Verified October 2026

Most Affordable Online BSW Programs

What Are the Most Affordable Online BSW Programs?

The most affordable online BSW programs publish per-credit rates from $207 at Inter American University of Puerto Rico-Metro to $220 at University of the Cumberlands, with Fort Hays State, UA Little Rock and Nebraska Kearney close behind. Across 52 online programs the median published rate is $445 per credit. Check whether a rate is for residents only, what fees sit on top, and how many of your credits transfer: those three things move your total more than the headline rate.

Researched and edited by · Updated

programs
52
schools
52
CSWE-accredited
50
offered online
52
median tuition and fees, 2023-24
$12,896
schools with their own advanced standing MSW
31
  1. First years: general education and intro coursesPsychology, sociology, human biology, intro to social work
  2. Apply to the social work majorUsually in the second year, with a GPA minimum
  3. Senior field practicumAt least 400 supervised hours in an agency
  4. BSW license or a one-year MSWThe bachelor's license where states issue one, or MSW advanced standing
Woman taking notes at a kitchen counter with a stack of textbooks and a laptop beside her
Photo: Karolina Grabowska / Pexels

How Affordable Online BSW Programs Compare on Price

Affordable online BSW programs are CSWE-accredited Bachelor of Social Work degrees you can take from home at a published per-credit rate well below the field’s typical price. This page compares 52 online programs at 52 schools in 30 states, each one checked on the school’s own site in October 2026.

Two numbers matter, and they measure different things:

  • The program’s published rate. This is what the school says it charges per credit for this online BSW, before fees. Across the 52 programs it runs from $207 to $917 per credit, with a median of $445.
  • The school’s federal tuition and fees. This is the undergraduate tuition and required fees for a full-time year, 2023-24, as reported to the U.S. Department of Education (NCES College Navigator). It runs from $5,580 to $42,061, with a median of $12,896.

The federal figure is usually the campus price. For online students at private colleges it can badly overstate what you’d pay. Avila University’s federal figure is $38,672, but its online BSW is $300 per credit, the same for every U.S. resident. Briar Cliff University reports $35,534 federally and charges $340 per credit for its online degree completion BSW. Use the per-credit rate to compare online programs and the federal figure to compare schools.

Who an Affordable Online BSW Suits

An online BSW at a low published rate fits you best if one of these sounds like your situation:

  • You already have college credit. 29 of the 52 programs describe a transfer route, and 6 are degree completion programs built for students who arrive with an associate degree or about two years of credit.
  • You work or care for family. 9 programs list a part-time plan, including Charter Oak State College, University of Central Missouri and East Tennessee State.
  • You live in a state with a strong public online option. Resident rates at public universities are among the lowest on this page, so check your own state first.
  • You plan to earn an MSW later. 31 of the programs sit at a school that also offers an MSW route, and a CSWE-accredited BSW is what qualifies you for advanced standing.

It suits you less if you want a full campus experience, or if you can’t commit to an in-person practicum in your own area during your final year.

What the Prices Look Like Across the 52 Programs

The spread is wide, and public versus private explains most of it. The 24 public universities in this set have a median federal tuition and fees figure of $9,950. The private colleges have a median of $32,580. Online rates narrow that gap: several private colleges charge less per credit online than public universities charge nonresidents.

The lowest published rates come from schools in every region. Fort Hays State University in Kansas lists $215.84 per credit as its resident and regional campus rate and $275.65 per credit for FHSU Online courses. University of the Cumberlands in Kentucky lists $220 per credit online. UA Little Rock lists $233.75 per credit for Arkansas residents, and University of Nebraska at Kearney lists $303 per credit for Nebraska residents taking online or blended courses.

Accreditation doesn’t change with the price. 50 of the 52 programs are CSWE-accredited and 2 are in candidacy. CSWE states that when you attend an accredited program, delivery method does not affect educational quality.

20 Most Affordable Online BSW Programs

How this list is ranked: lowest published per-credit tuition first, as each school states it for this program on its own site (read October 2026), before fees. One program per school. Rates that apply only to state residents are marked; the comparison table shows each school's federal figures too.

  1. Inter American University of Puerto Rico-Metro: Bachillerato En Artes Con Concentración En Trabajo Social (BATS)Bachillerato En Artes Con Concentración En Trabajo Social (BATS)

    $207per credit, 2026-27

    Inter American University of Puerto Rico-Metro (San Juan, PR, private nonprofit) offers this on campus and online BA in Social Work. Federal tuition and fees: $5,580 a year (2023-24). Admission to the major: minimum 2.25 university GPA and Introducción al Trabajo Social (SOWO 1503) passed with a B or better. Graduates can continue into Inter American University of Puerto Rico-Metro's own MSW with advanced standing. CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $207 per credit hour, undergraduate tuition (Metro cost bulletin, before fees) (2026-27)

    Inter American University of Puerto Rico-Metro BSW admission, practicum and tuition · Compare Inter American University of Puerto Rico-Metro's cost with other schools

