Social work might be an optimal career for individuals interested in mental and behavioral health, helping others, and working in diverse settings. Earning a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree provides students with the foundational knowledge and skills they need for entry-level social work positions and the graduate study required to become licensed social workers.
The need for social services professionals is growing, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicting an annual average of 281,600 new jobs in the field through 2032. Employment of social workers is expected to increase by 7% during this time, while demand for mental health and substance abuse counselors will increase by 18%.
To help students find the online social work degree program that’s right for them, Intelligent.com evaluated hundreds of programs based on graduation rates, cost and ROI, academic quality, and student resources and compiled this list of the strongest programs. We also interviewed Leslie Reyna, an admissions counselor for the University of Texas at Arlington’s School of Social Work, for her insights into selecting and applying to social work degree programs. This guide also includes answers to frequently asked questions about social work degree programs, including cost, duration, and job outlook.
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The Intelligent.com Higher Education Team is dedicated to providing students with independent, equitable school and program rankings and well-researched resources. Our expert-driven articles cover topics related to online colleges and programs, paying for school, and career outlooks. We use data from the U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard, the National Center for Education Statistics, and other reputable educational and professional organizations. Our academic advisory team reviews content and verifies accuracy throughout the year for the most current information. Partnerships do not influence rankings or editorial decisions.
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How we rank schools
Our list features the best online Social Work degree programs at top colleges nationwide. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution — either public or private — with a high standard of academic quality for post-secondary institutions.
We evaluated each school’s program on tuition costs, admission, retention and graduation rates, faculty, reputation, and the student resources provided for online students. We collected data from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics, individual school and program websites, school admissions counselors, and other data sources. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100 based on the following criterion:
Academic Quality:
- Admission rate versus enrollment rate
- Retention rate of students who return after year one
- Accreditation status (regional and programmatic)
- Nonprofit status, both private and public institutions
Graduation Rate
- Overall graduation rate
- Total number of currently enrolled students, including diversity metrics
- Student-to-faculty ratio
Cost and ROI
- In-state and out-of-state per-credit tuition rates and fees
- Required credits to graduate
- Earning potential after graduation
- Availability of federal student loans, scholarships, and other financial aid options
Student Resources
- Available student services for online-only and hybrid programs
- On-campus amenities like tutoring centers and the number of libraries
Read more about our ranking methodology.
Best 45 Accredited Online Social Work Degree Programs
FiltersInstitution Type
Status
- Intelligent Score
- Alphabetically By University Name
- Acceptance Rate
- Enrollment
- In-state Graduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Graduate Tuition
- In-state Undergraduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Undergraduate Tuition
UA Little Rock
Intelligent Score: 98.22In-state: $7,568
Out-of-state: $24,056
In-state: $7,752
Out-of-state: $7,752
SAT: 1090-1280
ACT: 23-29
$292
Online
Council on Social Work Education
120
Simmons University
Intelligent Score: 98.11In-state: $40,850
Out-of-state: $40,850
In-state: $21,528
Out-of-state: $21,528
SAT: 1060-1250
ACT: 24-29
$500
Online
Council on Social Work Education
128
University of North Dakota
Intelligent Score: 96.79In-state: $8,540
Out-of-state: $12,810
In-state: $11,060
Out-of-state: $11,060
SAT: 1000-1230
ACT: 20-27
$390
Online, On-Campus
Council on Social Work Education
120
The University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Intelligent Score: 95.82In-state: $11,332
Out-of-state: $28,522
In-state: $11,468
Out-of-state: $11,468
SAT: 1140-1303
ACT: 25-31
In-State: $378
Out-of-State: $759
Online
Council on Social Work Education
120
Portland State University
Intelligent Score: 91.38In-state: $7,907
Out-of-state: $25,536
In-state: $14,652
Out-of-state: $14,652
SAT: 1000-1190
ACT: 17-24
In-State: $395
Out-of-State: $1,067
Online, On-Campus
Council on Social Work Education
180
Wayne State University
Intelligent Score: 91.28In-state: $13,024
Out-of-state: $29,894
In-state: $16,285
Out-of-state: $16,285
SAT: 1000-1200
ACT: 20-27
In-State: $616
Out-of-State: $1,417
Online
Council on Social Work Education
120
Angelo State University
Intelligent Score: 90.70In-state: $4,412
