Best Online Bachelor's in Social Work Degrees

Interested in a humanitarian career in high demand? Discover the top BSW programs, requirements, and career trajectory for social work majors.
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Updated September 29, 2023

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A career in social work can be a fulfilling career for those who want to help vulnerable populations. Social workers make a difference in lives by connecting them to vital services and resources.

Earning a bachelor's degree in social work (BSW) is an excellent first step towards becoming a licensed social worker. This degree can also offer career opportunities for people who might not want to become a social worker but do want to work in social services.

Many colleges and universities offer BSW programs, including online degrees for students who prefer flexible or remote learning.

Popular Online Social Work Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Why Get an Online Bachelor's in Social Work?

An online bachelor's degree serves as the first step in the ladder of becoming a social worker. In many states, social workers need at least a BSW to earn licensure. Most states require at least a master's in social work (MSW). While some MSW programs accept students with a bachelor's in a related field, a BSW may allow you to enroll with advanced standing, shortening the time required to graduate.

Many people choose to go the online route because of the flexibility it affords, especially compared to a traditional on-campus program. Distance learning programs offer students the convenience of studying from home, and they also offer several different learning formats, such as full time, part time, and accelerated.

Did You Know...

  • Over 700,000 people worked as social workers in the U.S. in 2022 — a number that the government expects to grow by 7% between 2022 and 2032.
  • Aspiring social workers can enroll in one of more than 600 accredited schools of social work in the United States.
  • The first social work class was taught over 100 years ago at Columbia University in 1898.
  • Some states with the highest concentration of social workers include Alaska, Massachusetts, and Maine.

Best Online Bachelor's in Social Work Degrees

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#1 Best Online Bachelor’s in Social Work Degrees

University of Arkansas at Little Rock

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

Programmatic Accreditation: Council on Social Work Education

Avg. Cost per Credit:

In-State | $292

Out-of-State | N/A

Credits to Graduate: 120

The bachelor of social work at University of Arkansas at Little Rock allows students to complete their degrees through entirely online coursework. The curriculum covers theoretical topics with courses exploring diversity in social work, addictions, and mental health. Learners also participate in a few in-person components to complete field seminars and experience requirements. 

Students can apply for the program after receiving admission into the university. Each applicant should have completed PSYC 2300, SOCI 2300, and SOWK 1301 with a minimum  2.5 GPA. The university offers this program to Arkansas residents only. 

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

#2 Best Online Bachelor’s in Social Work Degrees

Campbellsville University

  • Campbellsville, KY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Council on Social Work Education

Avg. Cost per Credit:

In-State | $424

Out-of-State | $424

Credits to Graduate: 120

Based in Kentucky, Campbellsville University offers several online degrees as a private Christian institution. The bachelor of social work teaches the foundations of social work through virtual interactions. Courses last eight weeks, and students can choose from electives such as conflict resolution or foster care and adoption. 

Prospective students should submit their high school transcripts if they apply with fewer than 24 transfer credits. Each applicant must also send in three letters of recommendation to the university's Carver School of Social Work. 

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

#3 Best Online Bachelor’s in Social Work Degrees

University of Utah

  • Salt Lake City, UT
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Council on Social Work Education

Avg. Cost per Credit:

In-State | $392

Out-of-State | $1296

Credits to Graduate: 123

At University of Utah, students can enroll in an online BSW that trains social workers to provide services to marginalized communities. Although the degree requires 123 total credits, each enrollee completes 48 hours within the College of Social Work to earn this degree. Courses include case management for social workers, crisis intervention, and social welfare policy. 

Interested individuals can apply if they already study at the University of Utah. Each candidate must possess a minimum 2.5 GPA, meet course prerequisites, submit a personal statement, and provide two letters of recommendation. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,412
Out-of-state
$26,017
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,666
Out-of-state
$23,537
Retention Rate
89%
Acceptance Rate
79%
Students Enrolled
33,081
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
90% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

#4 Best Online Bachelor’s in Social Work Degrees

University of North Dakota

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

Programmatic Accreditation: Council on Social Work Education

Avg. Cost per Credit:

In-State | $391 (North Dakota); $438 (Minnesota)

Out-of-State | $586

Credits to Graduate:120

University of North Dakota offers an online BSW that views social work through a social justice lens. The program applies a synchronous format, requiring students to log on at set times and participate in live class discussions. The curriculum also includes some on-campus requirements. Toward the end of the degree, each distance learner participates in a 450-hour field placement. They can complete this requirement through part-time enrollment over two semesters.

A student can apply for the program if they've already enrolled in 45 credits at the university, including two prerequisite social work courses. They need at least a 2.75 GPA in previous coursework to apply. 

