The Best Online Degree Programs In Social Work 2020

Huntington University, a private Christian liberal arts school founded in 1897, features more than 70 undergraduate, graduate, and pre-professional programs. The university offers eight distance learning programs, including the online bachelor's in social work degree. Accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, the program provides a Christian-based education that can lead to licensure in all states. The 128-credit degree helps working professionals grow in the field of social work. It also prepares them to earn a master's in counseling. With shortened five-week semesters, learners take weekly classes that follow an asynchronous format. The program covers social policy, intercultural immersion preparation, and professional interviewing. While courses take place online, students also participate in practicums and shadow social workers to get hands-on experience. The practicum requires students to complete 450 hours of fieldwork. Huntington University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

A private Catholic school on a 474-acre campus on Sebago Lake, SJC offers several affordable online degrees. With a broad curriculum, the online bachelor's in social work degree prepares students to work as generalists. Courses teach students about quantitative methods and data analysis, writing for social work, addiction and abuse, research, and policy. The program's cohort format ensures that students can engage with faculty and classmates throughout their studies. Most online classes offer asynchronous formats which let learners tailor their school schedule. However, degree-seekers also must complete fieldwork. They gain practical skills through two internships, including a one-year position. After completing this degree, students can earn advanced standing in a master's social work program. The curriculum also prepares graduates to earn their social work license. SJC accepts employer tuition reimbursement. The application process is free. Saint Joseph's College of Maine is regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).

Established in 1850, the University of Utah features more than 100 undergraduate degrees, including an affordable online bachelor's in social work degree. Students receive flat-rate tuition. Out-of-state learners who take online classes can also benefit from in-state rates. The program consists of classes in social work statistics, social diversity, community-based research, social welfare policy, and research. On average, degree-seekers take 12-15 credits a semester and graduate in 3-4 semesters. Graduates find careers in family services, aging and gerontology, human services, and juvenile justice. Online classes at this affordable online college offer an interactive learning experience where students collaborate in group assignments. Learners also complete in-person fieldwork. Students who want to work with children and families can qualify for the Child Welfare Title IV-E Career Path grant, which includes in-state tuition, a stipend of $1,100, a $500 incentive, and job placement. The University of Utah is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).

Based in northeast Pennsylvania, MU features a 121-credit online bachelor's in social work degree that provides students an accelerated path to graduate in as few as two years. With a blended hybrid and online format, the program appeals to working adults. Students can start at any time in the year and begin by taking prerequisites and elective classes in sequential order. Courses give degree-seekers a foundation in comparative sociology, social problems, cultural minorities, and basic statistics. MU maintains partnerships with agencies that allow students to complete their fieldwork on the weekends or in the evenings. Degree-seekers must complete 600 hours of supervised fieldwork. Graduates receive the training to earn their social work license in Pennsylvania and other states. After earning a degree, students can enter a master's in social work program with advanced standing. Online students receive discounted tuition. Misericordia University is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).

Ursuline College offers accelerated degrees available on campus in Pepper Pike, Ohio, and online. The online bachelor's in social work degree allows working adults to advance their careers and obtain licensure or enter grad school. Learners take 15-week semesters with classes that teach a generalist practice. Classes focus on research methods, theory, human behavior and social environment, and social welfare. In the final year, professors consider each student's career goals to place them in local agencies for their fieldwork. While in the program, students take 15 graduate-level classes that prepare them for advanced placement in a master's in social work program at Western Reserve University. Applicants must complete prerequisites, including taking the SW 338 theory course. Once they apply, degree-seekers receive an admission decision within two weeks. The application must include two recommendation letters. Ursuline College is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

Established in 1873, SAU delivers a Christian-centered education with traditional on-campus and online classes. The university features online programs in nursing, business, communications, education, organizational management, and social work. SAU's online bachelor's in social work degree lets students complete their education entirely online. While learners study from a distance, they receive guidance from a faculty member throughout their education. The 124-credit program also requires an internship in which students must complete a minimum of 400 hours in the field. Courses provide degree-seekers with practical social work skills from a Christian perspective. Students take classes in racial and ethnic relations, interviewing, biblical perspectives, and social welfare policies. Eligible learners can also qualify for a child welfare endorsement and receive specialized training opportunities. Applicants must submit an online application, autobiographical essay, and writing sample. The admission office gives preference to students currently working in the field. Spring Arbor University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