Out-of-state: $14,228
In-state: $4,119
Out-of-state: $4,119
SAT: 920-1120
ACT: 17-23
In-State: $310
Out-of-State: $730
Online, On-Campus
Council on Social Work Education
120
University of Alabama
Intelligent Score: 90.02In-state: $10,780
Out-of-state: $30,250
In-state: $10,780
Out-of-state: $10,780
SAT: 1070-1330
ACT: 23-31
$385
Online
Council on Social Work Education
120
Western New Mexico University
Intelligent Score: 89.99In-state: $4,417
Out-of-state: $11,400
In-state: $3,558
Out-of-state: $3,558
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
In-State: $357
Out-of-State: $628
Online, On-Campus
Council on Social Work Education
120
Eastern New Mexico University
Intelligent Score: 89.35In-state: $4,074
Out-of-state: $6,114
In-state: $5,351
Out-of-state: $5,351
SAT: 950-1160
ACT: 17-23
In-State: $191
Out-of-State: $274
Online
Council on Social Work Education
120
Campbellsville University
Intelligent Score: 89.34In-state: $24,900
Out-of-state: $24,900
In-state: $8,473
Out-of-state: $8,473
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$424
Online
Council on Social Work Education
120
Aurora University
Intelligent Score: 89.10In-state: $25,600
Out-of-state: $25,600
In-state: $13,200
Out-of-state: $13,200
SAT: 980-1140
ACT: 19-23
$450
Online
Council on Social Work Education
120
Metropolitan State University of Denver
Intelligent Score: 88.39In-state: $7,236
Out-of-state: $22,510
In-state: $9,054
Out-of-state: $9,054
SAT: 870-1090
ACT: 14-20
Resident: $411
Non-Resident: $919
Online, On-Campus
Council on Social Work Education
120
Bemidji State University
Intelligent Score: 88.37In-state: $7,976
Out-of-state: $7,976
In-state: $8,012
Out-of-state: $8,012
SAT: N/A
ACT: 19-24
$313
Hybrid
Council on Social Work Education
120
Missouri State University
Intelligent Score: 87.24In-state: $6,840
Out-of-state: $15,510
In-state: $5,436
Out-of-state: $5,436
SAT: 1020-1220
ACT: 21-27
Resident: $279
Non-Resident: $572
Online, On-Campus
Council on Social Work Education
120
Temple University
Intelligent Score: 86.57In-state: $16,080
Out-of-state: $28,992
In-state: $16,956
Out-of-state: $16,956
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$610
Online, On-Campus
Council on Social Work Education
120
University of Nebraska at Kearney
Intelligent Score: 86.53In-state: $27,426
Out-of-state: $34,430
In-state: $24,810
Out-of-state: $24,810
SAT: 970-1200
ACT: 19-25
In-State: $268
Out-of-State: $410
Online, On-Campus
Council on Social Work Education
120
Liberty University
Intelligent Score: 85.65In-state: $14,791
Out-of-state: $14,791
In-state: $7,935
Out-of-state: $7,935
SAT: 1040-1250
ACT: 21-29
$390
Online
Council on Social Work Education
120
What You Can Expect From an Online Social Work Degree Program
For aspiring social workers, a BSW degree is often the first step, introducing students to essential social work practices and theories and giving them hands-on experience working with individuals, families, and groups in various settings. The curriculums of these programs are designed to prepare students for non-clinical social work roles and further study at the graduate level to obtain licensure as a clinical social worker.
Degree programs accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) follow a standardized core curriculum that covers topics such as social work practice, human behavior, research methods, diversity and inclusion, and social work policy.
Because social work is a field centered on working with people in individual and group settings, hands-on experience is integral to the education process. Students typically obtain this experience through supervised practicums or internships as part of their degree program. Before enrolling in an online social work degree program, students should review the curriculum and speak to a representative about how the program handles clinical experience. They should also ensure that their intended program meets their state’s clinical experience requirements for licensure. Students should remember that even if classes for their program can be completed online, their clinical experience might require in-person, site-specific attendance.
Online programs deliver courses through synchronous or asynchronous methods, which can impact expectations for the program. In a synchronous online program, students attend regularly scheduled virtual classes, allowing them to interact with faculty and classmates in real-time. Meanwhile, asynchronous programs don’t have designated class meetings. Instead, Students access all lessons and learning materials online on their own time, giving them more flexibility in when and where to complete their coursework.
Potential courses you’ll take in an online social work degree program
- Human Behavior and the Social Environment:Â Provides students with the content necessary to understand the complexities of human development and behavior. It also teaches students how to evaluate various social environmental influences that affect human behavior and functioning as well as the ways in which the social environment can impede or promote well-being.
- Social Welfare Policy: Explores topics such as the history and current structures of social welfare services, the role of policy in service delivery and in social work practice, attainment of individual and social well-being, and comparative and international social welfare.
