I have just been told that a MSW from an online school is worthless and I'll never find employment. Advice?

[rabid_bibliophile]

I am new here so I hope I am posting this question in the correct place. I just graduated with my BA in psychology and my goal is to become a therapist. I have gone back and forth quite a bit in regards to MSW vs. MA and thought I had finally settled on LCSW. That part is a whole other can of worms, but sort of related to what just happened.

 

I was speaking online with some people in the field and discussing that I might attend grad school online for my MSW. I know there are several programs available and I'm still in the process of trying to find volunteer work in my area that I would need before I apply and also trying to find entry level work in the mental health field with just a BA. There is a local university that I could attend, but it has no concentration, which is a consideration for me. Additionally, they do not say what they are looking for in terms of volunteer work in terms of length of service, just they you have to have it. My attempts to get in touch with someone to clarify what I would need have resulted in not being able to meet with a counselor because no one will call me back. Yet another factor that has me considering online is that my husband's job may move us to another part of the country and I do not want to have to withdraw from the local program completely. Online would seem to have more flexibility. 

 

So as I spoke online to this group of people already in the field I explained that the programs I'm considering are accredited and are no different than the brick and mortar programs, just that the university offers the classes online. I was told the following and I am wondering if anyone here has any thoughts on what I was told:

 

1) The supervision will not be as good as if you went brick and mortar because the professors are juggling too many classes. Also was told I would have a hard time finding supervision.

 

2) You'll be at the bottom of a slush pile in regards to employment opportunities just simply because you went to school online. When I asked how anyone would know if I went to school online or not, since it's not on your diploma, they said that it would come up in supervision and in interviews.

 

3) Classroom interaction will be inadequate because you aren't face to face. 

 

I would appreciate any and all thoughts and advice regarding this subject. I am truly at a loss as to what I want to do pretty much because I can not decide between online and brick and mortar due to the reasons I described above.

 

Edited to add: If I were to apply at the local university and I wasn't accepted I wouldn't want to wait another year to apply. I am 45 years old and would like to go to grad school as soon as I can. I live in an area where there are no other options other than that one school or go online.

Edited May 10, 2014 by rabid_bibliophile

[guyinshortsallday]

That is a lie, do what is best for you. My friend went to an online program (USC) and she just got hired as a director. So take these opinions for face value, you are different. Good luck!

[Lifesaver]

I think it's also different depending on whether you went to a school like USC and did their online program versus going to a school like Phoenix that has no offline option and is strictly an online school.

For some people, online programs are great options. I have a number of friends who are getting or have gotten their Nurse Practitioner doctorate mostly online, but from an offline university. Due to their work schedules and other factors, it was their only option as well. And they haven't had issues getting jobs.

Personally, I took three courses online during the course of my first masters. I hated them. I really enjoy having face to face interaction with my peers, and posting back and forth, reading a ton of redundant stuff, was just not enjoyable. My professors were very hands off, too. For two of the classes I had one of my favorite professors who was absolutely fabulous offline, but didn't communicate at all online. He posted the syllabus, made short notes on assignments, and graded exams. I don't really like the idea of paying a heap of money to be self taught. You can only learn so much from a text book.

That being said, if the online program works for you and your family, do it. I would definitely contact a few more employers and agencies to see whether or not you'll run into issues getting hired in the future, though.

[KNik]

My only question would be how do you do field placements if you're getting a degree online? Can those be coordinated based on where you're living?

[rabid_bibliophile]

That is a lie, do what is best for you. My friend went to an online program (USC) and she just got hired as a director. So take these opinions for face value, you are different. Good luck!

Thank you for your reply! It's so good to know that there are those that have found work after going online!

 

 

 

I think it's also different depending on whether you went to a school like USC and did their online program versus going to a school like Phoenix that has no offline option and is strictly an online school.

For some people, online programs are great options. I have a number of friends who are getting or have gotten their Nurse Practitioner doctorate mostly online, but from an offline university. Due to their work schedules and other factors, it was their only option as well. And they haven't had issues getting jobs.

Personally, I took three courses online during the course of my first masters. I hated them. I really enjoy having face to face interaction with my peers, and posting back and forth, reading a ton of redundant stuff, was just not enjoyable. My professors were very hands off, too. For two of the classes I had one of my favorite professors who was absolutely fabulous offline, but didn't communicate at all online. He posted the syllabus, made short notes on assignments, and graded exams. I don't really like the idea of paying a heap of money to be self taught. You can only learn so much from a text book.

That being said, if the online program works for you and your family, do it. I would definitely contact a few more employers and agencies to see whether or not you'll run into issues getting hired in the future, though.

 

I did ask 2 LCSWs and they both said they didn't think it would be a problem but they were sure since they are not in charge of hiring for the places they work. One said that she would ask her supervisors. I finished the last year of my BA online and loved it. It was also an accelerated program at an accredited university so I was able to finish quickly. There were a couple of professors who didn't communicate much online, but in those classes I really didn't feel like I needed the communication (math classes). I absolutely love to read so I already knew most of what was in the textbooks, and it was really just a refresher. In the core classes that were part of my major the professors communicated quite a bit. 

