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A bachelor of social work (BSW) is a great way to start a fulfilling career helping other people. You'll learn about social services, advocating for vulnerable populations, and human behavior in the social environment.
The best online social work degree programs prepare you for entry-level social work careers in both the public and private sectors. The degree also provides you with the foundation you'll need to pursue a master's degree and eventually become a clinical social worker.
Featured Online Schools for Social Work
Top 5 Online Social Work Degree Programs
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from our partners. We use publicly available provisional datasets from Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) to inform the data for these schools. All data is current as of the date this article was published. Program-specific information may vary.
#1 Best Online Social Work Degree Programs 2023
University of Louisville
Louisville, KY
4 years
Online + Campus
A public institution, the University of Louisville educates students online and at its Louisville, Kentucky, campus. Both in-person and remote learners build career-ready skills through diverse experiential learning opportunities. The school's online bachelor of social work prioritizes key competencies for careers in social work and related fields.
Accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, this flexible program encourages critical thinking and problem-solving while strengthening communication skills. Graduates benefit from an optional concentration in drug and alcohol counseling and can enter the school's social work master's program with advanced standing. Internships, workshops, and job fairs also help degree-seekers prepare for the job market.
Enrollees generally complete the 120-credit program in four years. Learners pay an average of $553 per credit. Online learners can use scholarships and grants to cover their degree costs. Prospective applicants can contact the school for information.
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%
Admission 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
#2 Best Online Social Work Degree Programs 2023
Northern Arizona University
Flagstaff, AZ
4 years
Online + Campus
Based in Flagstaff, Northern Arizona University offers a fully online bachelor's in social work. Accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, this program helps prepare students for diverse social work-related careers. The 120-credit program features a flexible format that often appeals to working students. Undergraduates work with faculty mentors to create custom degree plans.
The school provides numerous student services to both its on-campus and online enrollees. These services help students identify career paths and pursue their professional goals.
Online degree-seekers can find scholarships and grants with the help of financial aid advisors. The school's career services office holds workshops and advises learners on job opportunities. Distance learners can also access online tutoring sessions and virtual events. Prospective students can meet with admissions advisors for application information.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,243
Out-of-state
$16,248
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,309
Out-of-state
$18,630
Retention Rate
76%
Admission Rate
82%
Students Enrolled
29,566
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
59%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#3 Best Online Social Work Degree Programs 2023
The University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Knoxville, TN
4 years
Online + Campus
A public institution, the University of Tennessee, Knoxville offers 321 programs, including both on-campus and online options. The university's online bachelor of science in social work caters to associate degree-holders interested in social work careers.
Along with general education requirements, majors take upper-division social work classes. The rigorous curriculum builds valuable hard and soft skills.
Students pay around $1,313 per credit for their degrees, and the financial aid office can connect online learners with grants and scholarships. In addition to these forms of aid, the school informs students about their degree payment options. This accredited school meets federal eligibility requirements for financial aid programs like the Pell Grant. The university reports that 91% of its learners receive financial aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,332
Out-of-state
$28,522
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,468
Out-of-state
$29,656
Retention Rate
89%
Admission Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
30,559
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
41%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Best Online Social Work Degree Programs 2023
Touro University Worldwide
Los Alamitos, CA
4 years
Online + Campus
Touro University Worldwide is a private institution in Los Alamitos, California. Workshops and other forms of experiential learning add a valuable component to the school's online bachelor's programs.
Accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, the online bachelor's in social work builds the knowledge and competencies required for entry-level social work roles. Enrollees gain analytical, communication, and critical thinking skills through the coursework and experiential learning opportunities. Internships offer hands-on training in diverse fields. Fieldwork, practicums, and research projects prepare social work majors for the workforce.
Bachelor's programs typically require four years of full-time study. Degree candidates can use scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid to pay for their degrees. Contact the school for details on admission requirements, application deadlines, and start dates.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,400
Out-of-state
$14,400
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,000
Out-of-state
$9,000
Retention Rate
75%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
2,131
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
99%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#5 Best Online Social Work Degree Programs 2023
Wayne State University
Detroit, MI
4 years
Online + Campus
Located in Detroit, Michigan, Wayne State University enrolls students online and on campus. Learners can pursue many degrees, including a bachelor of social work. Distance learners can access a variety of student services. They can also participate in the campus community by attending virtual events.