- Methods of Social Work Research: Provides an overview of the approaches to and uses of research in generalist social work practice, with an emphasis on conducting practice and program evaluation within a social work agency setting.
- Case Management in Social Work: Prepares students to be competent case managers in social service settings by helping students to develop professional skills associated with effective case management using a strengths-based model and culturally sensitive strategies for diverse populations.
What Can I Do With an Online Social Work Degree?
Individuals with a BSW typically qualify for entry-level positions as caseworkers, mental health and social services assistants, substance abuse counselors, school aides, outreach workers, and more, according to Reyna. They also have the option to obtain a licensed baccalaureate social worker (LBSW) credential, which is currently available in 19 states.
However, Reyna notes, “Social workers who want to open their own private practices will need to earn a master’s degree and get their licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) credential. This is also necessary for individuals who want to work in clinical settings, like hospitals, as most of these facilities only hire licensed social workers.” Many Master of Social Work (MSW) programs are designed for students who have a BSW, allowing them to complete coursework and internship requirements in as little as one year of full-time study.
Social workers are found in various settings, including hospitals, community health clinics, substance abuse recovery centers, schools, government agencies, private practices, and more. There are three levels of social work practice, with most social workers choosing to focus on one particular area of practice:
- The micro-level approach involves direct work with individuals to help them cope with their situations.
- The Mezzo-level, in which the social workers work with groups instead of individual clients.
- At the macro level, social workers lead and establish social change on a large scale through organizing, policy change, and administration.
Career outlook
- Clinical social workers: Provide therapy and counseling services to individuals, families, and groups dealing with mental health issues and other personal challenges. Individuals must earn an MSW and obtain their LCSW license to practice as clinical social workers.
- Median annual salary: $58,380
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 7%
- New jobs projected: 63,800 per year
- Substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors: Advise people on a range of issues, such as those relating to alcoholism, addictions, or depression, and provide support, including for prevention, to help clients recover from addiction, modify problem behaviors, or improve mental health.
- Median annual salary: $53,710
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 18%
- New jobs projected: 42,000 per year
- Social and community services managers — Typically obtainable with adequate work experience, these managers oversee the planning, coordination, and implementation of social service programs, ensuring they effectively address community needs.
- Median annual salary: $77,030
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 9%
- New jobs projected: 16,000
How to Choose the Social Work Degree Program That’s Right for You
Step 1: Clarify your goals and priorities
Before you start exploring online social work degree programs, reflecting on your specific career interests and goals is helpful. Clarifying what kind of knowledge and experience you want to gain from a degree program will help you find a program that aligns with your needs.
Students interested in helping professions like social work may also want to explore related fields of study, such as human services, counseling, and public policy, to ensure they’re selecting the right major for their desired career.
It’s also important to consider practical needs, like balancing school with work and other life responsibilities, and your learning style. Students who want maximum flexibility may be drawn to asynchronous programs that don’t require scheduled class meetings. Meanwhile, students who want the support and interaction of a more traditional classroom setting may find a synchronous remote program meets their needs best.
Step 2: Research schools and programs
Once you’ve clarified what you want from your social work degree program, you can begin exploring programs that meet your needs.
“Students should make sure the program they’re considering aligns with their career goals and that there’s someone in the program who has pursued a similar career path or has done research in the areas in which they’re interested,” Reyna says.
It’s also essential to confirm that the schools and programs you’re exploring are accredited.
There are two types of accreditation to consider when selecting a social work degree program: institution and program accreditation.
In the U.S., social work degree programs are accredited by the Council of Social Work Education (CSWE). According to the organization, CSWE-accredited social work programs “ensure the program mission is aligned with social work competencies to prepare students for professional practice…and ensure that students are prepared to practice safely, competently, and ethically with all clients, constituents, and the public.”
Completing a CSWE-accredited degree program is a standard prerequisite for getting a social work license. Reyna says, “Without this accreditation, students risk the possibility of not having any of their credits count towards licensure or transfer into a graduate program.” CSWE accredits both online and in-person social work degree programs. Students can confirm their program’s accreditation through CSWE’s accreditation directory.
At the institutional level, there are two types of accreditation — regional and national. Regional accreditation is the more rigorous and widely recognized of the two. Earning a degree from a regionally accredited institution is particularly important for undergraduate students pursuing an MSW, as this is typically a prerequisite for enrollment in a CSWE-accredited master’s program.
Additional questions to ask during the research phase include:
- Who are the faculty, and what are their social work areas of expertise?
- What type of social work specialization options are available in this program?
- What’s the culture of the social work department and the institution overall?
- How do online students interact with classmates, faculty, and staff?
- What type of technical, academic, career, and mental health support services are available to online students?