  2. Fort Hays State University: Bachelor of Social WorkBachelor of Social Work

    $216per credit

    Fort Hays State University (Hays, KS, public) offers this on campus and online BSW in 120 credits. Federal tuition and fees: $5,633 a year in-state, $16,811 out-of-state (2023-24). Admission to the major: begin as pre-social work; apply for formal admission after or while taking SOCW 260 and SOCW 380, with a C or higher in social work courses and a minimum 2.50 cumulative and major GPA. Transfer pathway: transfer students with an equivalent SOCW 380 course from a CSWE-accredited institution submit the syllabus to the BSW program director for evaluation. Field practicum: 400 hours of field practicum (Field Practicum I and II). Graduates can continue into Fort Hays State University's own MSW with advanced standing. CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $215.84 per credit hour on campus (undergraduate resident/regional rate); $275.65 per credit hour for FHSU Online courses

    How to get into Fort Hays State University's social work major · Fort Hays State University tuition in-state vs out-of-state

  3. University of the Cumberlands: Bachelor of Science in Social Work (BSW), OnlineBachelor of Science in Social Work (BSW), Online

    $220per credit

    University of the Cumberlands (Williamsburg, KY, private nonprofit) offers this online BSSW in 120 credits. Federal tuition and fees: $9,875 a year (2023-24). CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $220 per credit hour online

    What the University of the Cumberlands BSW requires · What federal aid covers at University of the Cumberlands · University of the Cumberlands school profile and CSWE status

  4. University of Arkansas at Little Rock: Bachelor of Social Work (B.S.W.)Bachelor of Social Work (B.S.W.)

    $234per credit, 2026-27

    University of Arkansas at Little Rock (Little Rock, AR, public) offers this on campus and online BSW. Federal tuition and fees: $8,455 a year in-state, $19,210 out-of-state (2023-24). Admission to the major: apply in the sophomore year (applications due March 15, 2027; decisions in mid-May). Transfer pathway: 2+2 agreement lets students with a two-year degree finish the BSW in two years. Field practicum: senior-year field placement of 16 hours per week. Graduates can continue into University of Arkansas at Little Rock's own MSW with advanced standing. CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $233.75 per credit hour resident; $669.00 per credit hour non-resident (plus $15.50 per credit hour technology fee), 2026-27

    University of Arkansas at Little Rock BSW format and field placement · University of Arkansas at Little Rock cost beside other BSWs

  5. University of Nebraska at Kearney: Social Work Comprehensive, Bachelor of ScienceSocial Work Comprehensive, Bachelor of Science

    $244per credit, 2026-27

    University of Nebraska at Kearney (Kearney, NE, public) offers this on campus and online BS in Social Work in 120 credits. Federal tuition and fees: $8,302 a year in-state, $14,260 out-of-state (2023-24). Admission to the major: formal application to the major: SOWK 172 Human Service Ethics and Experiences with required volunteer hours and a satisfactory agency evaluation, and a cumulative UNK GPA of 2.5. CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: 2026-27 undergraduate tuition per credit hour: on campus $244 Nebraska resident, $533 non-resident; online/blended $303 resident, $464 non-resident; per-credit fees extra

    Inside the University of Nebraska at Kearney social work program · Price check: University of Nebraska at Kearney and similar schools

  6. Avila University: Bachelor of Social Work OnlineBachelor of Social Work Online

    $300per credit, 2026-27

    Avila University (Kansas City, MO, private nonprofit) offers this online BSW in 120 credits. Federal tuition and fees: $38,672 a year (2023-24). Admission to the major: official transcripts and a 2.0 GPA in prior coursework. Transfer pathway: up to 90 transfer credits; Prior Learning Assessment available. CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $300 per credit hour ($900 per course), same rate for all U.S. residents (2026-27)

    Avila University BSW admission, practicum and tuition · Compare Avila University's cost with other schools · Avila University school profile and CSWE status

  7. University of Central Missouri: Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)

    $311per credit, 2026-27

    University of Central Missouri (Warrensburg, MO, public) offers this on campus and online BSW. Federal tuition and fees: $9,739 a year in-state, $18,064 out-of-state (2023-24). Admission to the major: SOWK 2600 Introduction to Social Welfare and Social Work required before junior and senior social work coursework. Transfer pathway: students with two years of coursework or an associate of arts may transfer to Warrensburg or Lee's Summit; dual admission for area community college students. Field practicum: 40 hours in a social service agency early in the program, plus a senior-year field practicum. CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $310.90 per credit hour Missouri resident; $621.80 per credit hour non-resident; online/hybrid $310.90 per credit hour (Fall 2026-Summer 2027; mandatory and program fees extra) (2026-27)

    How to get into University of Central Missouri's social work major · University of Central Missouri tuition in-state vs out-of-state

