Best Social Work colleges in the U.S. 2024

Social work is a challenging, yet very rewarding profession that helps people and families navigate difficult times in their lives. The main goal of a social worker is to improve the outcomes for people in difficult situations by acting as a community resource, advocate, and safeguard from further harm. They provide assistance for the betterment of others, especially those who are vulnerable as a result of discrimination, inequality, illness, or other social issues. Their clients come from a variety of backgrounds and may be children, adults, seniors, or entire groups or communities.

Social workers are highly valued in many industries including mental health, healthcare, community and public health agencies, and government. Social workers deliver more than 60% of the mental health treatment provided in the United States in a variety of ways and settings:

• Schools
• Hospitals
• Nursing homes
• Law enforcement and police departments
• Local government
• Serving veterans and their families
• Working for agencies like the Red Cross

Social Work Degree Specializations

Social work is a large discipline with many niches. Some areas social work students may concentrate on include:

• Children and families
• Veterans and active military
• Seniors/elderly
• Hospice/terminally ill
• LGBTQ
• Women
• Trauma
• Disaster relief
• Domestic abuse
• School counseling
• Substance abuse
• Healthcare
• Administration
• Politics
• Community organization
• Criminal justice
• Mental health
• Workplace
• Research

A Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and Bachelor of Arts in Social Work (BASW) provides students with the foundation and general knowledge needed to succeed as a social worker in an entry-level position.

Those that hold a BSW or BASW can also become licensed baccalaureate social workers (LBSW) by passing the Association of Social Work Boards’ bachelor exam (ASWB) which allows you to perform general services in the field typically under the supervision of another licensed social worker. 

Courses in Bachelor of Social Work Programs

Majoring in psychology exposes you to both the common core classes in the field as well as specialty courses that go more in-depth into a particular area. 

You can expect to take general psychology, anthropology, and human biology courses during your program. Courses specific to social work is also required and may include:

• Social Work in Mental Health
• Social Work Practice with Diverse Populations
• Social Welfare and Policy
• Social Work Field Exploration 
• Chemical Dependency

How Long Does it Take to Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work?

On average, an online Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work usually takes about four years to complete. However, this timeline is dependent on whether you study full-time or part-time, as well as previous education completed.

Bachelor’s degree programs in psychology typically require about 120-semester credits depending on your area of concentration and program modality.

Accelerated programs are also available and allow you to complete the program in as little as one year. However, these programs are fast-paced and rigorous. 

Admission Requirements for Bachelor of Social Work Programs

The minimum admission requirements to get into a Bachelor of Social Work program typically include:

• High school diploma or GED
• High school transcripts
• 2-5 letters of recommendation
• Writing sample/essay
• ACT/SAT standardized test scores

Bachelor of Social Work Degree Costs

Tuition costs for a bachelor’s degree program depending on if the school is private or public and instate vs. out-of-state residence status. Depending on this criteria, one can expect to pay in the range of $10,000-$35,000 to complete an undergraduate social work program.

Pros and Cons of Bachelor of Social Work Degrees

The social work field is growing and the need for social workers’ services and expertise is in high demand, especially for those that have had negative consequences from the COVID-19 pandemic. 

The pros of obtaining a bachelor’s degree in social work include:

• Diversity of career paths
• Job opportunities available
• Projected growth of the industry
• The opportunity to help people
• Possibility to earn a good income

The cons of obtaining a bachelor’s degree in social work include:

• Potential stress
• Requirement to work odd hours
• The financial burden of attending school
• The amount of time it takes to obtain a bachelor’s degree

A Master’s Degree in Social Work is a two-year advanced degree program that prepares graduates for a career serving others through group social work, community practice, advanced clinical practice, and change initiatives. Programs are available both in-person and online, and in both cases, education is split between coursework and practical fieldwork. It provides a broad background in social policy, research, human behavior, and clinical practice. A social work master’s program can also focus on certain specializations:

• Mental health
• Nonprofit organizations
• Geriatrics
• Substance abuse
• Children
• Education
• Families

Earning a Master’s Degree in Social Work is also one of the requirements for obtaining licensure as a clinical social worker. 

The knowledge and training gained from a Master’s Degree in Social Work can be applied to careers in mental health, criminal justice, public policy, and beyond. The effects of social work can be seen at a one-on-one level through clinical practice or can have an even larger impact when applied to corporate social responsibility, administration, teaching, or research.

