Is MSW Advanced Standing Worth It? Pros & Cons Inside

Are you thinking about becoming a social worker? If you already have a Bachelor’s in Social Work, you might be wondering: Is MSW Advanced Standing worth it?

Let’s talk about what this special graduate programmes is, how it works, and the pros and cons of taking this quicker path to getting your Master of Social Work (MSW).

What Is MSW Advanced Standing?

An MSW Advanced Standing programmes helps students who already have a Social Work Degree finish their MSW more quickly. It skips the beginner classes and focuses on the harder stuff you haven’t learned yet.

Most people can finish this fast-track MSW in just one year. That’s much faster than a regular graduate school programmes, which usually takes two years.

Many students in the USA choose this path because it saves them time and money

Traditional MSW vs Advanced Standing MSW

Feature	Traditional MSW	Advanced Standing MSW
Duration	2 years	1 year
Entry Requirement	Any undergraduate degree	BSW from accredited programme
Cost	Higher	Lower
Suitable for Career Changers	Yes	No
Flexibility	Moderate	High (Online MSW options)
Field Placement Hours	Full requirement	Shortened (still required)
Depth of Study	More electives & options	Focused and faster

Average MSW Salary in 2025

Benefits of Advanced Standing MSW

1. It Saves Time and Money

You can finish school faster, and that means you’ll pay less. You’ll also start working sooner, which helps you earn money earlier.

2. Learn New Skills Faster

Since you already know the basics, this programme helps you get straight to advanced topics like clinical social work, field placement, and real-world practice.

3. Great for Online Learners

Many schools now offer online MSW options or hybrid MSW programmes. You can study from home and still meet other students online or in person.

4. Start Your Career Sooner

You can begin working in human services, mental health counselling, or as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) much faster than with a traditional course.

Cons of Advanced Standing MSW

1. It’s Fast and Busy

Because it’s a time-saving degree, the classes are packed with information. You’ll need to manage your time well.

2. Less Time to Explore

This programme is short, so you might not get to try out different classes or special topics in social work education.

3. Not for Everyone

To join, your first degree must come from a CSWE-accredited university. You also need good grades and may need to apply soon after finishing your first degree.

So, Is It Worth It?

If you’re ready to jump into a career and help people, then yes—MSW Advanced Standing is worth it. It helps you get your Master of Social Work faster and cheaper. You’ll also be ready for jobs that make a real difference in people’s lives.

But if you’re not sure what area of social work you want to go into yet, or you want to take your time, a regular postgraduate social work course might be better for you.

Resources

Final Thoughts

Whether you choose the quick path or the longer one, getting your MSW is a great way to grow your skills and help others. With so many accredited programmes, online education platforms, and MSW specializations out there, you can find the one that’s just right for you.

So take a deep breath, explore your options, and choose the path that fits you

FAQ

It’s a shortened Master’s in Social Work for those who already have a BSW. It saves time and money by skipping foundational coursework.

Typically, students with a recent BSW from a CSWE-accredited institution and a good academic record.

Yes, field placement is still a part of the course, though it may be shorter than in traditional programmes.

Absolutely. Many universities now offer flexible online MSW and hybrid MSW programs.