  8. Missouri State University-Springfield: Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)

    $317per credit, 2026-27

    Missouri State University-Springfield (Springfield, MO, public) offers this on campus and online BSW in 120 credits. Federal tuition and fees: $9,024 a year in-state, $17,928 out-of-state (2023-24). Admission to the major: declare the major as pre-major, attend a BSW information meeting, then apply for formal admission in the spring of the sophomore year; admission required before SWK 304 and higher; C or higher in all required SWK courses. Field practicum: 400 hours minimum (SWK 490 Practicum in Social Work, spring semester of the senior year). Graduates can continue into Missouri State University-Springfield's own MSW with advanced standing. CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $317 per credit hour Missouri resident; $678 per credit hour non-resident (undergraduate instruction, 2026-27 fee schedule); internet-based instruction $317 per credit hour

    What the Missouri State University-Springfield BSW requires · What federal aid covers at Missouri State University-Springfield

  9. Charter Oak State College: Bachelor of Science in Social WorkBachelor of Science in Social Work

    $329per credit, 2026-27

    Charter Oak State College (New Britain, CT, public) offers this online BSW in 120 credits. Federal tuition and fees: $8,506 a year (2023-24). Admission to the major: separate BSW application with essay, resume and virtual interview; English Composition 1 and 2 and statistics with C or better, Introduction to Social Work and History of Social Welfare with B or better. Field practicum: minimum 408 practicum hours across four semesters. CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $329 per credit, one rate for in-state and out-of-state students, 2026-2027 (2026-27)

    Charter Oak State College BSW format and field placement · Charter Oak State College cost beside other BSWs

  10. Briar Cliff University: Bachelor of Social Work (Online Degree Completion)Bachelor of Social Work (Online Degree Completion)

    $340per credit, 2026-27

    Briar Cliff University (Sioux City, IA, private nonprofit) offers this online BSW. Federal tuition and fees: $35,534 a year (2023-24). Admission to the major: an associate degree in Human Services, Social Work or General Studies, or at least 62 transferable credits. Built for students finishing a degree with transfer credits. Field practicum: SWRK 445 Practicum Experience, 12 credits, 450 hours of required field internship. CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $340 per credit hour, Social Work online degree completion (2026-27); general fees apply

    Inside the Briar Cliff University social work program · Price check: Briar Cliff University and similar schools · All 2 BSW options at Briar Cliff University

  11. East Central University: Bachelor of Social Work (Online)Bachelor of Social Work (Online)

    $341per credit, 2026-27

    East Central University (Ada, OK, public) offers this online BSW in 120 credits. Federal tuition and fees: $8,032 a year in-state, $17,542 out-of-state (2023-24). Admission to the major: GPA of 2.25 or higher; transfer students need 24 college credit hours with a 2.0 retention GPA. Transfer pathway: transfer students with fewer than 24 college credit hours submit high school transcript and ACT or SAT scores; CLEP and life experience are not accepted for credit. CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $340.80 per credit hour for Oklahoma residents; $688.80 per credit hour for non-residents (online undergraduate rate, including the $60 per credit hour online charge) (2026-27)

    East Central University BSW admission, practicum and tuition · Compare East Central University's cost with other schools · Compare East Central University's other formats

  12. Ball State University: Bachelor of Social Work Online (Degree Completion)Bachelor of Social Work Online (Degree Completion)

    $346per credit, 2026-27

    Ball State University (Muncie, IN, public) offers this online BSW. Federal tuition and fees: $10,758 a year in-state, $28,766 out-of-state (2023-24). Admission to the major: application and materials due two weeks before the start of the term. Built for students finishing a degree with transfer credits. Field practicum: practicum at a social-services agency in the student's community during the final semester. Graduates can continue into Ball State University's own MSW with advanced standing. CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $346 per credit hour for Indiana residents; $578 per credit hour for nonresidents taking only online courses (2026-27)

    How to get into Ball State University's social work major · Ball State University tuition in-state vs out-of-state · Ball State University school profile and CSWE status

  13. Millersville University of Pennsylvania: Online Bachelor of Arts in Social Work (BASW) Degree CompletionOnline Bachelor of Arts in Social Work (BASW) Degree Completion

    $347per credit, 2026-27

    Millersville University of Pennsylvania (Millersville, PA, public) offers this online BA in Social Work. Federal tuition and fees: $12,262 a year in-state, $16,232 out-of-state (2023-24). Admission to the major: completed associate degree (human services, social services or a related area) or at least 60 transferable college credits; rolling admission. Built for students finishing a degree with transfer credits. Graduates can continue into Millersville University of Pennsylvania's own MSW with advanced standing. CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $347 per credit tuition for Pennsylvania residents in fully online programs (fall and spring) (2026-27)

    What the Millersville University of Pennsylvania BSW requires · What federal aid covers at Millersville University of Pennsylvania · All 2 BSW options at Millersville University of Pennsylvania

  14. Capella University: Bachelor of Social WorkBachelor of Social Work

    $350per credit

    Capella University (Minneapolis, MN, private for-profit) offers this online BSW in 180 credits. Federal tuition and fees: $14,436 a year (2023-24). Transfer pathway: up to 120 transfer credits; general education through Sophia Learning courses. Field practicum: two practicum courses. Graduates can continue into Capella University's own MSW with advanced standing. CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $350 per quarter credit, GuidedPath; $2,500 quarterly tuition maximum; $30,000 tuition cap for the degree

