Most Affordable Online Bachelor’s in Social Work (BSW) Degrees of 2025
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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 your BSW degree can often stand in the way. That’s why it’s important to find an affordable online social work program that supports your career goals without putting a strain on your finances.
This guide explores the cheapest online social work degrees, including financial aid options and the benefits of earning your degree online. Discover how to achieve your educational dreams at a price that fits your budget.
The Cheapest Online Social Work (BSW) Degree Programs
Charter Oak State College
New Britain, CT- 4 year
- Online
- In-State$7,656
- Out-of-state$10,056
- Retention Rate100%
- Acceptance Rate0%
- Students Enrolled1,602
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment0%
- AccreditationYes
Georgia State University
- Atlanta, GA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$8,948
- Out-of-state$27,986
- Retention Rate76%
- Acceptance Rate52%
- Students Enrolled34,995
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment67%
- AccreditationYes
Northern Arizona University
- Flagstaff, AZ
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$11,352
- Out-of-state$27,600
- Retention Rate73%
- Acceptance Rate91%
- Students Enrolled28,194
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment54%
- AccreditationYes
University of Memphis
- Memphis, TN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$8,520
- Out-of-state$16,200
- Retention Rate71%
- Acceptance Rate93%
- Students Enrolled21,736
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment60%
- AccreditationYes
East Central University
- Ada, OK
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$6,001
- Out-of-state$15,151
- Retention Rate60%
- Acceptance Rate70%
- Students Enrolled3,376
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment78%
- AccreditationYes
University of Utah
- Salt Lake City, UT
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$9,103
- Out-of-state$31,861
- Retention Rate85%
- Acceptance Rate87%
- Students Enrolled35,262
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment55%
- AccreditationYes
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus
- Cincinnati, OH
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$11,892
- Out-of-state$27,226
- Retention Rate86%
- Acceptance Rate88%
- Students Enrolled43,976
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment62%
- AccreditationYes
Appalachian State University
- Boone, NC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$4,242
- Out-of-state$21,238
- Retention Rate85%
- Acceptance Rate89%
- Students Enrolled21,253
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment56%
- AccreditationYes
University of Alaska Fairbanks
- Fairbanks, AK
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$8,670
- Out-of-state$25,650
- Retention Rate72%
- Acceptance Rate70%
- Students Enrolled6,710
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment77%
- AccreditationYes
Idaho State University
- Pocatello, ID
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$5,928
- Out-of-state$23,906
- Retention Rate71%
- Acceptance Rate0%
- Students Enrolled12,301
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment59%
- AccreditationYes
How Much Does an Online Social Work Degree Cost?
According to the most recent data (2020) from the National Center for Education Statistics, the average annual tuition 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.
While tuition has steadily increased since then, we can use the Consumer Price Index inflation calculator to adjust these figures to 2025 dollars for a closer estimate of the price tag today. Adjusted to 2025 dollars, the average annual tuition is about $12,451 for online social science programs and $24,208 for campus-based social science programs.
The type of online college you choose also greatly affects your total costs. The NCES reports that average tuition for the 2023-24 academic year for undergraduate students ranged from $6,944 for in-state students at public institutions to $27,978 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 NCES, online social science degrees are nearly $12,000 (adjusted to 2025 dollars) cheaper annually, on average, than in-person social science degrees.
How to Reduce the Cost of an Online Social Work Degree
In addition to researching and comparing the cost of programs, consider the tips below to reduce the cost of your 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: 5 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 online social work degree.
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 max transfer credits (up to 90) 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.
| 7 Social Work Jobs | Median Salary (May 2024) | Projected Growth (2023-2033) | Minimum Degree Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health Education Specialist | $63,000 | 7% | Bachelor’s Degree |
| Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists | $64,520 | 4% | Bachelor’s Degree |
| Social Worker | $61,330 | 7% | Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree* |
| Child, Family, and School Social Workers | $58,570 | 5% | Master’s Degree |
| Healthcare Social Workers | $68,090 | 10% | Master’s Degree |
| Marriage and Family Therapists | $63,780 | 16% | Master’s Degree |
| Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers | $60,060 | 12% | Master’s Degree |
*Bachelor’s degree may qualify you for entry-level, limited-scope roles
Frequently Asked Questions About the Cheapest Online Social Work Degrees
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.
What Can You Do With a Social Work Degree?
Online social work degrees can help you pursue a career that improves lives. Learn more about social work career paths and degree requirements.
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