10 Most Affordable Online Social Justice Degrees 2025

Online bachelor's in social justice degrees give you the skills to make a difference in your community and beyond. These programs are perfect if you want to work in advocacy, nonprofit leadership, or public service.

You'll study topics like fairness, equality, and how laws and policies impact people. Many programs are flexible and designed for busy students, so you can fit your studies around work or other responsibilities. By earning this degree, you'll be ready to take on roles that help people and communities. Below, we'll look at some of the most affordable online programs available.

What Is a Social Justice Major?

A social justice major focuses on fairness, equity, and human rights. You'll study subjects like diversity, law, and public policy, while also learning about how society works through sociology, political science, psychology, and law.

This degree teaches you to think critically and understand the challenges people face. Graduates are ready to step into jobs where they can make a real difference, from helping individuals to shaping policies that improve communities. When you earn a social justice and human rights degree, you'll have the knowledge and confidence to take action for change.

Can You Earn an Online Social Justice Degree?

Yes, many schools let you earn a social justice degree online. The programs are built for working students, so you can learn on your schedule.

Some classes are fully asynchronous, letting you complete work anytime, while others may include live sessions or virtual discussions. You may also take part in internships or service-learning opportunities, helping you gain hands-on experience in advocacy or nonprofit work while earning your degree.

How Much Do Social Justice Programs Cost Online?

Tuition for affordable online social justice programs can vary, but most programs charge by the credit hour. In-state students often pay less than out-of-state students. Total costs depend on how many credits you need to graduate and any additional fees.

Some schools offer flat-rate tuition, which can help you plan your budget. Scholarships, grants, and other financial aid options can make the cost even more manageable.

Most Affordable Online Social Justice Degrees

Our list of the most affordable online social justice degrees highlights programs that are accredited, reasonably priced, and well-designed. These schools will help you build the real skills you need for your career.

1. Fort Hays State University

Fort Hays State University (FHSU) offers a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) designed to prepare you for frontline practice with a strong focus on equity, advocacy, and service to marginalized populations. This fully accredited program combines academic coursework with hands-on field education, giving you the tools to address issues like poverty, health disparities, and systemic injustice.

Through courses in human behavior, social policy, and diversity, you'll learn to promote fairness and empower individuals, families, and communities. The program emphasizes ethical practice and leadership so you graduate ready to work in schools, health care, nonprofits, or community agencies.

• Estimated tuition cost: $265 per credit hour
• Financial aid: Grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study programs are available for eligible students.
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

2. University of Nebraska at Kearney

The University of Nebraska at Kearney's (UNK) BSW program is rooted in the values of service, justice, and inclusivity. You'll take courses that highlight human rights, social policy, and advocacy and gain practical field experience in agencies that serve vulnerable populations.

UNK prepares you to confront inequities in health care, education, and community systems, giving you the skills to be a strong voice for underserved groups. With supportive faculty and real-world learning, this program equips you to become a compassionate, ethical leader ready to challenge systemic barriers and promote meaningful change.

• Estimated tuition cost: $291 per credit hour (in-state); $445 per credit hour (out-of-state)
• Financial aid: Grants, scholarships, student loans, and work-study programs are available for qualifying students.
• Accreditation: HLC

3. University of Wisconsin Collaborative

The University of Wisconsin Collaborative (UW) Bachelor of Science (BS) in human services leadership program is made for students who want to turn their passion for helping others into leadership roles that drive change. While not a traditional social work degree, the program focuses on social justice and ethical practice through courses on community leadership, advocacy, and diversity.

You'll be able to work with organizations that address poverty, inequality, and access to services, which will give you hands-on experience supporting marginalized populations. The program's flexible online format allows you to complete coursework from anywhere while preparing to lead human services agencies and advance equity in your community.

• Estimated tuition cost: $295 per credit hour
• Financial aid: Federal and state aid, scholarships, grants, and work-study options are available to eligible students.
• Accreditation: HLC

4. Avila University

Avila University's online BSW program is centered on social justice, equity, and service to others. The curriculum prepares you to advocate for individuals and families while addressing broader systemic issues like poverty, discrimination, and health disparities.

Courses focus on ethical practice, cultural competence, and community engagement, helping you develop the skills to promote fairness and equity in diverse settings. The program also incorporates fieldwork, allowing you to apply what you learn by serving vulnerable populations in real-world contexts.

• Estimated tuition cost: $300 per credit hour
• Financial aid: Federal and state aid, scholarships, grants, and loans are available to qualifying students.
• Accreditation: HLC

5. University of Wisconsin?tevens Point

The University of Wisconsin?tevens Point (UWSP) offers an online BSW program designed to prepare you to fight for equity and justice in your community. With a strong focus on advocacy, ethical practice, and service to marginalized groups, the program trains you to address social inequalities in areas such as housing, health care, and child welfare.

Courses highlight cultural competence, policy analysis, and community engagement. You'll also gain hands-on experience through supervised fieldwork, working directly with individuals and families who are most in need of support.

• Estimated tuition cost: $323 per credit hour
• Financial aid: Scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study opportunities are available to qualifying students
• Accreditation: HLC

6. American Public University

American Public University's (APU) Bachelor of Arts (BA) in sociology has classes that examine the root causes of inequality and teach you how to advocate for meaningful social change. The program is fully online, making it accessible if you need a flexible option while balancing work and family.