 

Thank you for your reply!

 

 

My only question would be how do you do field placements if you're getting a degree online? Can those be coordinated based on where you're living?

 

Yes, the field placements are coordinated based on where you live. If you go to Boston University, and you live in California, your field placements are local. 

[guyinshortsallday]

No problem. If you are doing an online program, make sure it is accredited, and see how they are going to get you the internships, field practice, and practicums, etc. you will need to allow you to perfect your skill and apply your knowledge. I know USC is not the only school that has an online program, but I do know that they have figured out a way to make their online program work identically to those on campus regardless of the student's location.

 

 

I would just make sure you investigate how the online school you select will assist you in. 

[SFGiantsFan]

I just graduated with my BA from a local university's (Washington State University) online program.  Since the university is well known, it has not hindered me from obtaining work (since I've been attending), nor do I see it being a problem in the future.  The stigma and stereotypes of online education are simply not true.  Yes, it's not face-to-face, but in my experience (and my personal opinion), online education is more difficult because they require more "posts" (aka homework) to off-set you not physically being present for class.  And after you post, you are typically required to "respond" to 2-3 of your classmates' posts, to engage in classmate cross-conversation (and yes, there is a word-count requirement on everything).  They make certain requirements of you to make sure you are not losing out on that much of the human interaction portion of online learning.  Nothing about the program was different form the on-campus program other than not being present in class.  I was required to do a 200-hour internship and it was with a local agency (I performed mine with the CPS).  I still got the internship experience without having to drive to the university's community to do it (6 hours away).

 

As far as clinical hours and supervision, it is all still required.  I have been accepted into University of Louisville's Online Program (MSSW) for the Fall.  It's CSWE accredited... The good programs will have rules in place about how often you check in with your supervisor.  The only downside might be that you have to local the internship site yourself, but really how hard it that?  I hear a lot of this "Is online education real?" or "It's not the same" and it makes me wonder what people think we actually do.  I also set personal parameters for myself... I only applied to programs with actual "physical" campuses.  I still have a weird feeling about online universities like University of Phoenix (but that's just my opinion).

 

There are also some online MSW programs (like University of North Dakota) that are 100% synchronous, where you "attend" class 2-3 days a week by logging on to the website and Skyping your classmates for 2-hours.  You basically are "in" class, without physically being there.  This might put those people's minds at ease... But for me, it didn't allow the flexibility that I needed.

 

Ultimately you decided, but I wouldn't let a few people's personal opinions sway you from doing it, if it's the only option.  As a married 30-year-old and full-time addiction counselor with hopes of starting a family soon, online is my only option if I want to pursue grad school.  Sometimes, you just have to "punt" and see what happens... But there are options!  Good luck!

[Catlovers141]

I am beginning an online program this fall, so I know a little bit about this because I had the same worries as you!  I think it is important to remember that accreditation standards are the same for online and face-to-face programs, so the quality should be comparable.  I think that since you have done online learning before and you liked it, you might be a very good candidate for it if you choose to go that route.

 

Face-to-face field placements are required of all students at accredited programs, regardless of how the coursework is delivered.  So if you do an online program you would be required to do field placements in your geographic area.  Some schools help you find a place, but others (like mine) leave it up to you.  This I think is one of the largest downsides of doing an online program.

 

I think that in general the reputation of getting a degree online is going up.  It is becoming more acceptable as it is becoming more common and people realize that online school =/= Univ. of  Phoenix (or something similar).

[Catlovers141]

The other thing I wanted to add was that it is important to consider whether the program is synchronous or asynchronous, as SFGiantsFan pointed out.  Also, be aware that some programs have geographic limitations where students need to be living within or outside of a certain geographic area to apply.

[rabid_bibliophile]

I want to thank you ALL so much for your insightful replies! I spoke with a LCSW about this matter today and he told me that he would not hesitate to hire someone who went to an accredited program, performed well, and was licensed regardless if the instruction was online or in an actual classroom. Your replies, along with his assurance that what I was told was incorrect, have put my mind at ease regarding pursuing online if I go that route. Thank you all again!

[Catlovers141]

I'm glad that you feel better about it.  Again, it is just really important that the program is accredited, but that is just as true for face-to-face programs.  CSWE has a comprehensive listing of all accredited programs, and they also have a section on distance education programs that are accredited.  So that is a good place to check for programs.  That's what I did when I was looking for programs -- I looked up all of the distance programs on CSWE (there are not that many) to see first which ones I could not apply to because of geographic restrictions, and then looked at which ones from there I thought would be a good fit.

 

As you start looking into programs and maybe decide to start applying to them, feel free to reach out to me if you have questions about it. 

