The search begins

(Original post from http://gettingmymsw.blogspot.com/)

So now that I have decided to go back to school to finish my master's degree in social work, what school do I attend? Initially when I started the MSW (Master of Social Work) program nearly two years ago, I did an online program at the University of New England (UNE) which was great because of the convenience but the cost of the program, not to mention personal issues I was going through at the time, caused me to withdraw from the program. I actually have 12 credits and returning to UNE would be beneficial because my credits would transfer with no problems; however with the current tuition at over $800/credit and the nearly 20 hour/week required for the internship component of the program, I am skeptical about going back to the program without significant financial, professional, and emotional support.

On campus programs

There are variety of on campus MSW programs in my area, including New York University, Hunter College, and Adelphi University but all programs (with the exception of the public universities) are very expensive! Even if expense wasn't an issue, it would be extremely difficult and close to impossible for me to go to classes in the evening and/or Saturdays because I would never know if my husband is working or not, leaving me without someone to look after our children. Traveling to classes from work would also be difficult (with the exception of Adelphi). Graduate school is hard enough as it is. The last thing I need to worry about is whether or not I have to miss class because no one can watch my children or being late to class because I got stuck in rush hour traffic. Weekend childcare could be an option but I already pay enough for childcare during the week.

My choice: an online MSW program

Due to its convenience, an online MSW program is ideal for me and I am probably going to go that route again if and when I decide to return to school. The good news is more and more reputable colleges and universities are adding online components to already established MSW programs. In fact from the time I withdrew from UNE until now the number of accredited online and distance learning MSW programs has probably doubled! Now if only I could find a school that not going to put me in debt for the rest of my life...