Featuring a 460-hour field placement and a cohort-based format, the online program emphasizes critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving. The flexible learning environment helps distance learners complete the 120-credit bachelor's program. Academic advisors support undergraduates as they build a customized part-time or full-time course of study.
Financial aid advisors help online students identify scholarship and grant opportunities, while the university's career services office provides feedback on job applications and offers career planning. Prospective applicants meet with admissions advisors to submit their paperwork and evaluate transfer credits.
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%
Admission 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
#6 Best Online Social Work Degree Programs 2023
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA
4 years
Online + Campus
Students interested in an online social work degree may benefit from Liberty University's online bachelor's in social work. The program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education. About 86,000 students enroll in classes online at this private Christian institution.
The 120-credit program features a rigorous curriculum. Degree-seekers take online classes in their major as well as general education courses and electives.
The school reports an average per-credit cost of $750. Liberty is an accredited institution, so distance learners can use federal student aid programs like the Pell Grant. Students with prior college experience can further reduce costs by transferring credits. Liberty's admissions advisors can help students determine their transfer credits.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,791
Out-of-state
$14,791
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,935
Out-of-state
$7,935
Retention Rate
81%
Admission Rate
50%
Students Enrolled
93,349
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
93%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#7 Best Online Social Work Degree Programs 2023
University of Nebraska at Kearney
Kearney, NE
4 years
Online + Campus
The online bachelor's in social work at University of Nebraska at Kearney prioritizes flexibility. Distance learners complete classes in a convenient virtual classroom environment. The degree meets the requirements for many entry-level careers.
This fully online program includes both synchronous and asynchronous classes. Many students prefer the flexibility of asynchronous classes, which do not require set class times. Degree-seekers customize their course of study with electives and use experiential learning opportunities to build hands-on skills.
The accredited public institution enrolls 4,470 distance learners. Online students can qualify for scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid. Working students may also qualify for employer-offered tuition remission programs.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,270
Out-of-state
$13,650
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,216
Out-of-state
$13,656
Retention Rate
81%
Admission Rate
88%
Students Enrolled
6,225
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
72%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#8 Best Online Social Work Degree Programs 2023
Angelo State University
San Angelo, TX
4 years
Online + Campus
Texas-based public institution Angelo State University offers 80 programs, including both online and in-person options. Available online and on campus, the school's bachelor of social work is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education.
Learners complete general education and advanced social work courses. The curriculum strengthens in-demand skills like critical thinking and problem-solving.
The financial aid office helps online learners find scholarships and grants. Students work with financial aid officers to create a plan to pay for their degree. Enrollees can apply for financial aid programs like the Pell Grant. The school reports that 92% of its undergraduates receive financial aid.
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%
Admission 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
#9 Best Online Social Work Degree Programs 2023
Aurora University
Aurora, IL
4 years
Online + Campus
Aurora University hosts a flexible and affordable online bachelor of social work. The program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education. The Illinois-based private institution enrolls nearly 6,000 learners in its online classes.
Learners earn 120 credits to graduate and complete rigorous online coursework. Requirements include social work classes, general education courses, and electives.
Undergraduates pay an average per-credit fee of $475. Online students can use federal aid programs such as the Pell Grant. The school's generous transfer credit policy can also help save students money. Admissions advisors can meet with applicants to determine their transfer credits.
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%
Admission 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
#10 Best Online Social Work Degree Programs 2023
Troy University
Troy, AL
4 years
Online + Campus
Troy University offers 89 programs at its campus in Alabama and online. The public university's bachelor's in social work prepares enrollees to serve diverse communities in a variety of social welfare-related roles.
In addition to general education classes, degree-seekers study advanced social work topics. Aligned with standards set by the Council on Social Work Education, the curriculum features a 400-hour practicum and emphasizes in-demand skills such as critical thinking.
