What You Need to Know About Becoming a Social Work Major
A social work major studies how to help, protect or support those in vulnerable situations.
Becoming a Social Work Major
By the time students graduate with a social work degree, they should have a thorough understanding of how to work with individuals, families, groups and organizations. (Getty Images)
A social work major studies social welfare systems, those public or private assistance programs aimed at helping people who might be vulnerable or disadvantaged. Through the curriculum, students develop skills in communication, problem solving, teamwork and time management.
These students may go on to pursue a master’s degree in social work, a requirement for those who want to practice as a clinical social worker.
What Is a Social Work Major?
A social work major studies social welfare systems with the hope of helping improve lives.
Social work majors seek to understand the challenges people face, whether it’s homelessness, family violence, addiction or something else. They also learn how to help by providing resources or counseling.
By the time students graduate with a social work degree, they should be able to analyze social work policies and use critical thinking as they apply their analysis. They also should have a thorough understanding of how to work with individuals, families, groups and community organizations.
After graduation, social work majors can find entry-level positions as caseworkers or mental health assistants.
Common Coursework Social Work Majors Can Expect
Students who pursue a bachelor’s degree in social work, also called a BSW, should expect to take a couple of years of liberal arts classes in subjects like philosophy, history, political science and languages.
Many programs start with an introduction to social work course, which lays the foundation for the major. Other classes touch on topics related to the welfare state, human behavior, social work research and policy analysis, as well as the ethics of social work. BSW programs often include a fieldwork or practicum element, where social work students get on-the-job training at internships. These practicums also give students network connections, which can be useful for finding jobs after graduation.
How to Know if This Major Is the Right Fit for You
A social work major should be a people person. As the name of the field suggests, social work entails a lot of social interaction, usually with a particular population, such as children in vulnerable positions or adults struggling with addiction.
Those considering a major in social work should be empathetic toward clients who have experienced trauma or who have experienced challenging life events. Clients might express a range of emotions from sadness to anger, and it’s important that social workers communicate sympathy and exhibit calm rather than becoming frustrated.
Social work majors should also get excited about the challenge of finding ways to solve problems in their clients’ lives, including offering resources, tools and counseling services.
Pick the Perfect Major
Discover the perfect major for you based on your innate wiring. The Innate Assessment sets you up for success by pairing you with majors, colleges and careers that fit your unique skills and abilities.
What Can I Do With a Social Work Major?
A bachelor’s degree in social work equips you for entry-level positions in a variety of settings, including health care facilities, state and local governments, schools, military bases, and correctional facilities. For example, social and community managers head up programs at social service or community organizations. Probation officers and correctional treatment specialists work with people who are incarcerated or who are out on parole or probation. State-administered licenses might also be required for certain jobs.
To become a clinical social worker, you will have to obtain further education – a master’s degree and a minimum of two years of supervised experience in a clinical setting. Licensure is also a requirement.
Schools Offering a Social Work Major
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How to Become a Social Worker: A Quick Guide
Social workers contribute to many areas of society. They play an important role in individual and family services, local and state government, and ambulatory healthcare services.
Harnessing a passion to help others, social workers improve lives by connecting clients with resources and social services. They administer mental health services, prevent substance abuse, protect children and families, and serve on the front lines of crisis situations.
Social workers' job duties vary by work setting and specialty. Some work in child welfare, at colleges, and in hospices and palliative care. Most take positions that correlate to their educational background and specialized training.
At minimum, social workers need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college. Employers often prefer social workers who hold master’s degrees. All clinical social workers must hold a master's degree.
Keep reading this page to learn how to become a social worker, including the benefits of licensure and certification.
Frequently Asked Questions
When people need help dealing with challenges or navigating crises, they turn to social workers. Social workers perform outreach work in needy communities and develop programs connecting people to resources like food stamps and childcare. On an individual basis, they perform client intake and assessments.
It takes between 4-6 years to become a social worker. Prospective social workers spend four years earning a bachelor’s degree in social work and two years getting a master’s degree. Social workers who want to work in a clinical setting must fulfill at least two years of supervised work experience before earning a license.
Clinical social workers get the training to perform clinical assessments through master’s programs and supervised work experiences. Graduate-level study and clinicals also train candidates to diagnose and treat people suffering from mental illnesses or emotional issues. Students learn to apply social work theories and processes to individual, group, and family counseling. Clinical social workers must obtain licensure to practice.
Prospective social workers must first earn a bachelor’s degree. Bachelor's-level candidates can pursue a specialty in mental health and substance abuse, community social work, or social work administration. Graduates can immediately enter the workforce or pursue a master's degree.
People from all walks of life become social workers, but many share common traits that draw them to the occupation. Social workers often demonstrate compassion, empathy, a desire for social justice, and patience. They must also be highly organized to manage multiple cases at once.
Featured Online Social Work Programs
Steps to become a social worker.
No one can become a social worker without completing a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Many students opt to attend programs accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), because it guarantees the curriculum meets certain academic standards. Many employers and graduate schools also prefer graduates from CSWE-accredited programs.
A prospective social worker's path depends on their career goals. Some specialties require a license and an advanced degree. School social workers in some states need a master’s degree in social work, a license, and certification from the National Association of Social Workers.
Earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work
A bachelor’s degree in social work prepares graduates for jobs as mental health assistants, rehabilitation caseworkers, family service workers, and caseworkers. These four-year programs teach students about legal and ethical standards in social work, case management, human behavior theory, psychology, and sociology.
Core classes provide a generalist social work education. Students also take electives or concentrations in areas such as addiction and children and families. Candidates gain hands-on training and learn from working professionals through field experiences and labs.
Most bachelor’s degrees require 120 credits to graduate, including major coursework and general education courses.
Earn a Master's Degree in Social Work
Individuals with a master’s degree in social work hold the knowledge and educational credentials to work in clinical settings. Graduate students obtain a research-informed education to prepare them for the licensing exams.
With a generalist practice curriculum, students can hone their expertise in areas such as child development, public health, clinical, or geriatric. Direct practice working with individuals and groups is a key component of many master’s in social work programs. Residencies teach students about diversity and racism, health care policy, epidemiology, and biostatistics for public health.
Programs last an average of two years, or about 16 months on accelerated timelines. Students must complete between 32-65 credits to earn their degree. Graduates of CSWE-accredited undergraduate programs can earn advanced standing.
Get Licensed as a Social Worker
Licensing is crucial for social workers who want to work in a clinical or school setting. Earning a master’s degree in social work is the first step needed to obtain licensure. While requirements vary by state, most states expect applicants to get fingerprinted and fulfil 3,000-4,000 supervised practice hours.
Candidates who complete these requirements can sit for licensing exams like the Master’s Association of Social Work Boards exam.
States may also require that applicants complete post-master’s courses in aging and long-term care or child abuse assessment and reporting. Most states mandate that social workers renew licenses every two years by completing continuing education classes.
Consider Professional Social Work Certifications
While professionals must be licensed to work as school or clinical social workers, they do not need to hold certifications. In fact, despite the many benefits of gaining additional credentials, many licensed social workers practice for years before earning a certification.
Certifications do not replace licensure, but merely enhance a social worker’s credentials. They provide professional recognition of a social worker’s knowledge in a specific area and may lead to promotions and higher pay. Expertise in a specialized field often provides career mobility.
Most certifications offered through the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) require a master’s degree. Individuals with a master’s degree can become clinical social workers in gerontology or certified school social work specialists. However, bachelor's degree-holders can become certified children, youth, and family social workers or certified social work case managers. Some certifications may only be available to NASW members.
Career Options for Social Workers
Employment opportunities for social workers hinge primarily on the individual's educational background. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects employment for all social workers to grow by 13% through 2029, with employers adding 90,700 jobs.
Employment projections vary by specialty. Jobs for healthcare social workers should increase by 14% from 2019-2029, whereas child, family, and school social work positions are expected to grow by 12% in the same time period. According to the BLS, clinical social work careers requiring a master’s degree should expand as the demand for healthcare and funding continues to increase.
Outpacing other social work subfields, jobs for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors should increase by 25% from 2019-2029. While the position only requires a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree-holders may fare better on the job market. Employers should add 79,000 occupations by 2029.
Certain areas, such as rural parts of the country, lack healthcare services and boast a higher demand for mental health counselors. Fields like the military also need counselors to work with veterans and military members.
Learn more about salaries for social workers by visiting this page .
Research How to Become a Social Worker by State
- Connecticut
- Massachusetts
- Mississippi
- New Hampshire
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Washington DC
- West Virginia
Best Social Work colleges in the U.S. 2023
Social work is a profession that prepares individuals to assess, counsel, and aid individuals, families, and communities with different personal obstacles. Some of the matters that social workers can help with are finances, employment, housing, and child care. Academic courses for the degree include instruction in social welfare policy, case work planning, social counseling and intervention strategies, administrative procedures and regulations, oppression, child welfare and family services, employment services, and disability counseling.
There's in-class coursework and supervised field experience within the social work degree program . Aside from the degree, social workers also need to fulfill licensing, certification, and/or registration requirements as determined by each state. A career as a social worker will earn jobs in all sectors of health and welfare services including public agencies, private businesses, hospitals, clinics, schools, nursing homes, private practices, police departments, and courts.
The Council on Social work Education is the main accrediting body for baccalaureate and master's social work programs. Social workers counsel individuals to help them overcome struggles and better adjust to life. They also refer the individual or family to community resources that provide services ranging from legal aid to job placement. There are many specialties in the social work profession including disaster relief, adoption and foster care, and domestic violence. Some job titles to consider are caseworker, mental health assistant, group home worker, and residential counselor.
Master's in Social Work degrees are the next level of education toward a career in social work. This degree can be completed online or on-campus and generally takes two years to complete, if studied full-time. There are various specializations you can earn with a MSW as well as varying career paths that are opened up with a Master's Degree in Social Work, like community health worker, social worker, or school and career counselors.
Best Social Work colleges in the U.S. for 2023
The University of Chicago’s Crown Family School's Master of Arts in Social Work, Social Policy, and Social Administration prepares students interested in becoming social workers, policy developers, and leaders in the community. This program includes courses that teach students how to assess the range of stressors that contribute to economic and social hardship. Classes are available both in-person and remotely, though some courses may include in-person instruction and practicum during their junior or senior year to further their professional experience before graduation.
For students interested in pursuing a Master of Social Work in North Carolina, UNC-Chapel Hill offers a competitive track with ample professional observation opportunities on-campus and in the Raleigh-Durham metro area. Students in the program are advised to apply to internships during their degree program and during summer breaks to gain hands-on experience that will be invaluable when they apply for professional roles post-graduation. Graduates of UNC’s social work program have excellent track records of success.
The University of California Berkeley offers a graduate-level social work program, ideal for students interested in working with clients in clinical and human services roles. It is common for students in the program to take classes in psychology and specialize in a particular age group or demographic to work with. UC Berkeley offers a two-year path with opportunities to apply to internships at schools in the Bay Area to gain real-world experience.
The Master of Social Work program at the University of Michigan - Ann Arbor provides a foundation for graduate students that want to become involved in helping children and adults in a clinical social work setting. Students interested in exploring this degree learn how legislation, government programs, and local organizations shape the global social and economic landscape. It is common for students in the program to complete an on or off-campus internship locally, which helps many develop professional relationships and references for when they graduate.
The University of Washington has a Master of Social Work program that was developed to prepare students for roles in the Seattle community immediately upon completion. This is a two-year master’s program that gives students a range of local internship opportunities at hospitals like Harborview Medical Center or the Seattle Department of Social and Health Services downtown. The program offers many seminars and clinical observations for their students to receive additional guidance before entering the workforce.
The Master of Social Work program at Indiana University - Bloomington was created to prepare graduates to enter into the field as a social worker, community service manager, or case management aid. In the classroom, students have opportunities to pursue specific clinical settings if they prefer to work at a hospital, with the elderly, or at a grade school level. Many students pursue off-campus internships in the Indianapolis metro.
FIU’s Master of Social Work program prepares students interested in pursuing a career in social work helping people of all ages in a clinical or medical setting. Applicants should note that professional internship experiences are critical to this major and that students typically enter the workforce immediately after graduation. Learners can expect to find job opportunities in Miami at local centers like the Dade County Human Services Department, or one of the many private practices that serve clients in the metro area.
Syracuse University offers a master’s degree program in social work for students in upstate New York with an interest in helping children and young adults experiencing health-related, economic, and social hardship. Courses in the program’s curriculum include public policy, institutional research, and ethics. Graduates of the program can take advantage of Syracuse’s extensive alumni network to assist in post-graduation job placement, especially for local positions in New York.
For New York City residents with aspirations of pursuing a degree in social work, New York University, or NYU, offers a two-year program designed to prepare students for jobs working directly with people of all ages that are suffering from economic, medical, or psychological distress. Students can anticipate taking classes in psychology and communication while pursuing in-person internships at organizations in New York City to gain experience working in a clinical setting with practicing professionals.
Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis offers 6 Social Work degree programs. It's a very large, public, four-year university in a large city. In 2020, 625 Social Work students graduated with students earning 425 Master's degrees, 146 Bachelor's degrees, 49 Certificates, and 5 Doctoral degrees.
Find local colleges with Social Work majors in the U.S.
List of all social work colleges in the u.s..
How to Become a Social Worker: Qualifications & Requirements
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High job satisfaction, stability and a fulfilling career path make becoming a social worker the perfect opportunity if you’re looking to do good and make a positive change in your community.
Social work positions are consistently featured on U.S. News & World Report’s list of the 100 Best Jobs, with child and family social workers and clinical social workers earning a spot on the most recent list . The benefits of becoming a social worker are clear. Read on to understand the qualifications, educational requirements and opportunities for social workers.
Responsibilities: What Social Workers Actually Do
Social work is a broad term that encompasses a wide range of careers. At a high level, social workers help people resolve their issues in order to improve their quality of life. But in reality, there’s no typical day in the field. One day you might be assessing a family’s situation and developing a plan of action, while the next day you could be involved in crisis management.
Social workers are needed at federal, state and local levels, and throughout diverse populations — from infants to the elderly and in small towns and big cities. You may work with individuals, families or groups of people.
Some of the responsibilities of a social worker include:
- Recommending resources
- Case management
- Legislative advocacy
- Community organization
- Reviewing and implementing policies
- Helping people with Social Security or welfare
With the right training and a degree in social work , you’ll be prepared to help people who are struggling with mental illness, addiction, poverty, homelessness and other matters.
Career Opportunities in Social Work
Where do you see yourself working? Are you interested in substance abuse counseling in a clinic or patient advocacy in the healthcare industry? The exact responsibilities of your job will depend on the career path you choose and where you want to work.
As you progress toward becoming a social worker, you’ll need to select a speciality as soon as you can since there are a variety of practice areas available.
Possible specialty areas include:
- Community Social Work
- Child and Family Welfare
- Mental Health
- Substance Abuse Social Work
Places where you might work include:
- Rehabilitation Clinics
- Government Agencies
- Mental Health Facilities
Research the focuses that you’re interested in and browse job opportunities to get an idea of what your role would entail. You may also be able to find internships where you can get a taste for a certain speciality in a hands-on way.
Qualifications & Requirements to Become a Social Worker
Knowing your ideal career path is the first step toward becoming a social worker. Once you’ve selected a speciality and a place where you’d like to work, you can start fulfilling the necessary requirements.
Education For an entry-level position, you will need at least a bachelor’s degree in social work (BSW). Most of these positions consist of working in direct-service roles, like as a caseworker.
For more advanced roles, like clinical social work, a master’s degree is required. You don’t need to have a bachelor’s degree in social work if you’re interested in pursuing your master’s in the field.
Internships & Experience Since social work is a field that involves a lot of face-to-face interaction, experience will be incredibly valuable to you and the community you serve. Most positions will require some level of experience. For example, in addition to a master’s degree, clinical workers need at least two years of experience.
Hands-on experience through an internship is a great way to develop your skills. Popular places to intern are at local nonprofit organizations, clinics or hospitals. But if an internship isn’t available to you in your chosen speciality, any experience you can get in your community will be beneficial and should satisfy experience requirements.
Licensing Depending on the state where you’re practicing, you may need to become a licensed social worker. You can find the license requirements for your state here .
To receive your license, you may be required to:
- Perform a certain amount of hours of supervised work
- Take and pass an exam
- Pursue continuous education opportunities
Once you’re licensed, your job title will also be dependent on where you are. A Licensed Social Worker (LSW) in the south could mean something totally different on the west coast. You may often see variations of the Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker job title listed as LISW, LCSW or LICSW.
Interested in clinical social work? Just know that licensing for this position is required in every state.
