Earn Your Cleveland BSW Online at MVNU
Make a difference—right where you are.
At Mount Vernon Nazarene University, our online BSW for Cleveland working adults is for those who are ready to turn compassion into action. Whether you’re already serving others or just beginning to explore your purpose, this fully online program equips you with the skills, knowledge, and faith foundation to lead in the field of social work.
If you've earned an associate degree in human services or social work from another institution, you may be able to transfer your credits toward your BSW at MVNU, accelerating your path to graduation.
And while you’ll earn your degree online, you’ll never feel like just a number. You’ll be supported by a community that sees your potential and helps you rise to it.
Looking for something flexible, purposeful, and deeply connected to your Cleveland roots? Start with our online BSW in Ohio — and make your next step count.
Discover a BSW Program Cleveland Students Trust
Why relocate when you can earn your BSW in Cleveland, Ohio? At MVNU, we’ve built an online program that fits around your schedule—because we know you’re already juggling a lot. Whether you're working full time, already studying, or looking to switch careers, this fully online BSW is designed to move with you, not against you.
We keep classes small, so you can actually talk to your professors—and they’ll know your name. Our instructors bring real-world experience to the table, from mental health services to child welfare. And because this is MVNU, you’ll get a program rooted in Christian values and centered on purpose, service, and personal attention.
Even though you’re learning online, you’re not going it alone. You’ll be part of a community that encourages you to grow—personally, professionally, and spiritually. And while this program is fully online, it’s tailored for students right here in Ohio—especially those who live and work in and around Cleveland.
Curriculum stats/highlights
Courses
|
Core Courses
|
Credit Hours |
| Student Success Strategies | 1 |
| Foundations of Generalist Social Work Practice | 3 |
| Social Justice and Advocacy | 3 |
| Introduction to Statistics | 3 |
| Social Science Research Methods | 3 |
| Human Behavior and the Social Environment I | 3 |
| Social Work Practice with Individuals | 3 |
| Human Behavior and the Social Environment II | 3 |
| Social Work Practice with Groups | 3 |
| Social Work Practice with Families | 2 |
| Preparation for Field Education | 1 |
| Social Work Practice with Organization and Communities | 3 |
| Analysis of Social Policy | 3 |
| Integrated Social Work Seminar | 2 |
| Social Work Practicum | 10 |
| Introduction to Mathematical Systems | 3 |
| Health and Wellness | 3 |
| Personal Finance | 3 |
| American Politics and Government | 3 |
| Social Problems | 3 |
| Human Biology | 4 |
| Total Program Hours | 46 |
Get the Facts
$50,390
Median Annual Salary
+9%
Job Growth
74,700
New Job Openings Per Year
Serve with Purpose In Cleveland’s Thriving Business Hub
The BSW Cleveland professionals can count on: It prepares you to act.
At MVNU, we believe social work is more than a job. It’s a calling. That’s why our online BSW program combines rigorous academics with practical training to get you ready for real-world impact. From the first course to your final field experience, you’ll build the confidence and compassion it takes to support individuals, families, and communities.
And when it comes to opportunities in Cleveland, the need is clear—and the options are wide. Social work graduates here go on to meaningful roles in Cleveland’s thriving business hub:
- Cuyahoga County Division of Children and Family Services
- Cleveland Clinic and other hospital systems
- FrontLine Service, supporting mental health and crisis response
- The Centers, providing community-based support across all ages
- Local schools, non-profits, and faith-based organizations
You’ll be prepared for licensure, equipped for entry-level roles like caseworker, community outreach coordinator, or mental health assistant—and positioned for graduate study if that’s your next step.
Because the world needs more helpers. And Cleveland is a great place to start.
Why Choose MVNU for Your BSW in Cleveland?
Choosing an online BSW program in Cleveland is a big step—but it doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. At MVNU, we make it simple to take that step with confidence.
You’ll get an accredited, faith-based education built around your life. Our online BSW program offers the flexibility working adults need, without sacrificing the support that makes all the difference. You’ll engage with expert faculty who bring real-world insight to every class—and who care about helping you grow, not just helping you graduate.
What makes MVNU different?
- Personal attention. We keep class sizes small so your voice is heard.
- Christian values. Your education is rooted in faith and purpose.
- Practical focus. Field placements and real-world prep are built into the program.
- Ohio-based. We understand your community—even from a distance.
You’ll also benefit from a cohort-based model, where you move through the program alongside a small group of peers. It’s a great way to build community and stay motivated. Regular virtual meetups give you a chance to connect, ask questions, and support one another—while asynchronous courses let you study when it works for your schedule.
You’re not just earning a degree. You’re preparing to make a difference—in Cleveland and beyond.
Meet the Faculty
Learn from MBA faculty members who know how to balance theory and practical application for a relevant, empowering, Christ-centered learning experience. Read how MVNU faculty bring this mission to life in our blog spotlight on Dr. Rachel Young, a professor dedicated to impactful, faith-driven education.
Professor Jeff Styer
Assistant Professor of Social Work and BSW Field Education Director
Dr. Rachel Young
Assistant Professor of Social Work, MSW Program Director, and Social Work Department Chair
Start Your BSW Journey Today
You’re already making an impact. Now it’s time to take that impact further.
Whether you’re deep into your career or just getting started, MVNU’s online BSW program gives you the tools to serve with confidence, clarity, and purpose. And if you’re based in Cleveland, you’ll find a program that understands your community—and helps you rise within it.
This is your moment. The need is great. The calling is real. And your future in social work can start right here.
Let’s take the next step—together.
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