Most Affordable Online Bachelor’s in Social Work (BSW) Degrees of 2025
Starting a career in social work is an admirable choice, often driven by the desire to help people and communities in need. Yet, the expense of paying for school can often stand in the way. That’s why it’s important to find an affordable online or in-person social work program.
This guide explores the most affordable online programs, including financial aid options and the benefits of studying online. Discover how to achieve your educational dreams without breaking the bank.
The Cheapest Online Social Work Degrees
Charter Oak State College
New Britain, CT- 4 year
- Online
What You'll Like:
Charter Oak State College offers a BSW in a 100% online format, with six start dates throughout the year. The program is designed for working professionals. The coursework includes a flexible practicum experience and a synchronous social work seminar for students to share experiences with each other.
- Credits Needed to Graduate: 120
- Cost per Credit: $329 in state; $329 out of state
- Programmatic Accreditation: In candidacy for accreditation by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
Things We Love:
- This BSW program offers you flexibility with six start dates throughout the year and course maps for both full- and part-time study.
- The personalized 400-hour practicum helps you build confidence and develop real-world experience.
- The 100% first-to-second-year student retention rate shows strong student support.
What to Know Before You Apply:
- You can only start a practicum in the fall and must complete it consecutively in the fall, spring, and summer terms.
- You can earn college credit for certain professional licenses, certifications, or credentials that you earned within the past five years.
- In-State$7,656
- Out-of-state$10,056
- In-State$9,288
- Out-of-state$9,720
- Retention Rate100%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled1,602
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online EnrollmentN/A
- AccreditationYes
Georgia State University
- Atlanta, GA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
What You'll Like:
Georgia State University's BSW curriculum focuses on nine competencies connected to accreditation and licensure rules in Georgia. The program aims to develop your understanding of human behavior and practice methods while building skills in critical thinking and ethics, research, and intervention approaches with diverse communities.
- Credits Needed to Graduate: 120
- Cost per Credit: $417 in state; $1,091 out of state
- Programmatic Accreditation: CSWE
Things We Love:
- All BSW courses are online, and you have the flexibility to complete your required field placement in your local community.
- Georgia State's undergraduate advisement center can help you enroll in the correct courses.
- Georgia State reports a $50,600 median starting salary within five years of graduation.
What to Know Before You Apply:
- You must complete two years of general credits before applying to be a BSW major.
- Out-of-state students pay more than twice as much as in-state students for tuition.
- With a school-wide acceptance rate of 62% and limited availability in the BSW program, entry is selective, and acceptance is not guaranteed.
- In-State$8,948
- Out-of-state$27,986
- In-State$7,164
- Out-of-state$22,662
- Retention Rate76%
- Acceptance Rate52%
- Students Enrolled34,995
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment67%
- AccreditationYes
Northern Arizona University
- Flagstaff, AZ
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
What You'll Like:
Northern Arizona University's online BSW gives you the flexibility of an online degree with the structure of a semester-based course schedule and assignment deadlines. You'll get access to hands-on learning to advocate for human rights and social justice in vulnerable populations.
- Credits Needed to Graduate: 120
- Cost per Credit: $508 in state; $508 out of state
- Programmatic Accreditation: CSWE
Things We Love:
- Out-of-state students pay the same tuition rates as in-state students.
- You'll be prepared to apply for state licensure as a program graduate.
- This BSW program has a unique focus on addressing poverty, structural racism, and oppression with an emphasis on rural and Indigenous populations in the Southwest.
What to Know Before You Apply:
- NAU has a high admission rate of 91%, making education accessible for many students.
- To qualify for admission to the BSW program, you must have at least 24 credit hours in progress, a minimum 2.25 GPA, and a grade of B or better in a lower-level social work course.
- In-State$11,352
- Out-of-state$27,600
- In-State$11,103
- Out-of-state$20,817
- Retention Rate73%
- Acceptance Rate91%
- Students Enrolled28,194
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment54%
- AccreditationYes
University of Memphis
- Memphis, TN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
What You'll Like:
The University of Memphis offers a 100% online BSW. The program is specifically designed to prepare you to work as a social work generalist practitioner. You can also choose a concentration in school social work that leads to school social work licensure in Tennessee and some other states.
