Best Online Social Work (BSW) Degrees of 2025
The best online schools for social work degrees train you to help people, families, and communities cope with daily challenges. A bachelor’s in social work opens the door to social work careers, as well as advanced studies in clinical social work, counseling, and therapy.
Learn more about online bachelor’s degree programs in social work in this guide.
10 Best Online Schools for Social Work Degree (BSW) Programs
Charter Oak State College
New Britain, CT
- 4 year
- Online
What You'll Like: Charter Oak State College's online BSW is designed for working professionals. You'll gain skills for generalist social work practice while building the expertise needed to become a leader in the field. The curriculum emphasizes ethical practice, diversity, and service to the professional community and vulnerable groups.
Things We Love:
- With six start dates per year, you can choose from a part-time or full-time curriculum to fit the program into your schedule.
- Tuition is the same for in-state and out-of-state students at just $329 per credit.
- You may be able to receive college credits for prior education and work experience.
What to Know Before You Apply:
- You must complete a practicum that starts in the fall and covers an entire year.
- The application process includes a virtual interview with the program director or a designee.
- Charter Oak's BSW program is currently in candidacy for accreditation by the Council on Social Work Education.
- In-State$7,896
- Out-of-state$7,896
- In-State$9,522
- Out-of-state$9,522
- Retention Rate100%
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled1,766
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online EnrollmentNot provided
- AccreditationYes
The University of Alabama
Tuscaloosa, AL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
What You'll Like: The University of Alabama's BSW program can be completed entirely online and is identical to the widely respected on-campus program. The research-based curriculum prepares you to work in healthcare establishments, mental health and substance misuse centers, schools, and advocacy organizations.
Things We Love:
- At $385 per credit, tuition is competitive with other programs on this list.
- Applications are accepted year-round.
- For the mandatory 450-hour practicum, the school partners with a variety of social service agencies serving diverse populations.
- UA offers many online scholarships.
What to Know Before You Apply:
- All three skills labs are offered in virtual, synchronous meetings on select Saturdays.
- If you intend to reside or seek professional licensure outside of Alabama, you must review your state licensure requirements before applying to the program.
- In-State$11,100
- Out-of-state$32,400
- In-State$11,100
- Out-of-state$32,400
- Retention Rate86%
- Acceptance Rate76%
- Students Enrolled39,622
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment43%
- AccreditationYes
Northern Arizona University
Flagstaff, AZ
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
What You'll Like: The BSW program at Northern Arizona University trains you to advocate for marginalized children, adults, and families in your community. The curriculum emphasizes dynamic coursework and hands-on learning to prepare you to be a voice for human rights and social justice.
Things We Love:
- Get the flexibility of an online degree with the structure of a semester-based course schedule and assignment deadlines.
- The program is designed to help you effectively address poverty, structural racism, and oppression with a focus on rural and Indigenous regions in the Southwest.
What to Know Before You Apply:
- You must have at least 24 credit hours in progress at NAU before you can formally apply to the BSW program.
- You'll need a grade of B or better in a lower-level social work course and a minimum GPA of 2.25 for admission to the program.
- You can enroll in NAU's Honors College while in the BSW program.
- In-State$11,352
- Out-of-state$27,600
- In-State$11,674
- Out-of-state$21,204
- Retention Rate73%
- Acceptance Rate91%
- Students Enrolled28,194
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment52%
- AccreditationYes
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville
Knoxville, TN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
What You'll Like: The University of Tennessee-Knoxville's online BS in social work (BSSW) offers flexibility without compromising quality. The online curriculum is identical to the on-campus curriculum, with all courses delivered using a mix of real-time or synchronous video conference software plus asynchronous coursework.
Things We Love:
- Over 95% of UT's BSSW graduates report being employed within six months of graduation.
- The program is designed for transfer students who have earned 60 transferrable credits with an associate degree from a regionally accredited community college.
What to Know Before You Apply:
- A field coordinator will help you secure the required practicum placement for real-world practice under the supervision of a professional social worker.
- The program had a 94% retention rate in 2023, indicating strong student support.
- In-State$11,340
- Out-of-state$29,552
- In-State$11,468
- Out-of-state$29,656
- Retention Rate91%
- Acceptance Rate46%
- Students Enrolled36,304
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment53%
- AccreditationYes
Temple University
Philadelphia, PA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
What You'll Like: Temple University's online BSW program focuses on core social justice issues and working with communities in need. Topics you'll focus on include institutional racism, health disparities, and poverty in Philadelphia’s dynamic urban setting.
Things We Love:
- The curriculum prepares you for entry-level social work careers that advance social justice for individuals, families, and communities in need.
- Fieldwork and intensive internship opportunities allow you to develop real-world experience while integrating theory.
- Temple offers a transfer equivalency tool that allows you to see which credits may be transferable to the BSW program.
What to Know Before You Apply:
- Temple does not provide a laptop and requires one as part of the minimum hardware specification.