    Capella University BSW format and field placement · Capella University cost beside other BSWs

  15. Walden University: Online Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)Online Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)

    $360per credit

    Walden University (Minneapolis, MN, private for-profit) offers this online BSW in 182 credits. Federal tuition and fees: $12,498 a year (2023-24). Admission to the major: university admission: high school diploma or equivalent and age 21 or older, or under 21 with at least 12 quarter credits, or military service. Transfer pathway: up to 135 quarter credits in transfer; at least 45 credits completed at Walden. Field practicum: 400 hours in an approved social services agency under a licensed social worker, with weekly synchronous seminars. Graduates can continue into Walden University's own MSW with advanced standing. CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $360 per quarter hour; $185 program fee per quarter; skills lab fee $1,420 (virtual) or $1,520 (in-person)

    Inside the Walden University social work program · Price check: Walden University and similar schools

  16. Auburn University at Montgomery: Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)

    $394per credit, 2026-27

    Auburn University at Montgomery (Montgomery, AL, public) offers this on campus and online BSW. Federal tuition and fees: $9,436 a year in-state, $20,092 out-of-state (2023-24). Admission to the major: complete SOWK 1000 and other prerequisites (C or higher), SOWK 2000 and SOWK 2220 (C+ or higher), 45 credit hours and a 2.25 GPA; apply February 14-28 for fall or September 15-30 for spring. CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $394 per credit hour resident; $884 per credit hour nonresident, 2026-27

    Auburn University at Montgomery BSW admission, practicum and tuition · Compare Auburn University at Montgomery's cost with other schools

  17. Asbury University: Social Work, B.S. (Online)Social Work, B.S. (Online)

    $399per credit

    Asbury University (Wilmore, KY, private nonprofit) offers this online BS in Social Work. Federal tuition and fees: $33,640 a year (2023-24). Admission to the major: program admission requires a 2.5 overall GPA and C- or higher in all social work courses. CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $399 per credit hour, same for all Asbury online undergraduate programs

    How to get into Asbury University's social work major · Asbury University tuition in-state vs out-of-state · Compare Asbury University's other formats

  18. University of Alabama: Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), OnlineBachelor of Social Work (BSW), Online

    $399per credit

    University of Alabama (Tuscaloosa, AL, public) offers this online BSW in 120 credits. Federal tuition and fees: $11,900 a year in-state, $33,200 out-of-state (2023-24). Admission to the major: apply to the BSW Professional Program by February 15 (fall) or September 15 (spring) after 54 credit hours; 2.25 overall GPA and 2.50 social work GPA. Field practicum: 450 in-person practicum hours at an approved agency. Graduates can continue into University of Alabama's own MSW with advanced standing. CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $399 per credit hour (UA Online)

    What the University of Alabama BSW requires · What federal aid covers at University of Alabama · University of Alabama school profile and CSWE status

  19. Touro University Worldwide: Online Bachelor of Arts in Social Work (BSW)Online Bachelor of Arts in Social Work (BSW)

    $400per credit, 2026-27

    Touro University Worldwide (Los Alamitos, CA, private nonprofit) offers this online BA in Social Work in 120 credits. Federal tuition and fees: $14,600 a year (2023-24). Admission to the major: transfer student from an accredited college or university in good academic standing, or another listed admission criterion. Transfer pathway: accepts up to 90 transfer credits; military training evaluated on ACE recommendations. Field practicum: three practicum courses of 150 hours each, taken concurrently with Social Work Practice I, II and III. CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $400 per semester credit; one-time $200 degree audit and graduation fee (2026-27)

    Touro University Worldwide BSW format and field placement · Touro University Worldwide cost beside other BSWs

  20. Southwest Minnesota State University: Social Work Online Bachelor's Degree (BSSW)Social Work Online Bachelor's Degree (BSSW)

    $406per credit

    Southwest Minnesota State University (Marshall, MN, public) offers this online BSSW in 120 credits. Federal tuition and fees: $10,304 a year (2023-24). Admission to the major: university application; minimum GPA 2.5 (3.0 recommended). Field practicum: 440 field practicum hours. CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $406.25 per credit hour, in-state tuition for all students

    Inside the Southwest Minnesota State University social work program · Price check: Southwest Minnesota State University and similar schools · Compare Southwest Minnesota State University's other formats

Most Affordable Online BSW Programs With One Rate for Every State

How this list is ranked: lowest published per-credit tuition first, as each school states it for this program on its own site (read October 2026), before fees. One program per school. Rates that apply only to state residents are marked; the comparison table shows each school's federal figures too. Only programs whose published rate doesn't change with your state of residence are included, so the figure is what an out-of-state student pays.