- Credits Needed to Graduate: 120
- Cost per Credit: $447 in state; $641 out of state
- Programmatic Accreditation: CSWE
Things We Love:
- You can qualify for a payment plan for the fall and spring terms, giving you additional flexibility in financing your degree.
- You can take courses specifically to seek the school social work license at the undergraduate level.
- UofM offers increased benefits and assistance for active military and veterans.
What to Know Before You Apply:
- You'll need to be available for scheduled synchronous class sessions for some courses.
- You must complete an in-person field placement with 400 contact hours.
- UofM has a 93% admissions rate, meaning you have a good chance of being accepted.
- In-State$8,520
- Out-of-state$16,200
- In-State$9,378
- Out-of-state$13,194
- Retention Rate71%
- Acceptance Rate93%
- Students Enrolled21,736
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment60%
- AccreditationYes
East Central University
- Ada, OK
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
What You'll Like:
East Central University offers an online BSW structured in eight-week courses. The curriculum uniquely promotes human and community well-being through a global perspective, respect for diversity, and scientific knowledge.
- Credits Needed to Graduate: 120
- Cost per Credit: $322 in state; $639 out of state
- Programmatic Accreditation: CSWE
Things We Love:
- You can transfer up to 94 credits to graduate in two to four years and save money in the process.
- Military-connected students can access greater academic and financial assistance, priority enrollment, application assistance, and more.
What to Know Before You Apply:
- ECU's graduation rate is low (33%), but its retention rate is modest (60%), indicating that most students return after their first year.
- Eligible Indigenous American students can access financial aid programs, plus heritage scholarships and grants.
- In-State$6,001
- Out-of-state$15,151
- In-State$4,555
- Out-of-state$10,945
- Retention Rate60%
- Acceptance Rate70%
- Students Enrolled3,376
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment78%
- AccreditationYes
University of Utah
- Salt Lake City, UT
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
What You'll Like:
The University of Utah's BSW is a 100% online program that encourages collaboration through group assignments, discussion forums, and peer reviews. The program emphasizes social justice and improving the condition of all community members.
- Credits Needed to Graduate: 122
- Cost per Credit: $520 in state; $520 out of state
- Programmatic Accreditation: CSWE
Things We Love:
- All online students pay the same tuition rate regardless of where they reside.
- If you're interested in working with children and families, you can apply for Utah's Child Welfare Title IV-E Career Path grant, which includes full in-state tuition and a stipend.
What to Know Before You Apply:
- As a state university, the U has a strong 85% admission rate, indicating the school focuses on making education accessible to many students.
- This program is not offered in the summer, as there are only fall and spring terms.
- In-State$9,103
- Out-of-state$31,861
- In-State$7,353
- Out-of-state$25,961
- Retention Rate85%
- Acceptance Rate87%
- Students Enrolled35,262
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment55%
- AccreditationYes
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus
- Cincinnati, OH
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
What You'll Like:
The University of Cincinnati offers a BSW program designed for busy working professionals who need a flexible program to balance other obligations. The curriculum emphasizes social work ethics and practice, human behavior and the social environment, diversity, and social justice.
- Credits Needed to Graduate: 120
- Cost per Credit: $471 in state; $483 out of state
- Programmatic Accreditation: CSWE
Things We Love:
- Out-of-state students can access nearly the same tuition rate as in-state students.
- You'll receive one-on-one support from a student success and program coordinator, who will help guide you toward academic and personal success.
- If you live outside the Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky area, the program field director will help you identify a practicum opportunity in your area.
What to Know Before You Apply:
- For program acceptance, you must have a minimum of 24 credit hours from a regionally accredited institution and a GPA of at least 2.75.
- UC has an impressive 86% first-to-second-year retention rate and a 72% graduation rate, indicating that students feel supported by the school and receive a high-quality education.
