely online, with the exception of required in‑person practicum experiences.

As with all accredited MSW programs, students in both online options must complete supervised field education at an approved local health or social services agency.

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

The University of Missouri School of Social Work’s online MSW program offers traditional and advanced-standing tracks, as well as concentrations in Advanced Clinical Practice and Policy, Planning, and Administration in Human Services. The online format is designed for part-time study; students typically take two courses per semester, with an expected completion time of about 3 years (9 semesters) for regular standing and 2 years (6 semesters) for advanced standing. As part of the degree, students complete required supervised field education through an approved agency (the MU catalog describes the practicum requirement as 600 hours).

In addition to Mizzou, Missouri residents have other in-state and out-of-state online MSW options. Program designs vary: some are fully online aside from field placement requirements, while others include optional or required in-person immersions (which can appeal to students who want occasional face-to-face interaction). Tuition policies also vary by school; some programs charge a single online tuition rate regardless of residency, so it’s worth comparing multiple programs for format, field placement support, and total cost before applying.

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.

How to Become a Social Worker in Missouri

The Missouri Division of Professional Registration (DPR) oversees social work licensure through the Missouri Committee for Social Workers. Missouri issues four types of social work licenses: Licensed Advanced Macro Social Worker (LAMSW), Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW), and Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW). Below are some common steps to become a social worker in Missouri, which you should confirm with Missouri Board of Social Workers. Information regarding licensure in Missouri was last retrieved in January 2026.

Pathway to Become an LAMSW in Missouri

  • Earn a qualifying graduate social work degree. Complete a master’s degree in social work (MSW) from a CSWE-accredited program (or a doctoral social work degree acceptable to the committee).
  • Complete supervised advanced macro experience. Accrue at least 3,000 hours of supervised advanced macro social work experience in no less than 24 months and no more than 48 consecutive months under a qualified supervisor. 
  • Apply for licensure. Submit your LAMSW application to the Missouri Division of Professional Registration (DPR), State Committee for Social Workers, with required documentation (education, supervision/experience, and exam results).

Pathway to Become an LCSW in Missouri

  • Earn a CSWE-accredited MSW. Complete a Master of Social Work degree from a CSWE-accredited program. 
  • Obtain your LMSW first (before supervision starts). Missouri’s supervision rules indicate supervised experience toward clinical licensure is only acceptable after issuance of the master’s-level license (LMSW).
  • Register your supervision before you begin. Missouri requires supervised social work experience to be registered for approval prior to the beginning of supervision. 
  • Complete supervised clinical experience. Accrue 3,000 hours of supervised experience in no less than 24 months and no more than 48 consecutive months.
  • Pass the ASWB Clinical exam (at the right point in the process). The required exam for the LCSW is the ASWB Clinical exam, and Missouri states the exam is not acceptable if taken before completing at least 2,250 hours and 18 months of supervised experience. 
  • Apply for LCSW licensure with the State Committee for Social Workers. Submit the LCSW application and required documentation to the State Committee for Social Workers, including required training and background check items (e.g., 2 hours of suicide assessment training within the prior 2 years and fingerprints/background checks).

Pathway to Become an LMSW in Missouri

  • Earn a qualifying graduate social work degree. Complete a CSWE-accredited Master of Social Work (MSW) (or a doctoral social work degree acceptable under Missouri rules).
  • Apply to the State Committee for Social Workers (Missouri DPR). Submit the LMSW application and required documentation to the Missouri Division of Professional Registration (DPR), State Committee for Social Workers (including items such as official transcripts and fingerprint/background-check materials, as required). 
  • Pass the ASWB Masters exam. Missouri uses the ASWB “Masters” examination for LMSW licensure. Timing note: Missouri indicates LMSW candidates may be able to sit for the exam up to 60 days prior to graduation if the required school letter and application materials are submitted.Meet Missouri’s training requirement. Include evidence of the required suicide prevention training with the initial application (and for renewal, as applicable).

Pathway to Become an LBSW in Missouri

  • Earn a CSWE-accredited BSW. Complete a baccalaureate degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited program.
  • Apply through the State Committee for Social Workers (Missouri DPR). Submit your application to the Missouri Division of Professional Registration (DPR), State Committee for Social Workers, including required documentation (Missouri’s process may include fingerprints/background check and official school documentation). 
  • Pass the ASWB Bachelors exam. Missouri uses the ASWB Bachelors licensing exam for the LBSW level. Timing note: Missouri indicates LBSW candidates may be able to sit for the exam up to 60 days before graduation if required materials are submitted.
  • Meet Missouri’s suicide training requirement. Missouri statute requires the application to include a statement that the applicant completed two hours of suicide assessment/referral/treatment/management training.

For more detailed information on becoming a social worker in Missouri, visit the Missouri Committee for Social Workers. You can also refer to our guides on general requirements for becoming a social worker and becoming an LCSW.

Information last updated: January 2026