  1. Inter American University of Puerto Rico-Metro: Bachillerato En Artes Con Concentración En Trabajo Social (BATS)Bachillerato En Artes Con Concentración En Trabajo Social (BATS)

    $207per credit, 2026-27

    Inter American University of Puerto Rico-Metro (San Juan, PR, private nonprofit) offers this on campus and online BA in Social Work. Federal tuition and fees: $5,580 a year (2023-24). Admission to the major: minimum 2.25 university GPA and Introducción al Trabajo Social (SOWO 1503) passed with a B or better. Graduates can continue into Inter American University of Puerto Rico-Metro's own MSW with advanced standing. CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $207 per credit hour, undergraduate tuition (Metro cost bulletin, before fees) (2026-27)

    Inter American University of Puerto Rico-Metro BSW admission, practicum and tuition · Compare Inter American University of Puerto Rico-Metro's cost with other schools

  2. University of the Cumberlands: Bachelor of Science in Social Work (BSW), OnlineBachelor of Science in Social Work (BSW), Online

    $220per credit

    University of the Cumberlands (Williamsburg, KY, private nonprofit) offers this online BSSW in 120 credits. Federal tuition and fees: $9,875 a year (2023-24). CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $220 per credit hour online

    How to get into University of the Cumberlands's social work major · University of the Cumberlands tuition in-state vs out-of-state · Compare University of the Cumberlands's other formats

  3. Avila University: Bachelor of Social Work OnlineBachelor of Social Work Online

    $300per credit, 2026-27

    Avila University (Kansas City, MO, private nonprofit) offers this online BSW in 120 credits. Federal tuition and fees: $38,672 a year (2023-24). Admission to the major: official transcripts and a 2.0 GPA in prior coursework. Transfer pathway: up to 90 transfer credits; Prior Learning Assessment available. CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $300 per credit hour ($900 per course), same rate for all U.S. residents (2026-27)

    What the Avila University BSW requires · What federal aid covers at Avila University · Avila University school profile and CSWE status

  4. Charter Oak State College: Bachelor of Science in Social WorkBachelor of Science in Social Work

    $329per credit, 2026-27

    Charter Oak State College (New Britain, CT, public) offers this online BSW in 120 credits. Federal tuition and fees: $8,506 a year (2023-24). Admission to the major: separate BSW application with essay, resume and virtual interview; English Composition 1 and 2 and statistics with C or better, Introduction to Social Work and History of Social Welfare with B or better. Field practicum: minimum 408 practicum hours across four semesters. CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $329 per credit, one rate for in-state and out-of-state students, 2026-2027 (2026-27)

    Charter Oak State College BSW format and field placement · Charter Oak State College cost beside other BSWs

  5. Briar Cliff University: Bachelor of Social Work (Online Degree Completion)Bachelor of Social Work (Online Degree Completion)

    $340per credit, 2026-27

    Briar Cliff University (Sioux City, IA, private nonprofit) offers this online BSW. Federal tuition and fees: $35,534 a year (2023-24). Admission to the major: an associate degree in Human Services, Social Work or General Studies, or at least 62 transferable credits. Built for students finishing a degree with transfer credits. Field practicum: SWRK 445 Practicum Experience, 12 credits, 450 hours of required field internship. CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $340 per credit hour, Social Work online degree completion (2026-27); general fees apply

    Inside the Briar Cliff University social work program · Price check: Briar Cliff University and similar schools · Compare Briar Cliff University's other formats

  6. Capella University: Bachelor of Social WorkBachelor of Social Work

    $350per credit

    Capella University (Minneapolis, MN, private for-profit) offers this online BSW in 180 credits. Federal tuition and fees: $14,436 a year (2023-24). Transfer pathway: up to 120 transfer credits; general education through Sophia Learning courses. Field practicum: two practicum courses. Graduates can continue into Capella University's own MSW with advanced standing. CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $350 per quarter credit, GuidedPath; $2,500 quarterly tuition maximum; $30,000 tuition cap for the degree

    Capella University BSW admission, practicum and tuition · Compare Capella University's cost with other schools

  7. Walden University: Online Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)Online Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)

    $360per credit

    Walden University (Minneapolis, MN, private for-profit) offers this online BSW in 182 credits. Federal tuition and fees: $12,498 a year (2023-24). Admission to the major: university admission: high school diploma or equivalent and age 21 or older, or under 21 with at least 12 quarter credits, or military service. Transfer pathway: up to 135 quarter credits in transfer; at least 45 credits completed at Walden. Field practicum: 400 hours in an approved social services agency under a licensed social worker, with weekly synchronous seminars. Graduates can continue into Walden University's own MSW with advanced standing. CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $360 per quarter hour; $185 program fee per quarter; skills lab fee $1,420 (virtual) or $1,520 (in-person)

    How to get into Walden University's social work major · Walden University tuition in-state vs out-of-state

  8. Asbury University: Social Work, B.S. (Online)Social Work, B.S. (Online)

    $399per credit

    Asbury University (Wilmore, KY, private nonprofit) offers this online BS in Social Work. Federal tuition and fees: $33,640 a year (2023-24). Admission to the major: program admission requires a 2.5 overall GPA and C- or higher in all social work courses. CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $399 per credit hour, same for all Asbury online undergraduate programs

