Online LCSW Courses and Training Programs

All courses designed for students pursuing a career in licensed clinical social work (LCSW) are parts of a Master of Social Work degree program, due to LCSW licensure requiring that specific degree. While specific LCSW online training programs are not readily available due to the vast majority of social work training taking place in the field, several online master degree programs offer field work training programs that can be completed close to home.

Overview of Online LCSW Courses

While the requirements from state to state vary on many aspects in regards to licensed clinical social work (LCSW), all states require a Master's of Social Work in order to apply for licensure. Because of this, all courses discussed in this article can be found in Master of Social Work degree programs. Students who earn a LCSW certification often return to their previously established career in social work, or go on to be professional counselors or therapists. Since an LCSW certification requires a set amount of hours of supervised field work, many master degree programs require supervised field work and training.

Course Requirements

Since all coursework and assessments will be completed online, students will need a computer with Internet access. Common software required for most programs include Microsoft Word, Adobe Flash, Adobe Reader, and Microsoft PowerPoint. Online discussion rooms like Blackboard are also used in certain courses.
Since the training aspect of an LCSW certification program are completed in the field, students will need to complete an additional field application process and discuss local available placement centers with their academic advisor.

List of Online LCSW Courses and Training Programs

Introduction to Social Work Practice

In this course, students explore general theories of social work and practice methodologies in problem-solving with individuals, families and groups. Primary emphasis is placed on data collection, assessment, planning and intervention.

Women's Issues & Social Work

This course is designed to familiarize students with the social influences that affect women throughout their lives. Students cover the various issues that affect social work habits including the intersection of race, age, social class and sexual orientation.

Social Welfare Policy and Services

This course provides students with an opportunity to investigate the relationships among social welfare and public policy in American society. Emphasis is placed on understanding these relationships in terms of social and economic justice.

Social Work Ethics

This course provides students with a base of knowledge and skills to prepare them for making effective and ethical decisions that comply with the ethics and standards of professional social work practice. Both contemporary and historical ethical approaches are discusses, as well as the repercussions of each.

Field Work Training

This foundational field work course consists of supervised social work practice in a variety of agencies for a minimum of 250 hours. The goal of this field work is to apply theories learned in the classroom into practice to work with individuals, families, groups and communities.