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Compare Social Work Programs

Most schools have rolling admissions and financial help so you can start your degree in a few weeks!

Compare Social Work Programs

Most schools have rolling admissions and financial help so you can start your degree in a few weeks!

Social workers play a crucial role in society, advocating for social justice, supporting vulnerable populations, and facilitating positive community changes. The best social work degree programs feature innovative curriculums that prepare students for rewarding careers in this field, where the median salary of $55,350 surpasses the national median and is expected to grow by 7% over the next decade.

These programs, typically completed in four years at the undergraduate level and two years at the graduate level, underscore the profession’s standing as primarily a master’s-entry field. The average tuition costs for the 2020-2021 academic year are $25,910 for undergraduates and $19,749 for graduates, representing a significant investment in a future of meaningful, impactful work.

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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.

  • Analyzed over 2,000 national, accredited, and nonprofit colleges and universities
  • 800+ rankings pages are reviewed and updated yearly
  • Content is informed by reputable sources, surveys, and interviews with academic advisors and other experts
  • Over 100 data points are reviewed for accuracy and quality throughout the year, including sources

How we rank schools

Our list features the best 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 50 Accredited Social Work Programs

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#1
Seattle, WA | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

University of Washington School of Social Work

Intelligent Score: 99.48
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $10,629

Out-of-state: $37,998

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $16,278

Out-of-state: $16,278

Test scores

SAT: 1200-1453

ACT: 27-33

Retention Rate
93%
Admission Rate
56%
On-campus students
89%
Graduation Rate
82%
Students enrolled
48,000
Student to faculty ratio
20:01
Average Salary
$50k
Average Student Debt
$15k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Residenr: $455

Non-Resident: $1,435

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Council on Social Work Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

180

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 206-543-5676

#2
Berkeley, CA | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

University of California, Berkeley

Intelligent Score: 98.25
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $11,442

Out-of-state: $41,196

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $11,442

Out-of-state: $11,442

Test scores

SAT: 1310-1530

ACT: 30-35

Retention Rate
96%
Admission Rate
17%
On-campus students
3%
Graduation Rate
92%
Students enrolled
42,000
Student to faculty ratio
19:01
Average Salary
$58k
Average Student Debt
$13k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$417

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 510-642-4341

#3
Austin, TX | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

University of Texas at Austin

Intelligent Score: 98.09
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $11,448

Out-of-state: $40,032

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $12,028

Out-of-state: $12,028

Test scores

SAT: 1210-1470

ACT: 26-33

Retention Rate
97%
Admission Rate
32%
On-campus students
8%
Graduation Rate
88%
Students enrolled
50,000
Student to faculty ratio
17:01
Average Salary
$52k
Average Student Debt
$20k

Social work is the primary focus of the University of Texas's Steve Hicks School of Social Work. A wide variety of programs are offered within the school, including bachelor's, master's, doctoral, and postdoctoral programs. Extensive fieldwork opportunities are available through the school's hundreds of partnerships with agencies and professional social workers in Austin and beyond who provide structured learning for B.S.W. and M.S.S.W. students. At the bachelor's degree level, students complete 122 credit hours of coursework along with 480 hours of field internships and 60 hours of service learning in a community agency. Study abroad programs are available, including international field placements. A B.S.W. honors program is available that challenges students to conduct their own research and write a thesis under the direction of a social work faculty member.

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Residenr: $473

Non-Resident: $1,691

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Council on Social Work Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

122

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 512-471-5457

#4
Champaign, IL | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

University of Illinois at Urbana - Champaign

Intelligent Score: 98
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $14,317

Out-of-state: $33,824

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $15,016

Out-of-state: $15,016

Test scores

SAT: 1200-1460

ACT: 27-33

Retention Rate
94%
Admission Rate
63%
On-campus students
4%
Graduation Rate
86%
Students enrolled
53,000
Student to faculty ratio
20:01
Average Salary
$52k
Average Student Debt
$19k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Residenr: $423

Non-Resident: $1,061

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Council on Social Work Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 217-333-2261

#5
Tallahassee, FL | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

Florida State University

Intelligent Score: 97.23
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $4,640