Skills Since social workers help a variety of people in many different environments, the following skills are a must-have if you’re looking to enter the field:
- Communication and Listening Skills
- Empathy Skills
- Problem-Solving Skills
- Organizational Skills
Salary & Career Outlook for Social Workers
Social work involves helping others, so there will always be a need for people with the right education and experience.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , job opportunities in social work are expected to grow 16% over the next decade, which is much faster growth than the average for other specialties.
In 2018, the Bureau of Labor Statistics listed the median pay for social work positions in various industries as:
Career stability combined with the satisfaction of helping those in need make becoming a social worker the ideal path for anyone with a passion for improving the lives of others.
To get started in the field, take a look at our online bachelor’s in social work degree program . It’s the perfect way to earn your degree in a convenient online structure, and you’ll have the required education to compete for entry-level positions or go on to pursue your master’s degree.
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Hope College
Our sociology courses teach you to understand how human beings relate to each other, using theoretical models and carefully gathered data. In social work courses, we also study human behavior, but focus on changing and improving lives so people can reach their full potential.
We provide students with a variety of courses in our two disciplines, which act as separate degree programs but share a lot of similar ideologies. And we see a lot of Hope’s students — Sociology 101 fulfills the Social Science I, global learning domestic and cultural diversity requirement of general education. Since there is no anthropology department at Hope, our programs offer a chance to study the theory of human behavior in our societies and practically apply our understanding to make real change.
Sociology Courses
For a complete list of the requirements for a sociology major, visit the course catalog .
Social Work Courses
Admission to the social work program is competitive and not guaranteed. To apply, you must complete SWK 241 in the spring semester of your freshman year or the fall semester of your sophomore year. View our degree programs for more information .
For a complete list of the requirements for a social work major, visit the course catalog .
General Education Requirements
A few of our courses meet the general education requirements for all Hope students, including your Global Learning Domestic (GLD), Global Learning International (GLI), Social Science 1 (SS1) courses and Social Science 2 (SS2) courses.
View full descriptions of the following courses in the catalog . To see course details, including dates, times and professors, please use the Registrar's course scheduler .
- Sociology and Social Problems: SOC 101 — Our introductory class in sociology is unique, in that it counts toward the fulfillment of two general education requirements: GLD and SS1.
- Cultural Anthropology: SOC 151 — This course meets the GLI and SS1 requirements, and is a study into the historical trends in anthropology.
- Off-campus study — Off-campus programs in the U.S. and abroad can meet requirements and enhance your educational experience. Visit our Special Programs and Opportunities page for more information.
Special Courses
Our specialty courses are great for sociology and social work majors and non-majors alike. If you’re interested in these subjects and want to specialize your major, or merely want to supplement your own studies, these courses offer a chance to try something new.
- Race and Ethnic Relations: SOC 269 — This course meets the SS2 requirement and offers an assessment of the American experience in light of broader global trends.
- Sociology of Gender I and II: SOC 271 and 272 — These two courses examine the different roles prescribed to individuals on the basis of sex.
- Social Psychology: SOC 280 — This course follows the specific study of how people think about, influence and relate to each other.
- Urban Sociology: SOC 312 — How do social forces create and shape cities? This course focuses on the study of cities and urbanization.
- Sociology of Education and Childhood: SOC 365 — This course focuses on the organizational and occupational sides of schools, teaching and children.
- Sociology of Religion: SOC 341 — This course introduces students to major theoretical approaches being used to study religion and the sociological explanations of our beliefs, affiliations and practices.
- Medical Sociology: SOC 333 — An introduction to the sociological study of health, illness and medicine, this course is a great elective for those pursuing the health professions.
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What College Courses to Take to Become a Social Worker
Social work is a multi-faceted field that requires a wide range of skills and knowledge that span across disciplines. Getting ready to assist and advocate for vulnerable populations in your community, you need an understanding of how people think and behave. You also need to know how the criminal justice system works and how social policies shape society. As a social work major, most of your coursework will focus on the profession. But courses in psychology, sociology, and criminal justice can provide you with essential skills and a well-rounded education.
Intro to Psychology and Human Behavior and Society
Whether you work with children and families, Veterans, or the homeless, you need to have a solid understanding of how your clients think and act, as well as the motivations behind their behavior. Psychology is the study of human behavior so it’s a good place to start. Intro psych courses will give you the basics but there a variety of psychology courses that speak to theories, life stages, personality types, behavioral disorders, and research in the field. These kinds of courses will provide you with in-depth knowledge of human development and behaviors and the social, emotional, and physiological impacts that can affect each stage of life.
Social Welfare Programs and Policy
Like psychology, sociology overlaps with social work. Both fields deal with society and group behaviors, so a background in sociology will be helpful as you continue your education. Sociology classes can help you better understand current inequalities, crime, and health problems that plague society, including your own clients. They can also teach you about social welfare programs, such as Social Security Income and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, and social policies that are designed to help the disenfranchised.
Criminal Justice
Some of your future clients will have had brushes with the law, as victim or perpetrator. Children in your care may need legal protection from abuse and neglect. Families may need to sue for benefits that they are entitled to by law. Because of these examples and more, you need to have a firm understanding of the criminal justice system.
Criminal justice classes can teach you about the court systems, how offenders are processed, and how criminals are punished. If you plan to work with children, you may also take courses on the juvenile justice system to learn how the courts handle cases that involve minors. Knowing how the criminal justice system works will benefit you as a social worker and improve your abilities to help your clients.
Social Work Intervention
Social work intervention focuses on the relationships you build with your clients. Over several different intervention courses, you can learn how to build rapport, conduct interviews, gather evidence, record information, address client needs, and solve problems. You’ll learn the philosophies that drive mental health care and explore evidence-based treatments and interventions. From individual to group dynamics, you will be introduced to effective strategies to serve your clients. You’ll learn how to establish professional relationships and how to effect positive change in organizations and communities.
Cultural Diversity
Because you will interact with people from a wide range of ethnic and social backgrounds, understanding cultural diversity is a critical skill to possess as a social worker. You need to see how your own beliefs can impact your perceptions and how different cultures can shape people’s beliefs and behaviors. Courses on culturally diverse populations can broaden your perspective and provide you with insight on how to practice social work with different groups of people. They can also help you understand inequalities, such as racism, ableism, sexism, and ageism, that may create obstacles for your clients.
Social work can be a deeply rewarding career if you have the right temperament, skills, and passion. The Bachelor of Science in Social Work degree program at Limestone University provides the foundational coursework and experience you need to find entry-level work in the field. And you can complete your degree online .
Request info to learn more.
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Child Welfare Title IV-E
Alabama A & M University uses various methods to educate social work students regarding child welfare services and careers in child welfare. The Child Welfare Title IV-E Project is designed to enhance the knowledge and skills of all social work students with a special focus on MSW students in the Family and Child Welfare Concentration and BSW students who are interested in working immediately at DHR in Child Welfare after graduation or plan to enroll in AAMU’s MSW Program with a concentration in Family and Child Welfare. Additionally, the Project is designed to provide specialized training and workshops free of charge to DHR employees in child welfare and other behavioral health fields who provide services to children and families impacted by child welfare. Social Work faculty achieve the aims of the program by ensuring that students within the Family and Child Welfare concentration are exposed to up-to-date practice knowledge and skills. A major component of the Program is Dora's House (DH). DH is a child welfare training and simulation lab designed to support MSW and BSW students, DHR personnel, and social work personnel at child welfare agencies. The focus of DH is to allow participants to acquire and practice interviewing skills and home assessment skills. Students are exposed to a variety of factors that influence the well-being of children. These skills are augmented with child welfare mixed “virtual reality” services which are designed to develop interviewing and assessment skills of students.
Another major impetus of the Child Welfare Title IV-E grant is to assist in preparing MSW students, social work alumni, and DHR workers to take their social work licensure exam. These preparation services include a self-paced social work exam preparation course and the annual spring social work licensure preparation workshop conducted by the Association for Advanced Training in Behavioral Sciences (AATBS). In addition to the above, special projects are implemented throughout the year and include an annual conference, workshops, webinars, participation in Social Work Advocacy Day at the State’s Capitol in Montgomery, participation in the Social Work Annual Fall Conference, and the spring Alabama Consortium/Child Welfare meeting.
Funds are available for MSW students in the Family and Child Welfare concentration to apply for Graduate Assistantships. Beginning in the Spring 2022 semester, BSW Students who are interested in careers in the child welfare field will be eligible to apply for a Family and Child Welfare Leadership Award.
For more information, please contact Dr. Mildred Delozia, (256) 372-3302 or [email protected]
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BSW: Online Social Work Degree
Transfer credits, next start date, serve your community with an online bachelor’s in social work degree from liberty university.
Do you want to offer hope to individuals, families, and communities — both locally and statewide? If so, you may be interested in becoming a social worker with advanced training from Liberty University.
If you’re not interested in attending class on a residential campus but you’d like to work towards becoming a social worker, degrees online are available. Of those options, Liberty offers one of the most affordable, credible, and respected BSW degrees online.
Our online Bachelor of Science in Social Work (BSW) degree can help you tackle critical social challenges through an understanding of human psychology. Learn to evaluate, engage with, and intervene for individuals, families, and communities. With the skills you gain from our online bachelor’s degree in social work, you can help the people of your community take a step toward healthier lives.
Our online BSW degree can help you adapt to hurting communities in a diverse world. Learn from industry professionals with real-world experience in human services and get on-the-job experience in your community through social work field placements. Best of all, you can fit your education into your life with Liberty University’s flexible online learning environment.
Why Choose Liberty University’s Online Social Work Bachelor’s Degree?
With Liberty’s bachelor’s in social work, you can help people in your community or work with communities across the country. Our online social work degree can help provide the skills and experience you need to become a caring, effective social worker. Through this program, you can gain critical knowledge of human psychology — which is valuable in every people-focused industry.
An online BSW degree can benefit you in several career paths. You can sharpen the skills you need for a career as a social worker — preparing for future graduate studies or for other behavioral science roles. With Liberty’s online bachelor’s degree in social work, you can earn a degree through a flexible learning environment that works for you.
As a pioneer in distance education since 1985, Liberty understands what you’re looking for in an online social work degree program. You want a degree that can mold you into a professional capable of serving individuals with excellence, but you don’t want to sacrifice your personal obligations to pursue your degree.
We seek to exceed your academic expectations by offering a CSWE-accredited Bachelor of Science in Social Work that can help you gain valuable skills and command the respect of hiring managers. Our online BSW is taught by a group of expert professors with years of real-world experience and a vested interest in your success. Our online social work program’s curriculum has been carefully developed using extensive research, the knowledge of social work professionals, and rigorous accreditation requirements.
Better yet, at Liberty, you won’t have to put your life on hold to earn your bachelor’s in social work degree online. The flexible nature of our online BSW program allows you to complete your assignments when it’s most convenient for you, and our professors are readily available to offer guidance on assignments. Our professors want you to succeed. As a student in our online social work program, you’ll have the expertise and experience of your professors at your full disposal.
What Are the Benefits of Liberty’s Social Work Online Degree?
While many online social work colleges offer their own versions of BSW degrees, we believe Liberty stands out. Here’s why:
- Unlike some online social work programs, Liberty’s online BSW degree is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education ( CSWE ). Earning your CSWE-accredited online social work degree from Liberty University can help you confidently pursue careers in social work upon graduation.
- Improve your employment options by demonstrating your knowledge of strategic human services and relevant experience in the field. This online social worker degree program can help equip you with practical knowledge directly applicable to real-world settings.
- Use our online BSW program to lay the groundwork for graduate studies that can prepare you for a career in advanced research or clinical counseling.
- This degree’s field placements can be completed at a location near you, so you won’t have to wait until you graduate to start making a difference in your community.
- Complete our online social work bachelor’s degree program coursework on your time. With our flexible online learning environment, you can access your online materials at any time.
Job Outlook for Social Workers
Social work is a high-demand career field. Every day, families and children in need of help get the assistance they need from social workers, but an increasing number of people seek care and find none. With Liberty’s BSW program, you can become part of the solution for communities in crisis.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the job outlook for social workers is projected to increase by 12% between 2020 and 2030. Better yet, with a median salary of $51,760 per year, you can pursue a lucrative field by earning a human services bachelor’s degree online.*
Our bachelor’s in social work seeks to prepare students to seize job opportunities and help struggling populations across the country. The online delivery of our bachelor’s in social work also allows you to complete your field experience requirements at a location near you, so you can begin serving your community in a human-services capacity before you finish your degree.
*Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, at Occupational outlook handbook: Social workers (viewed online September 13, 2021). Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.
Can I complete a social work degree online?
Yes! Liberty University’s online bachelor’s degree in social work can help equip you with the skills, knowledge, and abilities needed to confidently pursue a career as a social worker.
We understand that you can’t put your life on hold to pursue your goal of becoming a social worker. You have commitments, and at Liberty, we don’t want to take away from your personal responsibilities while you pursue your Bachelor of Science in Social Work.
That’s why most of the courses in our online social work degree are offered 100% online in 8-week sections. We also offer virtual intensives that don’t require you to travel to our campus. Simply login at the scheduled times that week from the comfort of your own home. At Liberty, we strive to make earning your social work degree online as simple as possible.
Is a BSW considered a social worker?
An online BSW can help you become a social worker, yes. Because requirements for becoming a social worker may vary, be sure to research your state’s licensure requirements for more information.
Earning an online bachelor’s degree in social work can help you pursue entry-level positions in a variety of social work settings — such as adoption agencies, medical facilities, or human services entities. If you’re interested in becoming a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), you may need to pursue a Master of Science in Social Work.
However, an online BSW can be your ticket to becoming a social worker. By partnering with Liberty, you can become a confident, prepared professional who is capable of excelling as a social worker.
What can you do with a Bachelor of Social Work degree online? Liberty’s Bachelor of Science in Social Work allows you to use your understanding of human behavior to help people heal, grow, and thrive. As a professional in the health and human services field, you can use your skills and knowledge to: Build effective case management systems Develop support networks Identify people and communities in need Research and implement systems to serve client needs Respond to critical care needs such as abuse or mental health emergencies While earning your BSW degree online, you can gain abundant knowledge and expertise that are integral to success in the field of social work. But taking social work classes online doesn’t mean that you won’t get hands-on experience. Liberty’s online social work degree blends real-world training and a virtual intensive to help you prepare for the field with confidence.
What Will You Learn in Our Online Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work?
Through Liberty’s online social work classes, you’ll receive specialized training in assessments, intervention strategies, and counseling techniques. These skills can help prepare you to practice as a human services professional in diverse communities. As a social worker, you can be empowered to help families and individuals make positive life changes, no matter their background. Partner with Liberty to gain the knowledge you need for a rewarding career or future graduate study.
Featured Social Work Courses
- SOWK 270 – Ethics in Professional Helping
- SOWK 300 – Human Behavior and the Social Environment
- SOWK 350 – Social Work Practice with Individuals and Families
- SOWK 355 – Social Work Practice with Groups*
* Course guide coming soon
Highlights of Our Online Social Work Bachelor’s Degree
We are recognized by multiple institutions for our academic quality, affordability, and accessibility . Our commitment to excellence also helped us rank among Niche.com’s top 3 online schools in America . Earning your online degree from a nonprofit university with this kind of recognition can help set you apart from others in your field.
- Your success is our success, which is why we’re committed to providing quality academics at an affordable tuition rate. While other colleges are increasing their tuition, we’ve frozen tuition rates for our undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs for the past 8 years – and counting.
- To continue our mission of providing affordable education, electronic textbooks are provided for all undergraduate courses at no cost to you. As a full-time student, this could save you an estimated $800-2,000 per year on textbooks!
- Learn field-tested techniques for addressing human services issues in your community.
- Complete field placements in your area that allow you to learn under practicing agents and gain real-world experience.
Online Social Work Degree Information
- This program falls under the School of Behavioral Sciences .
- View the online B.S. in Social Work Degree Completion Plan .
- View the Undergraduate Behavioral Sciences Course Guides (login required).
- Our online BSW degree requires one 3-credit-hour 100% virtual intensive and 2 full-semester field placements .
- Upon declaring this major, students will pursue the Gate process to gain approval into the program. Please see the Social Work Gates page for more information.
- Please review our CSWE program evaluation for more information.
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Liberty University is dedicated to providing world-class educational experiences to military students across the globe. Whether you are a current service member, discharged or retired from service, or the spouse of a service member or veteran, we are here to support you every step of the journey.
