MSW online USC or Indiana University? Specializations?

[kimmiess]

I am really at a loss between deciding on which school I want to apply to.  USC has a good reputation, but I found some things online about how they have had some issues, at least when they started the program online, some specializations may not be available online, and that field work may be a problem.  I looked through some syllabuses and its overwhelming, but that's grad school.  Indiana's online program is also very new, just started their 5th class.  There are at least three synchronous meetings per class, otherwise there are recorded lectures and modules that help teach.  I cannot find any syllabuses online to know how they are in comparison to USC.  I don't really want to take a trip to Indiana for three days, but Ill do it if I must.  I have not been able to locate anyone who has personal experience with either program.  I don't know if USC is worth the extra debt and major scholarship searching and applying.  I don't want an asynchronous program, I want something with some synchronous and part time.  I also need something flexible since I am a military spouse.  Can anyone offer some personal experience?  

 

Also, are specializations that important?  I may want to eventually do things outside of my specialization.  I had a professor in my BSW program that said they don't matter all that much.  Just wondering if that is true. 

 

Thanks!

Edited January 19, 2014 by kimmiess