Courses emphasize topics such as social movements, race and ethnicity, and public policy. Through critical research and analysis, you'll learn how to engage communities, contribute to policy development, and pursue careers or graduate study focused on advancing equity and justice.

• Estimated tuition cost: $350 per credit hour
• Financial aid: Federal student aid, military tuition assistance, scholarships, and grants are available for eligible students.
• Accreditation: HLC

7. Walden University

Walden University's online BSW program is designed for students who want to make a real difference in their communities by addressing issues of equity and justice. The curriculum focuses on building the knowledge and skills needed to advocate for marginalized populations, improve access to resources, and influence positive systemic change.

You'll study topics such as diversity, ethics, and social welfare policy while also completing supervised field experiences that connect classroom learning to real-world practice. Walden prepares you to work in settings where you can promote social justice in child welfare, health care, schools, or community organizations.

• Estimated tuition cost: $350 per quarter hour
• Financial aid: Walden accepts federal student aid and offers scholarships, grants, and tuition reduction opportunities for eligible students.
• Accreditation: HLC

8. University of Alabama

The University of Alabama's online BSW equips you to serve diverse populations and address pressing social issues with compassion and professionalism. The program combines flexible online coursework with required field placements in your local community, letting you work directly with individuals and families.

Coursework highlights social policy, human behavior, research, and practice methods, with a strong focus on social justice and advocacy for vulnerable populations. You'll graduate prepared to step into entry-level social work roles or continue on to advanced study.

• Estimated tuition cost: $399 per credit hour
• Financial aid: The University of Alabama provides access to federal financial aid, scholarships, grants, and military benefits for eligible students
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

9. University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota (UND), which values working with rural, Indigenous, and underserved populations, offers an online BS in social work designed to prepare you for meaningful practice in diverse communities. The program includes flexible online coursework and in-person field placements, so you gain real-world experience while learning at a distance.

Courses cover human behavior, social policy, ethics, and evidence-based interventions, equipping you to respond to the needs of individuals, families, and communities. Graduates are eligible for licensure and ready to make a difference through advocacy, service, and leadership in the field of social work.

• Estimated tuition cost: $413 per credit hour
• Financial aid: UND offers federal financial aid, scholarships, tuition waivers, and support for military and veteran students.
• Accreditation: HLC

10. Arizona State University

Arizona State University (ASU) offers an online BA in social justice and human rights that gives you the tools to understand and address inequality at local, national, and global levels. The 120-credit program can be completed fully online.

Courses cover topics like human rights law, advocacy, global development, and social movement so that you're prepared to analyze complex issues and create practical solutions. You'll also gain research and communication skills that are valuable in nonprofit work, government, or policy organizations.

• Estimated tuition cost: $493 per credit hour
• Financial aid: Federal aid, scholarships, and military education benefits are available for qualifying students.
• Accreditation: HLC

How We Rank Schools

We want you to feel confident choosing a program that balances cost, quality, and career preparation. That's why our rankings are based on these clear criteria:

• Accreditation: Accreditation ensures the program meets high academic and professional standards, which is essential for licensure and credibility in the field.
• Affordability: We compare tuition rates and fees to highlight programs that deliver strong value without placing unnecessary financial strain on students.
• Program reputation: We consider factors like faculty expertise, student satisfaction, and the strength of clinical partnerships to identify programs with proven outcomes.

Careers in Social Justice

Social justice careers can take you in many directions. You might work as a nonprofit leader, community organizer, or policy advocate. Other options include roles in government, social services, or research.

Salaries vary by job and location, but demand is growing for graduates who understand equity, human rights, and community needs. With your degree, you can make a real difference while building a stable career.

FAQs About Online Social Justice Degrees

Below, we answer common questions about online social justice programs. You'll learn about the degrees, what you can do with them, and how they fit into different career paths.

Is a Social Justice Degree Worth It?

A social justice degree is worth it if you want to pursue meaningful work that impacts people and communities. You'll gain knowledge, practical skills, and the confidence to step into advocacy and nonprofit roles. Many graduates find personal fulfillment in helping others, shaping public policy, or leading initiatives that support equity and justice.

Are Online Social Justice Degrees Respected by Employers?

Employers respect online social justice degrees from accredited schools. These programs give you skills that matter in the workplace, like understanding policy, law, and community needs. Completing an accredited program shows you're prepared for real-world challenges, making you a strong candidate for public service, nonprofit, and advocacy roles.

What Can You Do With a Social Justice Degree?

With a social justice degree, you can become a policy analyst, nonprofit manager, community organizer, or social services coordinator. You'll have the knowledge to help people, improve systems, and support communities.

What Are the Admission Requirements for a Social Justice Major?

Typical admission requirements include a high school diploma or transfer credits, a minimum GPA, and standard application materials like transcripts and personal statements. Some programs may ask for letters of recommendation or a brief essay. Requirements vary by school, so be sure to double-check with the admissions office before applying.

Discover More Online Bachelor's Programs

Explore more online bachelor's programs on Learn.org, including sociology, political science, psychology, and human services. These degrees can help you continue learning and open doors to careers in public service, advocacy, and community support.