Human Service Administrator Perceptions of Online MSW Degree Programs

Online programs have proliferated rapidly in higher education, and this reality holds true for social work education as well. Employing a mixed methods design, this study looked at employer perceptions of online degrees compared to traditional degrees. Data was collected through an online survey that included Likert type and open-ended questions assessing employer attitudes and hiring practices regarding individuals who possess online MSW degrees. Results suggest that a majority of social service administrators believe traditional MSW degrees are preferable to those attained online, especially with respect to clinical training. These findings have significant implications for online MSW programs and graduates with online degrees.