Most Affordable Online Social Work Degrees

Earning a social work degree can lead to a fulfilling career helping others. Here, we list the most affordable social work degree programs.
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Updated July 11, 2023

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Cheapest Social Work Degree Online

Online social work programs prepare aspiring social workers for the profession. Social workers typically need at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited college. Applicants need a high school or GED diploma. Some schools also require standardized test scores and recommendation letters.

An undergraduate social work degree features a mix of general education and major classes. Online social work programs may require classes in social work research, human diversity and ethical issues, and family and group practice. Graduates who do not pursue a master's may work as probation officers, behavioral management aides, or community outreach workers.

Our ranking lists the most affordable online social work programs. Keep reading to learn about costs, common classes, and how to become a social worker.

View Our Rankings List Here

Featured Online Programs in Social Work

Most Affordable Online Social Work Programs

#1 Most Affordable Online Social Work Degrees

Liberty University

  • Lynchburg, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

A private Christian institution based in Lynchburg, Virginia, Liberty University offers online and in-person classes. Undergraduates benefit from the school's support services, which include academic and career advising.

Accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, the bachelor's in social work at Liberty prioritizes flexibility. Majors complete the 120-credit online program by taking general education and social work courses. The general education curriculum strengthens communication and critical thinking skills through coursework in diverse academic fields. Graduates prepare for the workforce or a further degree by taking advanced social work courses that cover theoretical and practical topics.

Liberty University at a Glance:

Admission Rate: 50%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 93

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 34

Undergrad Tuition: $14,791

Graduation Rate: 54%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $35,800

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,791
Out-of-state
$14,791
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,935
Out-of-state
$7,935
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
50%
Students Enrolled
93,349
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
93% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#2 Most Affordable Online Social Work Degrees

Northern Arizona University

  • Flagstaff, AZ
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Northern Arizona University (NAU) enrolls learners in 95 bachelor's programs, including an online bachelor of social work (BSW) program. The social work degree prepares students for entry-level roles in social services and related fields. After completing a bachelor's degree, graduates can also apply to master's programs to continue their education.

Accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, the BSW curriculum introduces major principles and practices in social work. General education classes emphasize key skills like writing, research, communication, and critical thinking. Electives, minors, and double majors allow students to explore other academic and professional interests.

NAU's student services help incoming degree candidates transition into a bachelor's program. For example, financial aid counselors work with students to determine eligibility for educational funding sources such as grants, scholarships, and loans.

Northern Arizona University at a Glance:

Location: Flagstaff, Arizona

Type of School: Public

Admission Rate: 82%

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 20

Undergrad Tuition (In State): $10,243

Undergrad Tuition (Out of State): $16,248

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,243
Out-of-state
$16,248
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,309
Out-of-state
$18,630
Retention Rate
76%
Acceptance Rate
82%
Students Enrolled
29,566
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
59% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#3 Most Affordable Online Social Work Degrees

The University of Louisville

  • Louisville, KY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Located in Louisville, Kentucky, the University of Louisville offers on-campus and online courses with flexible scheduling and high academic standards. The public university's bachelor of social work (BSW) features fully online coursework and Council on Social Work Education accreditation. 

Majors earn a BSW after completing social work courses and general education requirements. The general education curriculum includes classes in the humanities, mathematics, and communication. Learners prepare for the workforce or further education by taking advanced social work courses that cover theoretical and practical topics.

The University of Louisville at a Glance:

Admission Rate: 65%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 64

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 11

Undergrad Tuition In State: $11,966

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $28,312

Average Amount Aid Awarded: $10,503

Graduation Rate: 60%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $38,200

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,966
Out-of-state
$28,312
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,260
Out-of-state
$27,374
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
65%
Students Enrolled
22,211
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
76% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#4 Most Affordable Online Social Work Degrees

Wayne State University

  • Detroit, MI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The bachelor of social work program at Wayne State University, a public institution, prepares graduates to pursue careers in the field. From its campus in Detroit, Michigan, the school offers both in-person and online enrollment options. Undergraduates benefit from flexible course options and rigorous academic standards.