[rabid_bibliophile]

I'm glad that you feel better about it.  Again, it is just really important that the program is accredited, but that is just as true for face-to-face programs.  CSWE has a comprehensive listing of all accredited programs, and they also have a section on distance education programs that are accredited.  So that is a good place to check for programs.  That's what I did when I was looking for programs -- I looked up all of the distance programs on CSWE (there are not that many) to see first which ones I could not apply to because of geographic restrictions, and then looked at which ones from there I thought would be a good fit.

 

As you start looking into programs and maybe decide to start applying to them, feel free to reach out to me if you have questions about it. 

 

Thank you so much! I think I need some volunteer or work experience first since I see a lot of the schools require this. I spoke with USC, but the program is very expensive. I'm considering North Dakota and Edinboro. I will definitely be in touch regarding questions and thank you for offering!   

[Kristopher]

Others have addressed it and seem to have success, but as a current student doing the "traditional" route, I find the in-person experience of practicing interviewing strategies and having in-class discussion to be invaluable. I can see schools which utilize a Skype method like North Dakota being an acceptable substitute, but I think there is something lost when just interacting on message boards. I think if the school is good at assisting you in finding a good placement you will be ok, since field is where you can refine your skills.

[guyinshortsallday]

I want to thank you ALL so much for your insightful replies! I spoke with a LCSW about this matter today and he told me that he would not hesitate to hire someone who went to an accredited program, performed well, and was licensed regardless if the instruction was online or in an actual classroom. Your replies, along with his assurance that what I was told was incorrect, have put my mind at ease regarding pursuing online if I go that route. Thank you all again!

 

GO YOU! Glad we could all help. 

[Lauren8712]

I think it's also different depending on whether you went to a school like USC and did their online program versus going to a school like Phoenix that has no offline option and is strictly an online school.

For some people, online programs are great options. I have a number of friends who are getting or have gotten their Nurse Practitioner doctorate mostly online, but from an offline university. Due to their work schedules and other factors, it was their only option as well. And they haven't had issues getting jobs.

Personally, I took three courses online during the course of my first masters. I hated them. I really enjoy having face to face interaction with my peers, and posting back and forth, reading a ton of redundant stuff, was just not enjoyable. My professors were very hands off, too. For two of the classes I had one of my favorite professors who was absolutely fabulous offline, but didn't communicate at all online. He posted the syllabus, made short notes on assignments, and graded exams. I don't really like the idea of paying a heap of money to be self taught. You can only learn so much from a text book.

That being said, if the online program works for you and your family, do it. I would definitely contact a few more employers and agencies to see whether or not you'll run into issues getting hired in the future, though

 

Most of what you said is completely false.  In undergrad i transferred from the "traditional in house" school to University of Phoenix and got a Bachelors of Science in Psychology.  University of Phoenix does have ground campuses all over the US.  I graduated from the Jersey City, NJ campus in 2014.  Now that I have moved to PA with my fiance, I applied and got accepted into Widener University which has three campus, the main campus is in chester, pa.  Since I live an hour or so away from campus and work FULL TIME, I opted for the online option. My university give two options "IN HOUSE" and "COMPLETELY ONLINE"

 

There are several misconceptions about University of Phoenix and many are false. I was told several times I could never get into a "REAL SCHOOL"  and I might as well "STICK TO UOP BECAUSE MY DEGREE IS NOT WORTH ANYTHING"   I guess the millions of other students graduating from UOP with associates, bachelors, masters and doctorate degrees have "FAKE" degrees.

 

My point being is Many "traditional" schools are offering online programs for example RUTGERS UNIVERSITY, LSU, etc...online is going to take over because many masters degree students are well into their careers with families and such

[Lifesaver]

What's completely false for you may be completely true for me. It's all a matter of perspective.

[SuzyH]

I wanted to add my opinion to the discussion. I have a degree from UCLA and am currently obtaining a BSW from University of Manitoba via distance delivery, which allows me to work full time as I earn a BSW. The program is for people who have experience in social service related fields; I believe a minimum of 30 completed university credits are also required.  The professors who teach online also teach traditional instruction at the university.

 

I have just completed my first year and am impressed with the quality so far. I do find it more difficult than traditional in person instruction - you need to have excellent time management skills, be self-directed and able to complete quality work independently. We attend lectures and webinars, often work in groups, and interact with fellow students and the professors. The field coordinator traveled around the country to meet students in person.

 

I am currently applying for field placement; the only trouble I have had so far is with one organization whose staff says that they prefer to accept students from the local university (this contradicts what the organization's website says and I believe the staff is new and in error). 

 

As for future job prospects, some people may not value a degree from an online program. Some people have biases - I know someone who will only hire from her alma mater.  I am not concerned with this. I believe that the quality of online instruction has improved over the past 20 years; perceptions may not have caught up yet but as most of us enter the field and succeed I think things will change. I believe that a strong interview and experience in the field/good placement work can overcome a lot. 

 

Check the reputation and make sure that the program you attend is accredited and will be accepted by your state/provincial and national organizations. I hope this helps!