Financial aid advisors recommend scholarships and grants, and can help students explore loans. Enrollees can use federal programs like the Pell Grant. Troy reports that 94% of its students receive financial aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,800
Out-of-state
$15,600
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,650
Out-of-state
$15,300
Retention Rate
77%
Admission Rate
92%
Students Enrolled
16,497
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
62%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#11 Best Online Social Work Degree Programs 2023
University of Hawai'i at Mānoa
Honolulu, HI
4 years
Online + Campus
The online bachelor of social work, distance education option at University of Hawaii at Mānoa offers flexible enrollment options, including both part-time and full-time tracks. Prioritizing affordability without sacrificing academic quality, this public institution offers in-person programs at its Honolulu campus and enrolls over 9,000 distance learners.
Students can begin the 120-credit social work program after completing general education requirements. Learners conduct fieldwork locally and select online electives to complement their social work courses.
Distance learners can qualify for federal student aid programs by submitting the FAFSA. Degree-seekers receive an average of $8,314 in financial aid per year.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,304
Out-of-state
$33,336
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$15,600
Out-of-state
$33,648
Retention Rate
80%
Admission Rate
84%
Students Enrolled
18,025
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
50%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#12 Best Online Social Work Degree Programs 2023
Campbellsville University
Campbellsville, KY
4 years
Online + Campus
The online bachelor of social work at Campbellsville University prioritizes affordability, flexibility, and academic rigor. Located in Kentucky, the private Christian institution welcomes over 9,000 students to its online programs.
The 120-credit program requires learners to complete general education classes, electives, and major courses. The program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education.
Enrollees pay an average of $423 per credit. They can submit the FAFSA and use federal aid programs like the Pell Grant to pay for school. A generous transfer credit policy can help students lower their educational costs further. Admissions advisors work with applicants to provide a transfer credit evaluation.
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%
Admission 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
#13 Best Online Social Work Degree Programs 2023
Eastern Kentucky University
Richmond, KY
4 years
Online + Campus
From its campus in Richmond, Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) offers 158 programs. At this public institution, students enjoy online and in-person enrollment options. EKU's four online bachelor's degrees include a flexible bachelor of social work program with accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education.
Alongside general education classes, majors study advanced topics in social work. The rigorous curriculum focuses on core social work competencies and in-demand soft skills.
EKU reports an average tuition rate of $474 per credit, and the school reports that 99% of its learners benefit from financial aid. Online learners meet with financial aid advisors to learn about options to pay for their degrees, including scholarships and grants. Undergraduates attending this accredited institution can qualify for federal programs like the Pell Grant.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,266
Out-of-state
$19,338
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,900
Out-of-state
$13,950
Retention Rate
79%
Admission Rate
98%
Students Enrolled
14,465
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
59%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#14 Best Online Social Work Degree Programs 2023
University of Arkansas at Little Rock
Little Rock, AR
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Arkansas at Little Rock enrolls learners in on-campus and online programs. The school's experiential learning opportunities help students in both learning formats build industry-specific skills. The institution offers the online bachelor of social work program only to Arkansas residents. Enrollees gain the knowledge and skills required for social work careers.
Accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, this program strengthens critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills in a flexible format. Undergraduates can pursue internships to gain hands-on experience. Workshops, practicums, and research projects also help social work majors prepare for the workforce.
Bachelor's programs typically take four years of study for full-time enrollees. Degree-seekers can use scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid to fund their education. Contact the school to learn about admission requirements and start dates.
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%
Admission 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
#15 Best Online Social Work Degree Programs 2023
East Central University
Ada, OK
4 years
Online + Campus
East Central University offers 57 programs from its Ada, Oklahoma, campus. Students choose from online and in-person enrollment options.
The online bachelor of social work program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education. The rigorous 124-credit curriculum builds strong critical thinking skills. Enrollees study advanced social work material and participate in internships while also meeting general education requirements.