- In-State$11,892
- Out-of-state$27,226
- In-State$13,224
- Out-of-state$24,966
- Retention Rate86%
- Acceptance Rate88%
- Students Enrolled43,976
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment62%
- AccreditationYes
Appalachian State University
- Boone, NC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
What You'll Like:
Appalachian State University offers a BSW that's 100% online. The flexible, research-based curriculum focuses on the social, economic, and political processes involved in the development of social service institutions.
- Credits Needed to Graduate: 120
- Cost per Credit: $204 in state; $939 out of state
- Programmatic Accreditation: CSWE
Things We Love:
- The 74-credit BSW specialization includes unique courses in diversity in Appalachia and Appalachian culture.
- The transfer equivalency course search makes it easy to find transfer credit for military experience or from other colleges globally.
What to Know Before You Apply:
- This program has both synchronous and asynchronous courses, so you'll need to be available during scheduled times.
- You must complete an in-person internship in your final semester, working around 32 hours a week.
- The out-of-state tuition rate is more than four times the rate for in-state students, making it a relatively expensive program for students who live outside of North Carolina.
- In-State$4,242
- Out-of-state$21,238
- In-State$4,839
- Out-of-state$19,849
- Retention Rate85%
- Acceptance Rate89%
- Students Enrolled21,253
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment56%
- AccreditationYes
University of Alaska Fairbanks
- Fairbanks, AK
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
What You'll Like:
The University of Alaska Fairbanks offers options for a 100% online or hybrid social work degree program. The program's cohort model helps rural students bond and build an educational online support network. You'll learn from both university instructors and an Alaska Native Elder.
- Credits Needed to Graduate: 120
- Cost per Credit: $289 in state; $289 out of state
- Programmatic Accreditation: CSWE
Things We Love:
- UAF online students are eligible for the same scholarships as on-campus students.
- Some instruction is taught by an Alaska Native Elder, providing you with traditional approaches to learning.
- Online students can connect with Alaskan social work organizations and clubs and attend conferences.
What to Know Before You Apply:
- UAF has a low 32% graduation rate, although the 70% first-to-second-year student retention rate is strong. This can indicate that many students return after the first year but finish their degree elsewhere.
- You'll need to complete a 400-hour practicum under the direct supervision of an agency social worker.
- In-State$8,670
- Out-of-state$25,650
- In-State$11,535
- Out-of-state$23,647
- Retention Rate72%
- Acceptance Rate70%
- Students Enrolled6,710
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment77%
- AccreditationYes
Idaho State University
- Pocatello, ID
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
What You'll Like:
Idaho State University offers a bachelor's in social work with an optional concentration in criminology. ISU's program aims to address Idaho's federally designated mental healthcare shortage by meeting the needs of rural communities. Required courses include psychology research methods and power, class, and prestige.
- Credits Needed to Graduate: 120
- Cost per Credit: $287 in state; $924 out of state
- Programmatic Accreditation: CSWE
Things We Love:
- Idaho-based students can access a variety of scholarships from the Idaho State Board of Education.
- Online students can access student support services, including an IT help desk.
- The program emphasizes flexibility for working professionals and parents.
What to Know Before You Apply:
- You can access a range of services for veterans, service members, and military-connected students.
- Out-of-state students pay more than three times as much tuition as in-state students, making it a far more expensive option for non-Idahoan students.
- In-State$5,928
- Out-of-state$23,906
- In-State$8,601
- Out-of-state$26,578
- Retention Rate71%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled12,301
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment59%
- AccreditationYes
How Much Does an Online Bachelor’s in Social Work Cost?
According to the NCES, as of 2020, the average annual tuition and fees for an online bachelor’s degree in social services was $9,992. For on-campus social science degree programs, the average was $19,427, nearly $10,000 more.
The type of online college you choose also greatly affects your total costs. The NCES reports that average tuition for the 2022-2023 academic year ranged from $9,750 for in-state students at public institutions to $35,248 for students attending private colleges.
Reality Check: Will an online social work degree save me money?