Master’s in Social Work Salary and Career Outlook

The vast majority of individuals who choose a career in social work do so for the satisfaction they get from helping others. But having a master’s in social work is also a smart decision for your bank account as well as job security.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for a social worker is $51,760 per year, and the agency predicts 13% growth in the next ten years. Though this is only a projection, it is based on the very real rise of social issues. Here are a few examples:

• The need to support and strengthen parenting skills
• Rising student enrollment in public schools
• The continuing opioid crisis
• Increased use of healthcare
• The aging population

Holding a master’s degree in social work adds significant value when looking for a job and often results in higher compensation. According to the National Association of Social Worker’s National Social Work Workforce Study, those holding an MSW earn average salaries that are $13,000 higher than those with a bachelor’s degree. And by moving beyond hands-on social work into positions in private practice, corporations, administration, or academia, MSW grads have the potential to earn more than $85,820.

Pros and Cons of Master’s in Social Work Degrees

Choosing a career in social work and earning a master’s degree in the field is a reflection of an individual’s values and desire to help others. Though social work is not as financially rewarding as other professions and often exposes those in the field to society’s harshest realities, it also provides the opportunity to make real change in the lives of individuals and communities.

Master’s in Social Work Program Prerequisites

Admission into a Master’s in Social Work Degree program has similar requirements to those of other advanced degree programs. Though every program has its own specific criteria for admissions, applicants will need to have the following:

• An undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university
• Maintained an average GPA of 3.0 or higher
• School transcripts from previous institutions
• Personal statement
• Letters of recommendation

But most social work programs distinguish themselves by also requiring that applicants demonstrate their readiness and sincere interest in a career as an advocate either through related work experience, volunteer work, or a combination of the two. You’ll need more than just high scores on standardized tests. MSW programs are looking for students to have a real commitment to serving others.

Courses in Master’s in Social Work Programs

Every Master’s in Social Work program will have its own curriculum and course load based on the administration’s priorities and the faculty’s areas of interest and expertise. Here are some courses that every MSW student can expect to take:

• Introduction to social work research
• Social work practice
• Human behavior in the social environment
• History and philosophy of social work and social welfare
• Organizations and communities
• Diversity and oppression
• Clinical assessment and diagnosis
• Program and strategic planning

How Long Does It Take to Get a Master’s in Social Work?

A Master’s in Social Work generally takes two years to complete but can vary in length based on a few factors:

• Whether a student is taking the program in person or online
• Whether a student is pursuing the degree on a full-time basis or part time
• What previous coursework a student has completed or experience they have prior to entry into the program. Many MSW programs offer master or advanced standing for students who have completed a Bachelor’s in Social Work or who have a minimum number of years working full-time in human services.

Admission Requirements for Master’s in Social Work Programs

Institutions of higher learning each have their own priorities and criteria for their student body, and general admission requirements can be further refined by the faculty of the program. Here are the most common admissions requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. There is no requirement that this degree be in social work, though students who have their bachelor’s degree in social work will likely be viewed more positively and may be able to waive foundational coursework and take an accelerated program.
• Work experience or demonstrated experience in social work. Volunteering with organizations is highly recommended.
• Graduate Record Examination (GRE) test scores are not required by every program, but those that do require them will require a minimum score for admissions consideration.
• Transcripts from undergraduate school. These need to be sent directly from the institution and are used to confirm both the curriculum taken and the student’s GPA.
• Resume demonstrating work experiences, volunteer work and internships.
• Essay/personal statement that details the student’s unique experiences, interests, and goals/reasons for seeking a Master’s Degree in Social Work.
• Some MSW programs require applicants to complete a case study analysis in which they are presented with a hypothetical situation and asked to document and support how they would address it. This exercise is used to gauge empathy, decision-making skills, and problem-solving abilities.
• Letters of recommendation from academics, volunteer supervisors, or employers.

How Much Does a Master’s Degree in Social Work Cost?

A Master’s Degree in Social Work program costs between $30,000 and $40,000 per year, on average, for on-campus experiences and between $8,000 and $23,000 for online, though it is possible to find some that cost less and many that cost far more.

The cost of a Master’s in Social Work Degree is influenced by many different factors:

• Whether it is taught as a traditional on-campus program or offered online
• Whether the institution itself is private or public
• Whether the student is from in or out-of-state

Though programs offered wholly online tend to be less expensive because there are no costs for room and board, that is not always the case. Online programs carry their own technology and bandwidth costs, and programs that do not incorporate these costs in their overall tuition may recoup them as separate technology fees.

What is a PhD in Social Work?