    What the Asbury University BSW requires · What federal aid covers at Asbury University · Compare Asbury University's other formats

  9. University of Alabama: Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), OnlineBachelor of Social Work (BSW), Online

    $399per credit

    University of Alabama (Tuscaloosa, AL, public) offers this online BSW in 120 credits. Federal tuition and fees: $11,900 a year in-state, $33,200 out-of-state (2023-24). Admission to the major: apply to the BSW Professional Program by February 15 (fall) or September 15 (spring) after 54 credit hours; 2.25 overall GPA and 2.50 social work GPA. Field practicum: 450 in-person practicum hours at an approved agency. Graduates can continue into University of Alabama's own MSW with advanced standing. CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $399 per credit hour (UA Online)

    University of Alabama BSW format and field placement · University of Alabama cost beside other BSWs · University of Alabama school profile and CSWE status

  10. Touro University Worldwide: Online Bachelor of Arts in Social Work (BSW)Online Bachelor of Arts in Social Work (BSW)

    $400per credit, 2026-27

    Touro University Worldwide (Los Alamitos, CA, private nonprofit) offers this online BA in Social Work in 120 credits. Federal tuition and fees: $14,600 a year (2023-24). Admission to the major: transfer student from an accredited college or university in good academic standing, or another listed admission criterion. Transfer pathway: accepts up to 90 transfer credits; military training evaluated on ACE recommendations. Field practicum: three practicum courses of 150 hours each, taken concurrently with Social Work Practice I, II and III. CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $400 per semester credit; one-time $200 degree audit and graduation fee (2026-27)

    Inside the Touro University Worldwide social work program · Price check: Touro University Worldwide and similar schools

  11. Southwest Minnesota State University: Social Work Online Bachelor's Degree (BSSW)Social Work Online Bachelor's Degree (BSSW)

    $406per credit

    Southwest Minnesota State University (Marshall, MN, public) offers this online BSSW in 120 credits. Federal tuition and fees: $10,304 a year (2023-24). Admission to the major: university application; minimum GPA 2.5 (3.0 recommended). Field practicum: 440 field practicum hours. CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $406.25 per credit hour, in-state tuition for all students

    Southwest Minnesota State University BSW admission, practicum and tuition · Compare Southwest Minnesota State University's cost with other schools · Compare Southwest Minnesota State University's other formats

  12. Liberty University: Online Bachelor of Science in Social Work (BSSW)Online Bachelor of Science in Social Work (BSSW)

    $410per credit, 2026-27

    Liberty University (Lynchburg, VA, private nonprofit) offers this online BSSW. Federal tuition and fees: $21,222 a year (2023-24). Admission to the major: liberty online undergraduate admission; a 2.0 or above cumulative GPA is required for admission in good standing. Transfer pathway: transfer in up to 75% of the degree total. Graduates can continue into Liberty University's own MSW with advanced standing. CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $410 per credit undergraduate full time; $475 per credit part time; $250 per credit military (2026-27)

    How to get into Liberty University's social work major · Liberty University tuition in-state vs out-of-state · Liberty University school profile and CSWE status

  13. Point University: Bachelor of Social Work (B.S.W.)Bachelor of Social Work (B.S.W.)

    $425per credit

    Point University (West Point, GA, private nonprofit) offers this online BSW. Federal tuition and fees: $22,300 a year (2023-24). Transfer pathway: up to 75% of required courses (typically 90 credits) can transfer from an accredited institution. CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: Online and blended undergraduate tuition $425 per credit hour; technology fee $250 per 16-week term

    What the Point University BSW requires · What federal aid covers at Point University

  14. Kentucky State University: Online BSW ProgramOnline BSW Program

    $437per credit

    Kentucky State University (Frankfort, KY, public) offers this online BSW. Federal tuition and fees: $9,214 a year in-state, $13,260 out-of-state (2023-24). CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $437 per credit hour (virtual undergraduate rate)

    Kentucky State University BSW format and field placement · Kentucky State University cost beside other BSWs · Compare Kentucky State University's other formats

  15. The College of Saint Scholastica: Bachelor of Arts in Social Work (Online Program)Bachelor of Arts in Social Work (Online Program)

    $439per credit, 2026-27

    The College of Saint Scholastica (Duluth, MN, private nonprofit) offers this online BA in Social Work. Federal tuition and fees: $40,454 a year (2023-24). Transfer pathway: designed for working adults and transfer students; BSW transfer options. Field practicum: minimum 450 hours of professionally supervised, agency-based field experience. Graduates can continue into The College of Saint Scholastica's own MSW with advanced standing. CSWE-accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $439 per credit (2026-27)

    Inside the The College of Saint Scholastica social work program · Price check: The College of Saint Scholastica and similar schools · The College of Saint Scholastica school profile and CSWE status

All 52 Most Affordable Online BSW Programs

Filter by format, transfer and degree completion, part time, child welfare, the school's own MSW route and state; tick up to three programs to compare them side by side.