- Out-of-state tuition is $33,912 per year, nearly double the cost of tuition for Pennsylvania residents.
- In-State$21,014
- Out-of-state$36,379
- In-State$21,042
- Out-of-state$27,555
- Retention Rate84%
- Acceptance Rate83%
- Students Enrolled30,205
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment52%
- AccreditationYes
Thomas University
Thomasville, GA
- 4 year
- Online
What You'll Like: Thomas University's online BSW program prepares you to make a difference in the lives of both individuals and communities. You can apply the skills developed in this program across many fields, including mental health, social justice, family counseling, and legislative advocacy.
Things We Love:
- The curriculum includes social work practice fundamentals for families, groups, communities and organizations, and individuals.
- TU collaborates with numerous agencies and organizations to provide you with internships and fieldwork that build critical educational experiences.
- The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) fully accredits TU's BSW curriculum.
What to Know Before You Apply:
- To apply, you must submit your high school transcript or GED. For admission, you must have a cumulative GPA of 2.5 to enter the BSW program in your junior year.
- Military service members and dependents receive a tuition discount.
- In-State$11,400
- Out-of-state$11,400
- In-State$13,050
- Out-of-state$13,050
- Retention Rate64%
- Acceptance Rate43%
- Students Enrolled1,583
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment100%
- AccreditationYes
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus
Cincinnati, OH
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
What You'll Like: The University of Cincinnati offers an online BSW focusing on social work ethics and practice, diversity and social justice, and human behavior and the social environment. You'll prepare to assess, intervene, and advocate for clients effectively through hands-on experience and case studies.
Things We Love:
- You'll have access to a student success coordinator and program coordinator to help you stay on track while addressing both academic and non-academic issues.
- Most UC students continue to work while enrolled in the BSW program.
- A field coordinator can help you set up a practicum outside of the Cincinnati area.
What to Know Before You Apply:
- In the program's final year, you'll complete 432 hours of field placement, approximately 16 hours per week.
- For admission to the BSW program, you must have a minimum of 24 credits from an accredited institution and a minimum GPA of 2.75.
- In-State$11,892
- Out-of-state$27,226
- In-State$13,224
- Out-of-state$24,996
- Retention Rate86%
- Acceptance Rate88%
- Students Enrolled43,976
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment64%
- AccreditationYes
East Central University
Ada, OK
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
What You'll Like: East Central University's 100% online BSW program promotes human and community well-being through a global perspective, scientific knowledge, and respect for diversity. After graduation, you'll be qualified to pursue a master’s degree or work in human and social services positions helping individuals, families, groups, and organizations.
Things We Love:
- ECU allows you to transfer up to 94 credits to graduate in as little as two years.
- Choose from various electives to specialize your studies and work toward your career goals.
- The BSW program is accredited by CSWE.
What to Know Before You Apply:
- Tuition for Oklahoma residents is $322 per credit, while out-of-state tuition is $639 per credit.
- You're required to participate in hands-on internships for valuable workplace experience.
- In-State$6,300
- Out-of-state$15,810
- In-State$4,788
- Out-of-state$10,863
- Retention Rate57%
- Acceptance Rate66%
- Students Enrolled3,200
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment76%
- AccreditationYes
Georgia State University
Atlanta, GA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
What You'll Like: Georgia State University's online BSW program prepares you to fight for social justice, help children and families, and improve community connections. You'll be equipped to work in various settings, including hospitals, community health centers, schools, nursing homes, and nonprofit organizations.
Things We Love:
- The curriculum focuses on nine competencies connected to Georgia's accreditation and licensure rules.
- You'll work with the undergraduate advisement center throughout your time at Georgia State to ensure you're enrolling in the correct classes.
What to Know Before You Apply:
- Out-of-state students pay $29,400 in tuition annually, while Georgia residents are charged $9,180.
- You can start at Georgia State with an Exploratory Social Work status before you formally apply for the program in your junior year.
- You must have a minimum GPA of 2.5 to apply to the BSW program.
- 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
Maryville University of Saint Louis
Saint Louis, MO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
What You'll Like: A tech-forward school, Maryville University offers a 100% online BSW. You'll learn from industry professionals and experienced practitioners while gaining real-world experience, with coursework aligned with the nine CSWE competencies.
Things We Love:
- The program emphasizes self-care so you can learn to practice at the highest level in this challenging field.
- The BSW focuses on diversity, generalist practice, social justice, experiential projects, and real-world scenarios.
- Work with a virtual community of like-minded students and experienced professionals, including licensed clinical social workers.
What to Know Before You Apply:
- There's no application fee, and you do not have to submit ACT or SAT scores to apply.
- You can transfer credits you earned at an accredited institution to reduce the cost and time it takes to earn your degree.
- In-State$24,766
- Out-of-state$24,766
- In-State$14,346
- Out-of-state$14,346
- Retention Rate83%
- Acceptance Rate94%
- Students Enrolled9,883
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment84%
- AccreditationYes
Reality Check: Can I Make a Good Living in Social Work?
