Master of Social Work program graduating first online class

Charlotte Tuggle | 5/5/2025

Aerial view of students using various electronic devices to complete coursework

Auburn University’s May commencement ceremonies will mark a new milestone for the Master of Social Work program with the first graduation of its new online option.

The Master of Social Work program, established in 2017, prepares graduates for advanced clinical social work with a focus on health and mental health. To provide an avenue for working adults, social work faculty and Auburn Online developed a part-time, asynchronous program in 2023.

Program Director Danilea Werner said the online option is comprehensive and fully accredited, delivering high-quality education with increased flexibility for future social workers.

“Individuals choose to become social workers due to their deep commitment to helping others and improving society,” Werner said. “These students will contribute to society by empowering individuals and communities to enhance their individual and collective well-being."

Tiffany Pope enrolled in the Master of Social Work program because she’s always been passionate about helping others navigate challenging circumstances. She said the online program equipped her with the knowledge, skills and confidence to be an effective social work practitioner.

“The online format was ideal for my busy personal and professional life,” Pope said. “It provided me the flexibility to balance my coursework with my role as a wife, mother and working professional, while still maintaining a high level of engagement and participation. The program's flexibility and rigorous coursework have allowed me to grow both personally and professionally.”

Graduates of Auburn’s social work programs enjoy a high first-time passage rate on the national licensure exam and a 95% job placement rate. Licensed social workers work in hospitals, schools, therapy, child welfare, veteran services and many other areas.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the social work profession is projected to grow seven percent by 2033 – faster than the average for all occupations.

Aleah Meadows, a practicing Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker, pursued the master’s program as part of her journey to obtain a clinical license. Meadows said the online option provided intentional, meaningful learning opportunities.

“Engaging with the work has reminded me of why I chose social work in the first place, even when the challenges seem like they are too much,” Meadows said. “Social work is not an easy field, and there are days when it feels overwhelming, but this program has given me the resilience and the tools to keep pressing on. It has reminded me that the work we do as social workers, while difficult, is essential and worth the challenge.”

Learn more and apply at the Online MSW Program website.

Tags: Social Work Students