As a thank-you for your dedication and service to our country, Liberty is honored to serve and support you in your pursuit of online education by offering the following benefits:
- Tuition discounts – $250 per credit hour for undergraduate courses
- Additional discount for veterans who serve in a civilian capacity as a First Responder (less than $565 per course)
- 8-week courses, 8 different start dates each year, and no set login times (may exclude certain courses such as practicums, internships, or field experiences)
- Potential college credit for military training
Potential Career Options With an Online Social Work Degree
Here are some careers you can prepare for by earning an online human services degree:
- Addictions and mental health specialist
- Adoptions clinician
- Child welfare worker
- Human services leader
- Medical social worker
- School social worker
Our online social work degree provides you with specialized training and experience that can help equip you to become a social worker. The knowledge and practical skill sets you’ll gain can also meet a critical demand for human services expertise in many industries.
Your skills and hands-on experience with a degree in human services can lead to various career opportunities. Research, criminal justice, education, government, and other important management roles all require advanced training. Our online BSW degree can help prepare you to fill the increasing needs in the private, public, and nonprofit markets. With people-focused understanding, you can be a valuable human services asset.
Admission Requirements for Our Online B.S. in Social Work Degree
Applicants must have a 2.0 or above cumulative GPA for admission in good standing. Please visit our admission requirements page for more detailed admissions-related information.
All applicants must submit the following:
- Admission application
- Application fee*
- Official college transcripts
- Unofficial college transcripts may be accepted with a completed official transcript request form**
- High School Self-Certification form and official high school transcripts within first 12 credit hours
- Proof of English proficiency (for applicants whose native language is other than English)
*There is no upfront application fee; however, a deferred $50 application fee will be assessed during Financial Check-In. This fee is waived for qualifying service members, veterans, and military spouses – documentation verifying military status is required.
**An official transcript is needed within 60 days of acceptance or before non-attendance drops for the first set of matriculated classes, whichever comes first.
*Some restrictions may occur for this promotion to apply. This promotion also excludes active faculty and staff, military, Non-Degree Seeking, DGIA, Continuing Education, WSB, and Certificates.
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2023 Best Social Work Schools
For its 2023 ranking, College Factual looked at 445 schools in the United States to determine which ones were the best for social work students pursuing a degree. When you put them all together, these colleges and universities awarded 58,326 degrees in social work during the 2020-2021 academic year.
What's on this page: * Degree-Level Rankings
- Best Overall Social Work Schools List
Choosing a Great Social Work School
In order to find the schools that are the best fit for you, you may want to filter to one of the degree levels below.
Pick Your Social Work Degree Level
When choosing the right school for you, it's important to arm yourself with all the facts you can. To that end, we've created a number of major-specific rankings , including this Best Social Work Schools list to help you make the college decision. If you'd like to restrict your choices to just one part of the country, you can filter this list by location .
In addition to our rankings, you can take two colleges and compare them based on the criteria that matters most to you in our unique tool, College Combat . Test it out when you get a chance! You may also want to bookmark the link and share it with others who are trying to make the college decision.
If you want to learn more about how we derive our rankings, see College Factual's Methodology .
Featured Social Work Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
BA in Human Services - Child & Family Services
Gain the fundamental tools required to improve the lives of children and families in crisis with this specialized online bachelor's from Southern New Hampshire University.
BA in Human Services
Improve the lives of individuals, families and communities with the human service tools gained from this online bachelor's from Southern New Hampshire University.
BS in Business Administration - Public Administration
Prepare yourself to make the decisions that best serve a community, its constituents and its economic growth with this specialized business degree from Southern New Hampshire University.
Best Schools for Social Work in the United States
If you aren't interested in a particular degree level and want to know which schools are the overall best at delivering an education for the social work degrees they offer, see the list below. Only those schools that rank in the top 15% of all the schools we analyze get awarded with a place on this list.
25 Top Schools in Social Work
Any student pursuing a degree in social work needs to check out University of California - Berkeley. Located in the city of Berkeley, UC Berkeley is a public university with a very large student population. A Best Colleges rank of #17 out of 2,241 colleges nationwide means UC Berkeley is a great university overall.
There were roughly 197 social work students who graduated with this degree at UC Berkeley in the most recent data year. Degree recipients from the social work program at University of California - Berkeley make $15,934 more than the typical college graduate in this field shortly after graduation.
University of Southern California is one of the finest schools in the country for getting a degree in social work. Located in the large city of Los Angeles, USC is a private not-for-profit university with a fairly large student population. A Best Colleges rank of #18 out of 2,241 schools nationwide means USC is a great university overall.
There were roughly 1081 social work students who graduated with this degree at USC in the most recent year we have data available. Degree recipients from the social work degree program at University of Southern California get $13,146 above the average college graduate with the same degree shortly after graduation.
It is difficult to beat Columbia University in the City of New York if you wish to pursue a degree in social work. Columbia is a fairly large private not-for-profit university located in the large city of New York. A Best Colleges rank of #14 out of 2,241 colleges nationwide means Columbia is a great university overall.
There were about 501 social work students who graduated with this degree at Columbia in the most recent year we have data available. Those social work students who get their degree from Columbia University in the City of New York make $14,244 more than the average social work student.
University of Chicago is a wonderful option for students pursuing a degree in social work. UChicago is a fairly large private not-for-profit university located in the city of Chicago. A Best Colleges rank of #7 out of 2,241 schools nationwide means UChicago is a great university overall.
There were about 175 social work students who graduated with this degree at UChicago in the most recent data year. Social Work degree recipients from University of Chicago receive an earnings boost of around $7,168 over the average earnings of social work majors.
NYU is a very large private not-for-profit university located in the large city of New York. A Best Colleges rank of #30 out of 2,241 colleges nationwide means NYU is a great university overall.
There were about 555 social work students who graduated with this degree at NYU in the most recent year we have data available. Degree recipients from the social work degree program at New York University make $29,915 more than the typical graduate with the same degree shortly after graduation.
WUSTL is a fairly large private not-for-profit university located in the suburb of Saint Louis. A Best Colleges rank of #24 out of 2,241 schools nationwide means WUSTL is a great university overall.
There were approximately 267 social work students who graduated with this degree at WUSTL in the most recent data year. Those social work students who get their degree from Washington University in St Louis make $4,676 more than the standard social work student.
Located in the large city of Boston, Boston U is a private not-for-profit university with a very large student population. A Best Colleges rank of #41 out of 2,241 schools nationwide means Boston U is a great university overall.
There were roughly 324 social work students who graduated with this degree at Boston U in the most recent year we have data available. Degree recipients from the social work program at Boston University get $3,027 more than the typical college graduate in this field when they enter the workforce.
UPenn is a fairly large private not-for-profit university located in the city of Philadelphia. A Best Colleges rank of #4 out of 2,241 schools nationwide means UPenn is a great university overall.
There were approximately 180 social work students who graduated with this degree at UPenn in the most recent data year. Those social work students who get their degree from University of Pennsylvania earn $23,634 more than the typical social work graduate.
Located in the medium-sized city of Ann Arbor, U-M is a public university with a very large student population. A Best Colleges rank of #25 out of 2,241 colleges nationwide means U-M is a great university overall.
There were approximately 403 social work students who graduated with this degree at U-M in the most recent data year. Social Work degree recipients from University of Michigan - Ann Arbor get an earnings boost of approximately $7,655 above the typical income of social work majors.
UMB is a medium-sized public university located in the city of Baltimore.
There were roughly 417 social work students who graduated with this degree at UMB in the most recent data year. Degree recipients from the social work degree program at University of Maryland - Baltimore earn $12,645 above the typical college graduate in this field shortly after graduation.
UW Seattle is a very large public university located in the city of Seattle. A Best Colleges rank of #38 out of 2,241 schools nationwide means UW Seattle is a great university overall.
There were roughly 170 social work students who graduated with this degree at UW Seattle in the most recent year we have data available. Social Work degree recipients from University of Washington - Seattle Campus receive an earnings boost of approximately $5,876 over the average income of social work majors.
Located in the city of New Brunswick, Rutgers New Brunswick is a public university with a very large student population. This university ranks 3rd out of 44 schools for overall quality in the state of New Jersey.
There were approximately 784 social work students who graduated with this degree at Rutgers New Brunswick in the most recent year we have data available. Social Work degree recipients from Rutgers University - New Brunswick receive an earnings boost of around $12,080 above the average income of social work graduates.
UCLA is a fairly large public university located in the large city of Los Angeles. A Best Colleges rank of #29 out of 2,241 schools nationwide means UCLA is a great university overall.
There were about 92 social work students who graduated with this degree at UCLA in the most recent year we have data available. Degree recipients from the social work program at University of California - Los Angeles get $21,046 more than the typical graduate in this field when they enter the workforce.
DU is a fairly large private not-for-profit university located in the large city of Denver. This university ranks 3rd out of 34 colleges for overall quality in the state of Colorado.
There were about 543 social work students who graduated with this degree at DU in the most recent data year. Those social work students who get their degree from University of Denver make $7,502 more than the standard social work graduate.
Located in the large city of New York, Yeshiva is a private not-for-profit university with a medium-sized student population. This university ranks 25th out of 143 schools for overall quality in the state of New York.
There were about 282 social work students who graduated with this degree at Yeshiva in the most recent year we have data available. Social Work degree recipients from Yeshiva University receive an earnings boost of around $11,673 above the typical earnings of social work majors.
UW - Madison is a fairly large public university located in the large city of Madison. A Best Colleges rank of #33 out of 2,241 schools nationwide means UW - Madison is a great university overall.
There were about 208 social work students who graduated with this degree at UW - Madison in the most recent data year. Students who graduate with their degree from the social work program report average early career earnings of $36,000.
Located in the city of Columbus, Ohio State is a public university with a very large student population. This university ranks 2nd out of 96 schools for overall quality in the state of Ohio.
There were approximately 526 social work students who graduated with this degree at Ohio State in the most recent data year. Students who receive their degree from the social work program make an average of $37,750 in their early career salary.
UIUC is a fairly large public university located in the small city of Champaign. This university ranks 3rd out of 87 colleges for overall quality in the state of Illinois.
There were roughly 226 social work students who graduated with this degree at UIUC in the most recent data year. Degree recipients from the social work major at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign make $2,850 more than the typical graduate with the same degree when they enter the workforce.
Fordham U is a fairly large private not-for-profit university located in the city of Bronx. This university ranks 14th out of 143 colleges for overall quality in the state of New York.
There were about 1058 social work students who graduated with this degree at Fordham U in the most recent year we have data available. Degree recipients from the social work major at Fordham University make $12,545 above the average graduate with the same degree shortly after graduation.
UST MN is a medium-sized private not-for-profit university located in the city of Saint Paul. This university ranks 3rd out of 55 colleges for overall quality in the state of Minnesota.
There were about 147 social work students who graduated with this degree at UST MN in the most recent data year. Social Work degree recipients from University of St Thomas Minnesota get an earnings boost of around $25,778 above the typical earnings of social work graduates.
UT Austin is a very large public university located in the city of Austin. This university ranks 2nd out of 116 schools for overall quality in the state of Texas.
There were approximately 237 social work students who graduated with this degree at UT Austin in the most recent data year. Those social work students who get their degree from The University of Texas at Austin make $2,458 more than the average social work graduate.
Located in the small city of Chestnut Hill, Boston College is a private not-for-profit college with a large student population. This college ranks 6th out of 63 colleges for overall quality in the state of Massachusetts.
There were approximately 273 social work students who graduated with this degree at Boston College in the most recent year we have data available. Degree recipients from the social work major at Boston College earn $11,769 more than the standard college grad in this field shortly after graduation.
Loyola Chicago is a fairly large private not-for-profit university located in the city of Chicago. This university ranks 4th out of 87 colleges for overall quality in the state of Illinois.
There were roughly 317 social work students who graduated with this degree at Loyola Chicago in the most recent data year. Those social work students who get their degree from Loyola University Chicago earn $5,192 more than the average social work student.
Pitt is a very large public university located in the city of Pittsburgh. This university ranks 9th out of 117 schools for overall quality in the state of Pennsylvania.
There were about 246 social work students who graduated with this degree at Pitt in the most recent data year. Students who graduate with their degree from the social work program state that they receive average early career wages of $34,833.
TCU is a large private not-for-profit university located in the large city of Fort Worth. This university ranks 5th out of 116 schools for overall quality in the state of Texas.
There were roughly 73 social work students who graduated with this degree at TCU in the most recent year we have data available. Social Work degree recipients from Texas Christian University earn a boost of about $9,658 over the typical income of social work majors.
Rest of the Top Best Social Work Schools
Related Programs
Learn about other programs related to Social Work that might interest you.
BA in Sociology
Learn to analyze social factors and become an advocate for individual and community health with this online bachelor's from Southern New Hampshire University.
Additional Award Winners
This section shows the remainder of the schools awarded a Best Social Work Schools badge. Showing in this list means the school was ranked in the top 15% of the 445 different United States social work schools we analyzed.
Honorable Mentions
Here are some additional great schools for Social Work students that almost earned our Best Social Work Schools award.
Social Work by Region
View the Best Social Work Schools for a specific region near you.
Other Rankings
Associate degrees in social work, master's degrees in social work, best value in social work, best for non-traditional students in social work, best online in social work, most popular online in social work, bachelor's degrees in social work, doctor's degrees in social work, highest paid grads in social work, best for veterans in social work, most popular in social work, most focused in social work.
View All Rankings >
Rankings in Majors Related to Social Work
Social Work is one of 5 different types of Public Administration & Social Service programs to choose from.
Social Work Concentrations
View All Social Work Concentrations >
Majors Similar to Social Work
View All Social Work Related Majors >
Notes and References
- The bars on the spread charts above show the distribution of the schools on this list +/- one standard deviation from the mean.
- The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System ( IPEDS ) from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), a branch of the U.S. Department of Education (DOE) serves as the core of the rest of our data about colleges.
- Some other college data, including much of the graduate earnings data, comes from the U.S. Department of Education’s ( College Scorecard ).
- Credit for the banner image above goes to Army Medicine .
More about our data sources and methodologies .
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Online Bachelor of Social Work Degree (BSW)
Put your passion for social justice into action with an online bachelor’s degree in social work from Walden.
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*See Tuition and Fees section for more information.
CSWE ACCREDITED
Accredited by the Council on Social Work Education.
Follow Your Calling to Help Others With Our Bachelor of Social Work Online
Are you passionate about creating a better world? Make an impact on people’s lives while shaping the career you want with Walden’s Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program.
Accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) , Walden’s program meets the industry’s rigorous standards to prepare you for today’s social work field . Engaging instruction, realistic simulations, and hands-on experiences help you grow as a practitioner and social change agent. Chart a clear course to your future with a program designed to ignite lifelong learning.
Walden’s online BSW program also helps you prepare to pursue your Master of Social Work (MSW) degree. As a BSW graduate, you’ll have the opportunity to move seamlessly into our CSWE-accredited MSW program.
Why Choose Walden?
Learn From Experts
Our students benefit from Walden’s 50+ years of experience in delivering distance education, and every BSW faculty member holds a doctoral degree.
Gain Hands-On Skills
An engaging Skills Lab, video case studies, and other experiences help you acquire and practice sought-after skills in a safe and supportive environment.
Get a Jump-Start on Your MSW
Move seamlessly from our BSW into our MSW program with the Advanced Standing Option .
Prepare for Licensure
Get support in preparing for your state licensure exam, including a review of sample questions and important test-taking skills.
This dedicated online learning track offers support, tuition savings, and resources for those without previous college credit.
Prepare for Practice With Walden’s CSWE-Accredited Social Work Programs
Do you want to make a real impact in people’s lives? Walden’s Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and Master of Social Work (MSW) programs are CSWE-accredited and help you learn to address the needs of individuals, families, and communities. CSWE accreditation means that a program prepares you to apply ethical principles and critical thinking to social work practice. Earning a degree from one of our CSWE-accredited programs also academically prepares you to sit for social work licensure exams.
Program Details
Degree Completion Requirements
- General education courses (51 cr.)
- Lower-level core courses (15 cr.)
- Professional core courses (45 cr.)
- Elective courses (50 cr.)
- Field Experience courses (20 cr.)
- Social Work Skills Lab (1 cr.) - 3 weeks online, 3-day intensive (virtual), 2 weeks online
View the COMPLETE CURRICULUM PLAN
Students may be eligible to transfer up to 135 credits*. At least 45 credits must be completed at Walden.
*Please note: Students that reside in Virginia may be eligible to transfer up to 125 credits. At least 55 credits must be completed at Walden.
This sequence represents the minimum time to completion. Time to completion will vary by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 855-646-5286 .
Walden Undergraduate Academy
Discover a new bachelor’s education experience for first-time adult college students.
Walden Undergraduate Academy ™ opens new doors for working adults like you and makes earning a degree more achievable than ever before. This dedicated learning experience has an extra layer of support to help you build your confidence and academic skills before you start your online bachelor’s program. You’ll also be eligible for special savings that can make your bachelor’s degree more affordable.