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

#5 Best Online Bachelor’s in Social Work Degrees

Aurora University

  • Aurora, IL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Council on Social Work Education

Avg. Cost per Credit:

In-State | $450

Out-of-State | $450

Credits to Graduate: 120

Students at Aurora University can pursue an online BSW that uses open education resources instead of traditional class materials and textbooks. Learners complete eight-week courses over 2-4 years. They can also choose from specializations in addictions and child welfare. At the end of the degree, students complete internships to fulfill field instruction requirements. 

The university requires each candidate to submit an undergraduate application; a resume demonstrating two or more years of work experience, military service, or relevant adult responsibilities; and a personal statement. Applicants who have already studied at Aurora should hold minimum GPAs of 2.5 in any previous coursework.

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

#6 Best Online Bachelor’s in Social Work Degrees

Wayne State University

  • Detroit, MI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Council on Social Work Education

Avg. Cost per Credit:

In-State | $519

Out-of-State | $1,190

Credits to Graduate: 120

Wayne State University allows bachelor of social work online students to enroll part time or full time. The program follows a cohort-based model with asynchronous courses, allowing enrollees to complete weekly course activities on their own schedules. Students spend about eight hours per course each week on classwork. Each BSW candidate must also participate in a 460-hour field placement in person. 

Each candidate must have completed 60 college credits with a minimum 2.5 GPA to qualify.

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

#7 Best Online Bachelor’s in Social Work Degrees

Bemidji State University

  • Bemidji, MN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Council on Social Work Education

Avg. Cost per Credit:

In-State | $314

Out-of-State | $314

Credits to Graduate: 70

The bachelor of social work degree at Bemidji State University follows a unique blended curriculum. While learners complete most of their coursework online, they must travel to the campus in Bemidji, Minnesota, for one Saturday each month. This in-person session includes face-to-face dialogue and hands-on skills practice. The online coursework includes both synchronous and asynchronous components, and the program culminates with a 480-hour internship in a human service organization. 

Each candidate must complete a BSW program application, submit a personal essay, provide one reference form, and complete a case study and ecomap.

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

#8 Best Online Bachelor’s in Social Work Degrees

University of Colorado Colorado Springs

  • Colorado Springs, CO
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Council on Social Work Education

Avg. Cost per Credit:

In-State | $450 for freshmen and sophomores; $479 for juniors and seniors

Out-of-State | $899 for freshman and sophomores; $937 for juniors and seniors

Credits to Graduate: 120

At University of Colorado Colorado Springs, the BSW program offers on-campus, online, and hybrid options. Learners can choose from several electives, although the curriculum mainly offers electives in military social work, healthcare social work, and child welfare training. Each enrollee must complete at least 400 internship hours before they graduate. 

Students can apply if they've completed at least 60 college credits with a minimum 2.4 GPA. Candidates also submit writing samples responding to prompts. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,208
Out-of-state
$19,572
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,918
Out-of-state
$25,774
Retention Rate
71%
Acceptance Rate
90%
Students Enrolled
12,380
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
46% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#9 Best Online Bachelor’s in Social Work Degrees

University of Louisville

  • Louisville, KY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Council on Social Work Education

Avg. Cost per Credit:

In-State | $527

Out-of-State | $527

Credits to Graduate: 120

University of Louisville features an online BSW emphasizing social justice dynamics, critical thinking, and planning skills. Students can also participate in a public child welfare certification program. Learners take several theoretical and skills courses, which they put into practice through supervised experiences before graduating. This program offers students two years' worth of tuition and a stipend in exchange for two years of post-graduation employment with the Kentucky Department for Community Based Services. 

Each candidate must submit an undergraduate application and official transcripts from all universities previously attended. 

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

#10 Best Online Bachelor’s in Social Work Degrees

Angelo State University

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

Programmatic Accreditation: Council on Social Work Education

Avg. Cost per Credit:

In-State | $621

Out-of-State | $1,461

Credits to Graduate: 120

Angelo State University prepares online BSW students to sit for the Texas State Board of Social Work Examiners Licensing Exam. Courses cover issues in the American social welfare system, but students can also choose to learn about European systems through study abroad courses. During their final year, each learner must complete 250 hours of fieldwork in the fall semester and another 250 hours in the spring.

Students apply for the social work program only after enrolling at the university. They can submit their applications during their sophomore or junior years if they've taken two prerequisite courses: introduction to social work and theory and practice. 

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

Does Accreditation Matter for Online Social Work Degrees?

When researching online social work degrees, look for schools and programs with accreditation. The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) is primarily responsible for accrediting social work programs.

Independent higher education agencies evaluate programs to ensure the school provides quality education. Unaccredited programs may not offer the same standard of education, and you may not be able to earn your license without an accredited degree.