You can get answers to these questions by visiting the school’s website, following the school and social work department on social media, and participating in virtual or in-person open houses and information sessions.
Step 3: Select the school(s) to which you’ll apply
There’s no magic number of social work degree programs to apply to. Some students may apply to multiple programs to increase their chances of acceptance, while others may focus on one or two programs based on their specific needs or interests.
Keep track of the schools you’re applying to and their application deadlines and requirements, as missing deadlines or failing to submit required materials can impact your acceptance.
Step 4: Prepare and submit your application
The specific application processes will vary by school and degree type, but the process generally includes the following:
- Completing and applying for admission
- Submitting official transcripts from your high school (for first-time first-year students) and any other colleges you’ve attended (for transfer students and graduate students)
- Requesting recommendation letters from teachers, employers, or community members
- Writing a personal statement and resume, if required
- Preparing for and taking standardized tests like the SAT or ACT, if needed
Contact your school’s admissions office for questions about application materials and requirements.
Step 5: Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
Ideally, you have previously considered cost when choosing which program you’ll attend. You should also find out what types of financial aid you’re eligible for, including scholarships, grants, military discounts, work-study opportunities, and tuition assistance benefits from your employer.
If you’ll use student loans to help pay for your social work degree, complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Not only does this determine your eligibility for federal student loans, but many schools also use the information from your FAFSA to grant need-based aid. We strongly encourage students to research student loans and repayment options before committing to borrowing money to fund their social work degree.
Another practical consideration is cost. “Students should be aware of the salary of an entry-level social worker in their state and how it measures against the cost of their program,” Reyna says. While online programs can save students money regarding room and board and transportation expenses, students still need to pay for tuition, fees, and reliable technology. Reyna also reminds students that, post-graduation, there are costs associated with being a social worker, including fees for licensing exams.
Online Social Work Degree Program Frequently Asked Questions
Should I get a social work degree online or in person?
Both delivery formats have their advantages and disadvantages. Choosing between an in-person and an online program largely depends on the individual student’s needs and preferences.
“Online programs typically require that students be self-starters who will be proactive with their education and keep up with assignments and deadlines,” Reyna says. She also notes that asynchronous online programs can be a double-edged sword. While they give students the flexibility to complete lessons and assignments on their own time, they require discipline and the ability to learn independently.
Meanwhile, in-person programs might be a better fit for students who want more interaction in their learning. “In-person social work programs often have classroom discussions where students can receive feedback from professors and their peers,” Reyna says. “In an online setting, students often don’t receive peer feedback unless it is required from the professor.” In-person programs also typically include more opportunities to connect with faculty, which can benefit networking and academic support.
How much does an online social work degree cost?
Several factors impact how much an online social work degree will cost.
The most common associated costs for online students include tuition, technical support fees, other online student resources, and personal technology, such as computers, webcams, microphones, and the Internet. Online learning can also save students money on room and board, student activities fees, and transportation costs.
The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) reports that for the 2022-23 academic year, average tuition and fees for four-year undergraduate degrees were $9,750 at public universities and $38,421 at private institutions.
Online students should also be aware that some public institutions offer all remote students the same tuition, regardless of where they live.
Students can also lower their tuition sticker price through scholarships, grants, discounts for military service, and employer tuition reimbursement.
Ultimately, the cost of a social work degree will vary by student. If you have questions about the cost of a program or paying for a social work degree, contact the school’s financial aid office to speak to a counselor.
How long does earning an online social work degree take?
BSW degrees require students to earn a minimum of 120 credits. Full-time students can typically complete this degree in four years, while part-time students may take 5-6 years to earn all their required credits.
However, because of the flexibility of online classes, some schools offer accelerated programs that allow students to condense their studies into a shorter time frame. Students are still required to complete the same number of credits, so these programs are intense and academically rigorous.
For students who want both a BSW and an MSW, several schools offer accelerated programs that allow students to earn both degrees in five years. Known as “4 + 1” programs, this option enables students to start earning credits towards their MSW while still in their bachelor’s program, cutting down the amount of time they’ll spend in their master’s program.
Is a social work degree worth it?
“A social work degree provides students with many career opportunities,” Reyna says. “A social work degree gives employers the understanding that you know how to navigate services and people, which is useful because in just about any career field, you’re working with people.”
From a job outlook perspective, employment opportunities for social workers are expected to increase by 7%, a faster-than-average pace compared to other fields. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts nearly 74,000 new jobs annually within the social work field through 2032. This includes clinical and non-clinical positions in healthcare, substance abuse treatment, community and social services agencies, and more.
Read More About Online Social Work (BSW) Degrees
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