Our Enrollment Specialists are here to give you answers.
Complete Your BSW Degree at Walden
If you have taken college-level courses at another accredited university, you may be able to transfer up to 130 quarter prior credits into our BSW program. 1 No matter where you are in your undergraduate degree journey, we welcome you to complete your degree at Walden.
Continue Your Journey With an MSW
Since it opens the door to pursue licensure as well as new career opportunities, an MSW degree is often the next step in a social worker’s educational journey. Both our BSW and MSW programs are accredited by CSWE. We welcome you to keep the momentum going and continue into our master’s program upon completion of your BSW program.
In addition, BSW graduates with a 3.0 GPA or higher at graduation are eligible for the Advanced Standing option in our MSW program, which reduces the credits required for completion of the program. If you are eligible, choosing this option allows you to skip foundational courses and start your degree with advanced-level courses.
Admission Requirements
Admission is considered for adult students who hold a high school diploma or its equivalent. Applicants must also meet one of the following criteria:
- You are 21 years of age or older.
- You are less than 21 years of age with at least 12 quarter credits.
- You are an active member of the military or a veteran with documentation of service.
More information for international applicants .
Mission Statement
The BSW program’s mission is to cultivate the development of generalist social work scholar-practitioners who are able to provide ethical, evidence-based services to individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. With the BSW degree, social workers are prepared to use critical thinking skills and evidence-based practice to engage in generalist social work.
Tuition and Fees
The progress you make now pays you back. Receive five tuition-free credits for every three paid five-credit courses you successfully complete. In addition, you’ll receive a $1,500 tuition grant.
We believe you can achieve your goals—and we’re here to support you along your journey.
Request information to learn more about scholarships and financial aid.
*Tuition and fees are subject to change. See Tuition and Fees section and Scholarship Details for more information.
*Represents virtual Skills Lab, minimum time to completion, and Believe & Achieve Scholarship. Your actual total program time and costs may vary. Believe & Achieve Scholarship savings based on current tuition. See Scholarship Details for more information.
**Tuition reflects the minimum time to completion. Time to completion varies by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. Tuition and time to complete may be reduced if transfer credits are accepted, or if you receive grants, scholarships or other tuition reductions. Walden may accept up to 135 transfer credits. For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 844-768-0109 .
Tuition and fees are subject to change. Books and materials are not included and may cost up to an additional $5,000.
Program Outcomes
Become a social change agent.
Whether you’re looking to begin your career or build on your experience, Walden’s Bachelor of Social Work online program provides a clear path forward. Apply what you learn through virtual or face-to-face Skills Labs, video case studies, and other experiential tools. With expert assistance from our Field Office, you can then bring it all together during a hands-on field experience in an agency or other site in your local area.
Start your journey of lifelong learning at Walden, which offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in social work online.
Career Outlook
Advance social welfare in your community and serve those in need by earning your Bachelor of Social Work online degree. With a BSW, you can open the door to a rewarding and in-demand field 2 while laying the foundation for your master’s degree.
A Bachelor of Social Work online degree can academically prepare you to pursue career options such as: 3
- Mental health social worker
- Case worker
- Family protection specialist
- Family resource coordinator
- Youth services specialist
Read our Bachelor of Social Work Program Outcome Report .
Learning Outcomes
As a graduate of our online BSW program, you will be able to:
- Demonstrate an understanding of what is needed to develop a professional orientation and identify as a generalist social work.
- Apply ethical standards and values to generalist social work practice.
- Advocate for social change through promoting social, economic, and environmental justice.
- Utilize evidence-based research to inform the practice of serving traditionally oppressed and disenfranchised populations.
- Apply theories of human growth and development to social work practice.
- Apply culturally competent generalist intervention skills as a generalist social worker.
Related Articles
How a BSW Degree Can Help You Create Social Change
How Can I Customize My BSW Degree?
- What Careers Can You Enter With a BSW Degree?
Meet Your Academic Team
Dr. Gaddis is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with clinical experience in the areas of mental health, military service members, and substance abuse. She received her PhD from University of Alabama.
Dr. Flentroy has over ten years of research and teaching experience. Her areas of specialization include the impact of race, class, and violence on the wellbeing of urban, rural and international communities of color, community development and engagement, and health/mental health promotion.
Dr. Deborah (Debbie) Mills is a rural social worker, Core Faculty Member with Walden.
FAQ About Walden’s Online Bachelor of Science in Social Work
While both degree types help prepare you for a career devoted to improving people’s lives, it’s helpful to look closer to find the ideal match for your interests and goals. If you want to connect individuals or families in need with resources and services that improve their circumstances and help them achieve social equity, you may choose to pursue a degree in social work. If you’re more interested in studying the human mind and behaviors, a degree in psychology would be the best fit.
Yes, social work programs from reputable universities are accredited. Walden University offers two accredited social work degree programs: the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and Master of Social Work (MSW). These programs are accredited by the Council of Social Work Education (CSWE), a specialized accrediting body recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). CSWE's Commission on Accreditation is responsible for developing accreditation standards that define competent preparation for professional social workers and ensuring that social work programs meet these standards.
The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) has designated March as National Professional Social Work Month, a celebration that highlights the important contributions of social workers. Social work professionals make a meaningful impact on nearly every aspect of society as advocates for the vulnerable and underserved. Dr. Barbara Solomon, namesake of Walden University’s Barbara Solomon School of Social Work, exemplifies this tradition of service. A retired Walden University board member and respected leader in the field, Dr. Solomon is recognized by the NASW as a Social Work Pioneer and is an inductee in the California Social Work Hall of Distinction. Walden is proud to count Dr. Solomon as a member of our community and celebrates the outstanding accomplishments of our social work students and alumni.
Social workers help individuals, families, and groups solve and cope with problems that may arise from a range of highly stressful life situations, including poverty, unemployment, inadequate housing, mental health conditions, chronic illnesses and disabilities, and abusive family situations. Professionals with a social work degree are employed in a variety of settings—hospitals and healthcare facilities, schools, social services agencies, mental health clinics, and private and nonprofit organizations. They advocate for their clients and connect them with social services designed to help alleviate their challenges.
While social workers can fill a variety of roles, in general, social workers can be divided into two categories:
- Direct-service social workers identify government and community services that can improve their clients’ situations, such as applying for government aid, finding employment, removing children from abusive homes, and connecting with community resources like home meal delivery.
- Clinical social workers directly address the needs of their clients, many of whom may have emotional and behavioral problems or psychiatric conditions. As clinicians, social workers are trained to perform psychotherapy and even diagnose patients. They are often part of a collaborative team of psychiatrists and advanced-practice psychiatric nurses.
Have a Question?
Chat with a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) Enrollment Specialist.
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Please use our International Form if you live outside of the U.S.
1 Credits for social work courses must have been earned in a CSWE-accredited program to be considered for transfer. No matter how many credits are accepted for transfer, you must complete at least 45 credits at Walden. Walden’s BSW program is a full undergraduate program. This means that we can accept eligible general education courses and social work-focused courses for transfer of credit.
2 Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook , Social Workers , SOC code 21-1020. Retrieved October 2021. National long-term projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions, do not guarantee actual job growth, and are subject to change.
3 Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook , Social Workers , SOC code 21-1020. Retrieved October 2021.
Career options may require additional experience, training, or other factors beyond the successful completion of this degree program.
- Online Master of Social Work (MSW) Program
- How to Become a Social Worker Through an...
Types of Social Work Degrees
There are a few different types of social work degrees. To be a social worker, you need to hold a degree in social work from an accredited college or university program. The undergraduate degree is the bachelor of social work (BSW) . Graduate degrees include the master of social work (MSW) , and a doctorate (DSW) or PhD in Social Work . Even if you have a bachelor's degree in another field of study, you can still pursue a graduate degree in social work.
Social work education is unique in a number of ways. The social work profession has its own body of knowledge, values, and code of ethics. While graduates of other human service fields may perform functions that social workers do, their educational backgrounds are distinctly different from that of social workers.
One unique feature of social work education is field placement. In addition to classroom study, all social work students have field experiences, that provide them an opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills in a real world setting. A field placement can be any work setting in which social workers practice. Some examples include mental health clinics, child and family service agencies, and policy organizations.
Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and Master of Social Work (MSW)
With the bachelor of social work (BSW), you will be qualified for entry level positions in areas such as mental heath, aging services, or residential treatment.
You will need an MSW to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). With this credential, you can provide one-on-one psychotherapy or deliver advanced clinical services. If you want to hold a program management or supervisory position in social work, or work in politics on social justice matters, an MSW is a degree you should earn.
Doctorate (DSW) or PhD in Social Work
With a doctorate in social work (DSW), or a PhD in Social Work, you will pursue advanced training in research, supervision, and policy analysis. Social workers with doctoral degrees are qualified to teach at the university level and to hold high-level program or systems management positions.
It's important that you get your social work degree from a college or university program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) . There are more than 600 accredited schools of social work in the United States. These programs have met standards designed by social work educators and practitioners, to ensure that students are adequately prepared for professional practice. Your chances of being licensed or hired as a social worker are greatly enhanced by an accredited social work degree.
Helps Starts Here is your source for professional advice, inspiring stories, and a social worker directory.
Visit Helps Starts Here
Financing Your Education
When looking to finance your education, start with the U.S. Department of Education and the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) .
Look for scholarships and grants and, if necessary, get information from private lending institutions. You also can apply for loan forgiveness at the federal and state levels.
Best Online Social Work Degree Programs 2023
AffordableCollegesOnline.org Staff
Contributing Writer
Learn about our editorial process .
Updated March 3, 2023
AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
Are you ready to discover your college program?
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 10 online social work degree programs.
Check Out Our Rankings Methodology
#1 Best Online Social Work Degree Programs 2023
University of Arkansas at Little Rock
- Little Rock, AR
- Online + Campus
The top-ranked bachelor of social work program at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock offers an online enrollment option. In addition to on-campus programs, the public institution offers a variety of online bachelor's programs. The online programs prioritize flexibility, which appeals to busy students and working professionals.
During the online social work bachelor's program, undergraduates take advanced coursework in social work. Undergraduates meet with faculty mentors and academic advisors to create an individual degree plan based on their career goals. The school's online services, including tutoring, financial aid advising, and career counseling, help distance learners complete the program.
Online students attending the accredited institution can use federal financial aid programs like the Pell Grant to pay for school. The school's financial aid office works with students to identify scholarships and grants to cover costs.
University of Arkansas at Little Rock At a Glance:
Total Bachelor's Programs: 58
Online Bachelor's Programs: 19
Number of Online Students: 5,209
Rate of Acceptance: 66%
Rate of Graduation: 43%
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
#2 Best Online Social Work Degree Programs 2023
Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis
- Indianapolis, IN
Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis is a leader in distance learning. The bachelor of social work is among many of the school's programs that help graduates enter relevant careers. The school’s online degrees offer benefits such as asynchronous learning and affordability.
The school's flexible online programs include a BSW program. Online learners complete social work coursework in a flexible learning environment. Video lectures, assignments, and class discussions cover topics in social work. Distance learners can also transfer credits or an associate degree to accelerate degree completion. The distance learning format helps students save money on their degree.
Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis Information:
Undergrad Tuition Rate: $8,580/year in-state, $29,589/year out-of-state
Average Price With Financial Aid: $9,807
Percent of Students Accepted: 81%
Percentage of Students Awarded Financial Aid: 89%
The school holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, a regional accrediting body.
#3 Best Online Social Work Degree Programs 2023
Daemen College
- Amherst, NY
A private postsecondary school in Amherst, Daemen College has one of the best online schools in the country. The school has 53 in-person bachelor's-level programs. Some programs blend in-person and online sessions.
Learners can pursue their degree on campus or online, with options such as the online bachelor of arts in social work. The online social work program provides learners with a flexible learning environment. The program educates learners through video lectures, assignments, and class discussions. The school accepts transfer credits to save students time and money. The online format helps students take advantage of cost-saving opportunities.
Daemen College Fast Facts:
Tuition for Undergrads: $28,830/year in-state, $28,830/year out-of-state
Acceptance Rate: 62%
Percentage of Students Receiving Financial Aid: 100%
Daemen College holds accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, an independent accrediting agency.
#4 Best Online Social Work Degree Programs 2023
Campbellsville University
- Campbellsville, KY
Undergraduate and graduate degree-seekers can pursue Campbellsville University's programs online or in person. The private institution offers 28 online programs, including eight online bachelor's programs. The bachelor of social work features a curriculum designed to prepare degree-seekers for social work careers.
The online social work program features flexible scheduling and enrollment options, which can make earning a degree easier for busy enrollees balancing academics with personal obligations. The virtual classroom environment allows distance learners to complete the social work program without commuting or relocating. Students in the online program complete assignments and participate in class discussions virtually. Degree-seekers enrolled full time typically require four years to complete the online bachelor's program. Incoming students with transfer credits can earn their degree in less time.
The institution holds accreditation, which means degree-seekers with financial need to qualify for federal grants and loans. The school charges an average per-credit tuition rate of 423 for online bachelor's programs, which typically require about 120 credits. Financial aid counselors help students understand funding options, such as scholarships and grants. The school reports that 94% of its student body receives financial aid to fund their education.
#5 Best Online Social Work Degree Programs 2023
Liberty University
- Lynchburg, VA
A private institution, Liberty University educates students in online and in-person formats. The school's academic offerings include 161 online programs. The institution's flexible bachelor's in social work helps students earn an affordable social work degree.
Learners complete core courses, general education requirements, and upper-division classes. Degree-seekers take specialized elective courses and complete experiential learning components such as internships to gain knowledge and skills necessary for social work careers. Majors meet with academic advisors and faculty mentors to discuss their interests and career goals.
Enrollees at the accredited institution qualify for federal financial aid programs, such as the Pell Grant. For details about application deadlines and requirements, prospective students can review the school's website.
Liberty University Numbers:
Total Bachelor's Programs: 91
Online Bachelor's Programs: 30
Number of Online Students: 78,511
Rate of Acceptance: 51%
Graduation Rate: 47%
Average Per-Credit Cost: 750
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: Yes
#6 Best Online Social Work Degree Programs 2023
University of New England
- Biddeford, ME
A private institution, the University of New England delivers academic programs in many disciplines. In addition to educating learners at its Maine campus, the school enrolls degree-seekers in 13 online programs. Students enrolled in the flexible master of social work program often work full time while earning their social work degree.
During the online social work program, distance learners take general education courses along with classes in their major. Elective classes and experiential learning opportunities help degree-seekers gain field-specific skills. Faculty advisors and career counselors help undergraduates and alumni identify career opportunities.
The institution holds accreditation, which means enrollees can submit the FAFSA and determine whether they qualify for federal financial aid. Admissions advisors provide prospective applicants with details about application deadlines and requirements.
University of New England Facts:
Total Bachelor's Programs: 38
Number of Online Students: 3,521
Undergraduate Admission Rate: 84%
Graduation Rate: 68%
Transfer Credits Counted: No
#7 Best Online Social Work Degree Programs 2023
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
- Edinburg, TX
A degree from The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley leads to new career opportunities and increased responsibilities. Liberal arts and skills training are at the center of programs at this school. At the school, 14,840 degree-seekers attend online programs.
Distance learners can pursue an online master of science in social work. The program requires about 63 credit hours, which students can complete in a flexible format. Online learning often appeals to students with children or other responsibilities. Earning a master's degree can lead to promotions and raises.
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Statistics:
Percentage of Learners Awarded Financial Aid: 90%
Average Price After Aid: $4,654
Undergraduate Admission Rate: 80%
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley has received accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
#8 Best Online Social Work Degree Programs 2023
New Mexico State University
- Las Cruces, NM
Graduates of New Mexico State University's online master of social work program can pursue a variety of positions in social work. Learners with personal or professional obligations often benefit from the online social work program's flexible scheduling options.
New Mexico State University is a public institution delivering academic programs from its campus in Las Cruces. The school's catalog of 40 online programs provides options for students interested in many fields. Distance degree-seekers can pursue 12 bachelor's programs online.
While enrolled in the social work master's program, undergraduate learners complete core courses and upper-division classes. The curriculum emphasizes field-specific and transferable skills to prepare enrollees for various social work careers. Graduates often pursue higher-level roles than bachelor's degree-holders.
The school's support services, including career and academic advising, help learners prepare for academic and professional success. For assistance locating job placements, students and alumni can consult with the institution's career counselors. The school's financial aid counselors support online students as they search for funding options.
#9 Best Online Social Work Degree Programs 2023
Methodist University
- Fayetteville, NC
Methodist University is a private institution. The flexible bachelor of social work is ideal for students who want to earn an affordable social work degree.