Depending on the program you choose, an online bachelor’s in social work could be less expensive than an on-campus social work degree. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), online social science degrees are nearly $10,000 cheaper, on average, than in-person social science degrees.
How to Reduce the Cost of an Online Bachelor’s in Social Work Program
In addition to researching and comparing the cost of social work programs, consider the tips below to reduce the cost of an online social work degree.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
Fill out the FAFSA, and look for private scholarships and grants. Many organizations and schools offer scholarships, some specifically for social work majors. Your college’s financial aid office will have information on school-specific opportunities.In-State Tuition
Choosing an online degree program that offers in-state tuition rates can reduce your tuition costs. Some online programs offer in-state rates to all students regardless of where they live.Transfer Credits
If you have already earned college credits, you may be able to transfer these to your new program. Transfer credits can decrease the number of courses you need to take, lower tuition costs, and help you finish your degree faster.Accelerated Programs
Some schools offer accelerated programs that allow you to complete your degree faster. These programs let you finish your degree quicker, saving you money on tuition and other school expenses.
Choosing an Online Social Work Program: Five Factors to Consider
Before applying to an online social work program you should consider which program best serves your career goals and interests, as well as program length and total costs.
If you have a specific social work career goal, such as school social work or clinical social work, be sure to look for colleges with the concentration you need for certification or licensure. Below are the additional factors to consider when choosing an affordable social work degree online.
1. Program Cost
The total cost of an online social work degree can vary widely. In general, in-state public schools offer the lowest tuition rates. However, many out-of-state public institutions offer a flat rate for online students. Consider the total cost of the degree, including technology fees, online learning fees, and books.
2. Transfer Policies
A generous transfer policy can help you save time and money to graduate sooner.
For example, a program that accepts up to 90 transfer credits means you could transfer credits from a community college or previously attended university to earn your bachelor’s in social work in as little as one or two years.
3. Program Type
There are many programs you can choose from to fit your lifestyle. Courses can be offered in a synchronous or asynchronous format and may include a program cohort. You can also choose a program that offers an accelerated degree program to start your career sooner.
An online social work degree program typically takes four years to complete, but additional requirements, such as a practicum or internship, can increase that time.
4. On-Campus Requirements
You’ll want to check whether the degree program is 100% online or hybrid. Some online social work programs have on-campus residency requirements for clinical components. If your college offers a hybrid program, choosing a nearby school can help you fulfill these requirements more easily.
5. Accreditation for Online Social Work Degrees
Attending an accredited instruction is essential for social work licensure and to access federal financial aid. You’ll want to look for both institutional accreditation and programmatic accreditation.
- Institutional Accreditation: Schools that earn institutional accreditation from a regional accreditation organization meet the highest standards for liberal arts and research institutions.
- Programmatic Accreditation: For social work degrees, look for programs accredited by the Council on Social Work Education.
Social Work Career and Salary Information
An online bachelor of social work degree prepares you for many in-demand entry-level careers. For example, social workers specializing in working with children can pursue opportunities in schools, healthcare, and social service settings.
After earning a BSW, you can apply to a master of social work (MSW) program to become a licensed social worker. In 19 states, you can also apply to become a licensed baccalaureate social worker. However, to practice in a clinical setting in any state, you’ll need a master’s degree.
| Social Work Jobs | Median Salary (May 2024) | Projected Growth (2023-2033) | Minimum Degree Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Social Worker | $61,330 | 7% | Bachelor’s or master’s degree (varies by state) |
| Health Education Specialist | $63,000 | 7% | Bachelor’s degree |
| Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists | $64,520 | 4% | Bachelor’s degree |
| Marriage and Family Therapists | $63,780 | 16% | Master’s degree |
| Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors | $59,190 | 19% | Master’s degree |
Frequently Asked Questions About Affordable Online Bachelor’s in Social Work Programs
Social workers identify and support people and communities in need. This can include assessing a client’s situation, strengths, and support network as well as suggesting additional community resources.
A social worker may help clients access child care, healthcare, or food stamps. As a social worker, you will be responsible for maintaining case records and files and may be called into crisis situations, such as child abuse and mental health emergencies.