52 programs

Program facts come from each school's own pages, reviewed October 2026. Tuition is the program's own published rate where the school states one; otherwise it's the school's federal undergraduate tuition and fees for a full-time year, 2023-24 (in-state at public universities), from NCES College Navigator. "Resident rate" means the school charges nonresidents more. CSWE status comes from CSWE's directory of accredited programs.

Resident Rates vs One Rate for Every State

The first question to ask about any low rate is who pays it. Public universities often post a resident rate and a much higher rate for students in other states, while many private colleges and some public online schools charge everyone the same.

Program Published rate (school’s site) Who pays it Federal tuition and fees, 2023-24
Charter Oak State College BSSW $329 per credit (2026-27) In-state and out-of-state $8,506
Boise State University online BA in Social Work $445 per credit Everyone, no out-of-state tuition $8,782 in-state, $26,976 out-of-state
Avila University online BSW $300 per credit (2026-27) All U.S. residents $38,672
East Central University online BSW $340.80 resident, $688.80 nonresident (2026-27) Split by residency $8,032 in-state, $17,542 out-of-state
Ball State University online degree completion BSW $346 resident, $578 nonresident online-only (2026-27) Split by residency $10,758 in-state, $28,766 out-of-state
Missouri State University BSW $317 resident, $678 nonresident; internet-based instruction $317 (2026-27) Split for campus courses $9,024 in-state, $17,928 out-of-state
East Tennessee State University BSW $487 Tennessee, $517 GA, KY, NC, SC and VA, $627 other states Tiered by region $9,950 in-state, $13,790 out-of-state

If you live outside the school’s state, read the rate line closely. UA Little Rock’s $233.75 is the resident rate; its nonresident rate is $669.00 per credit, plus a $15.50 per credit technology fee. Nebraska Kearney’s online and blended rate is $303 for residents and $464 for nonresidents. University of Central Missouri charges $310.90 per credit for online and hybrid courses, the same as its Missouri resident campus rate.

Fees and Credit Units That Change the Real Price

Two programs with the same per-credit rate can cost very different amounts. Look for these three things on the school’s tuition page:

Program and technology fees. Walden University adds a $185 program fee each quarter and a skills lab fee of $1,420 (virtual) or $1,520 (in person). Point University adds a $250 technology fee per 16-week term to its $425 per credit. Malone University adds a $320 per semester fee to $740 per credit. College of Our Lady of the Elms adds a $110 technology fee per semester. Touro University Worldwide charges a one-time $200 degree audit and graduation fee.

Quarter credits versus semester credits. A quarter credit is a smaller unit, so quarter-based degrees need more of them. Walden University’s online BSW is 182 quarter credits at $360 per quarter hour, and Capella University’s BSW is 180 quarter credits at $350 per quarter credit. Most semester-based programs here are 120 credits. Don’t compare a quarter rate with a semester rate as if they were the same thing.

Caps and flat rates. Capella’s GuidedPath lists a $2,500 quarterly tuition maximum and a $30,000 tuition cap for the degree. A cap can make a quarter-credit program more predictable than its per-credit rate suggests.

The BSW cost guide walks through every cost line, and the cost comparison tool puts schools side by side.

Transfer Credit Is the Biggest Lever on Your Total Cost

The credits you bring in are credits you don’t pay for again. Transfer limits vary a lot across affordable online BSW programs:

Degree completion programs build the transfer in. Millersville University admits students with an associate degree or at least 60 transferable credits and charges Pennsylvania residents $347 per credit in fully online programs. Ball State lets students with an associate of science in social work from Ivy Tech Community College or Vincennes University start with junior status.

One limit applies everywhere: CSWE’s 2022 standards bar accredited programs from granting social work course credit for life or work experience. Experience can count toward general credits at some schools, never toward your social work courses. If you’re still at a community college, the transfer finder and the degree completion guide show which schools take your credits.

The Practicum Is Local and in Person

Every CSWE-accredited BSW includes field education, and the standard minimum for bachelor’s programs is 400 hours. Among the 15 programs here that state their hours, the median is 400. Some ask for more: University of Alabama requires 450 in-person practicum hours, Briar Cliff 450, Southwest Minnesota State 440, East Tennessee State 430 over two semesters, and Charter Oak at least 408 across four semesters.

Online coursework doesn’t mean an online practicum. University of Michigan-Flint places students at an agency in their own area during the last two semesters. University of Maine’s online BSW requires in-person community work at agencies convenient to students in Maine, so it works best for Maine residents. Aurora University’s field courses can take place at approved agencies or at your workplace, which helps if you already work in human services.

Plan for the practicum when you compare prices. Field hours are often unpaid, and you may cut back paid work during that year.