The public university reports an average per-credit fee of $413, with about 88% of its students receiving financial aid. Online learners can contact the financial aid office to hear about scholarship and grant opportunities and create a plan to pay for their degree. Undergraduates can also submit the FAFSA and use federal programs like the Pell Grant.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,648
Out-of-state
$15,008
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,298
Out-of-state
$10,726
Retention Rate
60%
Admission Rate
96%
Students Enrolled
3,608
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
100%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#16 Best Online Social Work Degree Programs 2023
University of Massachusetts Global
Irvine, CA
4 years
Online + Campus
Formerly known as Brandman University, University of Massachusetts Global is a fully online private institution based in Irvine, California. UMass Global's offerings include a flexible bachelor's in social work accredited by the Council on Social Work Education.
Enrollees study advanced social work topics and take general education classes. A rigorous curriculum emphasizes both hard and soft skills. This 120-credit program features a 400-hour practicum.
On average, UMass Global students pay $874 per credit. Online learners can meet with financial aid officers to hear about scholarship and grant opportunities and create a degree payment plan. Students may qualify for federal financial aid programs like the Pell Grant. UMass Global reports that 100% of degree-seekers receive financial aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$12,000
Out-of-state
$12,000
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,060
Out-of-state
$12,060
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
95%
Students Enrolled
10,986
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
100%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#17 Best Online Social Work Degree Programs 2023
Indiana Wesleyan University
Marion, IN
4 years
Online + Campus
From its campus in Marion, Indiana Wesleyan University offers in-person and online education from a Christian perspective. The school enrolls more than 10,000 online students. One option for distance learners includes a bachelor of social work.
This 120-credit program features a learning management platform that helps undergraduates connect with their classmates and instructors. Online students work with the program to meet internship requirements locally.
The institution boasts a strong record of excellence in remote education, offering 19 online bachelor's programs. Online student services help distance learners succeed academically, and career advising services help graduates prepare for the workforce.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,871
Out-of-state
$8,871
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,083
Out-of-state
$11,083
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
10,944
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
92%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#18 Best Online Social Work Degree Programs 2023
Bemidji State University
Bemidji, MN
4 years
Online + Campus
Bemidji State University belongs to the Minnesota State University system. This public university's online student services benefit distance learners, helping online students finish a bachelor's degree and transition into the workforce.
The hybrid bachelor of social work program requires 120 credits and prepares enrollees for careers in social work and related fields. Distance learners can fulfill most degree requirements online. Undergraduates meet with academic advisors to design an individualized course of study. Online enrollees can participate in virtual events and monthly campus residency days.
Financial aid advisors help online students find grants, scholarships, and other forms of financial aid. The school also offers job fairs and workshops. Prospective students work with enrollment advisors to submit their paperwork and join the social work program.
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%
Admission 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
#19 Best Online Social Work Degree Programs 2023
Huntington University
Huntington, IN
4 years
Online + Campus
Located in Indiana, Huntington University offers 78 programs, including a bachelor of science in social work. At this private Christian institution, students choose from on-campus and online classes.
Degree-seekers study social work topics, choose electives, and meet general education requirements. Accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, the program's rigorous curriculum builds strong critical thinking skills.
The university's financial aid advisors can help online learners find scholarships and grants and make a plan to pay for their degrees. Enrollees can apply for financial aid programs such as the Pell Grant. The school reports that all students use some form of financial aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$25,956
Out-of-state
$25,956
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,208
Out-of-state
$11,208
Retention Rate
77%
Admission Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
1,391
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
30%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#20 Best Online Social Work Degree Programs 2023
Southwestern Assemblies of God University
Waxahachie, TX
4 years
Online + Campus
Southwestern Assemblies of God University is a private Christian institution in Waxahachie, Texas. Over 1,400 distance learners participate in the university's online programs, including 26 online bachelor's programs.
The fully remote bachelor's in social work is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education. An online format makes it easier for majors to earn 120 credits and complete a bachelor's degree. The school's learning management platform promotes interactions between students and faculty. Students work with program advisors to meet internship requirements locally.
The institution offers online student services that help learners succeed in a distance learning environment. Career advising services help graduates transition from the program into the workforce.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$20,496
Out-of-state
$20,496
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,710
Out-of-state
$10,710
Retention Rate
72%
Admission Rate
89%
Students Enrolled
1,985
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
73%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
There are many reasons to pursue an online social work degree. For one, social work is an in-demand career. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects an above-average growth rate of 9% for social workers from 2021-2031.
