For students passionate about helping others and interested in social work, pursuing a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree online offers flexibility, accessibility, and a practical path to achieving career goals in this impactful field. An online BSW program enables students to earn their degree while balancing personal and professional responsibilities, making it an appealing choice for those looking to enter or advance within social work without disrupting their current commitments.
Affordability is a significant consideration for many prospective students, and finding the cheapest online social work degree can make a career in social work more attainable. This article provides a detailed guide to affordable online BSW programs, covering essential aspects such as program structures, job outlook, career opportunities, and what to consider when selecting the right program.
Online BSW Program Overview
An online Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program is designed to equip students with the foundational skills and knowledge needed to pursue a career in social work. These programs typically follow a curriculum that blends theoretical study with practical experience, preparing graduates to work with individuals, families, and communities in various social service settings.
What You’ll Learn in an Online Bachelor’s of Social Work Program
The curriculum in an online BSW program teaches essentials to know when majoring in social work, and often includes courses in:
- Introduction to Social Work – Covers the history, values, and ethics of social work as a profession.
- Human Behavior and the Social Environment – Examines human development and behavior within social contexts.
- Social Welfare Policy – Teaches students about social policies and their impact on society, equipping them to advocate effectively for their clients.
- Research Methods in Social Work – Focuses on the basics of research and data analysis, which are essential for evidence-based practice.
- Diversity and Cultural Competence – Emphasizes working with diverse populations and developing skills to address cultural differences and promote inclusivity.
- Field Practicum – Involves supervised hands-on experience in a social work setting, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios.
Each of these courses helps to build a well-rounded skill set, fostering essential competencies in assessment, intervention, advocacy, and critical thinking. Most online BSW programs require students to complete a field practicum, typically arranged in a local setting, which provides practical experience and prepares students for professional licensure or certification where applicable.
Most Affordable Online BSW Programs
Finding an affordable online Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program can be a crucial factor for prospective students looking to begin their careers in social work without accumulating overwhelming debt.
How We Selected the Most Affordable Online BSW Programs
To help prospective students make informed decisions, we evaluated programs using two key criteria: accreditation status and affordability.
Affordability was assessed using the institution-level net price, a metric reported by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) for 2024. The net price reflects the average cost students actually pay—after subtracting grants and scholarships—from the total cost of attendance (including tuition, fees, housing, and supplies). This gives a more realistic picture of the financial commitment required.
💡 What is Net Price?
Net price = Total cost of attendance − Average financial aid
It’s a valuable tool for comparing real-world college costs across institutions.
Understanding the Limitations of Net Price
While net price is one of the most reliable indicators of college affordability, it does come with limitations:
- It’s institutional, not program-specific: The figure reflects the entire college, not just the online BSW program—so actual costs may vary.
- Financial aid varies: Depending on your background and eligibility, your personal out-of-pocket costs may differ from the average.
- Graduation rates vary by delivery format: While we’ve included graduation rates to help evaluate student support and outcomes, note that these rates typically reflect on-campus programs and may not fully represent online student experiences.
Despite these limitations, net price and graduation rate data are useful starting points when evaluating affordable BSW programs online.
Some of the Cheapest Online Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) Programs
Following this list of affordable online BSW programs, you’ll find additional tips to help you choose a program that aligns with your personal needs and professional goals.