A PhD in Social Work is a Doctor of Philosophy in Social Work. It is one of the two highest degrees that someone can earn in the field, the other being a DSW (Doctor of Social Work). PhD programs in social work focus heavily on research methods and pedagogy. DSW programs emphasize advanced training for practicing social workers.

A PhD in Social Work is a mark of distinction as an expert in the discipline. Graduates of social work PhD programs often use their knowledge and training to conduct groundbreaking research on critical issues facing society. Their discoveries shape policy and assist countless people. As respected leaders, they hold top positions at various social services organizations. As professors, they mold new generations of social workers.

In addition to increased ability to help others, PhDs in social work can expect something else following graduation – good job prospects. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects employment in the community and social service occupations to grow a hearty 12% between 2020 to 2030.1

What Can I Do with a PhD in Social Work?

Many who pursue a PhD in Social Work do so in hopes of securing a faculty position at a university or junior college. They wish to continue conducting research in their area of interest within the field or teach up-and-coming social work students. Others may find employment at think tanks, non-profits, or governmental agencies.

Pros and Cons of PhD in Social Work Degrees

Completing a PhD program in social work takes time, money, and effort. Only you can decide if such an endeavor is in your best interest.

Some of the pros of earning a PhD in Social Work include:

• Expanded job opportunities, especially in academia, consulting, and research
• Recognition as an expert in the field
• Good job growth predictions from the BLS
• The potential for increases in income, responsibility, and influence
• A chance to study specific areas of interest and learn advanced knowledge about them

Some of the cons of earning a PhD in Social Work include:

• The cost of pursuing a degree
• The stress of staying on track and finishing this academic challenge
• Taking away time from other endeavors in order to focus on studies
• Possibly moving to a new location to be closer to campus

PhD in Social Work Program Prerequisites

Most students enter social work PhD programs already possessing an MSW and a history of social work employment. People with a background in a similar field, such as psychology, may also be eligible for consideration. Some institutions conduct dual-degree programs where participants earn both an MSW and a PhD upon completion of studies.

Courses in PhD in Social Work Programs

While specific courses vary by program, the following are some of the courses frequently encountered in social work PhD programs:

• Quantitative research
• Qualitative research
• Statistics
• Data analysis
• Social policy analysis
• Scholarly writing
• Grant writing
• Teaching and pedagogy

Coursework helps students prepare for two important components of a social work PhD program: the qualifying exam and the dissertation.

Passing an oral and/or written qualifying exam demonstrates a solid base of knowledge and readiness to engage in independent research. The dissertation focuses on a topic or research question of the student’s choice. In addition to writing the dissertation, the student must orally defend the ideas presented at a meeting with other scholars.

How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD in Social Work?

Programs generally require 36 credit hours. In terms of time, this translates to 3-5 years.

Students pursuing accelerated studies may be able to shave off time from this range. On the flipside, students enrolled in a dual MSW/PhD program take longer to finish because they need to fulfill more requirements.

A substantial determinant of program length is progress on one’s dissertation. Some students develop a clear idea early on of what they wish to focus on and make steady progress toward completion. Others require more time to figure out what they want to do and how to do it.

Admission Requirements for PhD in Social Work Programs

Each school has its own specific set of criteria for applicants to present in order to receive consideration for admission. Things often required include:

• A master’s degree from a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education
• Transcripts of all collegiate work, including degree(s) earned and GPA
• A resume of hands-on social work experience, including internships, employment, and volunteer experiences
• Satisfactory performance on the Graduate Record Examination (GRE)
• Personal statements/essays on the reason for pursuing a PhD
• Interviews with faculty members
• Letters of recommendation supporting the candidacy
• A scholarly writing sample

PhD in Social Work Degree Costs

Many factors influence the cost of pursuing a PhD in Social Work. Choosing a public school in one’s state often proves more economical than tuition for private institutions. Programs partially or fully online can lower expenses by eliminating the cost of traveling to campus or residing in campus housing.

Any student looking for financial assistance should fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). It serves as the first step in determining eligibility for grants, loans, and school-specific monetary aid.

Many social work positions require a license and/or certification. People should look into the requirements for jobs of interest as well as for the geographical region in which they seek employment. A good place to start is the Association for Social Work Boards.

Licensed clinical social workers work in a variety of specialty areas including mental health, public health, medical social work, marriage counseling, and social abuse. They work directly with clients, diagnosing, assessing, and treating the various issues that they confront and connecting them with the services that they need.

Not every social worker will choose to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), but those who do will need to contact their state or provisional licensing board to learn what benchmarks they need to meet in order to attain that goal. Though every state has its own unique requirements for becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, most will require the attainment of a Master’s Degree in Social Work from an accredited program.