You'll also develop highly marketable and transferable soft skills like empathy, interpersonal communication, and cultural competence. Other valuable skills include workload management, interviewing, and advocacy, which can serve you well in social work and other industries.
Another benefit of earning an online social work degree is the opportunity to advocate and assist populations you're passionate about, whether that's children, families, or people with mental health conditions.
Finally, if you become a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), you may be able to access better-paying jobs and can work in a direct clinical manner.
Admission Requirements for Social Work Degree Programs
Application
Typically, you'll fill out your application online. Be ready with your personal contact and identifying information. You may also be asked about your family, your hobbies, your interest in social work, awards you've received, activities you've participated in, and/or jobs you've worked.
Essay
The college essay is a great opportunity to display your passion, drive, and personality. Tell your story and tie it to your academic and career goals.
Test Scores
Many colleges will want to see your SAT and ACT scores, though some online BSW programs may waive this requirement. Students who aren't native English speakers may also need to submit TOEFL or IELTS scores.
Official Transcripts
If you're applying to college for the first time, you'll need to include official transcripts from your high school. Your high school counselor can help you with this.
If you have some college under your belt already, most schools accept transfer credits — just ask for them from the registrar's office at your former institution.
What You'll Learn in an Online Social Work Degree Program
A BSW will provide you with a broad and comprehensive overview of the field. It's a pretty challenging program: There will be a lot of reading, research, and analysis required.
At the same time, the course material tends to be fascinating and enlightening. You'll learn about specific demographics and populations you may want to specialize in, then apply everything you've learned in the real world through a supervised internship.
Most online BSW programs require 120 credits, including 60 credits of general education requirements (like math, sciences, and humanities courses.)
Here are some examples of online social work classes you may take:
Introduction to social work
Social work research methods
Diversity and cultural competence
Professional ethics
Social welfare policy
Human behavior in the social environment
Child and family services
Many programs offer specializations as well, such as the following:
Child and family
Corrections and rehabilitation
Aging services
School social work
Social work leadership
Policy change
Criminal justice
Social Work Career and Salary Information
If you want to dive deeper into your career options as a BSW graduate, here's a list of roles and salaries you can pursue.
Social and Community Service Manager
What you'll do: Manage programs that support and advocate for public well-being
How to get this job: You'll need at least a bachelor's degree in social work or a related field, as well as several years of relevant work experience in public service and management.
Child and Family Social Worker
What you'll do: Assist vulnerable or at-risk children and families by monitoring their well-being, connecting them to resources, and liaising with schools and other institutions.
How to get this job: Typically, you'll need both a bachelor's degree and a graduate degree in social work (specializing in child and family social work) to qualify for licensure. But not all states require licensure to work with families and children.
Substance Abuse Counselor
What you'll do: Work with clients who struggle with addiction or have a substance use disorder to treat, manage, and overcome addiction through providing access to resources and acceptance to treatment programs and/or housing links.
How to get this job: Most positions require at least a bachelor's degree in social work or substance abuse counseling, preferably specializing in addiction. It's also important to have an internship or practical experience in the field.
Behavior Disorder and Mental Health Counselor
What you'll do: Provide access and referrals to evidence-based treatment and advocacy for individuals struggling with behavioral or mental health problems.
How to get this job: At the very least, you'll need a related bachelor's degree — to become a mental health counselor, you'll typically also need to complete a master's degree and an internship.
Social Work Licensure
If you want to become a licensed social worker, here's what that's going to take:
You'll also need 2,500-4,000 hours of clinical experience under the supervision of an independent licensed social worker.
Finally, you'll have to pass the ASWB national licensure examinations. The ASWB provides both bachelor's-level and graduate-level licensing exams.
Social Work Continuing Education
In many states, continuing education is required to renew your social work license. The requirements and rules are always changing, so it's important to keep your finger on the pulse wherever you live. The Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) provides an exhaustive database of licensure requirements for each state.
Continuing education is crucial to keeping your skills up to date and pursuing new skills as a social worker. Want to work with a new population? Get into policy? Land a different job?
