7 Affordable Online Social Work Degrees in North Carolina

Many affordable online colleges in North Carolina offer social work degrees for students looking to start or advance their careers in the field. With flexible online learning, students across the state can complete degrees without relocating or interrupting their work and personal commitments.

By pursuing one of these affordable social work degrees online, you can gain the skills needed to support individuals, families, and communities in need. Each program provides the same quality education as on-campus programs and helps prepare students for careers as social work professionals.

Affordable Online Social Work Degree Programs in North Carolina

These are some of the top online social work programs in North Carolina, providing accredited bachelor's and master's degree programs in convenient distance learning formats.

1. Appalachian State University

Appalachian State University offers an affordable online Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program with tuition of around $200 per credit hour for in-state students. This flexible program includes both synchronous (set-time) and asynchronous (self-paced) classes, allowing students to customize their schedules to fit their needs.

The curriculum includes general education courses and electives in areas like healthcare, substance abuse, and school social work. Students graduate feeling ready to make a positive impact in various social work settings across the state.

2. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

The University of North Carolina (UNC) at Chapel Hill offers an online Master of Social Work (MSW) program known for its comprehensive curriculum and hands-on learning experiences.

Students at UNC Chapel Hill can choose from concentrations, including community, management, and policy practice as well as direct practice. This helps them develop specialized skills that align with their personal career goals. Courses cover essential topics like clinical social work, human services, and social policy, furthering students' knowledge of crucial social work concepts. Financial aid options and the opportunity to transfer approved graduate credits make this program more affordable for students.

3. University of North Carolina at Charlotte

The University of North Carolina(UNC) at Charlotte provides both a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and a Master of Social Work (MSW) program online. The BSW program is designed as a two-year degree completion program, making it ideal for students who already have some college credits.

Tuition for the BSW program is under $200 per credit hour for in-state residents and the MSW program is under $300. Both programs emphasize core areas like social policy, social work theory, research, and intervention, preparing students for general and advanced social work roles. Graduates of the MSW program are also eligible for state licensure if they want to become licensed social workers or licensed clinical social workers.

4. Methodist University

Methodist University's affordable BSW program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) and the online coursework can be completed in under three years. The curriculum covers essential social work competencies, including diversity, social welfare, intervention, and evaluation.

Methodist University offers an optional school social work licensure pathway for students interested in becoming school social workers. The program also includes an internship practicum with a local field placement to give students hands-on practice in their community to help prepare them for successful social work careers. Students can transfer up to 93 credits toward the 124-credit program, which helps reduce the overall cost and time it takes to graduate.

5. University of North Carolina at Pembroke

The University of North Carolina at Pembroke offers an affordable online MSW program with both part-time and full-time enrollment options. Social work students with a BSW can qualify for the advanced standing track to complete the MSW in just one year of full-time study.

UNC Pembroke's CSWE-accredited program is and offers scholarships specifically for MSW students, helping to reduce tuition costs. UNC Pembroke's online MSW has an advanced generalist track option and prepares graduates for a wide range of social work roles, from direct practice to community advocacy and leadership.

6. East Carolina University

East Carolina University's online and affordable Master of Social Work program offers a flexible three-year, part-time pathway with both advanced standing and regular pathways. In-state students can expect to pay approximately $285 per credit hour.

ECU's MSW program emphasizes ethics, child welfare, human behavior, and social environments, preparing students to provide client services and advocate for diverse populations. The program gives students a deeper understanding of social issues and prepares them to create positive change through careers as social workers.

7. University of North Carolina at Wilmington

The University of North Carolina (UNC) at Wilmington offers an online Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program for students who have an associate degree from a North Carolina community college.

This fully online program allows students to earn their BSW in two years. The curriculum covers essential social work topics, including social policy, social justice, research methods, and diversity, and includes internship opportunities for practical experience. Graduates of the BSW program are eligible for advanced-standing MSW programs if they choose to pursue graduate school.

FAQs About Online Social Work Degrees

These commonly asked questions can prospective students better understand the benefits and specifics of affordable online social work degree options in North Carolina.

How Much Do Affordable Online Social Work Programs Cost?

Affordable online social work degrees in North Carolina vary depending on the institution and level of the degree. Undergraduate programs generally range from $200 to $300 per credit hour for in-state residents, while graduate programs can range from $300 to $500 per credit hour.

Paying in-state tuition and pursuing an education with online classes is a more affordable option than in-person classes with out-of-state tuition rates. Financial aid, scholarships, and flexible payment plans can further reduce costs, making these programs more affordable and accessible for students.

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

Admission requirements also vary by program, but online BSW programs typically require a high school diploma or GED. MSW programs often require a bachelor's degree in social work for advanced standing options and many ask for transcripts to ensure you fulfill GPA requirements. Oftentimes, GRE test scores, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose are also required when applying for online social work programs such as master's or doctoral degrees.

What Are the Benefits of an Affordable Online MSW Degree?

Earning an affordable online MSW degree provides flexibility and allows students to balance their studies with personal and professional commitments. With an MSW, graduates can pursue licensure and high-level roles in various settings, including senior centers, mental health clinics, private social work practices, healthcare facilities, and more, making it a versatile and valuable degree.

Find Online Social Work Programs Today

Start your journey toward a meaningful career in social work by exploring more affordable online social work programs on Learn.org. With North Carolina's quality online options, you can find a program that meets your goals, fits your schedule, and prepares you for a career in social services.