Wayne State's bachelor's-level social work program strengthens in-demand skills through general education and major courses. Classes in math, the humanities, and the natural sciences meet general education requirements. Advanced social work courses, along with service learning and field placement opportunities, help prepare graduates for the workforce or a higher degree.

Wayne State University at a Glance:

Admission Rate: 69%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 103

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 2

Undergrad Tuition (In State): $13,024

Undergrad Tuition (Out of State): $29,894

Average Amount Aid Awarded: $9,561

Graduation Rate: 52%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $37,900

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$13,024
Out-of-state
$29,894
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$16,285
Out-of-state
$35,274
Retention Rate
82%
Acceptance Rate
69%
Students Enrolled
26,241
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
92% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#5 Most Affordable Online Social Work Degrees

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville

  • Knoxville, TN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UT Knoxville), a public institution, delivers a transfer-friendly social work program. The school offers flexible enrollment options, including online classes. Undergraduates benefit from comprehensive support services.

UT Knoxville's fully online bachelor of science in social work program caters to students with at least 60 prior college credits. The program's social work courses cover theoretical and practical subjects, helping graduates prepare for entry-level careers or further education. Social sciences, STEM, and humanities classes meet UT Knoxville's general education graduation requirements. 

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville at a Glance:

Admission Rate: 78%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 123

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 2

Undergrad Tuition (In State): $11,332

Undergrad Tuition (Out of State): $28,522

Average Amount Aid Awarded: $10,877

Graduation Rate: 71%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $41,600

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,332
Out-of-state
$28,522
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,468
Out-of-state
$29,656
Retention Rate
89%
Acceptance Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
30,559
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
41% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#6 Most Affordable Online Social Work Degrees

The University of Nebraska at Kearney

  • Kearney, NE
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Nebraska at Kearney (UNK) offers 38 bachelor's degrees, including an online bachelor of science in social work. This degree helps prepare students to pursue careers in diverse fields or apply to master's programs to continue their education.

The bachelor's curriculum introduces major principles and practices in social work. Undergraduates also gain communication, writing, and critical thinking skills through general education courses. Electives, minors, and double majors allow enrollees to explore other academic and professional interests.

UNK's student services help incoming degree candidates thrive in their bachelor's programs. For example, financial aid counselors can help learners connect with scholarships while academic advisors suggest course options.

The University of Nebraska at Kearney at a Glance:

Location: Kearney, Nebraska

Type of School: Public

Admission Rate: 88%

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 11

Undergrad Tuition (In State): $6,270

Undergrad Tuition (Out of State): $13,650

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,270
Out-of-state
$13,650
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,216
Out-of-state
$13,656
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
88%
Students Enrolled
6,225
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
72% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#7 Most Affordable Online Social Work Degrees

University of Massachusetts Global

  • Irvine, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

University of Massachusetts Global (UMass Global), formerly Brandman University, offers a BA in social work as one of its 17 bachelor's programs. Many students pursue jobs in social services, corrections, or counseling after earning this degree. Others apply to master's programs to open up additional career opportunities.

Available fully online, the bachelor's curriculum covers foundational concepts and methods in social work. Undergraduates also complete general education requirements, which strengthen analytical and critical thinking skills. Students can complement their degree with a minor or second major.

UMass Global's student services support incoming degree candidates as they begin taking classes. For example, career counselors help learners identify strengths and plan for the job market.

University of Massachusetts Global at a Glance:

Location: Irvine, California

Type of School: Private

Admission Rate: 95%

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 15

Undergrad Tuition: $12,000

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$12,000
Out-of-state
$12,000
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,060
Out-of-state
$12,060
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
95%
Students Enrolled
10,986
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
100% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#8 Most Affordable Online Social Work Degrees

Bemidji State University

  • Bemidji, MN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The bachelor of social work program, one of 60 bachelor's programs at Bemidji State University (BSU), offers a flexible route to a college degree. The social work program prepares students to pursue careers serving diverse populations. This degree also provides strong preparation for master's programs in the field.

Offered in a hybrid format that combines online classes with one day of on-campus instruction per month, the bachelor's curriculum covers core and advanced topics in social work. In addition to major coursework, undergraduates build communication and critical thinking skills in general education courses. Students can complement their major by selecting a minor or adding an online certificate.