Out-of-state: $19,084

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $9,684

Out-of-state: $9,684

Test scores

SAT: 1220-1350

ACT: 27-31

Retention Rate
95%
Admission Rate
32%
On-campus students
3%
Graduation Rate
84%
Students enrolled
44,000
Student to faculty ratio
21:01
Average Salary
$40k
Average Student Debt
$19k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

In-State: $215

Out-of-State: $721

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Council on Social Work Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 850-644-9750

#6
New York, NY | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

NYU Silver School of Social Work

Intelligent Score: 96.8
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $52,204

Out-of-state: $52,204

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $34,704

Out-of-state: $34,704

Test scores

SAT: 1370-1540

ACT: 31-34

Retention Rate
90%
Admission Rate
21%
On-campus students
11%
Graduation Rate
88%
Students enrolled
53,000
Student to faculty ratio
8:01
Average Salary
$56k
Average Student Debt
$21k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$1,844

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Council on Social Work Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

128

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 212-998-5900

#7
Columbus, OH | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

Ohio State University

Intelligent Score: 96
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $10,615

Out-of-state: $32,599

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $11,560

Out-of-state: $11,560

Test scores

SAT: 1210-1430

ACT: 26-32

Retention Rate
94%
Admission Rate
68%
On-campus students
6%
Graduation Rate
87%
Students enrolled
61,000
Student to faculty ratio
19:01
Average Salary
$42k
Average Student Debt
$21k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$492

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Council on Social Work Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 614-292-6288

#8
Madison, WI | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

University of Wisconsin - Madison

Intelligent Score: 95.32
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $9,273

Out-of-state: $37,161

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $10,728

Out-of-state: $10,728

Test scores

SAT: 1260-1460

ACT: 27-32

Retention Rate
95%
Admission Rate
57%
On-campus students
7%
Graduation Rate
88%
Students enrolled
45,000
Student to faculty ratio
16:01
Average Salary
$50k
Average Student Debt
$21k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Resident: $502

Non-Resident: $1,727

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Council on Social Work Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 608-263-3660

#9
Miami, FL | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

Florida International University

Intelligent Score: 95.19
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $4,721

Out-of-state: $16,529

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $8,912

Out-of-state: $8,912

Test scores

SAT: 1110-1260

ACT: 23-29

Retention Rate
91%
Admission Rate
58%
On-campus students
14%
Graduation Rate
67%
Students enrolled
59,000
Student to faculty ratio
25:01:00
Average Salary
$42k
Average Student Debt
$18k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

In- State: $153

Out-of-State: $566

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Council on Social Work Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 305-348-4903

#10
Salt Lake City, UT | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

University of Utah

Intelligent Score: 94.88
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $7,412

Out-of-state: $26,017

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $6,666

Out-of-state: $6,666

Test scores

SAT: 1130-1350

ACT: 22-29

Retention Rate
89%
Admission Rate
79%
On-campus students
10%
Graduation Rate
67%
Students enrolled
33,000
Student to faculty ratio
17:01
Average Salary
$47k
Average Student Debt
$18k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Resident: $258

Non-Resident: $890

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Council on Social Work Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

122

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 801-581-6192

#11
Orlando, FL | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

University of Central Florida

Intelligent Score: 94.67
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $4,478

Out-of-state: $19,810

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $6,916

Out-of-state: $6,916

Test scores

SAT: 1160-1340

ACT: 25-30

Retention Rate
92%
Admission Rate
45%
On-campus students
91%
Graduation Rate
74%
Students enrolled
72,000
Student to faculty ratio
31:01:00
Average Salary
$40k
Average Student Debt
$19k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

In- State: $212

Out-of-State: $748

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Council on Social Work Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 844-376-9160

#12
Athens, GA | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

University of Georgia

Intelligent Score: 94.42
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $9,790

Out-of-state: $28,830

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $8,878

Out-of-state: $8,878

Test scores

SAT: 1250-1460

ACT: 29-33

Retention Rate
94%
Admission Rate
48%
On-campus students
84%
Graduation Rate
87%
Students enrolled
39,000
Student to faculty ratio
17:01
Average Salary
$45k
Average Student Debt
$19k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

In-State: $326 - $484

Out-of-State: $961 - $1,425

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Council on Social Work Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 706-542-3364

#13
New York, NY | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

CUNY Lehman College

Intelligent Score: 92.1
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $6,930