Opportunities exist to pursue undergraduate and graduate studies in social work online. Online BSW programs are becoming more abundant, and many schools allow students to complete the degree on a part-time or full-time basis. The availability of online master’s in social work programs has opened the doors to an MSW for students whose work, social, and family obligations have previously prevented them from pursuing their dreams. And lastly, the majority of doctoral programs lead to a DSW, but some result in a PhD. The biggest benefits of online learning include:

• Flexibility and self-paced learning
• Better time management
• Improved virtual and communication and collaboration
• No commute
• Faster graduation times
• Ability to work from anywhere

However, many students may choose to complete an in-person program for its networking and social aspects. Earning an online social work degree has a variety of potential benefits.

• Remote learning removes geographical barriers.
• Students gain greater choice in selecting an institution
• Students do not need to upend their lives to move to campus housing.
• Online programs generally offer more flexibility in terms of when and where work gets completed.
• Sometimes, ambitious students can accelerate their progress.

No two programs are alike. Some classes are offered synchronously (at the same time each week), and others are available 24/7 so that students can attend classes at their own convenience (asynchronously). There are also online degree programs that require in-person attendance for specific classes or for a specified week or weekend. Known as hybrids, these programs allow students to meet with their cohort to work on a team-based project and to meet their faculty face-to-face. Accelerated programs are available for students who have significant work experience or whose Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work has addressed the foundational curriculum.

Some schools also offer mobile apps for accessing classwork. Programs are available for both full- and part-time scheduling options, with part-time students taking fewer courses per term. These programs are structured so students can get the same support as students who attend in-person classes. Faculty and administration work with students to identify appropriate fieldwork opportunities.

How Long Do Online Social Work Courses Take to Complete?

On average, an online Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work usually takes about four years to complete. However, this timeline is dependent on full-time or part-time study, as well as previous education completed. Online bachelor’s degree programs in psychology typically require about 120 credits depending on your area of concentration and program modality.

Finishing an online PhD in Social Work program generally takes about the same amount of time as on-campus studies, which is 3-5 years. Choosing an accelerated program can reduce some of that time. Schools offering online PhD in social work programs tend to have a hybrid setup. They require brief periods of time on campus, such as the first week of each semester. Also, remote PhD programs in social work tend to favor synchronous learning. Off-campus students use video technology to attend classes with their on-campus peers on specific days at set times.

The social work profession is on the rise with the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projecting a 12% growth rate from 2020-2030, faster than average. To become a social worker, you should begin by completing a Bachelor of Social Work. 

Social Work Career Paths

Depending on your interests and professional goals, a degree in social work opens the doors to many paths to career growth opportunities. 

While a BSW and BASW can provide a strong foundation and lead to entry-level positions, a master’s degree in social work allows you to immerse yourself in the field and move into more clinical and hands-on roles. 

Bachelor of Social Work Salaries and Career Outlook

The job outlook for social work is very positive with a projected growth rate of 12% over the next 10 years. 

Salary can vary depending on the state you live in, industry, and level of education and licensure. The BLS reports that the average annual salary for a social worker is $51,760.

Entry-level positions open for someone with a bachelor of social work include:

• Group home worker
• Substance abuse counselor
• Mental health worker
• Program coordinator
• Director 

PhD in Social Work Salary and Career Outlook

The U.S. Department of Labor includes postsecondary social work teachers on its list of Bright Outlook Occupations because of the job’s rapid growth prospects (9%) over the next decade (2020-2030).9 Projections are not a guarantee, but the information is encouraging to PhDs looking to go in that direction.

While the mean annual wage for social work professors is $71,570, possibilities exist to earn substantially more. In California, for instance, the mean annual wage stands at $110,020. New York, the state with the highest concentration of postsecondary social work teachers, posts a mean annual wage of $91,680.7

Some PhDs find employment as social service consultants. They train social service staff members and help organizations implement improvements in procedures and policies. According to PayScale, this type of position brings in an average hourly rate of $32.50.8

• Is a Social Work Degree Hard?

  • Obtaining a bachelor’s degree is challenging as it takes time, money, and hard work, but the inclusion of online classes in the university setting makes earning a bachelor’s degree easier and more manageable, especially for the working professional and those with family obligations.

• What is the best degree for social work?