BSU's student services help incoming degree candidates integrate into the larger campus community. Financial aid counselors work with learners to determine the best sources of educational funding, including grants, scholarships, and loans.

Bemidji State University at a Glance:

Location: Bemidji, Minnesota

Type of School: Public

Admission Rate: 69%

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 11

Undergrad Tuition: $7,976

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,976
Out-of-state
$7,976
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,012
Out-of-state
$8,012
Retention Rate
72%
Acceptance Rate
69%
Students Enrolled
4,577
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
51% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#9 Most Affordable Online Social Work Degrees

Aurora University

  • Aurora, IL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The online bachelor of social work program at Aurora University (AU) holds accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education. This program offers specializations in child welfare and addictions.
After graduation, students can pursue many career paths in social and community services or apply to master's programs.

The bachelor's curriculum covers the major principles and methods in social work. Undergraduates also complete general education courses, gaining widely applicable skills such as writing, communication, and critical thinking. A local internship helps build hands-on job experience.

The student services staff at AU support incoming degree candidates' educational journeys. For example, financial aid counselors recommend scholarships while academic advisors suggest course options.

Aurora University at a Glance:

Location: Aurora, Illinois

Type of School: Private

Admission Rate: 84%

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 6

Undergrad Tuition: $25,600

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$25,600
Out-of-state
$25,600
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,200
Out-of-state
$13,200
Retention Rate
78%
Acceptance Rate
84%
Students Enrolled
6,265
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
93% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#10 Most Affordable Online Social Work Degrees

Campbellsville University

  • Campbellsville, KY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Campbellsville University, a private Christian institution, offers 52 bachelor's degrees, including an online social work program. This program fosters the knowledge and skills required for career paths such as social worker and substance abuse counselor. After earning a bachelor's degree, students can apply to graduate programs, such as Campbellsville's online master's in social work, to continue their education.

With accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education, the bachelor's curriculum trains learners in the core principles and practices of social work. Along with major coursework, undergraduates take general education classes that strengthen critical thinking skills. 

Incoming degree candidates benefit from student services, which provide support for first-year learners. For example, career counselors recommend job training workshops and offer career assessments.

Campbellsville University at a Glance:

Location: Campbellsville, Kentucky

Type of School: Private

Admission Rate: 78%

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 29

Undergrad Tuition: $24,900

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$24,900
Out-of-state
$24,900
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,473
Out-of-state
$8,473
Retention Rate
64%
Acceptance Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
12,771
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
72% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#11 Most Affordable Online Social Work Degrees

Thomas University

  • Thomasville, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The bachelor of social work (BSW) program at Thomas University (TU) builds broad knowledge and skills that prepare students for entry- and mid-level social work careers. A BSW also meets educational requirements to apply for many master's and doctoral programs, such as a master of social work.

The bachelor's curriculum includes major courses that cover foundational social work concepts and methods, along with general education classes that strengthen critical thinking skills. Students can gain interdisciplinary training by choosing a minor or second major. The BSW program at TU holds accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education. 

TU's student services office and financial aid counselors help incoming degree candidates transition into a bachelor's program, identify scholarship and grant opportunities, and map out a degree plan.

Thomas University at a Glance:

Location: Thomasville, Georgia

Type of School: Private

Admissions Rate: 35%

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 16

Undergrad Tuition: $15,940

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$15,940
Out-of-state
$15,940
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,790
Out-of-state
$11,790
Retention Rate
59%
Acceptance Rate
35%
Students Enrolled
1,303
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
100% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#12 Most Affordable Online Social Work Degrees

Angelo State University

  • San Angelo, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Angelo State University (ASU) offers a total of 40 bachelor's programs, including a bachelor of social work (BSW). Accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, this program dovetails seamlessly with ASU's master's and doctoral social work programs. Graduates may be eligible to sit for the Texas State Board of Social Work Examiners Licensing Exam. 

Offered online and on campus, the BSW curriculum covers introductory and advanced social work topics. Undergraduates also strengthen analytical and critical thinking skills during general education classes. Field training and research projects provide practical experience. 