Out-of-state: $14,880

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $11,090

Out-of-state: $11,090

Test scores

SAT: 1170-1340

ACT: 25-31

Retention Rate
84%
Admission Rate
40%
On-campus students
1%
Graduation Rate
56%
Students enrolled
24,000
Student to faculty ratio
15:01
Average Salary
$39k
Average Student Debt
$12k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Resident: $305

Non-Resident: $620

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Council on Social Work Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 718-960-8713

#14
Long Beach, CA | 4 years | Online | Public

California State University at Fresno

Intelligent Score: 91.61
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $5,742

Out-of-state: $17,622

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $7,176

Out-of-state: $7,176

Test scores

SAT: 1020-1240

ACT: 20-26

Retention Rate
89%
Admission Rate
42%
On-campus students
N/A
Graduation Rate
73%
Students enrolled
40,000
Student to faculty ratio
24:01:00
Average Salary
$40k
Average Student Debt
$15k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$410

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Council on Social Work Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 559-278-5027

#15
College Station, TX | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

Texas A&M University at Central Texas

Intelligent Score: 91.01
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $8,395

Out-of-state: $36,849

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $6,775

Out-of-state: $6,775

Test scores

SAT: 1160-1380

ACT: 26-32

Retention Rate
94%
Admission Rate
63%
On-campus students
67%
Graduation Rate
83%
Students enrolled
70,000
Student to faculty ratio
19:01
Average Salary
$54k
Average Student Debt
$18k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$419

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Council on Social Work Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 254-501-5948

#16
Iowa City, IA | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

University of Iowa

Intelligent Score: 90.1
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $8,073

Out-of-state: $30,036

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $10,079

Out-of-state: $10,079

Test scores

SAT: 1110-1310

ACT: 22-29

Retention Rate
88%
Admission Rate
84%
On-campus students
48%
Graduation Rate
72%
Students enrolled
30,000
Student to faculty ratio
16:01
Average Salary
$48k
Average Student Debt
$23k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$376

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Council on Social Work Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 319-335-1250

#17
Long Beach, CA | 4 years | Online | Public

California State University, Los Angeles

Intelligent Score: 89.67
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $5,742

Out-of-state: $17,622

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $7,176

Out-of-state: $7,176

Test scores

SAT: 1020-1240

ACT: 20-26

Retention Rate
89%
Admission Rate
42%
On-campus students
N/A
Graduation Rate
73%
Students enrolled
40,000
Student to faculty ratio
24:01:00
Average Salary
$40k
Average Student Debt
$15k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Resident: $283

Non-Resident: $679

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Council on Social Work Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 323-343-3901

#18
Tempe, AZ | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

Arizona State University

Intelligent Score: 89.51
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $10,710

Out-of-state: $28,800

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $11,720

Out-of-state: $11,720

Test scores

SAT: 1100-1320

ACT: 21-28

Retention Rate
86%
Admission Rate
88%
On-campus students
15%
Graduation Rate
66%
Students enrolled
75,000
Student to faculty ratio
18:01
Average Salary
$42k
Average Student Debt
$20k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Resident: $478

Non-Resident: $1,349

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Council on Social Work Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 602/496-0800

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How to Choose a Social Work Program

Choose your area of study

Selecting your area of study within social work is crucial, as it aligns your education with your career goals and interests. This decision helps narrow program options to those offering specialized training relevant to your intended field.

Common specializations include clinical social work, ideal for those interested in providing therapy; child and family social work, suiting individuals aiming to protect vulnerable children; school social work, tailored for those focused on student welfare; and healthcare social work, serving graduates wanting to support patients in medical settings.

Research schools and programs

Once you’ve identified your social work specialization, thorough research into programs and schools is essential. Consider the following question to guide your research:

  • Has the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredited the program?
  • What specific courses and fieldwork opportunities are offered in my area of interest?
  • What are the program’s graduation and employment rates?
  • How does the program support students in achieving licensure?

To find this information, check the school’s official website, which should provide detailed program descriptions, accreditation status, and academic outcomes. Additionally, attending open houses and speaking directly with admissions counselors can offer insights into the program’s focus, faculty credentials, and support services available to students.

Prepare for tests and applications

With your shortlist of potential schools in hand, it’s time to prepare for tests and applications.

Start by familiarizing yourself with the specific requirements of your chosen programs. For undergraduate admissions, focus on SAT or ACT prep, and consider enrolling in a test prep program if scores play a significant role in admissions. Graduate applicants should similarly prepare for the GRE if required.

