7 Affordable Online Social Work Degrees in New York

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), New York State has the second-highest number of social workers after California, and the New York City metropolitan area has the highest number of social workers of all metro areas in the country. Healthcare social workers have the highest numbers in the state, but child, family, and school social workers are close behind.

While tuition in New York can be pricy, an online social work bachelor's degree doesn't have to break the bank. Keep reading to discover affordable online social work degree programs available to students in New York State.

Affordable Online Social Work Degree Programs in New York

While many colleges and universities in New York offer online social work degrees, not all are affordable. Below, we've highlighted some affordable online colleges in New York that offer some low-cost options for social work programs. All schools listed are accredited by the Council on Social Work Education.

1. Keuka College

Keuka College is a nonprofit private school in Keuka Park, NY. It offers a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and a Master of Social Work (MSW) online.

The bachelor's degree includes coursework human behavior, social welfare, and generalist social work practice. It costs $534 per credit hour.

The online MSW program offers a traditional track and an advanced standing track for those who have a BSW. It requires in-person field placements, but they can be done in your community. The cost is $824 per credit.

2. State University of New York at Albany

Through the State University of New York (SUNY) at Albany, master's degree students can earn an online MSW with concentrations in either macro social work or clinical social work. Both programs include courses on human behavior and social services and require field education internships.

The University at Albany is a public research institution in Albany, NY, and it's one of two flagship universities of the SUNY system. In-state students pay $690.33 per credit hour or a flat rate of $6,540 per semester when studying full-time.

3. State University of New York at Binghamton

At the State University of New York at Binghamton, students can prepare for social work licensure through an online master's in social work. Binghamton University is a public research institution in Binghamton, NY.

The program covers generalist social work practice and includes field experiences. Online students can study part-time or full-time, and an advanced standing track is available to qualifying MSW students. This degree program costs $545 per credit hour.

4. State University of New York at Buffalo

The State University of New York at Buffalo is a public research institution in Buffalo, NY � and it's the other flagship university in the SUNY system. It offers an online Master of Social Work through its School of Social Work.

This degree offers core courses and electives that cover a range of topics, including child welfare, social justice, substance abuse, and trauma-informed care. Both a standard and an advanced standing track are available, and students who want to pursue clinical practice can fulfill licensure requirements through this program. Tuition is $711.16 per credit hour.

5. State University of New York at Plattsburgh

Through the State University of New York at Plattsburgh, social work students can earn their bachelor's degree online. This program includes coursework on social welfare policy, mental health, and human behavior, as well as fieldwork.

SUNY Plattsburgh is a public institution in Plattsburgh, NY. The program charges $3,535 per semester for full-time students or $295 per credit hour for part-time students.

6. Touro University

Students at Touro University can earn a bachelor's and a master's degree in social work online. This private, nonprofit Jewish institution is based in New York City.

The bachelor's program covers topics like human behavior and social justice and human rights advocacy. It requires field practicums and costs $500 per credit hour.

The master's degree, offered through the Graduate School of Social Work, prepares students for direct practice with optional specializations in gerontology, mental health, and school social work. It costs $855 per credit hour.

7. Utica University

Utica University is a private, nonprofit school in Utica, NY. It offers an online MSW that readies students to take their state exam to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW).

This program focuses on clinical social work, with courses on mental health, substance abuse disorders, and trauma-informed care. It charges $795 per credit hour.

FAQs About Online Social Work Programs

Below, we've answered some frequently asked questions about online social work programs.

Is an Online Social Work Degree Worth It?

An online social work degree can definitely be worth it, although it depends on your specific career goals.

In New York State, a master's degree from a CSWE-accredited program is required to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. It does not matter if you earned the degree online or on campus.

There are also many social work careers you can pursue with a bachelor's degree in social work. This degree can help you obtain entry-level social work roles in fields, such as criminal justice, health care, advocacy, and human services.

How Much Do Affordable Online Social Work Programs Cost?

The cost of an online social work program will depend on several factors, including:

• whether you're earning a BSW or MSW
• the school you choose
• if the school is public or private
• whether you're an in-state or out-of-state student
• full-time vs. part-time enrollment
• what financial aid you qualify for

Of the programs listed above, BSW programs range from $295 to $534 per credit hour, while MSW programs range from $545 to $855.

What Are the Admission Requirements for Online Social Work Degree Programs?

The admissions requirements for online social work degree programs vary between schools and degree levels. Bachelor's degree programs will require a high school diploma or equivalent and may expect a certain GPA.

Master's degree programs are often more rigorous. They require a bachelor's degree and usually set a minimum GPA. You may also be expected to have taken the GRE and to submit essays or letters of recommendation.

Explore Online BSW and MSW Degrees Today

If you're reading to start your path toward becoming a social work professional, check out the accredited programs featured on Learn.org. Reach out to individual schools today to learn more about admissions requirements, enrollment, and online options.