Incoming degree candidates can consult with ASU's student support and financial aid offices to chart an educational path and identify scholarship and grant opportunities.

Angelo State University at a Glance:

Location: San Angelo, Texas

Type of School: Public

Admission Rate: 78%

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 5

Undergrad Tuition (In State) $4,412

Undergrad Tuition (Out of State): $14,228

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,412
Out-of-state
$14,228
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,119
Out-of-state
$11,481
Retention Rate
71%
Acceptance Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
10,775
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
55% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#13 Most Affordable Online Social Work Degrees

The University of Hawai'i at Mānoa

  • Honolulu, HI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Hawai'i at Mānoa's bachelor of social work (BSW) program prioritizes accessibility in its course options. Students remain in their local communities while preparing for social services career paths or further education. 

The bachelor's curriculum includes upper-division social work courses and electives. Undergraduates should complete general education courses before entering the program. Learners complete field education in their home areas and may qualify to pursue Hawai'i state licensure as a Licensed Bachelor Social Worker.

The university's student services office supports incoming degree candidates academically and socially. For example, career counselors help learners identify strengths and create a job search plan.

The University of Hawai'i at Mānoa at a Glance:

Location: Honolulu, Hawai'i

Type of School: Public

Admission Rate: 84%

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 4

Undergrad Tuition (In State): $11,304

Undergrad Tuition (Out of State): $33,336

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,304
Out-of-state
$33,336
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$15,600
Out-of-state
$33,648
Retention Rate
80%
Acceptance Rate
84%
Students Enrolled
18,025
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
50% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#14 Most Affordable Online Social Work Degrees

East Central University

  • Ada, OK
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

From its campus in Ada, Oklahoma, East Central University (ECU) offers both in-person and online enrollment options. Undergraduates benefit from rigorous academic standards and comprehensive college support services.

ECU offers an online bachelor of social work program with accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education. Majors complete the program by taking general education and social work courses. The general education curriculum includes courses in mathematics, the humanities, and natural sciences. Graduates prepare for the workforce or a further degree by completing an internship and taking advanced social work courses that cover theoretical and practical topics.

East Central University at a Glance:

Admission Rate: 96%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 31

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 6

Undergrad Tuition (In State): $5,648

Undergrad Tuition (Out of State): $15,008

Average Amount Aid Awarded: $6,824

Graduation Rate: 39%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $33,200

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,648
Out-of-state
$15,008
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,298
Out-of-state
$10,726
Retention Rate
60%
Acceptance Rate
96%
Students Enrolled
3,608
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
100% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#15 Most Affordable Online Social Work Degrees

University of North Dakota

  • Grand Forks, ND
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Students at the University of North Dakota (UND) enjoy flexible course options and high academic standards. From its campus in Grand Forks, this public institution enrolls degree-seekers in on-campus and online programs. Available in both formats, the university's undergraduate social work degree holds Council on Social Work Education accreditation. 

UND's BS in social work program strengthens in-demand skills through general education and major courses. Social sciences, STEM, and humanities classes meet the general education graduation requirements. Learners gain a theoretical and practical understanding of the social work discipline as they prepare for careers in the field or graduate study.

University of North Dakota at a Glance:

Admission Rate: 87%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 99

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 11

Undergrad Tuition (In State): $8,540

Undergrad Tuition (Out of State): $12,810

Average Amount Aid Awarded: $6,245

Graduation Rate: 61%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $45,400

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,540
Out-of-state
$12,810
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,060
Out-of-state
$16,590
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
87%
Students Enrolled
13,615
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
83% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#16 Most Affordable Online Social Work Degrees

Troy University

  • Troy, AL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Based in Troy, Alabama, Troy University educates students online and on campus. This public university provides comprehensive support services and challenging academics.

Troy's bachelor of social work (BSW) program features online and in-person options along with accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education. BSW candidates take courses in the major and meet general education requirements to complete their degree. General education coursework includes classes in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. Graduates gain skills and knowledge for entry-level social work careers or further education by taking upper-division social work classes, participating in community projects, and completing a 400-hour practicum.