Appalachian State University
Location: Boone, NC
Type: 4-year, Public
Graduation Rate: 73%
Net Price: $14,712
Online BSW Program
Ball State University
Location: Muncie, IN
Type: 4-year, Public
Graduation Rate: 63%
Net Price: $13,017
Online BSW Program
Eastern New Mexico University
Location: Portales, NM
Type: 4-year, Public
Graduation Rate: 40%
Net Price: $6,683
Online BSW Program
Idaho State University
Location: Pocatello, ID
Type: 4-year, Public
Graduation Rate: 38%
Net Price: $12,353
Online BSW Program
Lewis-Clark State College
Location: Lewiston, ID
Type: 4-year, Public
Graduation Rate: 45%
Net Price: $12,508
Online BSW Program
National Louis University
Location: Chicago, IL
Type: 4-year, Private not-for-profit
Graduation Rate: 37%
Net Price: $15,724
Online BSW Program
Northwestern State University of Louisiana
Location: Natchitoches, LA
Type: 4-year, Public
Graduation Rate: 45%
Net Price: $13,156
Online BSW Program
Troy University
Location: Troy, AL
Type: 4-year, Public
Graduation Rate: 47%
Net Price: $12,504
Online BSW Program
University of Alaska Fairbanks
Location: Fairbanks, AK
Type: 4-year, Public
Graduation Rate: 32%
Net Price: $9,985
Online BSW Program
University of Arkansas at Little Rock
Location: Little Rock, AR
Type: 4-year, Public
Graduation Rate: 41%
Net Price: $11,225
Online BSW Program
University of Memphis
Location: Memphis, TN
Type: 4-year, Public
Graduation Rate: 49%
Net Price: $13,656
Online BSW Program
University of Michigan-Flint
Location: Flint, MI
Type: 4-year, Public
Graduation Rate: 45%
Net Price: $12,344
Online BSW Program
University of South Florida
Location: Tampa, FL
Type: 4-year, Public
Graduation Rate: 75%
Net Price: $11,578
Online BSW Program
Western Kentucky University
Location: Bowling Green, KY
Type: 4-year, Public
Graduation Rate: 54%
Net Price: $12,054
Online BSW Program
Western New Mexico University
Location: Silver City, NM
Type: 4-year, Public
Graduation Rate: 35%
Net Price: $8,712
Online BSW Program
Choosing the Best Online BSW Program for Your Goals
While affordability and CSWE accreditation are essential, the best online Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program is the one that fits your unique financial options, goals, lifestyle, and learning preferences. As you explore the most affordable options, it’s also important to consider factors like program flexibility, field placement opportunities, and licensure alignment in your state.
In the next section, we’ll walk you through the most important criteria to help you choose the right affordable online BSW program—so you can confidently select a path that supports your academic success and long-term career in social work.
How to Choose an Online BSW Program
Selecting the best affordable online Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program means weighing more than just cost. To find a program that aligns with your goals and lifestyle, consider these key factors: accreditation, program format, licensing compatibility, admissions criteria, and total cost.
✅ Accreditation: A Must for Licensing and Quality
Always choose a BSW program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). CSWE-accredited programs meet national standards in curriculum and training—essential for qualifying for licensure in most states and for ensuring a high-quality education.ny states.
✅ Program Format: Fully Online vs. Hybrid Options
Online BSW programs vary in delivery. Some are 100% online, offering maximum flexibility for working students and caregivers. Others follow a hybrid model, combining online coursework with occasional in-person components, such as practicums or on-campus seminars. Be sure the format supports your learning style and schedule.
✅ Licensing Requirements: Know Your State’s Rules
Each state has different licensure requirements for social workers. Make sure your chosen program meets the field placement and course standards for the state where you plan to practice. Some schools also partner with local agencies, helping students fulfill practicum hours in their home state.
✅ Admissions Criteria: Know What You’ll Need
Admissions requirements for online BSW programs can include:
- A minimum GPA
- Completion of general education or prerequisite courses
- Prior experience in a helping profession (for advanced standing or selective programs)
Read each program’s admissions page carefully to ensure you’re eligible—or to prepare for what you’ll need to complete before applying.
✅ Costs: How to Evaluate Tuition and Additional Fees
When comparing online BSW programs, tuition is just one part of the equation. To understand the true cost of earning your Bachelor of Social Work, take time to evaluate the total cost of attendance, which includes:
- Tuition (per credit hour or flat rate)
- Technology and online learning fees
- Textbooks and course materials
- Any required on-site visits or field placements
A clear understanding of all potential expenses helps you create a realistic budget—and avoid surprises down the road.
