[hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”aboveTheFold” /] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Starting a career in social work is an admirable choice, often driven by the desire to help people and communities in need. Yet, the expense of paying for your BSW degree can often stand in the way. That’s why it’s important to find an affordable online social work program that supports your career goals without putting a strain on your finances.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]This guide explores the cheapest online social work degrees, including financial aid options and the benefits of earning your degree online. Discover how to achieve your educational dreams at a price that fits your budget.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”editorialListings” /] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]The Cheapest Online Social Work (BSW) Degree Programs[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”How We Chose These Schools”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]At TheBestSchools, we use trusted data from the U.S. Department of Education to evaluate schools without bias. Our ranking methodology helps prospective students from various backgrounds find the best fit. We consider key factors like academic quality, online offerings, and affordability so every type of student can find the best fit for them.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]This list has been updated for 2025. Learn more about how our formula works on [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/ranking-methodology/”]our ranking methodology page[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [/hen-ui-accordion] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]How Much Does an Online Social Work Degree Cost?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]According to the most recent data (2020) from [hen-ui-link href=”https://nces.ed.gov/datalab” target=”_blank”]the National Center for Education Statistics[/hen-ui-link], the average annual tuition for an online bachelor’s degree in social services was $9,992. For on-campus social science degree programs, the average was $19,427, nearly $10,000 more.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]While tuition has steadily increased since then, we can use the Consumer Price Index [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/data/inflation_calculator.htm” target=”_blank”]inflation calculator[/hen-ui-link] to adjust these figures to 2025 dollars for a closer estimate of the price tag today. Adjusted to 2025 dollars, the average annual tuition is about $12,451 for online social science programs and $24,208 for campus-based social science programs.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The type of online college you choose also greatly affects your total costs. The NCES reports that average tuition for the 2023-24 academic year for undergraduate students ranged from [hen-ui-link href=”https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/trendgenerator/app/answer/13/205″ target=”_blank”]$6,944 for in-state students at public[/hen-ui-link] institutions to [hen-ui-link href=”https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/trendgenerator/app/answer/13/206″ target=”_blank”]$27,978 for students attending private[/hen-ui-link] colleges.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]How to Reduce the Cost of an Online Social Work Degree[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]In addition to researching and comparing the cost of programs, consider the tips below to reduce the cost of your online social work degree.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”check”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Scholarships and Financial Aid[/hen-ui-heading] Fill [hen-ui-link href=”https://thebestschools.org/resources/college-finances/online-college-financial-aid/”]out the FAFSA[/hen-ui-link], and look for private scholarships and grants. Many organizations and schools offer scholarships, some specifically for social work majors. Your college’s financial aid office will have information on school-specific opportunities.[/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]In-State Tuition[/hen-ui-heading] Choosing an online degree program that offers in-state tuition rates can reduce your tuition costs. Some online programs offer in-state rates to all students regardless of where they live.[/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Transfer Credits[/hen-ui-heading] If you have already earned college credits, you may be able to transfer these to your new program. [hen-ui-link href=”/resources/transferring-to-online-college/”]Transfer credits[/hen-ui-link] can decrease the number of courses you need to take, lower tuition costs, and help you finish your degree faster.[/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Accelerated Programs[/hen-ui-heading] Some schools offer [hen-ui-link href=”/resources/what-is-an-accelerated-program/”]accelerated programs[/hen-ui-link] that allow you to complete your degree faster. These programs let you finish your degree quicker, saving you money on tuition and other school expenses.[/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Choosing an Online Social Work Program: 5 Factors to Consider[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Before applying to an online social work program you should consider which program best serves your career goals and interests, as well as program length and total costs.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]If you have a specific social work career goal, such as school social work or [hen-ui-link href=”/careers/career-guide/clinical-social-worker/”]clinical social work,[/hen-ui-link] be sure to look for colleges with the concentration you need for certification or licensure. Below are the additional factors to consider when choosing an affordable online social work degree.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]1. Program Cost[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The total cost of an online social work degree can vary widely. In general, in-state public schools offer the lowest tuition rates. However, many out-of-state public institutions offer a flat rate for online students. Consider the total cost of the degree, including technology fees, online learning fees, and books.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]2. Transfer Policies[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A generous transfer policy can help you save time and money to graduate sooner. For example, a program that [hen-ui-link href=”/resources/transfer-credits-online-colleges/”]accepts max transfer credits[/hen-ui-link] (up to 90) means you could transfer credits from a community college or previously attended university to earn your bachelor’s in social work in as little as one or two years.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]3. Program Type[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]There are many programs you can choose from to fit your lifestyle. Courses can be offered in a [hen-ui-link href=”/resources/synchronous-vs-asynchronous-programs-courses/”]synchronous or asynchronous format[/hen-ui-link] and may include a program cohort. You can also choose a program that offers an [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/accelerated/”]accelerated degree program[/hen-ui-link] to start your career sooner.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]An online social work degree program typically takes four years to complete, but additional requirements, such as a practicum or internship, can increase that time.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]4. On-Campus Requirements[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]You’ll want to check whether the degree program is 100% online or hybrid. Some online social work programs have on-campus residency requirements for clinical components. If your college offers a hybrid program, choosing a nearby school can help you fulfill these requirements more easily.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]5. Accreditation for Online Social Work Degrees[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Attending an accredited instruction is essential for social work licensure and to access [hen-ui-link href=”/resources/college-finances/online-college-financial-aid/”]federal financial aid[/hen-ui-link]. You’ll want to look for both institutional accreditation and programmatic accreditation.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Institutional Accreditation: Schools that earn [hen-ui-link href=”/resources/accreditation/”]institutional accreditation[/hen-ui-link] from a regional accreditation organization meet the highest standards for liberal arts and research institutions.