The higher education system has a few different types of accreditation. Programmatic accreditation focuses on specific programs or areas of study. Institutional accreditation agencies assess entire schools. Regional accreditation agencies regulate schools within a specific region of the U.S., like the Northwest or New England.

What Can You Do with an Accredited Online Social Work Degree?

For many, the career goals of social work students involve becoming a licensed social worker. These professionals can choose a specialty area, such as child welfare, schools, mental health and substance abuse, healthcare, families, and older adults.

In some states, candidates can earn a bachelor's-level license with a BSW. They can also work within the social work industry, but in social worker-adjacent jobs — they could become case managers, community outreach managers, community health workers, and social service managers, to name a few options.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that social workers earned an average annual salary of $59,440 as of May 2022. The field is projected to grow by 7% from 2022 to 2033, according to the BLS — that's an additional 5,380 job openings each year.

How to Become a Social Worker: 4-Step Guide

To become a licensed social worker, you need an accredited degree in the field. However, a degree isn't the only requirement for social workers, and the specific steps vary state by state. Below, you can find four general steps to take to begin your career.

Step 1: Earn a Bachelor's in Social Work or a Related Field

A BSW gives students the theoretical and practical knowledge they need for their career. Students also participate in training through supervised fieldwork. Completing a BSW can allow you to become a licensed bachelor social worker (LBSW) in some states.

Even for states that require a master's in social work (MSW) for licensure, a BSW can help students earn their second degree more quickly. Those who go on to master's programs can jump start their graduate degree through advanced standing.

Common Courses for Online Social Work Degrees

  • Diversity and multiculturalism
  • Generalist practices
  • Human behavior in the social environment
  • Human growth and development
  • Introduction to social work
  • Policy, advocacy, and activism
  • Practicum
  • Research methods
  • Social justice
  • Social welfare policy

Step 2: Consider Obtaining a Bachelor's Level Social Work License

Only some states offer social work licensure for BSW graduates. In those states, social workers may feel satisfied with their careers by obtaining their bachelor's-level license. Even if they wish to become a master's-level social worker, starting at a bachelor's-level social worker can give them valuable experience in the field.

Step 3: Consider Earning a Master's in Social Work

If you want to become a licensed master's social worker or a licensed clinical social worker, then the next step involves going to graduate school. Students can earn an MSW in 2-3 years, or faster if they enroll in an advanced standing or accelerated program.

Candidates must also complete postgraduate supervised experience, and they may need to take additional examinations to become licensed at this level.

Step 4: Complete Additional Licensure Requirements

States usually require additional steps to earn social work licensure. Sometimes social work candidates must participate in around 23,000-4,000 hours of post-graduate supervised experience. They also may need to pass a qualifying exam.

If you wish to become a master's-level or advanced specialist social worker, then you continue on towards earning an MSW and completing these additional requirements after graduating.

Social Work Resources

Association of Social Work Boards

Students can find several resources about social work online, including the ASWB's website that compares licensure requirements for each state. You can read through a few more academic and career resources below.

Clinical Social Work Association

Established in 2006, CSWA supports the development of clinical social workers. The association advocates for social workers while offering members access to legal assistance, a professional network, and career development resources.

National Association of Social Workers

Established in 1955, NASW is the largest professional organization supporting the career development of social workers. You can find information on scholarships and fellowships on its website.

Society for Social Work and Research

Founded in 1994, SSWR serves over 1,800 members from 45 states and over a dozen countries. Members get several benefits, including newsletters, reduced subscription rates, and access to a job posting service.

Frequently Asked Questions About Online Bachelor's in Social Work Degrees

What accreditation is best for a social work degree?

The accreditation agency for social work programs is the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). This agency accredited both bachelor's and master's degrees in the subject. Students should also look for regional or national accreditation of their college or university.

How long does it take to complete an online social work program?

You won't find one definite answer to this question. While a traditional bachelor's degree takes four years to complete, online social work programs give students considerably more flexibility and format options. Accelerated learners might finish even quicker, in three years or even less. Part-time students may need more time to finish the program.

How do you complete fieldwork experience for an online social work program?

Like any other social work program, distance learning degrees require fieldwork experience on location — not online. Students can often find a fieldwork placement near their homes for a more convenient commute. Fieldwork is always supervised, allowing learners to gain professional experience in a monitored and educational setting.

Is an online social work degree worth it?

Many students agree that an online social work degree is worth it. A distance learning degree often allows learners to maintain their lifestyles, personal commitments, and even part- or full-time jobs. For individuals who feel passionately about social work, an online program can serve as a flexible way into the industry.

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AccreditedSchoolsOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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