No reason to do one thing for your whole career — you never have to be bored as a social worker. CE courses can get you certified to do whatever new area of practice interests you.
Expert Q&A With a Real Social Worker
Lindsey Konchar MSW, LGSW
Lindsey Konchar, MSW, is a licensed graduate social worker (LGSW). She earned her BA in psychology in 2014, then chose to serve in AmeriCorps on a 10-month commitment. After her time in AmeriCorps came to a close, Lindsey worked in an inpatient psychiatric hospital, working with patients experiencing severe anxiety, depression, and other diagnoses. She chose to go back to graduate school, and went on to earn her master's in social work in 2019. Lindsey has since had experience working in transitional care units and integrative health care settings. She also wrote the book "I Got 99 Coping Skills and Being a B*tch Ain't One" and is the owner of copingwithlindsey.com.
Q: Why did you decide to pursue a degree in social work?
A: "When speaking in terms of the helping profession, social work offers the most variety — by far. With a social work license, you can work in a variety of settings with a variety of populations, and you aren't limited to one specific niche. I chose a degree in social work for the flexibility and options it provides."
Q: In your opinion, what is the value of earning a social work degree?
A: "It's hard to put a price on something that is a part of you. Social work certainly isn't the highest-paying profession, but on average, the pay is good. The bigger value I receive from my degree is the fulfillment it brings me."
Q: Do you feel that a bachelor's degree in social work is limiting as far as job opportunities?
A: "Short answer: Yes. Long answer: It depends. Everyone has different goals and stories of success. If you are hoping to be a caseworker, child welfare specialist, child protective worker, research assistant, behavioral health professional, psychiatric technician, or outreach specialist, then go for gold and stick with a bachelor's in social work. If you want to have more options than that, then earning a master's is a better plan for you!"
Q: Would you encourage undergraduate students who are working toward a social work degree to pursue a master's in social work (MSW)?
A: "Absolutely. Having a master's degree is when more doors open, and the professional job opportunities become endless. I chose to earn my BA, take two years to gain some "real world" experience, then go back to school and earn my MSW. Not everyone will or even should take that same road, but I thought it was the best use of my time."
Q: What is the biggest piece of advice you would give aspiring social workers?
A: "Keep an open mind. When I started on the journey of earning a master's degree, I was working toward counseling and student personnel (CSP) with the hopes of becoming a school counselor. Then my eyes were opened to new and different possibilities. I, instead, pursued a master's in social work. I am so happy I kept an open mind and allowed change to work its way into my life. Instead of working in schools, I have found myself in psychiatric hospitals and integrative clinics, and both have been such a great fit. With an MSW, I can always go work in a school whenever that seems to be the best fit. But if I had just stayed in the initial CSP program, I would have been limited and never experienced this other work. An MSW is where it's at!"
Q: Has a social work degree been worth it for you?
A: "I have loved my career path and trajectory. The ups and downs, triumphs and tribulations, have all been wonderful learning opportunities. I definitely think a social work degree is worth it!"
Frequently Asked Questions About Social Work Degree Programs
How much does a social work degree cost?
We hear you: College is expensive. Fortunately, social work students can qualify for different kinds of scholarships and financial aid to help make getting their BSW more affordable.
The right online program can save you money on commuting costs, room, board, and on-campus fees while also providing the flexibility to work and minimize lost income while you study.
But of course, salaries vary based on education, position, employer, and credentials:
The lowest earning 10% of social workers make less than $33,020.
The highest earning 10% of social workers make over $85,820.
How do I become a social worker?
Step 1: Get a bachelor's degree in social work or a related field (sociology, psychology, or human services). With a BSW, you can pursue entry-level roles in the field — but you can't qualify for licensure or clinical practice.
Step 2: To become a clinical social worker, get an MSW. MSW programs provide specialized training in clinical assessment and management.
Step 3: Complete your required practicum or internship experiences. For clinical social work licensure, MSW graduates usually need two additional years of supervised training.
Step 4: Pass the required national social work licensure examinations.
Step 5: Get out there and start changing the world as a licensed clinical social worker. Provide therapy, advocate for clients, work in policy, or open your own private practice — now you can do it all.
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