While pursuing the bachelor's degree, learners complete general education requirements and field-specific classes. Degree-seekers take specialized elective courses and complete experiential learning components such as internships to gain knowledge and skills necessary for social work careers. Online undergraduates can access professional assistance from faculty advisors and career counselors.
Enrollees at the accredited institution qualify for federal financial aid programs, such as the Pell Grant. Prospective students can contact the program for more information about admission requirements and start dates.
Methodist University At a Glance:
Total Bachelor's Programs: 57
Number of Online Students: 205
Rate of Acceptance: 63%
Graduation Rate: 45%
Average Price Per Credit: 422
#10 Best Online Social Work Degree Programs 2023
University of Pennsylvania
- Philadelphia, PA
The University of Pennsylvania is a private institution.The school offers seven online programs for degree-seekers who prefer an online enrollment option. Graduates of the institution's online doctorate in clinical social work program often pursue lucrative careers in the social work field.
The doctoral social work program requires advanced coursework that prepares degree-seekers for high-level positions in the field. Learners develop widely applicable skills, such as critical thinking abilities. Graduates qualify for roles in research and academia.
To help learners succeed academically and professionally, the school provides a variety of support services, such as academic advising and career counseling. Enrollees at the accredited institution can receive federal financial aid, such as the Pell Grant.
University of Pennsylvania Fast Facts:
Student Admission Rate: 8%
Total Programs: 355
Total Bachelor's Programs: 93
Reasons to Get an Online Social Work Degree
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.
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
Median annual salary in 2021 (BLS) : $ 74,000
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.
Median annual salary in 2021 (BLS) : $50,390
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.
Median annual salary in 2021 (BLS) : $48,520
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:
- Usually, you'll need a master's degree in social work from an accredited institution — though licensing requirements vary by state .
- 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.
How much do social work graduates make?
Earning a master's in social work (MSW ) can help you advance your career and attain higher salaries. According to the BLS, the median annual pay for social workers in 2021 was $50,390.
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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AA to Bachelor of Social Work
Completion of the following curriculum will satisfy the requirements for the Associates in Arts at the Kentucky Community and Technical College System and leads to the Bachelor of Social Work at Campbellsville University.
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
To apply as a transfer:
- Complete the CU online application
- Provide official college transcripts for each institution attended reflecting all coursework attempted or earned. Only credits from regionally accredited institutions will be accepted.
- *Students who have earned 23 hours or fewer of college credits after high school graduation must also provide a final high school transcript
- Students must have a minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale.
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
- All candidates must complete a minimum of 120 semester hours of academic work with a minimum standing of 2.10 in the area of concentration, or in majors and minors, and a minimum overall average of 2.0. “D” grades are not acceptable in ENG 111 or ENG 112 . No “D” grade is accepted on area or major and minor programs unless approved by the division chair.
- Students seeking teacher certification must have an overall 2.75 cumulative grade point average.
- For Education programs a C or better is required in MAC 120 or MAC 140.
- All candidates must have completed all general education requirements.
- All candidates must have completed one major and one minor or an area as specified by the Division or School applicable in each case. In combination, a major and minor must total 51 hours, exclusive of courses in methods.
- All candidates must complete a minimum of 42 semester hours of credit in courses numbered 300 or above, and also, complete a minimum of 25 percent of the requirements for graduation at Campbellsville University. Up to 12 credits of approved 200 level courses may transfer into 300 or above.
- All candidates must submit a Graduation Application on TigerNet.
- At least one-third of the course requirements in the major and in the minor or area of concentration must be completed at Campbellsville University with an average of “C” or better.
- All candidates for a degree must complete the last 30 hours of credit in residence.
- No more than 32 hours of correspondence and/or extension work will be accepted for credit toward the degree. No student may enroll for correspondence or extension while doing resident work without permission of the Registrar. Correspondence work in major or minor field must be approved also by the Chair of the Divisions concerned.
- The student must, in all cases, be responsible for meeting the requirements for graduation.
- All candidates must fulfill Chapel/Convocation Program credit requirements. (Online and regional site Students are Exempt)
Degree Requirements
These courses must be taken as part of the General Education component and do not count as part of this major. The CU course is listed but can be taken at KCTCS using the appropriate equivalency below.
- BIO 110 Biology Credits: 3
- POL 110 American Government Credits: 3
- PSY 111 General Psychology Credits: 3
- SOC 110 Introduction to Sociology Credits: 3
Admission to CU does not guarantee admission to the BSW program. You will need to complete an additional application process for the Carver School of Social Work. You can find more information including a list of materials necessary for evaluation at the following address: https://www.campbellsville.edu/carver/programs/bachelor-of-social-work/ . Please submit all application materials to Beth Sprowles at [email protected] .
Please be mindful of additional cumulative grade point average criteria related to the BSW program.
- Full admission to the CSSW BSW program requires 2.75 GPA or above.
- Conditional acceptance to the CSSW BSW program may be considered with a 2.50 GPA.
- Entrance into field practicum requires a GPA of 2.75 or above.
GENERAL TRANSFER REQUIREMENTS
- Online Students-up to $1500
- Regional Sites-$500 Opportunity Scholarship
- Main Campus- $6000-$9000 Transfer Scholarship
DEGREE REQUIREMENTS FOR KCTCS
1) Completion of minimum 60 credit hours, 2) minimum cumulative GPA 2.0, 3) minimum of 15 credit hours earned at the institution awarding the degree, 4) cultural studies course, 5) demonstration of digital literacy, and 6) college success requirement.
KCTCS requirements
TBS XXX means to be selected by KCTCS student. TBD XXX means to be determined by Campbellsville University based on course selected.
*Counts towards CU's General Education Requirements Minimum grade of “C” required for ENG 111, ENG 112, BIO 110, SOC 110 and PSY 111 for BSW at CU For Social and Behavioral Sciences courses, two disciplines must be represented and different from those in the Arts and Humanities category. POL 110 is required for the BSW program and will count towards CU's history and political science gen ed requirements
**Specific courses are listed for some general education categories to ensure they meet the general education requirements at CU. While there may be more options listed for the KCTCS categories, the listed classes are the ones that fit into needed general education categories at CU and therefore would be the most beneficial to the student.
Degree Requirement: One courses must be selected from the KCTCS identified Cultural Studies course list in the KCTCS catalog.
CAMPBELLSVILLE REQUIREMENTS
*Counts towards CU's General Education Requirements
(Students must complete ENG 111 and supporting courses with a C or better to enroll in SW area Core Courses)
**Students may take 12 hours over 1 semester (SKW410) or take 6 hours per semester (SWK 420 and SWK 421)
Social Work Training: Top 25+ Courses & Online Degrees
Gaining and maintaining the skills and licenses necessary for newly qualified social workers to help in family, schools, and healthcare situations requires increasingly flexible and effective education opportunities.
A solid grounding in theory and policy needs to be accompanied by essential skills practiced in real-world situations.
If you are thinking about becoming a social worker, this article provides information on a selection of some of the best bachelor’s and master’s degrees available.
Before you continue, we thought you might like to download our three Positive Psychology Exercises for free . These science-based exercises will explore fundamental aspects of positive psychology including strengths, values, and self-compassion, and will give you the tools to enhance the wellbeing of your clients, students, or employees.
This Article Contains:
Qualifications & requirements of social workers, training in social work: top 10 courses and programs, 7 best online programs to consider, 10 master’s programs & postgraduate degrees, positivepsychology.com’s helpful resources, a take-home message.
Practicing as a social worker requires undertaking comprehensive training to earn a master’s degree in social work (often a Master of Social Work, or MSW) and passing an exam to become licensed in the state in which you will work.
There are also different levels of examination, with minimum education requirements for each state that determine the scope of practice (How to become, n.d.).
The requirements vary slightly depending on the field in which the social worker intends to practice, but generally, the United States requires that the person (National Association of Social Workers, 2020a):
- Hold a master’s degree in social work from an approved or accredited college or university
- “Be licensed or certified to practice social work independently”
In the UK, a two-year postgraduate degree in social work approved by the Health and Care Professions Council is followed by a Disclosure and Barring Service check to look into the individual’s past, checking for reprimands, cautions, and convictions (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service, 2015).
There are many bachelor’s degree programs to start students on their journey to becoming a social worker, but they typically need to be followed by a master’s degree in social work to practice.
Below is a sample of some of the best options available.
Visit each website, and consider the entry requirements and whether the training, program structure, and location meet your needs.
Bachelor of Science in Social Work (BS), Southern Illinois University, Illinois, US
This undergraduate program combines hands-on learning and research with faculty-led classroom teaching.
Along with a foundation in social work practice and policy, specific areas of study include:
- Parenting children with special needs
- Medical social work
- Cultural competence
- Disaster management
- School social work
- End-of-life care
Find out more on their website .
Undergraduate options in social work, University of Michigan, Michigan, US
The University of Michigan School of Social Work offers valuable programs for undergraduates wishing to learn about social work and develop the knowledge and skills required for further study.
Michigan offers a variety of options for students, including a minor in Community Action and Social Change, and streamlined bachelor’s degrees (BA in Sociology or BS in Health and Human Services) that can be completed in four years and prepare students for a three-semester MSW program.
Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), University of Georgia, Georgia, US
The University of Georgia offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in social work.
The bachelor’s degree prepares students to address human needs, especially for vulnerable populations, while understanding social policies and their impact.
The program combines practical experience with a thorough background in theory, including a deeper understanding of power, social justice, oppression, advocacy, and diversity.
The bachelor’s degree offers a fast-track to their master’s program.
Bachelor of Arts in Social Work (BASW), California State University–Long Beach, California, US
The School of Social Work at California State University, Long Beach, provides an affordable yet high-quality undergraduate program to inspire critical thinking.
The degree prepares students to serve vulnerable and oppressed populations across multiple social work roles and engage in collaborative research to support wellbeing in individuals, families, and communities.
Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), Appalachian State University, North Carolina, US
Appalachian State University offers an accredited Bachelor of Social Work degree at its Beaver College of Health Sciences. Its goal is to address local social work issues while engaging with other educational institutes internationally.
The program also offers a minor in social work. Overall, the program aims to help students develop the skills needed to work with diverse clients while encouraging and protecting human rights and social and economic justice.
Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), University of Wisconsin–Madison, Wisconsin, US
The Sandra Rosenbaum School of Social Work at the University of Wisconsin, Madison, offers three bachelor’s degree options for students interested in social work. The BSW degree provides undergraduates with an overview of social and behavioral sciences and how they apply to human problems, preparing them for roles in human services, social policy, and addressing social issues.
The program introduces students to social problems and practice methods in child and family welfare, mental health , poverty, developmental disabilities, diversity, ethnicity, and oppression.
Social Work BSc (Hons), University of Brighton, Brighton, UK
Approved by Social Work England, this undergraduate degree results in a generic qualification in social work that can lead to further specialization or registration as a social worker.
Blended approaches to education involve remote and onsite learning with lectures combined with other health professions, including midwifery, medicine, education, and physiotherapy.
Tutorials and lectures are supported by carers, service users, and practitioners from other agencies to offer a more rounded education.
Bachelor’s degree in Social Work (BA), University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
With an international reputation for excellence in social work, this undergraduate degree focuses on establishing an ethical and practical career as a social worker.
Graduating students will be well placed to move into a research specialty or begin a social work career as a practice leader, policymaker, or senior manager.
Social Work BA (Hons), University of Kent, Kent, UK
Qualified social workers typically active in research, with wide-ranging practical experience, lead the teaching in this program.
Core social work skills are taught early in the program before exploring trends and issues in adult services and social care for children and families.
Students embark on 100 days of practice learning and 5 skill-development days in the final year.
Social Work BSc (Hons), Cardiff Metropolitan University, Cardiff, Wales, UK.
This undergraduate degree partners with local social work agencies and service user groups to provide professional training and academic study.
Informed by theory, research, skills, and legislation, students will develop a range of competencies to meet national standards. Upon graduation, students will be able to register as a qualified social work practitioner or take up a research position.
There are many other bachelor’s degrees available. Each offers different study modes: part time, full time, and a mixture of on-campus and remote learning modes.
Consider whether the program prepares you for your goal of future study, research, or social work practice.
Increasingly, education is moving online and, as a result, becoming accessible to wider groups of students of all ages and backgrounds.
The following is a sample of some of the online programs available. Careful consideration should take into account the costs, mode of study, duration, and applicability for future research and job prospects.
Master of Social Work (MSW), Columbia University, remote, US
This top-ranked school offers a master’s degree in social work entirely online. The same high degree of academic excellence is maintained as the on-campus program, and students can complete placements in their own communities.
Online students can access all academic resources remotely, and a social work professional in their community acts as an advisor for the curriculum and helps students working toward career goals.
Master of Social Work (MSW), Case Western Reserve University, remote, US
The highly ranked School of Applied Social Sciences at Case Western offers its master’s degree entirely online to working professionals across the country.
The program is designed to fit into busy lifestyles through the use of Zoom and an online learning platform.
Students attend live classes and work closely with peers and faculty members. A dedicated support team is available to address any issues and offers counseling and career services.
Master of Social Work (MSW), University of Southern California, remote, US
This fully online master’s degree in social work can be completed part time or full time and prepares students to become licensed clinical social workers.
The rigorous curriculum is the same as for on-campus students and is delivered to identical high standards.
While the program is rooted in the needs of today’s employers, it builds on the school’s historical strengths, including a focus on early intervention, leadership, core competencies, and prevention and wellness.
Master of Social Work (MSW), University of Denver, remote, US
This online master’s program prepares students to practice social work in traditional and non-traditional settings.
Taught to the same high standards as the MSW on campus, the online program offers students an understanding of social work principles and social justice in multiple settings.
The foundation curriculum provides students with a background of history, values, and ethics in social work, while the concentration curriculum offers a choice of focusing on either mental health and trauma or health, equity, and wellness .
Master of Social Work (MSW), Boston University, remote, US
The goal of Boston University’s School of Social Work is to further social and economic justice, and this is embedded into their online MSW. Full time or part time, each student’s program is tailored to their individual needs, including teaching, research, and practice.
Teaching is done through required and elective online courses and attendance of weekly live classroom sessions. Practical experience is gained through local placements where students live.
Master’s degree in Social Work (MA), Open University, remote, UK
Open University has been teaching remote and online courses for decades.
This MA in social work builds on students’ knowledge of social work theory and legislation, develops critical and analytic skills, and applies their learning to practice.
Accompanied by work placements and a work-based project, the course equips students for qualification as a social worker in either England or Scotland.
Masters in Integrative Health and Social Care (MSc), University of Derby, remote, UK
This master’s degree is completed entirely online, either full time or part time.
It prepares students to deliver effective healthcare in inter-agency settings through policy and strategic development.
Experienced academics with the latest industry expertise teach all courses through an online education portal, group work, and presentations.
Practicing in the US, UK, and beyond requires a graduate degree in social work. We have selected a sample of some of the best master’s programs and postgraduate degrees (The best social work, 2019):
Master of Social Work (MSW), Columbia University, New York, US
Columbia University has been a leader in social work since its School of Social Work was formed in 1898.
This master’s program combines academic theory with real-world practice to provide a foundational understanding of social work practice and student-chosen specialties. Choices include social and economic justice, practicing with diverse populations, and evaluating practice outcomes.
Professional training integrates learning in the classroom with on-the-ground field training.
Master of Social Work (MSW), University of Michigan, Michigan, US
This top-ranked master’s-level social work program offers flexibility, including evening, weekend, part-time, and online study options.
Opportunities to study a broad range of subjects in depth include pathways in:
- Interpersonal practice in integrated health, mental health, and substance abuse
- Lifespan perspective study that includes working with families and older adults
- Social work practice, theory, and skills to identify and develop socially just policies
Dual-degree options are available to combine study with other degrees at the University of Michigan.
Master of Social Welfare (MSW), University of California–Berkeley, California, US
This prestigious program consistently ranks highly in preparing students for a range of social work leadership and practice roles.
With a thorough overview of social science knowledge, social welfare policies, and social service organizations, this program also offers students the opportunity to gain specialized skills in areas of their choice.
The focus is on preparing students for both generalized and specialized practice and taking professional social welfare responsibility.
Master’s degree in Social Work, Social Policy, and Social Administration (MA), University of Chicago, Illinois, US
This highly ranked Master of Arts program is equivalent to an MSW, with a broader educational and experiential foundation.
The program’s interdisciplinary nature combines direct social work practice with policy development to equip social workers, social administrators, and policymakers with the skills they need.
Clinical and social administration specializations are available to meet specific career goals.
Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW), University of Texas at Austin, Texas, US
One of the top 10 social work master’s degrees in the U.S., this program aims to prepare students for social work practice through a theoretical and practical background in social work, administration, and policy.