  • The best degree to work in social work is a highly personal decision and is dependent upon the individual’s career goals. A bachelor’s degree can be enough for entry-level positions. However, those who wish to work as Licensed Clinical Social Workers will need to earn a Master’s Degree in Social Work. A Master’s in Social Work will qualify you to perform more extensive duties and is a must for those interested in clinical social work. MSW grads are highly valued by employers, command higher salaries, and have the knowledge and training needed for more diverse career opportunities. Future social work instructors and social work executives generally hold a doctorate, which can be a PhD in Social Work or a DSW (Doctor of Social Work).

• What Kind of Jobs Can You Get With a Social Work Degree?

  • There are a variety of different jobs you can pursue with a social work degree including case manager, substance abuse counselor, mental health social worker, healthcare social worker, clinical social worker, child protective services social worker.

• What Skills Will I Learn From Social Work?

  • Along with the psychology courses you take during a social work program, you are typically required to complete a set number of hands-on hours in the field. Important skills that you learn include:

    • Understanding human behavior
    • Learn research methods
    • Explore social welfare policies
    • Delivering social work services
    • Hands-on skills

    It is important to already have a set of soft skills that will help you succeed as a social worker including:

    • Active listening
    • Emotional intelligence
    • Organization
    • Critical thinking
    • Tolerance
    • Empathy and compassion

• Is a Social Work Degree a BA or BS?

  • There are programs geared towards either a BS or a BA in social work.  A BS is more clinical oriented, while a BA takes a more broadened and liberal arts approach. 

• Is a Bachelor’s in Social Work Worth it?

  • Yes. The job outlook for social workers is growing faster than in other occupations. It is also a career that is very rewarding.

• What can I do with a Master’s in Social Work?

  • A Master’s Degree in Social Work is a requirement for becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. It also enhances career opportunities and compensation for positions in government, non-profit organizations, criminal justice, mental health, the school system, hospitals, and more.

• Is a Master’s in Social Work worth it?

  • A master’s degree in social work is a requirement for higher-level positions in social work. It also commands compensation levels that average $15,000 more than holders of a bachelor’s degree.

• What can I do with a PhD in Social Work?

  • People often pursue a PhD in Social Work to become a professor at a university, college, or junior college. Such a job involves teaching classes, managing internships and other hands-on student experiences, and conducting research. Other PhDs work for the government, military, non-profits, think tanks, schools, and other organizations as social workers, community managers, researchers, and policy shapers.

• Is a PhD in Social Work worth it?

  • The answer depends on individual interests and career objectives. For someone hoping for a job in academia, a PhD is usually necessary. Individuals interested in positions such as social worker or community service manager oftentimes get hired with a lesser degree. A doctorate, though, can put someone in a better position for greater responsibility, leadership, decision-making, and pay.

• How is a PhD in Social Work different than a Master’s in Social Work?

  • An MSW (Master of Social Work) helps individuals secure higher-level positions within the field of social work. Obtaining one signifies greater education and training than just a bachelor’s degree. A PhD in Social Work demonstrates exceptional knowledge and commitment. PhDs often remain in academia to teach others and to continue advancing the discipline through original research.

_{Bachelor's in Social Work Sources:}

1. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/social-workers.htm
2. https://www.aswb.org/exam/
3. _{https://catalog.liberty.edu/undergraduate/colleges-schools/behavioral-sciences/social-work/social-work-major-bs/social-work-resident/?_ga=2.160171582.2027657770.1618858898-841673045.161885888}
4. _{https://learn.org/articles/What_Skills_Will_I_Learn_if_I_Earn_a_Degree_in_Social_Work.html}
5. _{https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.ed.gov/&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1618893806130000&usg=AOvVaw25wY_biHAA0vgWfZJV0nO0}
6. _{https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.chea.org/&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1618893821778000&usg=AOvVaw1aPtVZfS29akd8LtjiTJfA}
7. _{https://www.commonapp.org/}
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_{Master's in Social Work Sources:}

1. Bureau of Labor Statistics

2. Nationwide Survey of 2017 Social Work Graduates

3. Indeed.com

4. U.S. News and World Report 

_{PhD in Social Work Sources:}

1. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/home.htm
2. https://dworakpeck.usc.edu/academics/phd-program
3. https://socialwork.nyu.edu/a-silver-education/degree-programs/phd.html
4. https://socialwork.wayne.edu/phd
5. https://www.baylor.edu/social_work/index.php?id=866760
6. https://socialwork.utah.edu/phd/
7. https://www.bls.gov/oes/2018/may/oes251113.htm
8. https://www.payscale.com/research/US/Job=Social_Service_Consultant/Hourly_Rate?loggedIn
9. https://www.onetonline.org/find/bright?b=1&g=Go