Adapt your application essays to illustrate your interest and experiences in social work, reflecting your chosen specialization. For all levels, securing solid letters of recommendation and documenting relevant volunteer or work experience is crucial.

Select your program

When acceptance letters arrive, you may have a significant decision to make. You can simplify this choice by revisiting your initial research criteria and focusing on what matters most to them, such as specialization offerings, program reputation, and location. It’s also crucial to evaluate the total cost of attendance alongside any financial aid opportunities, including scholarships and grants. This comparison ensures the program aligns with your academic and professional goals and fits within your financial means, leading to a well-rounded and informed decision.

Determine how you’ll pay for your degree

To finance your degree without accruing considerable debt, you should prioritize funding sources that do not require repayment. Begin with scholarships and grants, awarded based on merit, need, or specific criteria like area of study or background. Next, consider federal loans offering lower interest rates and flexible repayment options to bridge any financial gaps.

Work-study programs provide part-time jobs related to your field of study, helping you earn money while gaining resume-boosting work experience. If you’re already working, explore employer tuition reimbursement programs — as some employers offer to pay for part or all of your education in related fields.

What Can You Expect From a Social Work Program?

Students pursuing a social work degree program can anticipate a comprehensive education that provides them with the skills to address and advocate for social justice, human rights, and individual well-being.

At the undergraduate level, learners gain foundational knowledge in psychology, sociology, and social work practice, typically over four years. This groundwork prepares them for the more specialized and advanced study at the graduate level, where they delve deeper into clinical practice, policy analysis, and research methods over two years. Social work is predominantly a master’s field, meaning a graduate degree is essential for professional practice.

Many programs incorporate practical elements, like internships and capstone courses, to ensure students acquire hands-on experience in real-world settings, an important step for those aspiring to make a significant impact in the lives of individuals and communities.

Potential courses you’ll take in a social work program

  • Introduction to Social Work: This foundational course introduces students to the profession, including its history, values, and ethical principles. Learners explore the roles of social workers in several settings and gain an understanding of the importance of advocacy and social justice in practice.
  • Human Behavior and Social Environment: This course examines the interplay between human behavior and social environments across the lifespan. Students learn about theories of individual and community development theories and how social workers apply these theories to assess and intervene in client situations.
  • Social Welfare Policy and Services: Focusing on the history, structure, and impact of social welfare policies, this course teaches students how to analyze and advocate for policies that promote social justice and equity. Learners explore the role of social workers in policy development and implementation.
  • Clinical Social Work Practice: This course delves into therapeutic techniques and intervention strategies used in social work practice with individuals, families, and groups. Students learn about assessment, diagnosis, treatment planning, and ethical considerations in clinical settings.
  • Field Practicum: An essential component of a social work degree, this course provides hands-on experience in a supervised social work setting. Students apply their knowledge and skills in real-world environments, gaining practical experience in client interaction, case management, and professional conduct.

Social Work Degree Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply to a social work degree program?

For undergraduate programs, you’ll typically need a high school diploma, transcripts, and sometimes standardized test scores from the SAT or ACT. Graduate programs often require a bachelor’s degree, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and GRE scores, though some may waive the GRE for applicants with strong academic backgrounds.

Before applying, reach out to an admissions counselor to discuss your qualifications, program expectations, and any prerequisites you might need to fulfill.

How much does a social work degree cost?

The cost of a social work degree varies, with undergraduate tuition averaging $25,910 and graduate tuition at $19,749 for the 2020-2021 academic year.

Beyond tuition, it’s essential to consider additional expenses like textbooks, course materials, accommodation, and living costs, which can significantly increase the overall cost of earning your degree. Many programs also require internships or field placements that might not be paid, potentially adding travel or other expenses.

Financial aid, scholarships, and grants are available to help offset these costs. These options should be explored early in your application process so that you can successfully budget for your degree — ensuring financial preparedness throughout your educational journey.

How long does it take to earn a social work degree?

Earning a social work degree usually takes four years for a full-time undergraduate student and two years for a full-time graduate student. However, part-time enrollment can extend these timelines, although it is often preferable for students balancing their education with a full-time job or family commitments.

The total number of required credits can also impact the program’s length; programs requiring more credits generally take longer to complete.