Classroom knowledge combines with supervisor-led field practice and the opportunity to tailor the program to gain the skills needed to meet specific career interests.
Students can take part in global study to gain international experience and a broader understanding of the field.
Master of Social Work (MSW), University of Denver, Colorado, US
Consistently ranked as one of the top social work graduate programs, the University of Denver Graduate School of Social Work focuses on transforming lives and communities by responding to real-world needs, including:
- Food and security
- Culturally competent mental healthcare
- Environmental justice
- Sustainability
The MSW will help new or established social workers further their careers, and opportunities are also available working with nonprofits, social policy, and clinicians.
Master of Social Work (MSW), Simmons University, Massachusetts, US
This progressive master’s program integrates social justice and multicultural values with practice in the field.
The faculty is committed to an integrated learning experience where advisors work closely with students to offer a coordinated and integrated learning experience.
The format of the program embraces flexibility regarding online, in-person, and blended learning.
Social Work and Professional Practice (MA), University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
This MA in Social Research (Social Work and Professional Practice) is recognized as a pathway to research and beyond as a doctoral student. Advanced training is given in social science research methods and their application to social work.
Students can select particular areas of social practice and policy that will further their interests and equip them with the skills to make a difference in their chosen field.
MSc Social Work, University of Hertfordshire, Hertfordshire, UK
This program provides eligibility for registration as a social worker within the UK and opportunities for employment in health and social care settings.
Course topics include social work purpose, practice, impact, human growth and development, and social policy. Students also perform research in various social settings.
This master’s degree includes two placement blocks and culminates in writing a dissertation in an area of interest.
Master of Social Work (MSW), University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
This program offers students with an undergraduate degree the opportunity to pursue a professional qualification and prepare to be social work practitioners within local, state, and international organizations.
Taught by award-winning staff, the students combine classroom study with high-quality placements to promote change at individual, community, and policy levels.
We have many tools and worksheets available to help improve communication skills, empathy, and emotional awareness in social work, including:
- Anger Exit and Re-Entry Routines Social workers often face anger and conflict in family situations. This worksheet helps clients recognize when best to disengage from conflict or difficult conversations, cool down, and re-engage later to facilitate greater insight and joint problem-solving.
- The Win–Win Waltz Worksheet Finding a way to address the concerns of more than one party can be a difficult balance and requires empathy and a good understanding of their underlying concerns. This worksheet can help two people arrive at a win-win outcome by exploring each person’s concerns and co-creating possible solutions.
- Levels of Validation Listening and validation are valuable skills in social work, where it is important to understand the issues faced by the client. This short self-assessment helps social workers and other helping professionals consider the level at which they typically validate the feelings and experiences of their clients, ranging from mindfully listening to radical genuineness.
- Active Constructive Responding Similarly, this handout presents a 2×2 matrix of communication styles ranging from destructive to constructive and passive to active, highlighting the differences between each with examples.
- What is Working Within the Family When working with families, it can be helpful to begin with a positive focus on that family’s strengths. This activity helps family members identify and share what they feel goes well within the family or household as a means to celebrate and build on successes.
- 17 Positive Psychology Exercises If you’re looking for more science-based ways to help others enhance their wellbeing, this signature collection contains 17 validated positive psychology tools for practitioners . Use them to help others flourish and thrive.
With greater numbers of social workers required over the coming years to meet the growing needs of society, high-quality, flexible education is becoming increasingly essential (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2021).
Students and newly qualified social workers must have “knowledge of human development and behavior; of social, economic, and cultural institutions; and of the interaction of all these factors” (National Association of Social Workers, 2020b).
According to the National Association of Social Workers, social work practice requires a thorough and professional foundation in social work values, principles, and techniques. Only then can social workers successfully support individuals, families, groups, and communities, and further improve legislative processes and social and health services.
Becoming a social worker involves a considerable commitment of time and finances to meet education, training, and licensing requirements. Therefore, it is crucial to find the most appropriate program to meet your personal needs and practice in your preferred location.
Use this article to become familiar with some of the best social work programs available, follow the links to explore entry criteria and areas of study, and make an informed education decision.
We hope you enjoyed reading this article. Don’t forget to download our three Positive Psychology Exercises for free .
- The best social work programs in America, Ranked. (2019). U.S. News & World Report. Retrieved April 23, 2021, from https://www.usnews.com/best-graduate-schools/top-health-schools/social-work-rankings
- How to become a social worker: 7 Steps to consider. (n.d.). Social Work License Map. Retrieved April 23, 2021, from https://socialworklicensemap.com/become-a-social-worker/
- National Association of Social Workers. (2020a). Social work federal requirements . Retrieved April 23, 2021, from https://www.socialworkers.org/Advocacy/Policy-Issues/Social-Work-Federal-Requirements
- National Association of Social Workers. (2020b). Practice . Retrieved April 25, 2021, from https://www.socialworkers.org/Practice
- Universities and Colleges Admissions Service. (2015). Social worker. Retrieved April 23, 2021, from https://www.ucas.com/ucas/after-gcses/find-career-ideas/explore-jobs/job-profile/social-worker
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2021, April 9). Social workers: Occupational outlook handbook. Retrieved April 25, 2021, from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/social-workers.htm#tab-6
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Social Work Quick Links
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Social Work Degree Overview
Social work careers and programs.
Listed below are colleges and universities that offer social work online degrees, certificates, diplomas and a detailed list of the programs offered. Tuition, financial aid, course offerings, online classes, adult education, and distance learning options are available by request.
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Outlook for Social Work Careers
A population in need.
Substance abuse programs continue to grow. Treatment programs have become a common alternative to prison terms.
The senior population is growing. Medical services are in more and more demand.
Schools are becoming more involved in social services to their populations.
These facts lead to a healthy job outlook for social workers. The areas of assistance are growing. Unless our society€™s population and habits change drastically in the near future, social workers will be in strong demand. Which areas will see the most increase? See the chart provided for a comparison.
Featured Online Social Work Colleges
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Salaries in Social Work
Rich in deeds, not dollars.
Hopefully you enjoy a burger as much as filet mignon. On a social worker€™s salary, you€™ll most likely be eating more fast food than fine dining. But, this is a helping profession after all. You€™re in it to assist people, not get rich off them.
This is not to say you can€™t make a living. The overall average salary for social workers is currently $40,000. This number grows and shrinks depending on population and setting. Those employed by a hospital typically earn more than those in substance abuse facilities. An overview of salaries by specialty follows.
Education Requirements for Social Work Careers
Dr. social worker.
How far up the degree ladder does a social worker need to go? That depends on the type of social work you want to make your own. If you are interested in the Department of Children and Family services, you will need a bachelor€™s degree. If medical social work is your desire, you will need a master€™s. Some entry level positions in smaller agencies may not even require a BSW , but may accept a bachelor€™s in a related study such as psychology or sociology.
As with most fields today, a master€™s degree will open up more doors than a bachelor€™s. Unlike some fields, however, a doctorate will usually not be necessary. In fact, for social work, a doctorate is mostly overkill. A master€™s degree will qualify you for just about any specialty you encounter. No need to go further in debt than needed.
Just how many more opportunities will a master€™s degree open up? Check out the chart below for an overview of qualifications in the world of social work.
Colleges For Social Work Degrees
- Online Social Work Degrees
- Campus Social Work Degrees
- Degree Level:
- Certificate/Diploma
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Juniata College
Social work, social work core.
Take the following courses:
SO-101 Introduction to Sociology
The study of human social groups and the social processes that lead to both structural and cultural integration and differentiation primarily within contemporary American society.
3 Credits S
PY-101 Introduction to Psychology
An overview of the content and methodology in the field. Topics such as the history of psychology, physiological psychology, learning and memory, perception, motivation, child development, personality and social foundations are considered
BI-190 Human Biology
Course is a non-majors approach to the basic chemistry and biology of the human body, as well as how humans fit into society and environment. Emphasis will be on applying scientific process tocurrent health topics. Course required for the Social Work POE and included in the Genomics Certificate and Rural Poverty Studies secondary emphasis.
3 Credits N, WK-SP,CTGES Pre- or Co-requisite: FYC-101 or EN-110 or EN-109
SO-203 Minority Experiences
An exploration of the factors that shape the experiences of minority group members in both domestic and global contexts. The social processes that functions to construct minority identity among racial, ethnic, gender, and ability groups are studied.
3 Credits S Prerequisites: SO101 or AN151.
SW-214 Integrated Research Methods & Stats I
An integrated course sequence applying processes of social inquiry to the assessment of historically oppressed and vulnerable populations, and of the interventions used to help those populations. This course integrates key research concepts and commonly used quantitative and qualitative methods in the social sciences, with the ability to communicate effectively about research with written and verbal skills. The course teaches students not only to conduct social science research but also to consume and utilize social science research in a critical way, including in practice as a helping professional.
3 Credits S,WK-SI
SW-215 Integrated Research Methods & Stats II
The second part of an integrated course sequence applying the scientific process to the fields of Social Work and Sociology, emphasizing key research concepts, commonly used quantitative and qualitative methods, and the ability to communicate effectively about research with written and verbal skills. The course teaches students not only to conduct research but also to consume and utilize research.
3 Credits S
SW-221 The Life Cycle
This course provides an introduction to lifespan development from conception, through birth, infancy, childhood, adolescence, and various stages of adulthood. Explores perspectives on the biological, psychological, and socio-cultural aspects of development over time. Examines human diversity as well as similarities in growth and development, utilizing theory and research. Discusses implications for prevention and intervention related to common developmental challenges and adversities.
3 Credits S,WK-SI Pre-Req or Co-Req: FYC-101 or EN-110 or EN-109
SW-230 Introduction to Social Work Practice
Examines the generalist knowledge, values and skills of the social work profession. Emphasizes interviewing and communication skills, the development of a helping relationship, the strengths perspective and problem solving strategies.
4 Credits S Prerequisites: SO101 or permission of instructor.
SW-231 Social Problems & Social Welfare
This course explores persistent social problems including poverty, inequality, unemployment, homelessness, family violence, substance abuse, and lack of healthcare access, using historical, philosophical, and social science perspectives. The development of social policies and services as institutional responses to these problems are described and analyzed. Over the course of the term, students will review a significant body of literature related to a social problem/policy of choice, and conduct a case study with a community member who has experienced consequences of that same problem/policy.
3 Credits S,WK-SI Prerequisites: FYC-101, EN-110, or EN-109.
SW-330 Social Work Practice: Individual, Family & Small Groups Laboratory
Supervised field work in an approved social work agency. Provides opportunity to observe agency function and apply beginning social work practice skills.
2 Credits S Corequisite: SW331. Prerequisite: SW230.
SW-331 Social Work Practice: Individual, Family & Small Groups
Explores the problem solving process used in social work practice with individuals, families and small groups. Interviewing and problem solving skills, family systems analysis and group process are refined in preparation for beginning practice with individuals, families, and small groups.
4 Credits S Corequisite: SW330. Prerequisite: SW230.
SW-332 Social Work Practice: Large Groups, Organizations and Communities
Focuses on the problem solving processes employed in the delivery of social work services at the agency, institutional and community level. Primary consideration is given to the systems approach to communities and the techniques, strategies, and roles utilized by the worker in assisting communities and groups to attain satisfying and developmental levels of social functioning.
4 Credits S, CW Prerequisite: SW230.
SW-333 Social Welfare Policies and Services
A conceptual study of the meanings, nature, scope, implementation and evaluation of social policy as it relates to issues of social welfare.
3 Credits S Prerequisites: SW231 and ND.SS215.
SW-490 Social Work: Professional Semester
Full time supervised senior capstone field experience in an approved social work agency. Students integrate the knowledge, values and skills of the social work profession with experiential learning in preparation for assuming the responsibilities of an entry-level social work professional upon graduation.
12 Credits S Corequisite: SW495 Prerequisite: Permission.
SW-495 Professional Semester: Research Seminar
Involves research and discussion of practice issues of importance to the generalist social worker focusing on the impact these issues have on student's own practice experience.
3 Credits S Corequisite: SW490. Prerequisite: Permission.
NOTE: This POE is constructed under the guidelines established by the Council on Social Work Education. Students seeking the Bachelor of Social Work Credential (BSW) from Juniata College must complete all of this POE.
Social Work students must earn a C- or higher in every course in the POE. Students must have an overall GPA of at least 2.5 and a GPA of at least 2.5 in the Social Work POE in order to enroll in SW 490 and SW 495.
POE Credit Total = 56
Students must complete at least 18 credits at the 300/400-level. Any course exception must be approved by the advisor and/or department chair.
Why study Social Work at Juniata College?
As a social work POE, you will gain the satisfaction of participating in a high caliber program that will prepare you to work in a context of social and economic justice to solve and prevent individual and societal problems. Additionally, you will be able to earn the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) credential in a program that has been accredited by the Council on Social Work Education since 1981. With the BSW credential you earn, you will be able to enjoy enhanced access to career opportunities that begin on higher rungs of the career ladder with higher salaries and rapid advancement.
Social Work POEs enjoy the benefits of rigorous, experiential learning that is integrated throughout the curriculum while experiencing close collaborating with faculty and other students in the social work program. Upon graduation, you will join about 75% of our graduates who pursue Master of Social Work degrees with the benefit of advance standing that often saved 50% of the time and money that graduate school would otherwise require.
Program Handbook Field Placement Manual
Best Schools for Social Work
Updated September 27, 2022
thebestschools.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
Are you ready to discover your college program?
Social work undergraduate programs.
Social workers support communities by providing social services, helping clients manage mental health disorders, mentoring children, and connecting clients with resources.
A bachelor's degree in social work (BSW) can pave the way to a meaningful and in-demand career assisting society's most vulnerable people and groups. Specific job duties vary by specialty and employer, but social workers help people access community resources, like healthcare or food stamps; respond to crisis situations, like child abuse; and provide counseling or psychotherapy for individuals, couples, and families.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 13% growth rate for the social worker profession between 2019 and 2029. The BLS anticipates particularly good job prospects for clinical social workers, who provide treatment services in a clinical setting.
Professional social workers need a bachelor's in social work at a minimum. Our rankings list provides insight into some of the best schools for social work, as well as common career options for graduates. Professional social workers can also consider online social work degrees as an option for their BSW.
Featured Social Work Degrees
Top programs for a bachelors in social work.
#1 Best Schools for Social Work
University of Central Florida
- Orlando, FL
- Online + Campus
Students looking to earn a flexible college degree should consider the University of Central Florida's online bachelor of social work. This program is one of 19 online bachelor's programs available through the college. From its main campus in Orlando, the school supports distance learners. The social work program offers flexible study options. Enrollees can pursue full- or part-time study while modifying classes as they see fit.
Enrollees complete both foundational and advanced coursework, granting them the knowledge and skills needed to advance in the social work field. The program also incorporates general education requirements that strengthen critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Learners can individualize their studies by choosing electives, minors, and concentrations.
With a bachelor's degree, graduates increase their job opportunities and earning potential. The school reports a median salary of $39,900 for graduates six years after completing a bachelor's degree. The average undergraduate pays $11,617 yearly in tuition and fees after aid. To learn more about funding opportunities and eligibility requirements, students should contact the financial aid office.
University of Central Florida at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 41,097
Total Online Programs: 47
Online Bachelor's Programs: 19
Admission Rate: 44%
#2 Best Schools for Social Work
University of Georgia
Individuals seeking flexible online study should consider the University of Georgia. Located in Athens, the college supports distance learning across two remote bachelor's programs. The online bachelor of social work program supports learners aspiring to careers in the field.
The online social work degree prioritizes flexibility. Students complete industry-specific classes, with the option to add electives and modify their coursework. Learners can also customize their learning through minors.
Undergraduate students pay approximately $28,830 in tuition. Enrollees can access internal and external funding opportunities to defray the cost of their studies. On average, degree-seekers are awarded $10,577 in financial aid.
University of Georgia at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 5,389
Total Online Programs: 29
Online Bachelor's Programs: 2
Admission Rate: 45%
#3 Best Schools for Social Work
Florida State University
- Tallahassee, FL
Florida State University, located in Tallahassee, provides numerous top-tier bachelor's degree programs. A leader in online education, the public institution also offers fully online bachelor's degrees. The BSW program is a wise choice for students hoping to advance in the social work field.
The social work degree supports flexible study, meeting the needs of every learner. Enrollees work with their academic advisor to ensure their studies suit both academic and professional goals. Students can customize their courses based on their interests.
Social work students can expect to pay $19,084 in tuition. While at the college, enrollees can explore funding opportunities to apply toward their studies. The college offers an average financial aid award package of $9,442 per degree-seeker.