💡 Smart Tips for Comparing Program Costs
- Use Net Price Calculators
Most schools offer online tools to estimate your net price—what you’ll pay after grants and scholarships. - Check for In-State or Online Tuition Discounts
Some public universities extend in-state or special online tuition rates to out-of-state students. - Search for Social Work Scholarships and Grants
Many BSW programs offer funding specifically for social work majors. These options can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket expenses.
💸 Tips to Reduce the Cost of Your BSW Degree
- Choose a Public Institution
Public colleges typically offer more affordable tuition, especially for in-state residents. - Maximize Transfer Credits
Already completed some college coursework? Transferring credits can shorten your time to graduation—and lower your costs. - Ask About Employer Tuition Reimbursement
If you’re already working in social services, check if your employer offers education benefits or tuition support.
The most affordable BSW program is the one that offers a combination of low cost, strong support, and alignment with your career goals. Up next, explore the real-world job roles and salary opportunities available to BSW graduates.
Job Roles Available to BSW Degree Program Graduates
A Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree opens the door to various entry-level roles within the social services field. In some states, graduates may also pursue the Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW) credential, which can enhance employability and allow for more autonomy in specific settings. With a BSW, graduates can work in diverse environments such as schools, healthcare facilities, community organizations, and government agencies. Below are some of the primary roles available to BSW graduates and an overview of their responsibilities.
Case Manager
Case managers work closely with clients to assess their needs and connect them with appropriate resources, such as housing, healthcare, and social services. They often manage a caseload of clients, providing guidance, conducting assessments, and advocating for their clients’ needs. Case management is a common entry-level role for BSW graduates, especially in healthcare, mental health, and social services agencies.
Child Welfare Specialist
Child welfare specialists focus on ensuring the safety and well-being of children. They may work in roles that involve investigating reports of child abuse, advocating for children in foster care, and working with families to create safe home environments. This role often involves working with government agencies or non-profits dedicated to child protection.
Behavioral Health Technician
Behavioral health technicians work directly with clients who have mental health or substance abuse issues, helping them with daily activities, monitoring their progress, and reporting to licensed social workers or mental health professionals. This position allows BSW graduates to gain valuable experience working in a clinical setting, often under the supervision of licensed professionals.
Community Outreach Coordinator
In this role, social workers engage with community members, identify areas of need, and develop programs or services to address those needs. Outreach coordinators often work for non-profit organizations, government agencies, or healthcare providers, organizing events, conducting workshops, and liaising with community leaders.
Social Services Assistant
Social services assistants provide administrative support and assist licensed social workers with client interactions, resource coordination, and case documentation. This role is well-suited for recent graduates seeking experience in social work settings, often as a stepping stone toward more specialized roles.
Advanced Education Options and Roles in Social Work
For students who aspire to take their social work career further, advanced education beyond a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) opens doors to specialized roles and higher earning potential. Here’s an overview of common advanced education paths and the roles they support within the field of social work.
Master of Social Work (MSW)
The most common next step after earning a BSW is a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree. MSW programs, including affordable online MSW programs, prepare graduates for more advanced practice roles, often with a clinical or specialized focus, such as:
- Clinical Social Worker: Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs) provide mental health therapy, conduct assessments, and develop treatment plans. They typically work in healthcare, private practice, or government settings.
- School Social Worker: With an MSW, social workers may work in educational settings, supporting students’ social and emotional needs and addressing issues such as absenteeism, behavioral problems, and family dynamics.
- Healthcare Social Worker: MSW graduates in healthcare social work provide support to patients and families dealing with chronic illness, recovery, and life changes, often helping to navigate healthcare systems.
Doctorate in Social Work (DSW) or Ph.D. in Social Work
For those interested in research, teaching, or leadership roles, a Doctorate in Social Work (DSW) or a Ph.D. in Social Work may be ideal. These programs typically emphasize policy development, advanced clinical practice, and social work administration, leading to roles such as:
- Social Work Educator: Ph.D. graduates often become professors in universities, helping to train future social workers and conducting research to advance the field.