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Programmatic Accreditation: For social work degrees, look for programs accredited by the [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.cswe.org/” target=”_blank”]Council on Social Work Education[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Social Work Career and Salary Information[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]An online bachelor of [hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/social-work/”]social work degree prepares you[/hen-ui-link] for many in-demand entry-level careers. For example, social workers specializing in working with children can pursue opportunities in schools, healthcare, and social service settings.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]After [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/best-online-bachelors-social-work/”]earning a BSW[/hen-ui-link], you can apply to a [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-social-work/”]master of social work (MSW) program[/hen-ui-link] to become a licensed social worker. In 19 states, you can also apply to become a licensed baccalaureate social worker. However, to practice in a clinical setting in any state, you’ll need a master’s degree.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-table] [hen-ui-table-caption]Social Work Career Outlook: By Degree Level[/hen-ui-table-caption] [hen-ui-table-header] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]7 Social Work Jobs[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Median Salary (May 2024)[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Projected Growth (2023-2033)[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Minimum Degree Required[/hen-ui-table-head] [/hen-ui-table-row] [/hen-ui-table-header] [hen-ui-table-body] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Health Education Specialist[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”7 Social Work Jobs”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/health-educators.htm” target=”_blank”]$63,000[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Salary (May 2024)”]7%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Projected Growth (2023-2033)”]Bachelor’s Degree[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”][hen-ui-link href=”/careers/career-guide/criminal-justice/”]Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”7 Social Work Jobs”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/probation-officers-and-correctional-treatment-specialists.htm” target=”_blank”]$64,520[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Salary (May 2024)”]4%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Projected Growth (2023-2033)”]Bachelor’s Degree[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Social Worker[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”7 Social Work Jobs”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/social-workers.htm” target=”_blank”]$61,330[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Salary (May 2024)”]7%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Projected Growth (2023-2033)”]Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree*[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Child, Family, and School Social Workers[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”7 Social Work Jobs”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/social-workers.htm#tab-5″ target=”_blank”]$58,570[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Salary (May 2024)”]5%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Projected Growth (2023-2033)”]Master’s Degree[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Healthcare Social Workers[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”7 Social Work Jobs”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/social-workers.htm#tab-5″ target=”_blank”]$68,090[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Salary (May 2024)”]10%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Projected Growth (2023-2033)”]Master’s Degree[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-family-counseling/”]Marriage and Family Therapists[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”7 Social Work Jobs”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/marriage-and-family-therapists.htm” target=”_blank”]$63,780[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Salary (May 2024)”]16%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Projected Growth (2023-2033)”]Master’s Degree[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”7 Social Work Jobs”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/social-workers.htm#tab-5″ target=”_blank”]$60,060[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Salary (May 2024)”]12%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Projected Growth (2023-2033)”]Master’s Degree[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [/hen-ui-table-body] [/hen-ui-table] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Frequently Asked Questions About the Cheapest Online Social Work Degrees[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What does a social worker do​?” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Social workers identify and support people and communities in need. This can include assessing a client’s situation, strengths, and support network as well as suggesting additional community resources.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A social worker may help clients access child care, healthcare, or food stamps. As a social worker, you will be responsible for maintaining case records and files and may be called into crisis situations, such as child abuse and mental health emergencies.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”How much does a social worker make​?”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]According to the BLS, the median salary for a social worker is $61,330. The top 10% of social workers [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/oes/2023/may/oes211029.htm” target=”_blank”]make $104,580[/hen-ui-link]. Social workers employed by the federal, state, and local governments earn an average annual salary of $94,260, substantially higher than the national average.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Social workers in certain states also earn substantially more than the national average. New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Washington, Oklahoma, and Washington, D.C., offer the highest average annual salaries for social workers.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”How do I become a social worker?”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]In most states, you’ll need to earn an MSW to become a licensed clinical social worker. You’ll need to pass the [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.aswb.org/exam/” target=”_blank”]Association of Social Work Boards exam[/hen-ui-link] and apply for licensure in your state.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]In some states, you can earn an intermediary credential of a licensed baccalaureate social worker and even start working while earning your MSW.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What is the cheapest online BSW program?”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The cheapest online BSW program on our list is offered by the University of Alaska Fairbanks, with a rate of $289 per credit for all online students, regardless of state residency. Charter Oak State College, our top-ranked school overall, comes in at a close second with a per-credit cost of $329 for all online students.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]If you’re a North Carolina resident, Appalachian State University charges $204 per credit, making it the most affordable option on our list for in-state students.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”How long does it take to get a degree in social work?”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Earning an online bachelor’s degree in social work typically takes four years of full-time study. Most bachelor’s degrees require 120 credits of coursework, including general education credits, electives, and major requirements. Several factors affect the length of a bachelor’s degree program, including your transfer credits and enrollment status.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]For example, if you hold an associate degree, you may be able to earn a bachelor’s degree in two years by transferring credits from your previous program. Part-time enrollment requires more than four years to complete a degree program, while an accelerated option lets you complete the degree requirements in less time.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [/hen-ui-accordion] [hen-ui-section-header title=”Discover More College Resources” /] [hen-ui-article-row variant=”2-col” ids=”352,19660,7916″][/hen-ui-article-row]