Troy University at a Glance:

Admission Rate: 92%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 48

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 21

Undergrad Tuition (In State): $7,800

Undergrad Tuition (Out of State): $15,600

Average Amount Aid Awarded: $7,973

Graduation Rate: 50%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $34,300

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,800
Out-of-state
$15,600
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,650
Out-of-state
$15,300
Retention Rate
77%
Acceptance Rate
92%
Students Enrolled
16,497
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
62% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#17 Most Affordable Online Social Work Degrees

Eastern Kentucky University

  • Richmond, KY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The bachelor of social work (BSW) program, one of 83 bachelor's programs at Eastern Kentucky University (EKU), offers a flexible route to a college degree. Students prepare to pursue diverse social services career paths or continue their education by applying to master's or doctoral programs.

The BSW curriculum includes introductory social work classes and upper-division courses. Undergraduates also complete general education requirements, which strengthen analytical and critical thinking skills. Learners can complete this 120-credit program entirely online. 

EKU's student support personnel help incoming degree candidates transition into the school's community. Academic advisors work with students to transfer credits into the school and select courses, while financial aid officers help learners finance their studies. 

Eastern Kentucky University at a Glance:

Location: Richmond, Kentucky

Type of School: Public

Admission Rate: 98%

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 4

Undergrad Tuition (In State): $9,266

Undergrad Tuition (Out of State): $19,338

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,266
Out-of-state
$19,338
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,900
Out-of-state
$13,950
Retention Rate
79%
Acceptance Rate
98%
Students Enrolled
14,465
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
59% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#18 Most Affordable Online Social Work Degrees

The University of Arkansas at Little Rock

  • Little Rock, AR
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Arkansas at Little Rock (UA Little Rock) enrolls learners in 59 bachelor's programs, including a bachelor of social work degree. Accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, this program develops the knowledge and skills students need to practice social work in diverse communities. Graduates can enter the job market directly or apply to master's programs to continue their education.

The bachelor's curriculum introduces core social work topics and methods. Undergraduates also complete general education courses, gaining valuable skills in writing, communication, and critical thinking. Participants complete an internship during the program's final year.

Incoming degree candidates can expect strong college support whether they enroll on campus or online. UA Little Rock's academic advisors work with students to make a graduation plan that takes transfer credits into account.

The University of Arkansas at Little Rock at a Glance:

Location: Little Rock, Arkansas

Type of School: Public

Admission Rate: 56%

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 18

Undergrad Tuition (In State): $6,495

Undergrad Tuition (Out of State): $18,750

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,495
Out-of-state
$18,750
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,760
Out-of-state
$13,050
Retention Rate
73%
Acceptance Rate
56%
Students Enrolled
8,899
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
84% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#19 Most Affordable Online Social Work Degrees

Huntington University

  • Huntington, IN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

A private Christian institution located in Huntington, Indiana, Huntington University offers 67 bachelor's degrees. The school's online bachelor's program in social work builds the knowledge and skills required for a variety of entry-level and mid-level careers in healthcare, government, social services and education. Graduates can also apply for master's-level programs such as the school's MA in counseling.

The bachelor's curriculum introduces key social work topics and principles through major coursework. Undergraduates also take general education courses to build writing, communication, and critical thinking skills. Community service and field training opportunities round out the degree.

The university's student services help support incoming degree candidates. Learners meet with financial aid counselors to identify scholarships and plan their schedules with help from academic advisors.

Huntington University at a Glance:

Location: Huntington, Indiana

Type of School: Private

Admission Rate: 78%

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 7

Undergrad Tuition: $25,956

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$25,956
Out-of-state
$25,956
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,208
Out-of-state
$11,208
Retention Rate
77%
Acceptance Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
1,391
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
30% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#20 Most Affordable Online Social Work Degrees

Malone University

  • Canton, OH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Malone University's 47 bachelor's degrees include a flexible online BA in social work. The program holds accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education, indicating its standards are rigorous. Learners gain the knowledge and skills required for social work careers or graduate study. 

Taught from a Christian worldview, Malone's social work curriculum introduces foundational and advanced principles in the discipline. Undergraduates also strengthen analytical and writing skills during general education classes. Coursework takes place 100% online.

