7 Affordable Online Social Work Degrees in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania offers a range of flexible and affordable online degrees in social work, making it easier for students to pursue careers in social services while balancing personal and professional commitments.

These low-cost online social work degrees are designed to equip students with the skills necessary for licensure and impactful practice, whether they're just starting in the field or advancing their social work profession.

Social work students in Pennsylvania can expect to develop a strong foundation in social work theory and ethics while gaining hands-on training in community settings as they pursue an online bachelor's degree in social work.

Affordable Online Social Work Degree Programs in Pennsylvania

Many affordable online colleges in Pennsylvania offer programs for students interested in social work careers. The following programs involve online learning and coursework, specialized practice areas, and real-world field experience. Each program listed meets the professional standards set by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).

1. Eastern University

Eastern University provides an affordable and accredited online MSW program, designed to prepare students for advanced generalist practice. The curriculum covers clinical practice, research methods, advocacy, and social work ethics.

Students complete 900 hours of supervised field education, gaining hands-on training that equips them for compassionate and effective service in diverse environments. Graduates can take on career paths as healthcare social workers, child welfare professionals, and clinical social workers.

2. Pennsylvania Western University

Pennsylvania Western University offers a 100% online Master of Social Work (MSW) program focused on advanced generalist social work practice. The curriculum includes courses on human behavior, trauma-informed care, and policy practice, with an emphasis on diversity, equity, and anti-oppressive methods.

Students can choose between traditional and advanced standing programs, depending on their prior education, and complete fieldwork requirements in local community settings to gain valuable practical experience.

3. Temple University

Temple University's online MSW is tailored for working professionals, offering a part-time format that combines live, interactive classes with asynchronous content. The program focuses on clinical and macro practice concentrations, with core courses covering social work theory, research, human behavior, and diversity.

Learners can specialize in numerous areas, such as health and mental health, child and family services, or community and policy work. Locally-coordinated Field placements provide MSW students with relevant, real-world experience.

4. Slippery Rock University

Slippery Rock University's MSW is an accredited program that emphasizes advanced clinical practice for children, adults, and families. The program combines online coursework with field practicums, focusing on evidence-based methods and interventions. It is available in traditional and advanced standing formats for BSW holders.

Social work students can choose from various electives to add specializations to their degree credentials, such as substance abuse, human rights, and school social work. Graduates are well-prepared to take the Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) exam, making this program a strong choice for those pursuing clinical licensure.

5. Widener University

Widener University offers an online MSW program centered on clinical social work and trauma studies, with part-time and full-time enrollment options to accommodate working professionals. Specialized courses include trauma-informed care, social justice, mental health and well-being, and family practice, emphasizing ethical service.

The master's degree program prepares online students for licensure and equips them with leadership skills to excel in various social environments and social work roles.

6. Shippensburg University

Shippensburg University's CSWE-accredited online MSW program focuses on advanced generalist practice and offers both traditional and advanced standing pathways. The curriculum includes social welfare policy, advanced methods, and social work research, preparing graduates for roles in healthcare, human services, community organizations, and family services.

An optional Home and School Visitor certificate is also available, expanding career opportunities for students looking to become school social workers.

7. Edinboro University

Edinboro University's fully online Master of Social Work (MSW) program focuses on trauma-informed, family-centered social work practice. The program covers human behavior, social welfare policy, and trauma-informed methods, preparing graduates for licensure and leadership in diverse social service settings.

Students can choose between a 60-credit traditional pathway or a 39-credit advanced standing pathway, with specific field experience requirements for each option. Traditional pathway students complete 900 hours of fieldwork, while advanced standing students complete 500 hours.

FAQs About Online Social Work Programs

These frequently asked questions about pursuing online social work degrees can help guide your decision-making process.

How Much Does an Online Social Work Degree Cost?

The cost of an online social work degree in Pennsylvania varies, but many programs offer competitive tuition rates. Graduate programs like MSW degrees often range from $400 to $600 per credit hour, with financial aid and scholarships available to help offset costs.

Some higher education programs, like the University of Pennsylvania, cost as much as $11,000 per semester. Online and in-state programs are generally more affordable than on-campus and out-of-state programs � they often have lower tuition rates and program fees.

What Courses Are Typically in an Online Social Work Program?

Courses in an online social work program typically include human behavior, social welfare policy, trauma-informed care, clinical assessment, intervention planning, research methods, and ethics. Fieldwork components are also a crucial part of the curriculum, providing practical experience in real-world settings.

What Degree Do You Need To Be a Social Worker in Pennsylvania?

To become a social worker in Pennsylvania, you generally need at least a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) for entry-level positions. For clinical roles and higher-level opportunities, a Master of Social Work (MSW) is required, along with passing the Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) exam for clinical licensure.

Explore Online Bachelor's Degrees Today

With flexible options designed to fit your needs, you can take the next step toward a rewarding career in social work. Check out more affordable online BSW and MSW programs on the Learn.org website.