NSU provides classes from its historic campus built more than 130 years ago in Natchitoches. The university also offers more than 40 online programs through eNSU. The school's 120-credit online bachelor's in social work degree, a program offered since 1970, teaches students a generalist approach that applies to a variety of different social work careers. In the program's final year, students complete two semesters in supervised fieldwork. Graduates can pursue entry-level positions in child welfare, aging, alcohol and substance abuse, and mental health and illness. Individuals can also transfer degree credits toward a master's in social work degree. Out-of-state students enrolled in an online degree do not pay out-of-state fees. NSU also discounts tuition after 12 credits. Students only pay $100 per credit after 12 credits. Northwestern State University of Louisiana is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

UA Little Rock offers more than 60 undergraduate and 40 graduate programs. The online bachelor's in social work degree gives students a foundation in a generalist practice that can translate to many different careers. The 120-credit program includes required courses in social welfare policy, statistics, methods of social work research, addictions, and human behavior. In the fall and spring semesters of their final year, students must complete 16 hours a week for their internship. Learners complete a total of 240 hours in fieldwork every semester at local agencies. UA Little Rock maintains transfer agreements with local two-year schools which allows students with prior college credit to earn their degree in two years. All online students pay flat-rate tuition. The school's social work program, accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, only accepts Arkansas residents. University of Arkansas at Little Rock is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

Aurora University offers online degrees available in accelerated five- and eight-week sessions, specifically for working professionals. The online bachelor's in social work degree prepares students to become licensed social workers in Illinois or transfer with advanced standing to a master's in social work program. Depending on students' transfer credits, this 120-credit program takes 2-4 years to complete. Required classes include social welfare, human behavior in the social environment, individuals and families, and social work research. To qualify for the licensure exam, individuals need two years of work experience in addition to the degree. Degree-seekers can save money since instructors use free open education resource materials instead of textbooks. Applicants can transfer up to 68 credits from an associate degree or 90 credits from a four-year college. Aurora University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

Briar Cliff University, a private liberal arts school founded in 1930, features online degrees for busy adults and opportunities to earn college credit for prior learning experiences. The online bachelor's in social work degree suits students with at least 77 credits from an associate degree in social work or human services. Degree-seekers take 124 credits in classes, such as social issues and policy, human behavior and social environment, and social science research and methods. The curriculum prepares students for a 450-hour internship. This degree-completion program lets transfer students graduate in two years. In addition to transferring up to 90 credits from an accredited college, learners can also earn credits through exams. The online program does not require campus visits. However, students can meet one-on-one with faculty every week, if needed. The program offers two start dates in the fall and spring. Briar Cliff University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

UNK offers about 170 majors, including a fully online bachelor's in social work degree from the College of Arts and Science. Learners gain a foundation in social work practice with groups, research and social welfare, individuals and family, and social policy and programs. The 120-credit program, accredited by the Council on Social Work Education since 1982, prepares students to work in adoption, child welfare, family services, substance abuse, and aging services and gerontology through a variety of electives and major courses. The university allows students to transfer up to 66 credits from an associate degree. After completing this program, students qualify for advanced standing in a master's in social work degree. Online programs only admit transfer students, readmit, and post-bachelor's students. Online learners cannot take on-campus courses. University of Nebraska at Kearney is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

Established in 1883, UND features more than 225 degrees available on the 521-acre campus in Grand Forks and online. UND's online bachelor's in social work degree lets students graduate in as little as two years, depending on their prior college background. The 120-credit degree allows students to tailor their studies toward their career goals. Degree-seekers can earn minors in gerontology or chemical dependency. Classes run synchronously. Consequently, students must meet with instructors and classmates in real-time using video conferencing technology. Most classes run online, but students must complete some hands-on activities on campus. The program's curriculum leads up to a 450-hour field placement that students can complete in North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Eastern Montana, or southern Manitoba. Social work students can find networking opportunities through the Student Social Work Association Phi Alpha. New transfer students and freshmen automatically receive consideration for scholarships. University of North Dakota is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

