Social work is similar to most academic disciplines in that it has a long history, has been strengthened by countless amounts of research, and has evolved over time. This evolution, spurred on by the application of social work within various arenas, has led to the formal recognition of subfields such as child and family social work, medical social work, and substance abuse social work, among others. It’s no surprise that new subfields are beginning to emerge, and one that’s gaining momentum focuses on the intersection of social work and environmental consciousness. While it goes by many names, this new subfield is primarily referred to as “Ecological Social Work.”
- Baylor University Master of Social Work - Bachelor's holders can prepare for social work licensure with Baylor's CSWE-accredited MSW program online. Complete in as few as 12-16 months. No GRE required. Visit School's Website
- Fordham's top-ranked Graduate School of Social Service Online Master of Social Work - Top-25 ranked online MSW offers both Traditional and Advanced standing programs. Both CSWE-accredited programs allow you to earn your degree full-time or part-time. Visit School's Website
- Howard University top 25-ranked School of Social Work is proud to offer its MSW program online with no GRE required to apply. In as few as 36 months, you can earn a 60-credit MSW on a part-time schedule. Visit School's Website
- Grand Canyon University offers online Bachelor of and Master of Social Work degrees that prepare you to begin or position yourself for possible career advancement in social work.
- USC University of Southern California Online MSW - With options for both online and in-person field placement, USC's CSWE-accredited MSW program allows those with a BSW to earn their degree in as few as 12 months. Visit School's Website
- Capella University's CSWE accredited online Master of Social Work program helps prepare students to enter the general or clinical practice role. An Advanced Standing MSW option is available. Capella also offers an online Doctor of Social Work. Click Here to contact Capella University about their Master of Social Work program or Doctor of Social Work program.
- Regis College School of Health Sciences MSW program offers a 100% online* accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). It has been designed for those interested in growing in their current role, including licensure, as well as those interested in a new career in social work. Visit School's Website
- Ohio University - America’s most vulnerable citizens lack equitable access to critical social services. But with an online Master of Social Work, you’ll help implement meaningful solutions that deliver care to underserved communities in both rural areas and big cities. Visit School's Website
- Our Lady of the Lake University offers its Online BSW and MSW: No GRE or GMAT is required for admission. Advanced Standing available. Visit School's Website
In order to learn more about this growing subfield of social work we spoke with Dr. Fred Besthorn of Wichita State University, founder of The Global Alliance for a Deep-Ecological Social Work. In the Interview, Dr. Besthorn discusses the origins of Ecological Social Work, the research supporting it, and what he sees for the future of the field.
If you’re interested in learning more about Ecological Social Work, we encourage you to visit www.ecosocialwork.org, or reach out to Dr. Besthorn.