Florida State University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 19,802
Total Online Programs: 17
Admission Rate: 36%
#4 Best Schools for Social Work
The University of Texas at Austin
The University of Texas at Austin offers many top-ranked bachelor's programs. A leader in online education, the public institution also offers fully online bachelor's degrees. Of these, the bachelor of social work stands out as a competitive option for students interested in the social work field.
The program curriculum enables flexible study. Students complete industry-specific classes, with the option to add electives and modify their coursework. Enrollees can also benefit from elective classes and other modifications.
Currently, undergraduate social work students pay $38,326 in tuition. Learners at the accredited institution can pursue funding opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships, to support their studies. The school reports an average financial aid award of $10,686 per student.
The University of Texas at Austin at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 12,770
Total Online Programs: 5
Admission Rate: 32%
#5 Best Schools for Social Work
Florida International University
Florida International University, located in Miami, facilitates online learning through 67 online degree programs. Of its online options, 36 offer an undergraduate-level education. Individuals seeking competitive study in social work in a flexible modality can enroll in the college's online bachelor's in social work program. Students in the social work program can complete classes at their own pace, with the option for part-time study.
During the social work program, students complete foundational and advanced coursework relevant to the social work field. This curriculum consists of general education and advanced classes. Students can customize their degree through electives, minors, and concentrations.
A bachelor's degree greatly increases one's earning potential. The college notes a median salary of $41,500 for graduates six years after finishing their studies. Students preparing to apply for the social work program should consider that the average price after aid for tuition and fees is $9,888. Prospective students can contact the social work program to learn more about admission requirements and financial aid opportunities.
Florida International University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 39,863
Total Online Programs: 67
Online Bachelor's Programs: 36
Admission Rate: 58%
#6 Best Schools for Social Work
University of Washington
- Seattle, WA
Located in Seattle, the University of Washington offers many top-ranked bachelor's programs. The public school supports distance learners across two online bachelor's degree programs. Distance learners looking to earn an online degree in social work can enroll in the BA in social welfare program.
The online social work degree places flexibility at the forefront. Learners can also customize their studies, with help from an academic advisor. Enrollees can work with their academic advisor to modify coursework, choose electives, and pursue other educational opportunities relevant to their career goals.
When calculating the cost of a degree, students should note the current tuition rate of $37,071. While at the college, enrollees can explore funding opportunities to apply toward their studies. The institution averages financial aid packages of $15,354 per enrollee.
University of Washington at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 3,931
Total Online Programs: 12
Admission Rate: 52%
#7 Best Schools for Social Work
University of South Florida
The University of South Florida is a public, four-year institution providing competitive study across 84 bachelor's degree programs. The college boasts five fully online bachelor's degree programs. The social work BSW is an attractive option for students seeking to advance in the social work field.
The online social work degree places flexibility at the forefront. Students can collaborate with their academic advisor to find classes that complement their career interests. Enrollees can benefit from elective classes, minors, and other modifications.
Undergraduates pay about $15,473 in tuition at the school. Social work students can access scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities while enrolled. Students at the college are awarded an average of $11,181 in financial aid.
University of South Florida at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 24,241
Total Online Programs: 34
Online Bachelor's Programs: 5
Admission Rate: 48%
#8 Best Schools for Social Work
University of Wisconsin Eau Claire
- Eau Claire, WI
University of Wisconsin Eau Claire facilitates online learning throughout four online degree programs. Undergraduate students can choose from two online bachelor programs. Students seeking advanced online study in social work can enroll in the school's online bachelor's in social work program. The social work program offers flexible study options, where students can pursue full- or part-time enrollment while modifying classes as they see fit.
During the social work program, students complete foundational and advanced coursework relevant to the social work field. These classes equip students with knowledge and skills applicable to a post-graduate career. Learners have the option to modify their studies, choose electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations.
Graduates possessing a bachelor's degree can access more job opportunities and grow their earning potential over time. The institution reports a median salary of $40,200 earned by graduates six years after completing their studies. The college reports that the average undergraduate pays $14,010 in tuition and fees yearly, after aid. Students can meet with the Office of Financial Aid to learn more about funding opportunities and eligibility requirements for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid.
University of Wisconsin Eau Claire at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 3,133
Total Online Programs: 4
Admission Rate: 82%
#9 Best Schools for Social Work
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- Champaign, IL
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is a public, four-year institution providing competitive study across 135 bachelor's degree programs. The public school supports distance learners across in an online bachelor of social work program. The bachelor of social work is an attractive option for students seeking to advance in the social work field.
The program balances rigor with flexibility. Students can work with their academic advisor to modify their coursework to meet their academic and career goals. Students can also choose elective classes or pursue a minor to further their learning.
At present, undergraduates pay $33,127 in tuition. Students can receive financial aid to offset the cost of their degree. On average, degree-seekers are awarded $15,442 in financial aid.
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 20,199
Total Online Programs: 33
Online Bachelor's Programs: 1
Admission Rate: 59%
#10 Best Schools for Social Work
University of Wisconsin Whitewater
- Whitewater, WI
Students looking to earn a flexible college degree should consider the University of Wisconsin Whitewater's online bachelor of social work. Undergraduate learners seeking flexible, remote study can pursue an online bachelor's degree. Students looking for a social work-adjacent career can pursue study through the bachelor of social work program at their own pace. The social work program is a flexible option for working professionals and busy students.
Throughout their coursework, students gain industry-relevant knowledge through general and advanced classes. Students gain industry-relevant and broad knowledge and skills, preparing them for life after their degree. While enrolled, degree-seekers can customize their studies by choosing electives, minors, and concentrations.
A bachelor's degree greatly increases one's earning potential. According to the institution, enrollees can earn a median salary of $37,500 six years after finishing their degree. Students preparing to apply for the social work program should consider that the average price after aid for tuition and fees is $12,309. Students can meet with leaders in the social work department to discuss application materials, admission requirements, and other relevant information.
University of Wisconsin Whitewater at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 4,715
Total Online Programs: 2
Admission Rate: 79%
#11 Best Schools for Social Work
Harding University
Students looking for a flexible bachelor's level education should consider Harding University. A leader in online education, the private institution offers fully online bachelor's degrees. Learners seeking to advance in the social work field will benefit from the bachelor's degree in social work.
Learners benefit from a rigorous curriculum that enables flexible study. The program curriculum equips students with industry-relevant knowledge. Enrollees can explore other educational opportunities, such as minors and elective courses, to customize their studies.
Social work students can expect to pay $20,010 in tuition. The accredited institution connects students with internal and external funding opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships.
Harding University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 574
Total Online Programs: 19
Admission Rate: 61%
#12 Best Schools for Social Work
University of Wisconsin Stevens Point
- Stevens Point, WI
The University of Wisconsin Stevens Point, a public, four-year college, offers premier bachelor's degree opportunities. The public college supports three online bachelor's programs from its main campus. Of these, the bachelor's degree in social work stands out as a competitive option for students interested in the social work field.
The online social work degree prioritizes flexibility. Students can collaborate with their academic advisor to find classes that complement their career interests. Students also have the option to choose a minor and select electives as part of their curriculum.
Currently, undergraduate social work students pay $15,402 in tuition. Enrollees at the accredited institution can pursue funding opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships, to support their studies. The college reports that degree-seekers are awarded an average of $4,850 in financial aid.
University of Wisconsin Stevens Point at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 3,173
Online Bachelor's Programs: 3
Admission Rate: 85%
#13 Best Schools for Social Work
University of Arkansas
- Fayetteville, AR
The University of Arkansas is a public, four-year institution providing competitive study across 83 bachelor's degree programs. Located in Fayetteville, the college supports distance learning through five remote bachelor's programs. Distance learners interested in the social work field can enroll in the school's bachelor's in social work program.
The social work program connects students with a supportive online learning community, while enabling flexibility. Enrollees can work with their academic advisor to make curriculum adjustments. Students can benefit from electives, minors, and other modifications to their studies.
Undergraduates pay about $24,056 in tuition at the school. Learners can access numerous funding opportunities through the accredited institution. On average, enrollees receive $7,483 in financial aid.
University of Arkansas at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 8,109
Total Online Programs: 39
Admission Rate: 77%
#14 Best Schools for Social Work
California State University, Fresno
California State University, Fresno provides flexible study opportunities to distance learners across four degree programs. Students looking for a social work-adjacent career can pursue study through the bachelor of arts in social work program at their own pace. The flexible program helps learners complete a college degree.
Students complete industry-relevant classes, gaining broad and specific knowledge of the social work field. This curriculum, which consists of foundational and advanced coursework, equips students with relevant skills needed to succeed in the social work field. In consultation with their academic advisor, degree-seekers can modify their course load, choose electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations.
After earning their degree, graduates benefit from greater access to employment opportunities and higher earning potential. The institution reports a median salary of $37,200 earned by graduates six years after completing their studies. Social work students can expect to pay $6,002 in tuition and fees per year. Students hoping to gain admission to the social work program should connect with the social work department to discuss admission requirements and application materials.
California State University, Fresno at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 7,611
#15 Best Schools for Social Work
University of Wisconsin Madison
- Madison, WI
Learners seeking competitive online study should consider University of Wisconsin Madison. Distance learners can enroll in a fully online bachelor's degree program. The online BSW program supports learners in their studies at a distance.
The social work program enables flexible study. Enrollees complete coursework relevant to the social work field, with the option to choose electives and modify coursework. Minors and other modifications can benefit students and help them meet career goals.
Typically, undergraduate students pay $36,333 tuition. While at the college, enrollees can explore funding opportunities to apply towards their studies. The college reports that students receive an average of $9,754 in financial aid.
University of Wisconsin Madison at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 8,064
Admission Rate: 54%
#16 Best Schools for Social Work
Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania
- Slippery Rock, PA
Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania enrolls distance learners in 21 programs. Online learners seeking an undergraduate-level education can choose from three online bachelor's degree programs. For students looking to advance in the social work field, the school's online bachelor's degree in social work is a wise choice. Students in the social work program can complete classes at their own pace, with the option for part-time study.
Enrollees complete both foundational and advanced coursework, granting them the knowledge and skills needed to advance in the social work field. Students also complete general education requirements, gaining additional knowledge. Learners can customize their degree through electives, minors, and concentrations.
The benefits of a bachelor's degree are varied, from increased job opportunities to higher earning potential. According to the college, graduates earn a median salary of $36,300 six years after completing their degree. When preparing for the cost of education, students should know that the average cost of tuition and fees after aid is $18,144. Before applying, prospective students should connect with the social work department to learn more about admission requirements and application materials.
Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 2,937
Total Online Programs: 21
Admission Rate: 71%
#17 Best Schools for Social Work
Texas State University
- San Marcos, TX
Students looking to earn a flexible college degree should consider Texas State University's online bachelor's programs. For students looking to advance in the social work field, the school's online bachelor of social work is a wise choice. Students in the social work program can complete classes at their own pace, with the option for part-time enrollment.
Enrollees complete both foundational and advanced coursework, granting them the knowledge and skills needed to advance in the social work field. The program curriculum prepares students for the demands of the social work field. In consultation with their academic advisor, enrollees can customize their studies through electives, minors, and concentration areas.
A bachelor's degree greatly increases one's earning potential. The institution reports that graduates six years out from their degree earn a median salary of $40,600. Though degree costs vary, undergraduate students pay an average of $13,178 per year in tuition and fees. Prospective enrollees can learn more about the opportunities available at Texas State University, including admission requirements and financial aid eligibility, by connecting with the social work department.
Texas State University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 11,452
Total Online Programs: 1
Admission Rate: 81%
#18 Best Schools for Social Work
Georgia State University
- Atlanta, GA
As a leader in online education, Georgia State University supports 1,919 distance learners across seven remote degree programs. Individuals seeking competitive, customizable study relevant to the social work field will find the school's online BSW program to be an attractive option. The social work program offers flexible study options, where learners can pursue full- or part-time enrollment while modifying classes as they see fit.
Students complete industry-relevant classes, gaining broad and specific knowledge of the social work field. These classes equip students with knowledge and skills applicable to a post-graduate career. In consultation with their academic advisor, enrollees can customize their studies through electives, minors, and concentration areas.
Graduates possessing a bachelor's degree can access more job opportunities and grow their earning potential over time. The institution reports a median salary of $38,100 earned by graduates six years after completing their studies. Social work students typically pay $14,136 for tuition and fees, on average, per year. Prospective learners can explore funding opportunities, eligibility requirements, and other opportunities by connecting with the Office of Financial Aid.
Georgia State University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 1,919
Total Online Programs: 7
Admission Rate: 76%
#19 Best Schools for Social Work
Appalachian State University
Appalachian State University, a public, four-year college located in Boone, North Carolina, offers premier bachelor's degree opportunities. The public school supports distance learners across seven online bachelor's degree programs. Distance learners interested in the social work field can enroll in the school's BSW program.
Social work students can modify their coursework to suit their interests and accommodate their schedule. The social work program prioritizes flexibility in student learning. Enrollees can explore other educational opportunities, such as minors and elective courses, to customize their studies.
Undergraduates pay a tuition rate of $19,049 at the school. The accredited institution connects students with internal and external funding opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships. The college reports that degree-seekers are awarded an average of $8,612 in financial aid.
Appalachian State University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 4,490
Total Online Programs: 26
Online Bachelor's Programs: 7
#20 Best Schools for Social Work
The Ohio State University
- Columbus, OH
Ohio State University, located in Columbus, facilitates online learning through 17 online degree programs. Undergraduate students can choose from two online bachelor's degree programs. For students looking to advance in a social work-adjacent career, the online bachelor's in social work is a wise choice. The social work program prioritizes flexibility through full- or part-time study options.
Enrollees complete industry-relevant classes throughout their studies, gaining broad and specific knowledge of the social work field. Students also complete general education requirements, gaining a well-rounded education during their studies. Students can explore electives, minors, and concentrations with their academic advisor to individualize their degree.
After earning their degree, graduates benefit from greater access to employment opportunities and higher earning potential. According to the institution, graduates earn a median salary of $41,500 six years after finishing their degree. Typically, undergraduate students pay $18,706 in tuition and fees each year. Students interested in learning more about admission requirements and their eligibility for financial aid should connect with the social work department.
The Ohio State University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 21,150
Bachelor's in Social Work Programs Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
The motto of TheBestSchools.org is Finding the best school for you . Here is how we do it:
The value of any ranking list of schools and/or degree programs depends on having a methodologically sound assessment of each school’s/program’s characteristics, especially insofar as these can be objectively measured. A college or university is a complex entity, with numerous factors to consider, and distilling these down to the place where meaningful comparisons can be made to form a defensible ranking list becomes part science and part art.
To meet this challenge—and thereby provide you with the most useful and insightful educational rankings on the Internet — TheBestSchools.org formulates our rankings based on five informational categories (six, when considering online schools). The major metrics and qualities for which we rank are these (with expanded, detailed considerations and weights listed):
1. Academic excellence based on a school’s curriculum generally or within the selected discipline [weight = 25%]
- Weighs school against known leading schools in that discipline
- Weighs number of core curricula listed as advanced courses within that discipline and compares against introductory courses
- Weighs school’s curriculum against known knowledge needs of major employers in that discipline
- Considers number and types of specializations offered within that discipline
- Considers faculty expertise in that discipline
- Considers range of electives within that discipline
- Considers quality of online environment offered to students (if applicable), particularly within that discipline
2. Strength of faculty scholarship [weight = 25%]
- Considers education background of the faculty
- Considers years of faculty experience both inside and outside of academia.
- Considers faculty membership and leadership within relevant, prominent associations
- Considers academic papers published by faculty in relevant, prominent periodicals
- Considers awards and recognitions given to faculty members from prominent organizations and from other sources
3. Reputation [weight = 20%]
- “Freshness” of academic knowledge
- Adaptability to changes in employment sectors
- Suitability of graduates for the workplace
4. Financial aid [weight = 10%]
- Mandatory: Requires full accreditation from an agency endorsed by the U.S. Department of Education and listed on the federal register to accept student federal financial aid
- Considers range of school-sponsored financial aid such as scholarships and grants
5. Range of degree programs [weight = 20%]
- Considers range of degree levels: associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral and professional
- Considers range of degree subjects offered, such as art & design, computers & technology, education & teaching, criminal justice, and business
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What Is Social Work?
Social workers support individuals, families, and communities struggling with issues such as poverty, mental health disorders, and behavioral issues. Social workers may help clients access social services and address problems through behavior modification. Many social workers also provide counseling services.
Social workers have several specialization options. For example, school social workers help children and adolescents overcome challenges at school, while substance abuse and behavioral social workers help clients manage substance use disorders and behavioral problems. Clinical social workers diagnose and treat behavioral and mental health disorders.
The largest employers of social workers are local and state government agencies, individual and family services, and ambulatory healthcare services.
What Is a Bachelor's in Social Work Degree?