While a degree in social work doesn’t usually lead to a six-figure-paying job, you can still have a rewarding and profitable career with careful planning and hard work.
As of May 2024, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), social workers earn a median annual salary of $61,330, over $10,000 more than the median for all other occupations. With a master’s degree, you can further increase your earning potential and career opportunities.
What Is a Bachelor’s in Social Work (BSW) Degree?
A BSW is an undergraduate degree that prepares you for an entry-level social work job. It covers the history, theories, and practices of social work. Additionally, it teaches skills to address issues like child welfare and mental health. After graduation, you can pursue entry-level social work jobs or a master’s in social work program.
Why Get Your BSW Online?
Flexible Learning Schedule: Online BSW programs let you balance your education with work or family responsibilities, with many offering self-paced or part-time options.
Reduced Costs: Save on commuting, housing, and campus-related fees while accessing quality education at a possibly lower tuition rate.
Wide Program Availability: Access CSWE-accredited programs nationwide regardless of where you live, ensuring diverse learning opportunities and programs within your budget.
Career-Ready Skills: Develop digital communication and technology skills vital for social work, enhancing your professional toolkit for future roles.
What You Can Expect From an Online BSW Program
An online BSW usually takes four years to complete and requires 120 credits. However, the duration can vary based on whether you study full-time or part-time. Classes are online, but you’ll need to complete fieldwork in person, usually at a location near where you live.
In addition to social work classes, BSW programs include general education courses in the arts, humanities, and sciences. If you have an associate degree or college credits, some online programs may accept transfer credits, helping you finish your degree sooner.
While focus areas are more common at the master’s level, some BSW programs may also let you concentrate your social work degree in a specific area of social work. Common specializations at the BSW level include:
- Administration and Management
- Child Welfare
- Community and Advocacy
- Criminal Justice
- Disability
- Geriatric
- Healthcare
- Substance Use
Differences Between an Online and Campus-Based BSW Program
Online and campus-based BSW programs that are accredited by the Council on Social Work Education offer high-quality education programs that are recognized by employers and lead to licensure. The difference lies in how you learn the material.
In an online BSW program, you’ll complete coursework virtually and learn core skills like communication, ethics, and case planning through digital simulations and virtual discussions.
Most programs end with an in-person practicum, which your school will help you initiate. Some programs require you to visit the campus, while others help you find an agency in your area.
In a campus-based program, you’ll attend in-person classes and develop the same skills through live role-plays, peer collaboration, and face-to-face feedback. The school usually coordinates practicum placements through established partnerships with local agencies.
What Can You Do With a Social Work Degree?
With a BSW, you can become a non-clinical social worker, but it’s not your only option. Earning a BSW opens the door to many meaningful career paths in social and community work, including:
- Probation Officer and Correctional Treatment Specialist
- Social and Community Service Manager
- Non-Clinical Social Worker
- Social and Human Service Assistant
- Substance Use Counselor and Behavioral Disorder Counselor*
*Some states require a master’s degree
Can I Be a Licensed Clinical Social Worker With a Bachelor’s Degree?
No, to become a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), you will need to pursue a master’s degree in social work or a closely related field. Additionally, most states require the completion of 2-3 years of supervised clinical work and a clinical exam to obtain licensure.
A master’s program from one of our lists below can help set you up for a career as an LCSW.

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Social Work Salary and Careers With a Bachelor’s Degree
The job outlook for social work and similar fields, such as counseling and therapy, is generally positive. Social workers are crucial in healthcare, schools, and social services. The BLS projects a 7% growth in social work jobs from 2023-2033.
Careers You Can Pursue With a BSW | Median Annual Wage (May 2024) | Job Outlook (2023-2033) |
---|---|---|
Social Worker (Non-Clinical) | $61,330 | 7% |
Social and Community Service Assistant | $45,120 | 16% |
Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialist | $64,520 | 4% |
Social and Community Service Manager | $78,240 | 8% |
Substance Use Counselors and Behavioral Disorder Counselor | $59,190 | 19% |
How Much Does an Online Social Work Degree Cost?
The average total cost of an online BSW program is about $32,000, according to the most recent data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). On average, online BSW programs cost nearly $2,500 less per year than on-campus programs.
Adjusted for inflation using the BLS calculator, the cost of an online BSW is around $39,000 as of May 2025, compared to approximately $50,500 for a campus-based program. While still a significant investment, you can save by avoiding commuting costs, parking fees, and campus facilities charges as an online student.
Median Annual Tuition Cost of Social Services Degrees (Includes Social Work)
$7,852 (2020)
Online
$10,250 (2020)
Traditional On-Campus
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Social Work Degrees
Most entry-level social work jobs require at least a bachelor’s degree. A social worker with a bachelor’s degree provides basic support and case management, including helping clients access resources and referrals.
For advanced clinical roles, a master’s degree and social work licensure are required. Clinical social workers provide therapy, assess complex cases, and develop treatment plans.