Low-Cost Routes From the BSW Into the MSW

A CSWE-accredited BSW is the credential that qualifies you for advanced standing in an MSW, which lets you skip the generalist first year. Several affordable online BSW schools run their own MSW with a published advanced standing length:

BSW program Same-school MSW Advanced standing, as the school states it
Fort Hays State University Master of Social Work (Clinical) 36 credit hours, advanced year beginning in summer
Missouri State University Master of Social Work (online) 34 graduate credit hours, one year (three semesters) full time; part-time plan available
Inter American University of Puerto Rico-Metro Maestría en Trabajo Social (MSW), Online / Presencial 33 credits
University of Massachusetts Global Online Master of Social Work 33 credits, as little as one year full time
Eastern Kentucky University Master of Social Work (online) 30 credit hours, as little as 12 months
University of Kentucky Master of Social Work (online) 30 credits, as few as 2 semesters; 12 months full time

You don’t have to stay at the same school. Any CSWE-accredited BSW qualifies you to apply for advanced standing elsewhere. The BSW to MSW guide and the route finder show your options, and mswdegree.com has the full Fort Hays MSW profile.

How to Choose an Affordable Online BSW

Work through this list with two or three schools open in front of you:

  • Confirm CSWE status. 50 programs here are accredited and 2 are in candidacy. Both count toward advanced standing once accreditation is granted, but accredited is the safer bet. The CSWE-accredited BSW list covers every school.
  • Find your rate, not the headline rate. If you live in another state, look for a nonresident line like East Central’s $688.80 or UA Little Rock’s $669.00.
  • Add the fees. Program, technology and lab fees, like Walden’s quarterly $185, belong in your comparison.
  • Count your transfer credits. A school that takes 90 of your credits can cost less in total than one with a lower rate that takes 60.
  • Check the admission steps. Many programs admit you to the university first and the social work major later. Alabama asks for 54 credit hours, a 2.25 overall GPA and a 2.50 social work GPA before you apply to its professional program.
  • Ask where your practicum will be. You’ll need an approved agency near you, in person, for at least 400 hours.
  • Check your state’s license. Whether a BSW can lead to a state license depends on your state board. The LBSW license guide and the license checker cover each state.

Trade-Offs to Weigh Before You Enroll

Public resident rate versus one national rate. If your own state has a public online BSW, its resident rate is often hard to beat. If it doesn’t, a one-rate school like Charter Oak or Boise State may beat a public university in a neighboring state.

Short courses versus steady pace. East Central runs 8-week courses and Indiana Wesleyan runs six-week courses taken one at a time. Fast terms suit focused students, but a practicum year still follows the school’s field calendar.

Lowest rate versus strongest next step. A slightly higher rate at a school with its own one-year advanced standing MSW, like Eastern Kentucky, can be the better buy if you know you want the master’s.

For the full set of online programs at every price, see the online BSW programs page. If you live in Missouri, three schools on this page are there: compare them on the Missouri page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is an Online BSW Less Expensive Than a Campus BSW?

Often, at private schools. Avila University charges $300 per credit for its online BSW, while its federal tuition and fees figure for a full-time year (2023-24) is $38,672. At public universities the gap is smaller, and some, like UA Little Rock, charge out-of-state online students the higher nonresident rate.

Can I Use Federal Financial Aid for an Online BSW?

Federal aid goes to students at eligible schools, and the online programs on this page are offered by degree-granting colleges that report to the federal IPEDS survey. File the FAFSA and ask each school's financial aid office which grants apply to its online rate.

Do Online BSW Programs Charge Out-of-State Tuition?

Some do and some don't. Charter Oak State College charges $329 per credit for in-state and out-of-state students, and Boise State charges $445 per credit with no out-of-state tuition, while East Central University charges $340.80 for Oklahoma residents and $688.80 for nonresidents.

Are Affordable Online BSW Programs Accredited?

Of the 52 online programs compared here, 50 are CSWE-accredited and 2 are in CSWE candidacy (The University of Olivet and Herzing University). CSWE says students who start in or after a program's candidacy year are recognized as graduates of an accredited program once it earns initial accreditation.

Is There a Military Rate for an Online BSW?

Yes, at some schools. Liberty University lists $250 per credit for military students against $410 for full-time civilians, and Methodist University lists $250 per credit for active duty, reservists and National Guard against $445.

Can I Get Credit for Work Experience in an Online BSW?

Not for social work courses. CSWE's 2022 standards bar accredited programs from granting social work course credit for life or work experience. Some schools, such as Indiana Wesleyan, accept assessed learning for general credits only.

Related Program Lists

Sources

  1. Official program, tuition and admissions pages of each school listed, reviewed October 2026
  2. Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), directory of accredited programs, captured September 30, 2026
  3. U.S. Department of Education, IPEDS: 2022-23 completions and 2023-24 tuition and fees (NCES College Navigator)
  4. CSWE: 2022 Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards
  5. CSWE: accreditation FAQs
  6. NCES College Navigator: tuition and fees

Every program on this site was checked against the school's own website. Accreditation status comes only from the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) directory, license rules from each state's social work board, and tuition and graduate counts from the U.S. Department of Education (NCES/IPEDS). Sponsored listings are labeled and never change which programs we list or how we rank them. How we verify programs