Since 1899 NAU has offered degrees from its campus in Flagstaff. Now the university boasts more than 20 regional locations throughout Arizona and through online classes. The university features more than 200 programs, including the online bachelor's in social work degree that prepares graduates to work with diverse populations. Degree-seekers complete 120 credits in research; statistics; research methods, policy, and human behavior; and social environment. At the end of the program, learners must complete 450 hours of fieldwork. The coursework prepares students to gain licensure. Eligible learners can gain placement in the Child Welfare Training Project, which features tuition reimbursement for up to two years and a monthly stipend of $500. Project graduates work as child safety specialists in the Arizona Department of Child Safety. Applications must include two references and a completed questionnaire about a student's interest in social work. Northern Arizona University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

University of Louisville, a public research institution, offers 40 degrees and certificates with fully online classes designed for adult learners. The online bachelor's in social work degree lets students customize their degree with an optional drug and alcohol counseling track. This concentration includes electives in special issues in alcohol and drug counseling, substance use and substance use disorders, mental health, and motivation and change. The 120-credit program also includes service-learning and practicums. To complete the practicum, students work 16 hours a week in a local area human service agency for a total of 450 hours. The fully online classes let students study on their own time. Degree-seekers can transfer up to 60 credits from two-year colleges and up to 90 credits from four-year schools. This program qualifies students to enter a master's in social work program with advanced standing. University of Louisville is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

WSU's 13 schools and colleges offer more than 340 programs. The online bachelor's in social work degree, delivered through Where Online Works, offers flexible classes for working adults. The 120-credit degree prepares students for a generalist social work practice. Courses include human behavior and the social environment, research methods, social work practice, and social welfare policy and services. Classes follow traditional on-campus schedules. Learners need a computer with a microphone to participate in online class activities, many of which involve group work. Aside from the 460-credit internship, all classes occur online. Students complete the field requirements over two semesters in their senior year. This degree prepares learners to apply for a license. The program accepts students who have completed a minimum of 60 credits from an accredited college. Wayne State University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

Troy University, founded in 1887, offers 71 fully online degrees with accelerated nine-week semesters. Offered through the College of Health and Human Services, the bachelor's in social work degree features fully online classes with five start dates available throughout the year. Students complete 120 credits, including 27 core requirements in diversity, ethics, professional communications skills, research, social policy, and human behavior. Using Canvas, learners can access discussions and coursework online at their convenience. They also gain hands-on experience through mandatory community service and a 400-hour internship. The well-rounded curriculum allows graduates to work as marriage and family therapists, healthcare social workers, clerics, and probation officers. Troy offers numerous scholarships for military personnel and their family. The school also offers financial aid for out-of-state transfer students who hold at least 24 credits. Troy University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

Brescia University, a Catholic liberal arts school, offers more than 10 programs through its distance learning division. The bachelor of social work degree lets students graduate within two years without ever traveling to campus. Graduates gain the practical skills and knowledge to earn their online master of social work degree. Students can make their schedule but they do need to meet at set times for weekly web chats. Learners take 128 credits, including 57 general education requirements, 18 language and literature credits, nine religions and philosophy credits, nine math credits, 12 social and behavioral science credits, six major electives, and 36 major credits. Students must complete two field practicums in their final year. The program takes an average of two years for students who have completed 86 transferable credits. Applicants can pick from five start dates. Brescia University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

Offering more than 60 degrees, ENMU boasts some of the most affordable tuition in the Southwest. Students living within a 135-mile radius of the university receive in-state tuition. ENMU's online bachelor's in social work degree combines asynchronous and synchronous coursework. Most students complete classwork on their own time. However, degree-seekers may occasionally need to participate in class activities at set times. Academic advisors help students throughout their educational journey by phone or email. Students can also receive help through the Online Writing Center. Learners must complete two practicums in their final semesters. They work in the field under supervision for a total of 440 hours. This program typically takes students two years to complete. New students start classes in the fall and spring semesters. Applicants can apply for free. After completing an application, students must interview with the program faculty. Eastern New Mexico University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

