7 Best Online Social Work Degrees in Texas 2025

Pursuing accredited social work degrees online can be a great career move if you hope to work in social service fields like criminal justice, child welfare, or mental health. If you live in Texas, you may be wondering which schools in your state offer these types of degree programs.

Keep reading as we look at some good choices, including top online bachelor's in social work degrees and affordable online social work degrees at both bachelor's and master's levels. We'll also answer some questions you may have as a social work student.

Top Online Social Work Degree Programs in Texas

Quite a few Texas schools provide accredited programs in social work online. Let's take a look at some of the best online degrees in social work.

1. Angelo State University

Angelo State University is a public school located in San Angelo and belonging to the Texas Tech University System. The school is unique in that it offers bachelor's, master's, and Doctor of Social Work degrees online.

The bachelor's and master's degrees are accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) and prepare students for a variety of social justice careers, while the doctoral program enables students to specialize in clinical social work. These programs are all available in-person and online. Hundreds of scholarships are available to help students pay for their education, and Texas residents with significant financial aid may qualify for free tuition at this school.

2. Texas State University

Texas State University is located in San Marcos and boasts an enrollment of more than 40,000 students. Online learners at this school can earn a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and a Master of Social Work (MSW).

The undergraduate degree prepares students for generalist social work practice, while the MSW program helps students develop advanced leadership and administrative skills in social work. Both programs are completed entirely online and enable students to pursue licensure in Texas.

3. Baylor University

Baylor University is a private school in Waco with more than 20,000 students. It provides an online Master of Social Work degree with various program options.

Students looking for fast online social work degrees can enroll in the standard accelerated track. Traditional standard tracks and an advanced standing track are also available, and students can choose a concentration in community practice or clinical practice. The program enables students to complete field education components close to home; combined with flexible coursework, this makes this program highly accessible for busy students.

4. Our Lady of the Lake University

Our Lady of the Lake University is a private school located in San Antonio. It offers an online Master of Social Work program with foundation and advanced standing options.

This online master's degree consists of 30 to 57 credit hours, depending on which track you qualify for, and can be completed in as little as 11 months. The program is highly flexible with six yearly start dates and the ability to complete field experiences in a location that works for you.

5. Texas Tech University

Texas Tech University is a large public school in Lubbock that enrolls nearly 41,000 students. Students here can pursue an online Master of Social Work degree.

Students in the advanced standing program complete 32 credit hours, while those in the traditional track complete 59. The master's degree prepares students to work in many fields, such as social welfare and healthcare, helping improve the well-being of all they come in contact with.

6. University of Houston

The University of Houston is a public school that provides various online and on-campus degree programs. It offers a Master of Social Work degree for online students.

This online MSW program prepares students for direct practice in various social service fields. Students complete fieldwork requirements at an approved location near them, and all coursework can be completed online.

7. University of Texas at Arlington

The University of Texas at Arlington is a member of the University of Texas System. Students at this school can pursue a Bachelor of Social Work program online.

This degree is open to both Texas residents and out-of-state students, including those in the military stationed internationally. It provides training in welfare policy, human behavior, research methods, and more. Students can take various electives to tailor their program to specific career goals, and all fieldwork requirements can be completed in students' local communities.

Our Selection Criteria

We strive to include only the best bachelor's and master's degree programs in our rank lists. Find out more about our selection criteria below:

• Accreditation: All colleges and universities featured in this article maintains institutional accreditation, and each school of social work is CSWE-accredited.
• Reputation: Each school is a respected, reputable institution known for providing top-quality academic programs for both online and on-campus learners.
• Accessibility: All programs provide flexible online coursework, affordable tuition rates, financial aid options, and/or opportunities to gain hands-on experience through internships and practicums in their local communities. These features make the programs highly accessible to many students.

How To Choose an Online Social Work Degree

When choosing a social work program that's right for you, it's important to consider your priorities. Ask yourself questions such as:

• Do I have any connections to a particular school?
• How important is tuition and financial aid to me?
• Would I rather study at an in-state or out-of-state school?
• Would I rather study at a public or private school?
• Do I care about student organizations, athletics, or clubs?

Be honest with yourself about what's important to you when choosing your school. This will help you narrow down your options and find a social work program most aligned with your interests.

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

Admission requirements vary from school to school and sometimes depend on program level. Common bachelor's degree admission requirements include:

• high school diploma or GED
• official transcripts showing a minimum GPA of 2.0 or higher
• ACT or SAT scores

If you are pursuing an online Master of Social Work, you may have to meet additional requirements. You will need a bachelor's degree in social work or another field, and you may be asked to submit documents like a personal essay and letters of recommendation. You may have to have demonstrated work experience or submit GMAT or GRE scores.

FAQs About Online Social Work Degrees

If you still have questions about pursuing an online social work degree, you're not alone. Read on for answers to some frequently asked questions.

How Much Does an Online Social Work Program Cost?

The cost of your degree can vary depending on many factors. Students attending online colleges that accept FAFSA and other forms of financial aid typically pay less in terms of out-of-pocket expenses. That said, average tuition costs range from $30,000 to $45,000, with additional expenses like books and fees potentially raising the total cost even higher.

How Fast Can I Complete the Online BSW?

It typically takes full-time students about four years to complete an online BSW degree. However, there are ways to speed up the process. Those enrolled in accelerated programs may finish within three years. Students with an associate degree commonly finish within two years, and those with significant transfer credits can graduate in as little as one year.

How Long Does It Take to Become a Social Worker in Texas?

In Texas, you can become a Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW) after completing an accredited BSW program. Advanced social work licensure requires additional education. Depending on which certification you pursue, it can take anywhere from four to six years to become a social worker in your state.

Explore Online BSW and MSW Degrees Today

If you're ready to begin your social work journey, consider the colleges and universities featured here on Learn.org. Reach out to the admissions office at any of the schools to find out more about their programs and what they have to offer.