- Social Work Administrator: With a focus on program management and policy-making, DSW graduates frequently work in leadership roles in social services organizations, managing teams and advocating for policy change.
- Policy Analyst or Researcher: Ph.D.-level social workers often work in government or nonprofit organizations, developing policies that address social issues and assessing the impact of various social services.
Specialized Certifications
In addition to graduate degrees, social workers can pursue specialized certifications, such as:
- Certified Advanced Social Work Case Manager (C-ASWCM): This certification is for social workers with an MSW who focus on case management, especially in health-related fields.
- Certified Hospice and Palliative Social Worker (CHP-SW): Ideal for those working with end-of-life care, this certification provides specialized knowledge to support patients and families.
Choosing the Right Path for Your Social Work Career
Whether your goal is clinical practice, program administration, or social work education, pursuing advanced education in social work can broaden your career options and allow you to make a deeper impact in the field.
Job Outlook and Salary for Social Workers
Social work continues to offer strong employment prospects across various sectors. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of social workers is projected to grow 7 percent from 2023 to 2033, a rate faster than the average for all occupations. Approximately 67,300 job openings for social workers are expected each year over the decade, with many arising due to the need to replace retiring workers or those transferring to other occupations.
Employment Growth by Specialty
Employment trends for social workers vary by specialty:
- Child, Family, and School Social Workers: Demand for these social workers will be driven by efforts to enhance family dynamics, prevent child abuse, and find alternative care for children who cannot live with their biological families. Growth in this area may, however, be limited by state and local budget constraints.
- Healthcare Social Workers: As healthcare needs increase, particularly among aging populations, healthcare social workers will play a vital role in helping patients and families adapt to lifestyle changes, new treatments, and medications. Employment in this sector is expected to grow by 10 percent.
- Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers: The growing demand for mental health services and substance abuse treatment, especially recovery from opioid use, will drive a 12 percent growth rate for mental health and substance abuse social workers. Court-ordered treatment programs also contribute to the need for social workers in this area.
Salary Overview for Social Workers
In May 2023, the median annual wage for social workers was $58,380, with earnings ranging from less than $38,400 for the lowest 10 percent to over $94,910 for the top 10 percent. Salary variations are influenced by the worker’s specialty and the industry in which they are employed:
- Social Workers, All Other: $63,770
- Healthcare Social Workers: $62,940
- Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers: $55,960
- Child, Family, and School Social Workers: $53,940
Social workers’ salaries also vary by industry:
- Local Government (excluding education and hospitals): $64,550
- Educational Services (state, local, and private): $62,980
- State Government (excluding education and hospitals): $54,600
- Individual and Family Services: $48,550
- Community Services and Vocational Rehabilitation: $46,650
The career path in social work provides a variety of rewarding opportunities to support individuals and communities, with steady job growth and competitive salaries in many specialties.
Costs and Tips for Paying for a BSW Degree
Earning a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree is an investment in a rewarding career, but prospective students should consider the financial aspects carefully. Tuition and fees vary widely among institutions, and understanding the associated costs can help students make informed decisions and manage expenses effectively. Here’s an overview of what to expect and some tips to help minimize costs.
Typical Costs of a BSW Degree
The cost of a BSW program depends on various factors, including the type of institution, residency status, and program format. Here’s what to consider:
- Public vs. Private Institutions: Public universities often have lower tuition rates than private institutions, especially for in-state students.
- In-State vs. Out-of-State Tuition: Many state universities offer reduced tuition rates for in-state residents. Online programs sometimes offer flat-rate tuition regardless of residency, which can be advantageous for out-of-state students.
- Program Format: Online programs may offer reduced costs due to fewer campus-based fees. However, some online programs include technology or distance learning fees.
Tips for Comparing Program Costs
To compare programs effectively, look beyond the sticker price. Here are a few cost-related factors to evaluate:
- Total Cost of Attendance: In addition to tuition, consider fees for technology, materials, and student services. Some programs bundle these into one flat fee, while others itemize each cost separately.
- Financial Aid and Scholarships: Many institutions offer scholarships, grants, and financial aid specifically for social work students. Applying for these options can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
- Transfer Credits: If you have completed coursework at another institution, check whether credits can be transferred to reduce both time and cost. Some programs allow transfer credits for general education requirements or relevant coursework.
- Graduation Rates and Career Support: A program with higher graduation rates and strong career support may offer better value, as students are more likely to complete their degrees and find employment after graduation.
Tips for Reducing Costs and Paying for a BSW Degree
There are multiple ways to manage the cost of a BSW degree. Here are some tips to help lower expenses and fund your education:
- Apply for Scholarships and Grants: Scholarships and grants are ideal funding sources because they don’t require repayment. Look for options specifically targeted to social work students.
- Federal Financial Aid: Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) allows students to qualify for federal loans, grants, and work-study opportunities. Federal loans often have lower interest rates and flexible repayment plans.
- Consider Work-Study Programs: Many schools participate in work-study programs, which allow students to earn money while gaining practical experience. Check with your program to see if work-study positions are available in social services or related fields.
- Employer Tuition Reimbursement: If you’re currently employed, check if your employer offers tuition assistance or reimbursement for education in social work, especially if the field is related to your current job.
- Payment Plans: Many institutions offer payment plans to allow students to pay tuition in installments instead of a lump sum. This option can make payments more manageable throughout the semester.
By taking advantage of available financial resources and exploring cost-saving strategies, prospective BSW students can make their education more affordable and achieve their career goals in social work.
Affordable Online Bachelor’s of Social Work FAQ
What is a BSW degree, and what can it prepare me for?
A Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) is an undergraduate degree focused on preparing students for entry-level roles in social services. It equips students with foundational skills in social work theory, ethics, and practice, preparing them for roles like case worker, family support specialist, and community outreach worker.
Can I work in clinical roles with a BSW, or do I need an MSW?
While a BSW opens doors to several impactful roles, clinical positions that involve counseling or therapy generally require a Master of Social Work (MSW) and additional licensure. A BSW is often the first step toward an MSW for those interested in clinical social work.
How long does it take to complete a BSW program online?
Online BSW programs typically take about four years to complete, similar to on-campus programs. However, some schools offer accelerated options that allow students to graduate in as little as two to three years, depending on transfer credits or course load flexibility.
Are online BSW programs as respected as on-campus programs?
Yes, as long as they are accredited by recognized bodies like the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). Accreditation ensures the program meets industry standards, which is crucial for future licensing and career advancement.
What should I look for in an affordable online BSW program?
When choosing an affordable online BSW program, consider factors like tuition rates, financial aid availability, accreditation status, and support services. Additionally, review program formats to ensure they align with your schedule, especially if you need flexible, asynchronous courses.
Is a BSW necessary to become a licensed social worker?
In most states, a BSW is the minimum educational requirement for entry-level, licensed social work roles. However, specific licensing requirements vary by state, so it’s essential to review the requirements in your region.
Can I advance in my social work career without going to graduate school?
Yes, there are many opportunities for career advancement with a BSW. Gaining experience in various social work settings, earning certifications, and networking can help you progress in roles like case management or administrative positions. However, a graduate degree like an MSW may be necessary for clinical and higher-level supervisory roles.
If you have additional questions or are exploring specific career paths, check with accredited programs and state licensing boards to get guidance tailored to your goals.
Final Thought on Earning an Affordable Online BSW Degree
A Bachelor of Social Work is a valuable step toward a fulfilling career in social services, with many online programs offering flexibility and affordability for students balancing other commitments. By carefully evaluating program costs, accreditation, and long-term career benefits, you can choose a BSW program that aligns with both your budget and career aspirations.
