10 Best Online Social Work Degrees in 2025
Earning a CSWE-accredited Bachelor of Social Work degree is the first step to pursuing entry-level careers, graduate degrees, and state licenses in social work.
Social workers have career opportunities across the public and private sectors, including roles in schools, healthcare settings, and personal case management. Most of these career paths start with a Bachelor of Social Work degree before continuing to state-based licensing programs. The best online bachelor's in social work programs allow students to prepare for entry-level positions and licensing exams.
Low-cost online social work degrees provide affordable learning options for professionals looking to change or advance their careers. These programs utilize online courses and in-person field placements to prepare the next generation of social work professionals.
Top Online Bachelor's in Social Work (BSW) Degree Programs
Many schools offer CSWE-accredited (Council on Social Work Education) social work degree programs. These traditionally paced, hybrid, and accelerated online social work degrees accommodate learners' unique education demands. The following online learning programs often offer some of the best online master's in social work for students looking to continue their education.
1. Arizona State University
Students at Arizona State University can complete an online Bachelor of Social Work for generalist careers. Online courses teach in-demand skills related to substance abuse treatment, disability advocacy, and mental health policy. This program is designed to lead to Arizona state licensure, but students can use this program to apply for licensing in some eligible states.
2. University of Cincinnati
The University of Cincinnati's Bachelor of Social Work program covers ethics, human behavior and social environment, and diversity considerations. Even though all coursework for this BSW degree is completed online, students will complete a field placement assignment to gain real-world skills related to social work.
3. West Virginia University
The School of Social Work at West Virginia University offers a Bachelor of Social Work online. The online courses in this BSW program can be either self-paced or instructor-led courses to give students flexible learning options. Prerequisites for this degree include an associate degree or an equivalent amount of transfer credits, a minimum 2.0 GPA, and 50 hours of community service.
4. Walden University
Walden University offers an online Bachelor of Social Work degree program. Students have multiple enrollment options, including a full BSW program, a degree completion program, and a combined online BSW and MSW program. Online students will participate in interactive skills labs, case studies, and field experiences to hone their skills.
5. Maryville University
The online BSW program from Maryville University is aligned with the nine CSWE competencies, including demonstrating ethical behavior, advancing human rights, engaging in policy practice, and more. The online courses are taught by professors actively involved in social work practices. This online program can be completed on a fully asynchronous schedule, making it highly flexible.
6. Capella University
Capella University offers a fully online Bachelor of Social Work. Students will participate in online social work courses and in-person learning experiences, such as internships, to develop the skills needed to work in social services. This bachelor's degree won't qualify for licensure in all states, so it's important to confirm eligibility in your state before applying.
7. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Students at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign can earn the same high-quality Bachelor of Social Work online or on campus. The online BSW program is designed for students who have completed an associate degree program or earned equivalent credits. Students will benefit from online coursework and in-person internships in their local communities. Those interested in advancing their careers can also pursue advanced-standing graduate degree programs.
8. University of Colorado Colorado Springs
Students at the University of Colorado Colorado Springs can earn a Bachelor of Social Work through the UCCS College of Public Service. They will take core social work courses as well as general education and social work electives which will allow them to pursue more specialized career paths within the field. In addition to its CSWE-accredited undergraduate programs, students can pursue graduate degrees in social work to prepare for more advanced opportunities.
9. University of North Carolina Charlotte
UNC Charlotte provides students who have already earned an associate degree with the option to complete a Bachelor of Social Work degree. This degree completion program includes courses such as social welfare policy, community engagement, and social work practicums.
10. University of Missouri
The online BSW from the University of Missouri (Mizzou) is offered through its College of Health Sciences. Students can choose between full-time and part-time enrollment as they prepare for careers in case management, government work, and social justice advocacy. Mizzou also offers students an online master's in social work program for those wishing to advance their education.
What To Expect From an Online Social Work Degree
Online social work degrees have many common features, no matter which school you attend. Most programs offer a combination of fully online coursework with in-person internship opportunities coordinated with local nonprofits or other organizations.
Students should expect to learn about child welfare, addiction treatment, and other advocacy efforts. Coursework is generally delivered in the form of case studies or interactive labs to provide hands-on practice in simulated environments.
Education Requirements To Become a Social Worker
Some entry-level social work positions only require a BSW degree, but most will also require state licensure and an MSW degree. Each state has different requirements, so it's important to know what your state requires before selecting an online social work degree program.
Scholarship Opportunities for Social Work Students
Online schools that accept FAFSA generally accept other forms of financial aid as well. These scholarships provide tailored options for students to earn money to pay for their social work degrees without the repayment requirements of student loans.
Minority Fellowship Program
Award Amount: $ Varies
Application Deadline: Varies
This scholarship is offered by the CSWE to graduate students enrolled in master's or doctoral programs. Students in the last years of their program can apply for this funding. Primary consideration will be given to students working to promote mental health and substance abuse treatment services in racially diverse settings.
Davis Putter Scholarship
Award Amount: $7,500 to $15,000 per year
Application Deadline: April 1
This scholarship rewards students involved in progressive movements related to economic and social justice. The primary awarding factor for these scholarships is financial need and students will need to submit an application, personal statement, and letters of recommendation.
The Pride Foundation Scholarship
Award Amount: Varies
Application Deadline: January 10, 2025
LGBTQ+ students in Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, or Washington can apply for this scholarship. It is awarded primarily to students who have experienced barriers and prejudice based on race, gender, or sexual orientation and are attending social work programs.
Find an Online Bachelor of Social Work Program Near You
Online social work degrees are offered from CSWE-accredited programs nationwide. Once you've narrowed down the best programs for your goals, reach out to the colleges to request information or start your application process today.
To find a program near you, browse through this list of states: