Social work can be a rewarding career but these important professionals are often not compensated well. It takes a special person to make a difference in others’ lives and fight for social justice and human rights. Getting one of the cheapest online social work degrees can make your educational return on investment higher.
The most affordable online social work degree can help you meet your professional goals. Keep reading to find out more about the benefits of online social work degrees, the schools that offer the cheapest online social work degrees, and your job and salary outlook after graduation.
Can I Get a Social Work Degree Online?
Online social work programs provide a flexible learning experience. Online students will find the programs affordable and accredited. They offer a supportive learning environment that allows you to learn at your own pace. Additionally, online social work programs are research-based. Experienced faculty specializing in social work, counseling, and therapy design the school’s curriculum.
Why Should I Get a Social Work Degree Online?
You should get a social work degree online because the demand for social workers is steadily rising, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Social workers are now more involved in healthcare and are indispensable in providing in-home services. Social workers play a critical role in delivering a better quality of life and helping initiate and drive new programs for the betterment of communities.
Additionally, having a life’s purpose of helping make a difference in your community is gratifying and commendable. Earning your online social work degree allows you to live out your purpose.
The most affordable online social work degrees also provide flexibility for those who may need to attend to their families or other responsibilities while studying.
What Are the Most Affordable Online Social Work Degree Programs in the US?
Affordability and quality are two of the main reasons why online social work programs are so popular. The schools listed below have the lowest tuition rates for online social work programs in the country. They are an excellent choice for students looking to get high-quality education in this important field.
Cheapest Social Work Degree Programs Online That Will Help You Stand Out
- Bachelor of General Studies at Wichita State University
- Bachelor of Social Work at the University of Nebraska at Kearney
- Online Bachelor of Social Work at Eastern New Mexico University
- Bachelor of Social Work at King Universit
- Bachelor of Social Work at Lewis-Clark State College
How Much Does the Cheapest Online Social Work Degree Cost?
The cheapest online social work degrees cost between $6,700 and $15,000 per year. The cost of earning your online social work degree varies depending on your university. In addition to tuition, there are additional costs like miscellaneous fees, online materials, and school materials that can assist in your education.
Will Getting a Social Work Degree Online Save Me Money?
Yes, getting a social work degree online can save you money. Students in online degree programs don’t have to worry about spending money on relocation, on-campus housing, meal plans, or transportation. Additionally, online programs are often cheaper for students who would be considered out-of-state students in an in-person program because schools offer one tuition rate for all students, regardless of location.
Online degrees are not only more affordable but more flexible. Online students can choose programs that are asynchronous or synchronous, depending on the school they choose to attend and their educational preferences. This flexibility allows them to focus on balancing commitments with studying.
Online Social Work Programs vs In-Person Social Work Programs
The main difference between online and on-campus social work programs is that online programs require students to complete coursework online through an accredited institution. On-campus programs include classroom lectures and hands-on training experiences within clinical settings like hospitals or shelters.
Benefits of an Online Social Work Degree Programs
Online education is generally more flexible than traditional on-campus programs. This allows distance learners to build up credit hours, including transfer credits, online. Public and private schools offer online Bachelor’s Degrees in Social Work and the application process is often easier.
- A field placement may be offered in your area. Field placement is a unique opportunity to get real-world experience. Though you can learn a lot in the classroom, new social workers must gain hands-on experience with clients and their families. When you have a field placement, you have the chance to put what you’ve learned into practice.
- A career change or career enhancement. An online social work degree program may be the perfect option if you are looking for a career change or career enhancement. Social work is a growing field that provides individuals with plenty of opportunities to help people who are in need.
- Professional network opportunities. Online classes also provide access to a larger pool of students than campus-based programs. This means more opportunities for interaction with classmates and professors in your online coursework. This can help you build relationships with like-minded individuals who may have similar goals or interests.
- An online program can help someone gain professional expertise. Your online social work degree program will provide you with a wide range of resources to help you learn and grow as a professional. As an online student, you’ll have access to the same breadth of information and tools as a traditional student.
- An online degree has a high return on investment value. An online social work degree can be completed in less time than a traditional degree. This is because you don’t have to spend time commuting to and from campus, and you don’t have to sit through classes that aren’t relevant to your field of study.
Benefits of In-Person Social Work Degree Programs
- Scholarships and grants. Students have access to financial assistance through scholarships and grants. Applying for these scholarships is important because they can help make school more affordable or even completely free.
- In-person instruction. Some students may prefer to learn through in-person instruction. It can make it easier for people to focus, get hands-on experience, and learn from their peers and professors.
- Practicums and field internship opportunities. Internships and practicums allow students to apply their knowledge in the real world. These programs provide students with the practical skills they need to succeed in their careers.
- Interpersonal relationships. Communication is an essential part of social work. Social workers need to build a relationship with clients, and they must also build relationships with other professionals to provide the best care for their clients. It may be easier to develop these skills in an in-person program.
- Better focus on campus. In-person classes may help students to focus because they have a regular schedule. Additionally, classrooms tend to have fewer distractions and students have easy access to libraries and study spaces.
Online Social Work Degree Career Options
One of the advantages of earning your online social work degree is your career options are flexible. Traditionally, a social worker only focused on a particular demographic. Times have changed, and social work can challenge you by offering a wide variety of demographics and scenarios.
With minimal training, you can shift from working in child protection to assisting senior citizens. You can work in private practice, government offices, schools, and hospitals, and be a game changer in your community. Below are job opportunities to consider after earning your degree in social work.
Social Work Job Outlook
Social workers play an important role in our society. They help people of all ages and backgrounds overcome challenges like poverty and abuse. Social workers also assist with the emotional and physical needs of children, families, and adults. This can include providing counseling services or helping individuals find suitable housing options.
As the world changes, social work will continue to evolve. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) states that the field of social work is projected to grow 12 percent from 2020 to 2030. This means there are 78,300 new jobs in social work expected to open up each year over the next 10 years.
Social Work Degree Salary
According to PayScale, the average annual salary of a social worker in the United States is $50,193. The more years of training and work experience you have, the higher your compensation. Social workers who have more than 10 years of experience can earn up to $70,000 annually.
Can I Enroll in an Online Social Work Program for Free?
No, you cannot enroll in an online social work program for free. However, some platforms offer free online courses in social work. Completing these online courses would earn you a certificate but not credits towards a degree in social work. These free courses often encourage students to consider pursuing traditional higher education.
Even if you are studying for one of the most affordable online social work degrees, there is still a possibility of getting financial assistance. Scholarships and grants can help you cover the cost of your education at a private or public institution.
Cheapest Online Social Work Degree Programs
| School | Online Degree | Degree Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Wichita State University | Bachelor’s in General Studies | $228/credit |
| University of Nebraska at Kearney | Bachelor of Social Work | $259/credit (in state); $396/credit (out of state) |
| Eastern New Mexico University | Online Bachelor of Social Work | $289/credit (in state); $374/credit (out of state) |
| King University | Bachelor of Social Work | $305/credit |
| Lewis-Clark State College | Bachelor of Social Work | $358/credit |
| Troy University | Bachelor of Social Work | $388/credit |
| Liberty University | Bachelor of Social Work | $390/credit |
| Campbellsville University | Bachelor of Social Work | $410/credit |
| Briar Cliff University | Bachelor of Social Work | $417/credit |
| University of Cincinnati | Bachelor of Social Work | $556/credit (in state); $578/credit (out of state) |
Social Work Degrees Ranking Methodology: How We Ranked the Most Affordable Online Social Work Programs
We chose the most affordable social work degree programs based on tuition and general costs information from the schools’ official websites, the US Department of Education’s database of accredited schools, and the US Department of Education’s College Scorecard tool.
The Cheapest Online {Subject} Degree Programs: A Deep Dive
Wichita State University is one of the cheapest schools to offer an online Bachelor of General Studies focusing on social work. Academic advisors are readily available for prospective students interested in pursuing an online education. Wichita State University students pay in-state tuition fees regardless of location.
Note that social work is a specialization and does not give you the license to practice it. The general studies bachelor's degree is for students who prefer to explore multiple academic specializations to customize their degree.
Wichita State University Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Type of School: Public
- Admissions Rate: 80%
- Graduation Rate: 50%
- US News National Ranking: #299-391
- Post-Grad Median Salary: $47,524
Wichita State University Overview
- Admissions Requirements: GPA of 2.25 or higher
- Credits Required to Graduate: 124
- Average Graduation Time: 4 years
- Core Curriculum: General psychology, human diversity
- Key Skills: Respect for diversity
- Areas of Specialization: Not specified
Who Is Wichita State University’s Social Work Bachelor’s Degree For?
- Students with no previous experience in social work.
- Anyone who wants to pursue social work but would like an education that allows them to explore many subjects.
Students enrolled in this 120-credit degree can feel confident knowing that the quality of the online program is the same as the on-campus curriculum. Even though the university is one of the cheapest online schools for social work, the faculty provide ongoing support to virtual learners.
The University of Nebraska at Kearney created an online platform for students to access university resources easily. Transfer students can inquire about the undergraduate degree programs and find answers to typical questions like class sizes, core courses, and how to process their online application.
University of Nebraska at Kearney Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Type of School: Public
- Admissions Rate: 88%
- Graduation Rate: 59%
- US News Ranking: #34 (Regional Universities Midwest)
- Post-Grad Median Salary: $46,054
Online Social Work Overview
- Admissions Requirements: GPA of 3.0 or higher, minimum ACT score of 20, or a minimum composite SAT score of 1040
- Credits Required to Graduate: 120
- Average Graduation Time: 4 years
- Core Curriculum: Human behavior, diversity, social justice
- Key Skills: Not specified
- Areas of Specialization: Disabilities, mental health, aging, child welfare, law, school, medical, violence across lifespan
Who Is the University of Nebraska’s Online Social Work Bachelor’s Degree For?
- Students who prefer virtual learning.
- Students without previous exposure to social work.
Student success is always a top priority in this school. The Office of Distance Learning fully supports the online degrees offered at Eastern New Mexico University (ENMU). ENMU ensures that students are equipped with the theoretical aspects, skills, and experience required to succeed in their chosen major.
The online Bachelor of Social Work program adheres to the Council on Social Work Education standards. This ensures graduate students can be competent, ethical, and effective social workers.
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Eastern New Mexico University Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Type of School: Public
- Admissions Rate: 51%
- Graduation Rate: 44%
- US News Ranking: #94-122 (Regional Universities West)
- Post-Grad Median Salary: $33,395
Online Social Work Overview
- Admissions Requirements: GPA of 2.5 or higher, personal statement or essay, three letters of recommendation
- Credits Required to Graduate: 120
- Average Graduation Time: 4 years
- Core Curriculum: Social work practice, chemical dependency, human diversity,
- Key Skills: Ethical behavior, engage diversity, advance human rights, intervene
- Areas of Specialization: Not specified
Who Is Eastern New Mexico University’s Social Work Bachelor’s Degree For?
- Those interested in learning about the ethics and science behind social work.
- Students who want to become social workers.
Graduating social workers from Lewis-Clark State College are in demand. Public and private organizations know that the students who earned their social work degree from this university are qualified and prepared.
This learning setup is a combination of hybrid and online social work modules. The hybrid program is predominantly online, with several Saturdays scheduled for face-to-face lectures and intensives. These intensives allow the students to go on campus to participate in carefully selected skill practice sessions and receive guidance from their professors.
Lewis-Clark State College Overview
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
- Type of School: Public
- Admissions Rate: 100%
- Graduation Rate: 41%
- US News Ranking: #21 (Regional Colleges West)
- Post-Grad Median Salary: $41,741
Online Social Work Overview
- Admissions Requirements: GPA of 2.0 or higher
- Credits Required to Graduate: 120
- Average Graduation Time: 4 years
- Core Curriculum: Communication, general psychology, diversity, ways of knowing
- Key Skills: Not specified
- Areas of Specialization: Not specified
Who Is Lewis-Clark's Online Social Work Bachelor’s Degree For?
- Fresh high school graduates and transferees who want to be a social worker.
- Students who have volunteering experience related to social work.
Breaking the misconception that online classes are self-taught, Troy University ensures their students are well supported. The faculty and courses guide students and encourage confidence in intervention strategies. The school's professional faculty share the same goal of passing on knowledge and best practices to students.
The learning setup is simple but engaging and students complete their modules and online coursework at a time that suits them. A team of readily available experts supports students to ensure they can access and manage their educational tools. The school offers online scholarships and financial aid programs to further support students with financial limitations.
Troy University Overview
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
- Type of School: Public
- Admissions Rate: 92%
- Graduation Rate: 37%
- US News Ranking: #44 (Regional Universities South)
- Post-Grad Median Salary: $39,339
Online Social Work Overview
- Admissions Requirements: GPA of 2.5, 3-6 hours general study courses
- Credits Required to Graduate: 120
- Average Graduation Time: 4 years
- Core Curriculum: Ethics, human behavior, diversity, communication
- Key Skills: Not specified
- Areas of Specialization: Not specified
Who Is Troy University’s Online Social Work Bachelor’s Degree For?
- People with a passion to create a difference in the community.
- Graduates of other majors who want to pursue a second degree.
The University of Cincinnati’s School of Social Work has online coordinators to answer your questions about starting your online education. The school also welcomes non-academic questions to ensure you have the best experience.
Students on the online platform have control and flexibility in tackling their academic programs. During their senior year, all graduating students must attend weekly 16-hour field placements to equip them with skill, experience, and exposure to make them job-ready.
University of Cincinnati Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Type of School: Public
- Admissions Rate: 76%
- Graduation Rate: 66%
- US News National Ranking: #148
- Post-Grad Median Salary: $49,481
Online Social Work Overview
- Admissions Requirements: 2.75 GPA, 60 credit hours in social work or a similar associate degree
- Credits Required to Graduate: 120-135
- Average Graduation Time: 4 years
- Core Curriculum: Human behavior, diversity, mental health, drugs and behavior
- Key Skills: Not specified
- Areas of Specialization: Not specified
Who Is the University of Cincinnati’s Online Social Work Bachelor’s Degree For?
- Working students who want to study part-time.
- Students with a two-year associate degree in pre-social work.
Liberty University’s degree in social work can help you achieve your dreams of positively influencing the people in your community. The online social work degree provides you with the necessary skills through hands-on experiences that transform students into caring, ethical, and confident social workers.
Learning about human psychology is indispensable to succeed in an industry where empathy and inter-relationship skills are desperately needed. To further ensure your success, Liberty offers a CSWE-accredited Bachelor of Science in Social Work with a flexible schedule.
Liberty University Overview
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
- Type of School: Private
- Admissions Rate: 50%
- Graduation Rate: 34%
- US News National Ranking: #299-391
- Post-Grad Median Salary: $42,394
Online Social Work Overview
- Admissions Requirements: High school diploma
- Credits Required to Graduate: 120
- Average Graduation Time: 3.5 years
- Core Curriculum: Professional helping ethics, human behavior, social work practice
- Key Skills: Not specified
- Areas of Specialization: Not specified
Who Is Liberty University’s Online Social Work Bachelor’s Degree For?
- Those who work and want to study part-time.
- Students who want to positively influence their communities.
If you want to change the world and make a difference in your society, King University's online Bachelor of Social Work can make this dream a reality for you. Distance learning designed by King University ensures that all students receive hands-on experience, training, and exposure.
An invaluable experience students get is 400 hours of field practicum education. They also learn social policies, including social welfare policy, which will place them in good standing in the social work profession. Since almost all the coursework is done online, students can enjoy flexibility and control without sacrificing personal commitments.
King University Overview
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
- Type of School: Private
- Admissions Rate: 60%
- Graduation Rate: 73%
- US News Ranking: #52 (Regional Universities South)
- Post-Grad Median Salary: $48,892
Online Social Work Overview
- Admissions Requirements: 2.2 GPA, high school diploma, transcripts, personal statement, interview
- Credits Required to Graduate: 124
- Average Graduation Time: 4 years
- Core Curriculum: Social work, human diversity, ethical issues, human behavior
- Key Skills: Competency in ethical principles, critical thinking, engaging diversity, knowledge of human behavior
- Areas of Specialization: Not specified
Who Is King University’s Online Social Work Bachelor’s Degree For?
- Students who want to become a social work researcher, policy analyst, addictions counselor, case manager, school social work, or field social worker.
- Students who prefer to study at their own pace.
This degree program at Campbellsville University will help you fully identify and pursue your love for positive difference and social justice. The university's online social work degrees give students an advanced standing by incorporating a faith-based social work program. This program will give you a solid foundation in theory, skill, and emotional intellect.
This combination will help you pursue a career as a mental health assistant, case worker, or government social worker. One of the graduation requirements is a practicum in a supervised social setting so students can apply their skills to a real-world environment. This online program is fully supported and promoted by the Council on Social Work Education.
Campbellsville Overview
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
- Type of School: Private
- Admissions Rate: 78%
- Graduation Rate: 39%
- US News Ranking: #98 (Regional Universities South)
- Post-Grad Median Salary: $38,684
Online Social Work Overview
- Admissions Requirements: Official transcripts, three letters of recommendation
- Credits Required to Graduate: 120
- Average Graduation Time: 4 years
- Core Curriculum: Social work, policy, human behavior, diversity, research methods
- Key Skills: Not specified
- Areas of Specialization: Crisis intervention, marriage and family, human rights, values and ethics, child abuse, death and bereavement, aging, addictions, conflict resolution
Who Is Campbellsville's Online Social Work Bachelor’s Degree For?
- Students who want to fight for equal justice and positive community outcomes.
- Students who want a faith-based approach to higher education.
Briar Cliff University in Sioux City has a fully accredited and nationally recognized Bachelor of Social Work. It offers an online social work program suitable for both part-time and full-time students. Professors assigned to handle this remote learning setup have decades of tenure in social work and there are always advisors available to ensure that every student meets the requirements of the program.
By the time online students reach their last year, they will need to be exposed to the field and have 450 hours of hands-on experience. The university also offers a gerontology internship opportunity for interested students.
Briar Cliff University Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Type of School: Private
- Admissions Rate: 100%
- Graduation Rate: 47%
- US News Ranking: #29 (Regional Colleges Midwest)
- Post-Grad Median Salary: $47,922
Online Social Work Overview
- Admissions Requirements: 60 credits from a relevant associate degree, transcripts, personal statement, two letters of recommendation
- Credits Required to Graduate: 124
- Average Graduation Time: 4 years
- Core Curriculum: Human behavior, social issues, ethics, Christian morality, developmental psychology
- Key Skills: Ethical behavior, engage diversity, make assessments, interventions
- Areas of Specialization: Children and families, behavioral health and addiction, faith-based ministry
Who Is Briar Cliff University’s Online Social Work Bachelor’s Degree For?
- Anyone who wants to learn a faith-based approach to social work.
- Students who have associate degrees and want to transfer credits to an online social work program.
Common Online Social Work Bachelor’s Degree Courses
Common online social work bachelor’s degree courses include social work, human behavior, ethics, psychology, and human diversity. This coursework focuses on preparing social workers to enter the workforce with in-depth knowledge in managing conflict, addictions, and how humans operate emotionally.
Social Work Introduction
The course examines today’s social issues and what caused them over time. It focuses on values, ethics, and social and economic problems in a diverse population group.
Human Behavior
This subject focuses on the life of individuals from mid to late adulthood. It studies personal interactions with family and communities. It looks at how people are affected by social, psychological, biological, and cultural dynamics.
Human Diversity
This course looks at diverse populations and their cultural similarities and differences. It focuses on how discrimination and economic injustices affect people and the related ethical issues.
Ethical Issues
Ethical issues and making ethical decisions can be a complex process. The program looks at these problems and which population group is most at risk.
Social Work Practice With Individuals and Families
Students who want a general social work degree get a solid foundation in social work practice in this course. It teaches problem-solving techniques to help individuals and families in many areas of addiction, conflict resolution, and intervention.
Can I Apply for Federal Aid to Finance My Online Social Work Degree?
Yes, you can apply for federal aid to finance your online social work degree. The program must be accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). The US Department of Education must also approve students for Federal Student Aid programs such as Pell Grants and Stafford Loans.
Options to Help Pay for the Best Online Social Work Degree
One of the advantages of online learning is its affordability compared to traditional learning. It may be described as a cheaper option but in reality, earning a degree is a pricey investment. Thankfully, there are some options to consider that will help you pay your costs as you earn your online social work degree.
Federal and State Grants
Your financial need and situation are the primary considerations for this type of financial assistance. Grants don’t need to be repaid as long as the social work student meets the prerequisites, such as a minimum GPA, set by the organization.
Federal and Private Loans
The difference between a loan and a grant is that loans must be paid back. The government funds federal loans, while private lenders like banks or schools provide private loans. You only need to start paying for a federal loan once you graduate. However, private loans require immediate repayment on the lender’s terms.
Scholarships
A scholarship is gifted money. The amount you receive is based on academic or athletic performance, academic achievements, and other factors stipulated by the university or awarding organization.
Work-Study Programs
This type of financial aid offers recipients part-time positions to help them cover some of their education expenses. The advantage is that the job is often related to your major or field of study, giving you valuable work experience.
Cheapest Social Work Degree Programs Online
Various schools offer some of the cheapest social work degree programs online. Each online school is accredited and provides high-quality educational programs in social work. Below is a list of the most affordable online social work degrees.
Most Affordable Online Social Work Associate Degrees
- Purdue University Global | Associate of Applied Science in Human Services Online. The 90-credit online course takes two years of full-time study to complete. Coursework includes human behavior, sociology, intervention, and communication.
- Thomas Edison State University | Associate in Arts in Human Services. The 60-credit-hour degree program gives students experience in professional practice. Coursework includes subjects in ethics, the American government, an introduction to psychology, and various elective courses.
- Penn State World Campus | Associate in Science in Human Development and Family Studies. This online program requires 60 credit hours and allows students to specialize in one of two options. The options are adult development and aging services and children, youth, and family services.
- Piedmont Community College | Associate in Applied Science in Human Services Technology. Prospective students must submit official high school transcripts and complete a placement test for admission. The program requires 68 credits over two years for full-time students.
- Columbia College | Associate in Health Services. The associate degree program covers addiction theories, medical technology, demographics, human behavior, and social psychology. The program requires 60 to 62 credit hours.
Most Affordable Online Social Work Bachelor’s Degrees
- Wichita State University | Bachelor of General Studies with a concentration in Social Work. Through the Fairmount College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, this degree is ideal for students with several academic interests and who want a more customized educational program.
- Eastern New Mexico University | Bachelor of Social Work. The curriculum provides basic knowledge and skills to prepare students once they immerse themselves in their communities. It boasts a low student-to-teacher ratio, giving every student equal attention and guidance.
- Briar Cliff University | Bachelor of Social Work. This program provides opportunities for students to connect and learn the best practices from professional social workers. Briar Cliff encourages collaboration among all social work students and social workers practicing the profession.
- Lewis-Clark State College | Online Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work. This online social work degree program is for entry-level generalist social workers. The program teaches values, knowledge, and necessary skills to make a difference in their communities. It encourages students to be confident and capable of handling social problems.
- Troy University | Bachelor of Science in Social Work. The university’s program focuses on developing students’ knowledge and skills to help them shape their future careers.
Most Affordable Online Social Work Master’s Degrees
- Louisiana State University | Master of Social Work. This program is taught on a module schedule instead of a semester format. Students take seven-week modules over two years to complete the program. Admission requirements include a 3.0 GPA.
- Florida State University | Master of Social Work. This online master’s degree takes three years to complete and is open to all students across the US. This program includes a 61-credit curriculum inclusive of two social work field placements, and these courses take 16 weeks each.
- Concord University | Master of Social Work. Interested degree-seekers who want to be part of this advanced program need a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from an accredited Social Work Education program.
- University of South Florida | Online Master’s in Social Work. Degree-seekers enrolled in USF need to complete 12 to 15 fieldwork hours weekly to meet the 900 hours required by the end of the program. This 60-credit curriculum exposes students to the foundations of social welfare, social justice, and social work practice.
- The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley | Master of Science in Social Work. This 63-credit online master’s degree equips students to meet the needs of diverse population groups. Coursework includes social welfare policies, social work practice, and research designs.
Best Online Bachelor’s Degrees
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Best Online Master’s Degrees
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Most In-Demand Social Worker Jobs With an Online Social Work Degree
| Social Work Job | Required Education | Job Outlook |
|---|---|---|
| School and Career Counselor or Advisor | Master’s degree | 11% growth |
| Social Worker | Bachelor’s degree | 12% growth |
| Marriage and Family Therapist | Master’s degree | 16% growth |
| Health Education Specialist | Bachelor’s degree | 17% growth |
| Social and Human Service Assistant | High school diploma | 17% growth |
Best Jobs With an Online Social Work Degree Explained
The best jobs with an online social work degree include social workers, marriage and family therapists, and school counselors. Most of the best jobs require a bachelor’s degree for entry-level workers. Clinical social workers need a master’s degree to practice.
Career counselors work closely with students to help them overcome behavioral issues. They monitor attendance and academic performance to assess behavioral changes that could affect them long-term. School counselors talk to students about drug addictions and bullying and report cases of abuse. They give students possible job options after graduation and help them attain their career goals.
- Average Salary: $60,510
- Highest-paying States: California, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Washington, Maryland
- Minimum Experience in Field: None
Social workers help people readjust their lives after a family death, unemployment, or illness. They help various people groups by responding to child abuse and mental health cases. Social workers often work in underrepresented areas and provide emotional support.
- Average Salary: $50,390
- Highest-paying States: Hawaii, Massachusetts, Washington, Nevada, New Hampshire
- Minimum Experience in Field: Supervised experience and pass a clinical exam to be licensed
Marriage and family therapists need a master’s degree and clinical experiences like an internship or residency. They work with couples and families in conflict resolution and intervention. They must be licensed professionals with excellent organizational, communication, and listening skills.
- Average Salary: $49,880
- Highest-paying States: Utah, New Jersey, Colorado, Minnesota, Nevada
- Minimum Experience in Field: Internship or residency
These specialists find unique ways to teach health topics by creating programs and events. They train health workers for community upliftment and supervise their progress. Health education specialists dedicate themselves to improving people's environments and health resources.
- Average Salary: $48,860
- Highest-paying States: District of Columbia, Maryland, Georgia, Connecticut, Rhode Island
- Minimum Experience in Field: None
Although only a high school diploma is the entry-level requirement, social and human services assistants would benefit from an associate degree. They work with social workers to create patient treatment plans, research available services for clients, and ensure clients get the services they need.
- Average Salary: $37,610
- Highest-paying States: District of Columbia, Connecticut, California, North Dakota, Alaska
- Minimum Experience in Field: None
Is an Online Social Work Degree Worth It?
Yes, an online social work degree is worth it. Find a school that offers an affordable online social work degree and specialized support to remote students. The courses should be engaging and you must be confident that the online program aligns with your end goal.
Only you can decide which school is right for you. Research each school using the online channels and portals to inquire about their online social work program and determine if it suits your current life dynamics.
Additional Reading About Social Work Degree
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Cheapest Online Social Work Degree FAQ
It takes four years to complete an online social work program if it is a bachelor’s degree. Any previous degree you’ve received may impact the length of time it takes to complete your social work degree. Generally, full-time students can finish an associate degree in two years, a bachelor’s in four, and a master’s in two.
The beauty of online learning is you have control over your time and can work on your course and modules when suitable to your schedules. There may be instances where you need to be online, like during lectures or one-on-one discussions with a lecturer.
Yes, an online social work degree is accredited, but only if acquired from a reputable school. You must consider if the Council on Social Work Education accredits your shortlisted university. This is an assigned accrediting organization recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.
The highest-paying social work occupation is a general social worker who earns an average annual salary of $60,230, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The highest-paid social workers work for the federal government and earn up to $75,040 annually. All wages vary according to who you work for and your geographical location.
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