Incoming degree candidates benefit from strong college support at Malone, including academic advisors who work with students to make a personalized graduation plan. 

Malone University at a Glance:

Location: Canton, Ohio

Type of School: Private

Admission Rate: 74%

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 5

Undergrad Tuition: $31,416

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$31,416
Out-of-state
$31,416
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,250
Out-of-state
$11,250
Retention Rate
78%
Acceptance Rate
74%
Students Enrolled
1,463
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
52% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

Why Get a Degree in Social Work?

Social workers help people achieve a better quality of life. Their work also impacts communities positively. Social workers earn more than the typical U.S. worker. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects jobs for these workers to grow 12% from 2020-2030, which is faster than average.

An online format helps recent high school graduates and adults returning to school. Online social work degrees let students attend an out-of-state college without relocating. This advantage can help learners save money. Other benefits may include an asynchronous curriculum.

How Much Does a Social Work Degree Cost?

Students researching online social work programs should compare their cost of attendance by adding up fees, tuition, textbooks, and other expenses. College costs an average of $35,330 per year, according to EducationData.org. Learners attending public, in-state schools typically pay the most affordable tuition.

Many colleges offering a degree in social work offer institutional scholarships and grants. The latter requires FAFSA results. The federal government also uses the FAFSA to award grants and low-interest loans. Degree-seekers submit the FAFSA annually to remain eligible. Online social work students can also apply for private scholarships to help pay for their degree.

Additional Online Student Fees

Students pursuing an online social work degree should budget for extra expenses. For example, many schools charge technology fees to cover online learning delivery. Schools may also charge graduation fees.

Learners pursuing licensure may move into a master's in social work program, which requires a major investment. Master's degree-holders must then pay for a state-issued license. Prospective students should check a state's board of licensure website for the latest fee schedules.

How Much Do Social Work Majors Make?

Social workers earn a median $51,760 annually, according to the BLS. This salary exceeds what the typical U.S. worker makes by about $10,000. However, workers with only a bachelor's may earn less. The lowest-paid social workers earn $33,020 or less.

Many factors influence salary, including professionals' employer and geographic location. Local governments and ambulatory healthcare services pay more than the national median.

Earning a master's degree and a license helps graduates qualify for better-paying positions. Some experienced licensed social workers earn more than $85,820. These workers can find the best-paying jobs by relocating. Social workers in Hawaii, Massachusetts, and Washington earn more than their peers in other states.

Courses in Social Work

Online social work programs require major classes, general education classes, and electives. The major curriculum may feature classes in writing for social workers, social welfare policy, and integrative practice.

Some programs offer enough elective credits to let students complete a minor or second major. Degree-seekers can work with an academic advisor to customize the curriculum to fit their academic and career goals.

See below for some common classes in online social work programs. Consider this list a sample curriculum. Graduation requirements and academic experiences vary among online schools. Prospective enrollees should compare social work degrees closely and contact admissions counselors to find the right program.

How to Become a Social Worker

Licensed social workers need more than a bachelor's to practice. Aspiring professionals must earn a master's from a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education. This organization accredits only the best programs preparing learners for a career. Other requirements include a state-issued license. Licensure candidates with a master's take exams and pay a fee.

Licensed social workers' responsibilities vary by specialization. School social workers typically work out of a district office and visit schools. Healthcare social workers usually work in a hospital or other clinical setting. Typical job responsibilities include interviewing clients, providing advice, and recommending additional social services.

Frequently Asked Questions About Social Work

What jobs can I get with a degree in social work?

Licensed professionals work in different settings, like hospitals or schools. They train for these roles by selecting a specialization in their online social work degree.

What are some social work specializations?

Social work degrees may offer specializations like medical or hospice social work. Requirements include completing supervised work experience and taking upper-division electives.

Do social workers need a license?

Many social work professions require a license. Licensure requirements vary by state but may include a specific degree, supervised work experience, and passing an exam.

Do I need more than a bachelor's degree to work as a social worker?

Many social workers need a master's in social work to qualify for a state-issued license. These on-campus and online degrees in social work take full-time students two years to complete.

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