Is an MSW from a non-accredited program a bad idea?

Question

I'd mainly be going for the educational value for now, but at some point I want to do social work as my retirement job. I found a school that has an online program that is pretty much the only thing I can do with my busy schedule (I work more than full time, so I can't make time for a lot of the more traditional programs), but I looked up the state website and saw that the school isn't accredited, so would going there mean that the degree wouldn't be usable later on?

Answer 1

Yes, that's what it means.  Employers won't be obligated to accept that degree as legitimate.  I'd recommend finding an accredited program if you're going to spend the money and time on a masters.

Answer 2

I agree with the above answer.  Most SW agencies hire only accredited social workers.  Your unaccredited degree won't even be worth the paper its printed on.

Answer 3

has the school been accepted as a CANDIDATE for accreditation? If so, they may be close and then your degree, if granted even a day after accreditation is approved, will be valid. If not, steer clear.....