A bachelor's degree in social work prepares students for entry-level, generalist positions in social work. Graduates of social work bachelor's programs can also apply to online master of social work programs .
Many students need or prefer the flexibility and convenience of earning a social work degree . Typical social work majors include college students who know they want to become social workers, working professionals who want to change fields, and healthcare administration professionals who want to advance their career and earning potential by earning a BSW.
Bachelor's in social work programs provide a foundational understanding of the history, major theories, and practices of the profession. Programs cover case management, human growth and development, and professional identity. Students gain critical thinking, advocacy, communication, and interpersonal skills.
Choosing a Program
Students looking for bachelor's in social work programs have a lot to consider when choosing a degree, including individual career goals and academic interests, cost, program length and flexibility, and specializations.
Read on to learn more about how to choose the right social work degree.
What Else Can I Expect From a Bachelor's in Social Work Program?
Bachelor's in social work (BSW) students develop foundational social work skills like case management, crisis intervention, and treatment planning.
A typical curriculum offers courses in social work research, human behavior in the social environment, basic skills for social work practice, and diversity and multiculturalism. Many social work bachelor's programs do not offer concentrations, instead focusing on preparing students for general practice social work.
Students who plan to pursue a master of social work should use their electives to gain specialized knowledge during undergraduate studies.
Bachelor's in Social Work Curriculum
- Social Work Practice : This course covers common social work environments, the skills required for specialist and generalist social work, and the core values of the field. Students explore the modern social service system and different models for providing social work services. The course also covers topics like levels of intervention, theoretical social work foundations, and client services.
- Social Service Delivery Systems : This course introduces social work majors to U.S. social policy and service delivery systems. Students learn about social services, mental health, and healthcare systems, with an emphasis on the historical development of these systems and their current challenges. The course also addresses specialized social services for distinct populations, such as the elderly and children.
- Human Behavior in the Social Environment : This course covers the development of social environments and human behavior within those environments. Students examine the role of culture in shaping individual values, worldviews, and beliefs with a focus on the way society shapes personal identity. The course also explores human development across the lifespan.
Social Work Specializations
Mental health and substance abuse.
Social Work Social workers who specialize in mental health and substance abuse help individuals struggling with mental health challenges and addiction. This specialization explores mental health assessment, trauma, substance use intervention policy, and suicide risk assessment. Students who plan to pursue an MSW and become clinical social workers can benefit from this specialization.
Community Social Work
This specialization focuses on working directly with specific communities to improve daily life for people in that community. Community social workers often work on particular issues with citizens, nonprofit groups, and government agencies. For example, they may help start a new school or create a public health initiative.
Child, Family, and School
Social Work Child, family, and school social workers typically offer support to children and their families. They can work both in and outside of school settings, including at government agencies and social service agencies. Job duties may include conducting training for school staff, helping parents with children who struggle with behavioral issues in school, and intervening when a child experiences bullying.
Careers in Social Work
There are a number of specialities that you can pursue after earning a bachelor's in social work. However, note that some careers require at least a master's in social work, so it's important to check with local licensure requirements if you are pursuing one of these social work careers .
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Social Workers
Social Workers help people overcome and deal with struggles in their everyday lives. Typical job duties may include helping a student experiencing bullying, connecting a family with community resources like food stamps, or helping a victim of domestic violence find emergency housing. Professional social workers be able to quickly and effectively solve problems while remaining calm.
Social workers need a bachelor's degree in social work at minimum to qualify for generalist social work positions. However, many social work jobs require a master of social work and state licensure.
Substance Abuse and Behavioral Disorder Counselors
Substance Abuse and Behavioral Disorder Counselors help people who struggle with behavioral disorders and addiction. Job duties vary by specialization, but they may include evaluating clients' readiness for treatment, creating treatment goals with clients and their families, and referring clients to other services and resources.
Most substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselors need a bachelor's degree at minimum. Some states may require a master's degree. All states require licensure for substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselors working in private practice. Licensure requirements vary by state for those outside of private practice
Social and Community Service Managers
Social and community service managers coordinate programs and initiatives that promote public well-being, usually under the auspices of a government or nonprofit organization. They may write funding proposals, identify necessary programs and services with the help of stakeholders, analyze program effectiveness, and manage outreach to promote programs.
Most social and community service managers need at least a bachelor's degree in social work or a related field and relevant professional experience. Some social and community service manager positions require a master's degree. This career does not require a license.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to complete a bachelor's in social work program.
It usually takes students four years to earn a bachelor's in social work. Transfer students and students who already hold an associate degree can graduate in less time.
What Can I Do With a Bachelor's in Social Work?
A bachelor's in social work prepares graduates for jobs as social workers, case managers, and social services managers. It also meets educational admission requirements for most master of social work (MSW) programs.
How Much Do You Make as a Social Worker?
The BLS reports that social workers make a median annual salary of $50,470.
What Is a Social Worker?
Social workers help people solve problems in their everyday lives. Typical job duties include developing programs to help meet clients' basic needs, maintaining records, responding to crisis situations, and referring clients to community resources.
What Is a Bachelor's in Social Work?
A bachelor's degree in social work prepares graduates for careers as generalist social workers and case managers. Graduates can also apply to master's in social work programs.
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Health, Social Care and Social Work
- Qualification: Access
- Course type: FREE (Eligibility Applies), Full-time, Part-time
- Duration: One year
- Time of day: Daytime
- When you'll study: Various days, 9.00am - 5.00pm
What's it all about?
Diploma title: Health and Social Care
Access to Higher Education courses are designed for students aged 19 or over. If you are aged 18 or under, this course may not be suitable for you. Please contact us on [email protected] or 01752 305300 if you would like any help discussing alternative options.
Do you want to retrain for a qualified role in healthcare, social work or social care? Are you looking for an Access to Higher Education course that can help you improve your qualifications and gain entry to university? If so, this one year, full-time, CAVA -awarded course could be just what you need. This course offers the chance to study alongside other mature students, tutored by experienced, motivational and supportive lecturers. Academic subjects you could study as part of this programme include psychology, sociology, health studies and social work. You may be required to study GCSEs in English, maths or science depending on your career and university aspirations. Please note the College course title is a suggested progression route, you must check with your preferred higher education institution to ensure that this course meets their entry requirements.
Upon successful completion of the course you will be awarded an Access to Higher Education Diploma (Health and Social Care).
Start date: 04 September 2023
Fee for this course: £3300
Not applicable to this course
Advanced Learner Loan fee: £3300
Please note fees are quoted for one year only.
Course information
Academic subjects may include:
- health studies
- social work
Total credits – 45 at level 3.
Placements, Voluntary Work and Paid Employment
It is essential that you are aware if your university course requires you to have prior experience before applications are made. The social work course requires all applicants to have completed work (paid or voluntary) in a relevant sector. This is a condition of entry onto the course and evidence must be provided at interview.
GCSE equivalences in maths, English and science are no longer part of the Access Diploma. It is up to you if wish to enrol on GCSEs alongside your diploma, if you do not currently hold a recent C+ qualification. Your chosen university may not require its applicants to have GCSE or may be happy with previously achieved qualifications, such as O Level, level 2, etc.It is your responsibility to ensure that you have clarified if enrolling on a GCSE is appropriate for you. If your university course does require you to study at GCSE level you could study alongside your Access Diploma, however you must understand the implications of not achieving your GCSEs. Although it does not affect your achievement of an Access Diploma it may compromise your place at university if you achieve the Access Diploma but do not achieve your GCSEs. Some universities encourage applicants to apply for university without GCSEs and complete equivalences between application and enrolment with the university (again, this is something you have to clarify).Alternatively, you may wish to study your GCSEs the year before or after Access study. GCSE classes are held during the day and in the evening. You will have to apply as a separate course, as well as your Access course, if this is your preference. The national changes in GCSE requirements for mature students are unique to each HEI.
To succeed on this course you need to be committed towards your study and focused upon your career choice. This route is designed for adult students (19+). Funding is not available for those aged 18 and under, and we would recommend that alternative vocational qualifications and A Levels are considered which support progression onto further or higher education and employment.BELFT – This Access to HE course requires level 2 achievement in literacy and level 1 numeracy. This may be a grade 4 (C) or above in GCSE English and grade D or above in maths, a level 1/2 qualification or equivalence. It will not be possible for you to be offered a place on an Access course without meeting our entry requirements.If you do not currently hold a level 1 qualification in numeracy and level 2 in English, then you are invited to undertake a skills test as part of our interview process. Achieving on our skills test is sufficient to meet our entry requirements for Access to HE, however you are strongly advised to seek further advice from your chosen university regarding completing GCSEs as part of your application.Your offer for entry onto our Access course may be conditional to a number of factors which may include achievement of level 2 in literacy and level 1 in numeracy, satisfactory performance at interview, evidence of recent study, evidence of relevant work experience and specific criteria for international students (please see below) BELGFT – This Access to HE course requires GCSE grade 9-4 (C or above) in English and maths.Evidence of experience in Health and/or Social Care Professions is recommended.Students who would like to apply but find that their qualifications don’t meet the entry criteria are encouraged to contact us on 01752 305300 to discuss a suitable alternative course. Entry Requirements for International Students The College welcomes applications from international students, however you are strongly recommended to clarify with your chosen university your responsibilities as an international student. You may be required to complete an IELTS or CEFR recognised equivalent test score exam prior to interview or record IELTS 5.5 on your application. There may also be funding implications relating to your international student status. Please ensure that you are clear of university entry requirements for international students.
In each subject you will be taught a range of units and each unit is assigned a credit value. When you successfully complete a unit you will be awarded a number of credits – these can be graded at pass, merit or distinction, depending on the standard of your work. You will continue to ‘collect’ credits throughout the course. The course is assessed by coursework, assignments, projects and exams.
Suggested progression routes: children and community, childhood studies, health and society, social policy, community welfare. Every effort is made to ensure that the units and credits offered are sufficient for progression routes onto higher education courses, however, specific courses at specific universities may have their own unique admissions requirements. Please check that the amount of Access credits offered in each subject is relevant for your chosen university course. Once you have enrolled onto a specific Access course units are unable to be amended, so please ensure the course you have selected is appropriate to you. (Our staff are excellent in providing advice and guidance, however, individual university courses may have their own specific requirements – so please check.) Please note City College Plymouth Foundation Degree courses have unique entry requirements for Access students. Please check with our Higher Education team.
Related courses
Social science (psychology, sociology and law).
- Course type: Full-time, Part-time
Psychology, Sociology and Law (Online Course)
- Course type: Distance learning, FREE (Eligibility Applies)
Pre-Access (Step-up Programme)
- Course type: FREE (Eligibility Applies), Part-time
- Duration: Six weeks
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A Master of Social Work (MSW) Degree combines classroom education with fieldwork in clinical practice. A professional with a bachelor's degree in any field can pursue an MSW but must take one year of foundational coursework in addition to one year of master's degree coursework.
Here are the best colleges with a Social Work Major Princeton University Massachusetts Institute of Technology Harvard University Stanford University Yale University University of Chicago...
A bachelor's degree in social work equips you for entry-level positions in a variety of settings, including health care facilities, state and local governments, schools, military bases, and...
Social workers' job duties vary by work setting and specialty. Some work in child welfare, at colleges, and in hospices and palliative care. Most take positions that correlate to their educational background and specialized training. At minimum, social workers need a bachelor's degree from an accredited college.
Syracuse University offers a master's degree program in social work for students in upstate New York with an interest in helping children and young adults experiencing health-related, economic, and social hardship. Courses in the program's curriculum include public policy, institutional research, and ethics.
For an entry-level position, you will need at least a bachelor's degree in social work (BSW). Most of these positions consist of working in direct-service roles, like as a caseworker. For more advanced roles, like clinical social work, a master's degree is required.
Sociology of Gender I and II: SOC 271 and 272 — These two courses examine the different roles prescribed to individuals on the basis of sex. Social Psychology: SOC 280 — This course follows the specific study of how people think about, influence and relate to each other. Urban Sociology: SOC 312 — How do social forces create and shape cities?
The Bachelor of Science in Social Work degree program at Limestone University provides the foundational coursework and experience you need to find entry-level work in the field. And you can complete your degree online . Request info to learn more.
Read up on news, Social Work Magazines, and our interACTION blog. read more on magazines and our blog. ... Give to the College of Social Work Donate Now . Questions? Contact Us. Contact us. College Of Social Work. 395 South 1500 East #111 Salt Lake City, UT 84112 801-581-6192. Stay in Touch. Find Us;
Training Opportunity. AAMU, Master of Social Work program provides an opportunity for financial support through three training grants for MSW students. They are Behavioral Health Workforce Training Program II Fellows funded by Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), Opioid Impacted Families Support Training Program funded by HRSA, and Child Welfare Title IV-E Grant.
Alabama A & M University uses various methods to educate social work students regarding child welfare services and careers in child welfare. The Child Welfare Title IV-E Project is designed to enhance the knowledge and skills of all social work students with a special focus on MSW students in the Family and Child Welfare Concentration and BSW ...
Featured Social Work Courses. SOWK 270 - Ethics in Professional Helping; ... While other colleges are increasing their tuition, we've frozen tuition rates for our undergraduate, graduate, and ...
25 Top Schools in Social Work 1 University of California - Berkeley Berkeley, CA Doctor's Degree Highest Degree Type 197 Social Work Degrees Awarded $53,585 Median Starting Salary Any student pursuing a degree in social work needs to check out University of California - Berkeley.
Walden's Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and Master of Social Work (MSW) programs are CSWE-accredited and help you learn to address the needs of individuals, families, and communities. CSWE accreditation means that a program prepares you to apply ethical principles and critical thinking to social work practice.
Continuing Education (CE) NASW is committed to helping social workers meet their professional development needs. This has led us to create multiple professional development programs and products such as credentials, education and training courses, newsletters, employment information, resources, and publications. NASW members can receive free ...
To be a social worker, you need to hold a degree in social work from an accredited college or university program. The undergraduate degree is the bachelor of social work (BSW). Graduate degrees include the master of social work (MSW), and a doctorate (DSW) or PhD in Social Work. Even if you have a bachelor's degree in another field of study ...
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.
In summary, here are 10 of our most popular social work courses Social Work Practice: Advocating Social Justice and Change Psychological First Aid Social Services for Families, Seniors and Those with Disabilities Columbia University The Arts and Science of Relationships: Understanding Human Needs: University of Toronto
Graduate College of Social Work. About. Mission & Vision; Racial Justice at the GCSW ; Strategic Plan 2017-2021; ... Social Work in Health Care Settings. Class Nbr- 23574. Session- 5 (Oct 16-Dec 13) ... Fall Social Work Practicum Courses; SOCW 6293, Practicum I-Foundation. Class Nbr- 14866. Session- 1 (Aug 21-Dec 13) ...
DEGREE REQUIREMENTS FOR KCTCS. 1) Completion of minimum 60 credit hours, 2) minimum cumulative GPA 2.0, 3) minimum of 15 credit hours earned at the institution awarding the degree, 4) cultural studies course, 5) demonstration of digital literacy, and 6) college success requirement.
Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), Appalachian State University, North Carolina, US Appalachian State University offers an accredited Bachelor of Social Work degree at its Beaver College of Health Sciences. Its goal is to address local social work issues while engaging with other educational institutes internationally.
New York University. Private 4 Year. 1 reviews. #6 Best Private Colleges in New York. 52,775 enrollment. $45,417 net price. 21% acceptance rate. 1370-1540 SAT range. 31-34 ACT range.
Social Work Careers and Programs. Listed below are colleges and universities that offer social work online degrees, certificates, diplomas and a detailed list of the programs offered. Tuition, financial aid, course offerings, online classes, adult education, and distance learning options are available by request.
SOCIAL WORK CORE Take the following courses: SO-101 Introduction to Sociology PY-101 Introduction to Psychology BI-190 Human Biology SO-203 Minority Experiences SW-214 Integrated Research Methods & Stats I SW-215 Integrated Research Methods & Stats II SW-221 The Life Cycle SW-230 Introduction to Social Work Practice
4 years. Online + Campus. Students looking to earn a flexible college degree should consider the University of Central Florida's online bachelor of social work. This program is one of 19 online bachelor's programs available through the college. From its main campus in Orlando, the school supports distance learners.
The social work course requires all applicants to have completed work (paid or voluntary) in a relevant sector. ... Please note City College Plymouth Foundation Degree courses have unique entry requirements for Access students. Please check with our Higher Education team. Related courses Search courses. Social Science (Psychology, Sociology and ...
Degree courses in social work are available at many levels such as diploma, undergraduate or postgraduate, doctorate, and more. If you are willing to do a certificate course you can apply easily on many online websites like Coursera, udemy, edX, etc.