WNMU offers an online bachelor's in social work degree that trains students in a generalist practice for careers in rural areas. The degree requires 120 credits. Degree-seekers take classes in diversity, theory, ethics, and research methods. At the end of the program, learners complete 450 hours of field experience. Field directors place students with agencies that suit their career goals. Degree-seekers work 15 hours a week in the fall and spring semesters and attend weekly Skype meetings. Otherwise, classes run asynchronously and students do not have set class times. Juniors and seniors can enter the Title IV-E Stipend Program through the Children Youth and Families Department, which offers up to $4,500 every semester. WNMU accepts applications throughout the year with three start dates. Tuition does not increase as long as undergraduate students maintain a 2.0 GPA and take 30 credits a year. Western New Mexico University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

BSU offers more than 65 undergraduate programs, including a wide selection of degree-completion programs available at regional locations or online. BSU's bachelor's in social work degree primarily offers online coursework. However, students must attend in-person classes 3-4 times a year. Learners must also complete an internship. They must complete 480 hours either in one semester or over two semesters. Students can also volunteer through the social work club. The program focuses on teaching students interpersonal relations, human behavior, family dynamics, social welfare policy, and research. Degree-seekers can tailor their degree with a minor in substance and behavioral addictions or a certificate in alcohol and drug counselor. The degree prepares students to obtain licensure in Minnesota. Social work students can apply for the Jeanne Gillen Scholarship, Don Crompton Scholarship, and North Star Scholarship. Bemidji State University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

UT is a public research institution with a presence in each of Tennessee's 95 counties. UTK offers an online bachelor of science in social work, which is the first of its kind in Tennessee. The program is geared toward learners who have completed 60 credits and have earned an associate of art or an associate of science degree from a regionally accredited community college. Degree-seekers can complete the program in five years. Students complete courses fully online. Learners can choose electives in courses like trauma, forensic social work, and social work with military and veteran populations. Just like students enrolled in the on-campus program, online learners work with a field coordinator to secure their required practicum placement. The University of Tennessee - Knoxville is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

Campbellsville University, a Christian school founded in 1906, features 52 online programs that offer adult learners flexible professional development with a faith-based curriculum. The online bachelor's in social work degree consists of 120 credits that teach students how to assist groups and families from a Christian perspective. With shortened eight-week semesters, degree-seekers can complete the program within two years if they have transfer credits. On average, learners take four years to graduate. Students gain specialized skills with electives in subjects of marriage and family social work, aging, and crisis intervention. Courses focus on providing students with training in general practice. Graduates can pursue entry-level work as substance abuse counselors or school social workers. They can also earn an online master's in social work degree. Students can save money and time by transferring up to 72 credits from an accredited college. Campbellsville University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

Through its on-campus and distance learning programs, TUW aims to provide educational opportunities to adult learners and underserved communities. The 120-credit online bachelor's social work degree offers transfer students with 60 college credits the chance to graduate within two years. Otherwise, full-time students need on average 3.5 years to graduate. Part-time students may need up to seven years to complete coursework. The program offers a completely online experience. Students participate in online group assignments and do not need to travel to campus. Learners complete research online through the library databases. Tutors also offer online support. Undergraduates participate in case studies and fieldwork to gain practical experience to work with families and individuals. With a bachelor's in social work, students can enter TUW's master's in social work program. Online students do not pay any additional fees for textbooks. Touro University Worldwide is regionally accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

King University, a Christian private school with public college tuition rates, features more than 90 majors and minors. Students can complete the bachelor of social work degree major coursework within 16 months. The program offers completely online classes. However, degree-seekers must complete a 400-hour practicum to gain hands-on experience. The program includes 124 credits in subjects like research and evaluation, historical foundations and contemporary issues, human diversity and ethical issues, and family and group practice. The college offers multiple start dates in the academic year. Only students who have a minimum of 45 transfer credits can apply for this program. Eligible applicants also need a minimum 2.2 GPA. The application must include a 300-500-word personal statement and an interview with the program committee. King University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).